Measuring tape with increased standout and rollover resistance

Abstract

A blade for a measuring tape device may include a first end at which an end hook assembly may be configurable, a second end which may be configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly, a first and a second longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end, an upper and a lower blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a flat width of between about 31.45-32.05 mm, a horizontal standout distance of at least 156 inches, a sideways standout distance of at least 44 inches, an upside down standout distance of at least 42 inches, and an arcuate blade profile which may be defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces. The arcuate blade profile may include a plurality of subprofiles based on a position along the blade.

Description

[0001] MEASURING TAPE WITH INCREASED STANDOUT AND ROLLOVER RESISTANCE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] Example embodiments generally relate to measuring tape devices, and particularly relate to a measuring tape that has a blade designed to increase blade standout and reduce the incidence of roll-over responsive to blade extension.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Measuring tapes have been around for a very long time, and are common measuring tools used in numerous contexts to obtain linear measurements. Measuring tapes can come in many forms and may be made of cloth, fiber glass, metal, plastic, or the like. The materials used are often dictated by the specific measuring application. For example, tailors and dressmakers typically use a flexible tape that can be easily manipulated between two hands to measure a distance therebetween. However, for construction or carpentry applications, a stiff and often metallic tape is preferred to allow the measuring tape to be extended between a first location at which one end of the tape is anchored, and the location of the user at whose location the measuring tape is paid out from a reel assembly. The reel assembly may have a manual retracting mechanism or a self-retracting mechanism, typically depending upon the length of the measuring tape. For measuring tapes having length in a range of about 12 ft to 50 ft, selfretracting mechanisms and using metallic tape ribbons for the tape (or blade) are very common.

[0006] Metallic tape ribbons with a curved (or cupped) and relatively stiff construction may often be preferred for use in self-retracting measuring tapes. The metallic tape ribbon tends to be flexible enough to permit the metallic tape ribbon to be wound onto a spring loaded reel assembly, but stiff enough to have a relatively long standout. The cupping of the metallic tape ribbon further enhances the standout without negatively impacting the ability of the metallic tape ribbon to be wound onto the reel assembly. By employing the end hook at one end of the tape, the user may take advantage of the standout to pay out the measuring tape toward an anchor point on a medium that is to be measured and then conduct the measurement without having to physically move to the anchor point to affix the end hook and then move away to make the measurement. Given the time and energy that can be saved by this method of measurement, taking advantage of the standout characteristics of a selfretracting measuring tape is a very popular feature. So much so, in fact, that it is not uncommon to see a user make multiple attempts to utilize standout and catch a remote end of media being measured with the end hook, rather than simply moving to the remote end of the media to manually fix the end hook to the remote end. When the standout is poor, and the user has to use multiple attempts, or fails and must resort to moving to the remote end to affix the end hook, frustration may grow, and the user may seek out a measuring tape with better standout characteristics.

[0007] Invariably, each measuring tape will have a certain length that effectively defines the maximum standout that can be achieved before the tape bends and basically collapses. The measuring tape can no longer be extended reliably toward the anchor point once this collapse occurs. However, the collapse that occurs at maximum standout is not the only type of tape bending or collapse that can occur with metallic tape ribbons. In this regard, another collapse phenomena that can occur is called rollover. Rollover occurs when the blade is rotated about the longitudinal axis of the blade. The rotation of the blade about the longitudinal axis may be desirable when measuring vertical surfaces (e.g., walls, doors, windows, etc.).

[0008] For maximum standout, the blade is extended with the apex of the convex side of the cupped shape pointing straight toward the ground. As the blade is rotated about the longitudinal axis and extended, even typical blades that are designed for long standout will tend to collapse when the angle of rotation nears 90 degrees at a relatively small amount of extension. Meanwhile, standout characteristics of some blades may enable extension of greater than 10 feet or 12 feet. Thus, it may be desirable to improve anti -rollover characteristics to decrease the gap between the maximum standout and the length at which rollover occurs.

[0009] BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLES

[0010] Some example embodiments may enable the provision of a measuring tape that has increased blade standout and anti-rollover characteristics.

[0011] In an example embodiment, a blade for a measuring tape device may be provided. The blade may include a first end at which an end hook assembly may be configurable, a second end which may be configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly, a first longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end, a second longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end and parallel to the first longitudinal edge, an upper blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a lower blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a flat width which may be between about 31.45-32.05 mm, a horizontal standout distance which may be at least 156 inches, a sideways standout distance which may be at least 44 inches, an upside down standout distance which may be at least 42 inches, and an arcuate blade profile which may be defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces. The arcuate blade profile may include a plurality of subprofiles based on a position along the blade.

[0012] In an example embodiment, a measuring tape device may be provided. The measuring tape device may include a housing which may have an aperture, a reel assembly which may be enclosed within the housing, and a blade that may be formed from a metallic strip of material. The blade may include a first end at which an end hook assembly may be configurable, a second end which may be configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly, a first longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end, a second longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end and parallel to the first longitudinal edge, an upper blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a lower blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a flat width which may be between about 31.45-32.05 mm, a horizontal standout distance which may be at least 156 inches, a sideways standout distance which may be at least 44 inches, an upside down standout distance which may be at least 42 inches, and an arcuate blade profile which may be defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces. The arcuate blade profile may include a plurality of subprofiles based on a position along the blade.

[0013] In an example embodiment, a blade for a measuring tape device may be provided. The blade may include a first end at which an end hook assembly may be configurable, a second end which may be configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly, a flat width which may be between about 31.45-32.05 mm, a horizontal standout distance which may be at least 156 inches, a sideways standout distance which may be at least 44 inches, an upside down standout distance which may be at least 42 inches, and an arcuate blade profile which may include a first subprofile, a second subprofile, a third subprofile and a fourth subprofile disposed at different positions along the blade.

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

[0015] Having thus described some example embodiments in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein: FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a measuring tape device in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the measuring tape device in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of horizontal standout of the measuring tape device in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of 90 degree standout of the measuring tape device in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of upside down standout of the measuring tape device in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross section view of a first and fourth subprofile of the blade according to an example embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross section view of a second subprofile of the blade according to an example embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross section view of a third subprofile of the blade according to an example embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic overview of the blade showing the subprofiles of the arcuate profile along the blade according to an example embodiment; and

[0024] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a blade and end hook assembly of the measuring tape device in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Some example embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all example embodiments are shown. Indeed, the examples described and pictured herein should not be construed as being limiting as to the scope, applicability or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “or” is to be interpreted as a logical operator that results in true whenever one or more of its operands are true. As used herein, operable coupling should be understood to relate to direct or indirect connection that, in either case, enables functional interconnection of components that are operably coupled to each other.

[0027] As indicated above, some example embodiments may relate to the provision of a measuring tape device that may have an improved blade design for increased standout and increased resistance to rollover. This may be accomplished by providing the blade with an arcuate profile that may include several subprofiles disposed along the blade at varying distances from the first end. In an example embodiment, the arcuate profile may include an inner radius of curvature disposed in between two outer radii of curvature. In some cases, the inner radius of curvature may define a concave curve (e.g. curve facing upward away from the material being measured) and the two outer radii of curvature may define convex curves (e.g. curve facing down towards the material being measured). FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a measuring tape device, FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of such device, in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0028] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a measuring tape device 100 of an example embodiment may include a housing 110 that, to simplify manufacturing, may include a first case half 112 and a second case half 114. The first and second case halves 112 and 114 may house a reel assembly 120 and a self-retraction assembly 130 therein. A blade 140 (or tape) portion of the device 100 may be wound onto the reel assembly 120. The blade 140 may be paid out through an aperture 150 formed in the housing 110. A locking assembly 160 may be provided to enable the reel assembly 120 to be locked to prevent the self-retraction assembly 130 from retracting the blade 140 when the locking assembly 160 is engaged.

[0029] The blade 140 may have an end hook assembly 170 disposed at a first end 142 thereof, and may be affixed to the reel assembly 120 at a second end 144 of the blade 140. The end hook assembly 170 may be affixed (temporarily) to an anchor point on a medium that is to be measured. Once the end hook assembly 170 is affixed to the anchor point, the blade 140 may be paid out of the aperture 150 and unwound from the reel assembly 120. When a desired length of the blade 140 has been paid out, the user can make any necessary markings, readings, etc., associated with measuring scale markings that may be printed on the blade 140. The measuring scale markings generally measure length from the end hook assembly 170 in one or more units, with divisions and subdivisions of such units clearly marked on the blade 140. In some cases, the end hook assembly 170 may include an end hook, an end hook backing plate, and end hook rivets. In an example embodiment, the total mass of the end hook assembly 170 may be between about 7-8 grams. In some cases, the total mass of the end hook assembly 170 may be about 7.2 grams or about 0.255 ounces. The mass of the end hook assembly 170 may be an important factor contributing to the standout performance of the blade 140 as well as the rollover resistance of the blade 140.

[0030] By fixing the end hook assembly 170 to the anchor point, the self-retraction assembly 130 (which may be spring loaded in some cases) may be prevented from retracting the paid out portions of the blade 140 into the housing 110 (via the aperture 150). Similarly, when the locking assembly 160 is engaged, a force (e.g., a pinching force) may be placed on the blade 140 to prevent retraction or motion of the reel assembly 120 may otherwise be inhibited to prevent the self-retraction assembly 130 from retracting the paid out portions of the blade 140. However, when the end hook assembly 170 is not anchored and the locking assembly 160 is not engaged, the self-retraction assembly 130 may cause the reel assembly 120 to wind the blade 140 back onto the reel assembly 120.

[0031] As mentioned above, for a typical measuring tape, when the blade 140 is paid out through the aperture 150, the blade 140 will extend relatively straight out the aperture 150 (although some sagging or droop may be noticed due to the weight of the blade 140). The blade 140 can be extended in a guided fashion toward an intended target anchor point while the blade 140 continues to have sufficient rigidity to standout. The blade 140 will continue to extend and standout until the weight of the blade 140 extended past the aperture 150 is sufficient to cause the blade 140 to collapse and bend, thereby losing its rigidity and preventing any further guided extension. The loss of sufficient rigidity which causes collapse and bending of the blade 140 at a length of maximum standout generally occurs at a portion of the blade 140 that can be referred to as a “critical region” since it can occur at slightly different points (but generally in the same region) on different extension operations, and on different individual measuring tapes.

[0032] FIGS. 3-5 illustrate different standouts of the measuring tape device in accordance with an example embodiment. Referring now to FIGS. 3-5, it may be possible to increase the standout capabilities of the blade 140 by changing certain characteristics of the blade 140. For example, the cupping of the blade 140 such that a convex curve having an apex that is generally faced toward the ground when the blade 140 is extended to achieve maximum standout is well known to improve standout of the blade 140. This is the orientation shown in FIG. 3. However, the blade 140 may not always be paid out (or held) in this orientation. To the contrary, in some cases, measurement of vertical surfaces or structures may call for paying the blade 140 out of the housing 110 at an angled orientation (e.g., rotated about the longitudinal axis of the blade 140 as much as by 90 degrees, and generally at greater than 60 degrees). FIG. 4 shows the blade 140 and end hook assembly 170 rotated by 90 degrees so that the apex of the convex side of the cupped blade is now rotated 90 degrees. For a typical blade that is constructed to have improved standout, a collapse or bending phenomenon referred to as rollover (which is similar to that which occurs at maximum standout in terms of the collapse or bending of the blade 140 that occurs) can occur at a corresponding critical region for rollover. The critical region for rollover for many cupped blades often tends to occur at between three to four feet of extension out of the housing 110. Moreover, it should also be appreciated that “cupping” need not be achieved with a smooth curve. Cupping could also be achieved with other geometries that are not smooth or that change in the amount of curvature over different parts of the width of the blade 140.

[0033] In some cases, the blade 140 may include a first longitudinal edge 180 which may extend from the first end 142 to the second end 144 of the blade 140 and a second longitudinal edge 190 which may extend parallel to the first longitudinal edge 180 from the first end 142 to the second end 144. The blade 140 may further include an upper blade surface 200 and a lower blade surface 210, each of which may be bounded by the first end 142, the first longitudinal edge 180, the second end 144 and the second longitudinal edge 190. The upper and lower blade surfaces (200, 210) may be separated from each other by a blade thickness (T). In some cases, the blade thickness (T) may be within a range of about 0.13-0.15 mm. In the example embodiment described herein, the blade thickness (T) may be about 0.14 mm. The blade 140 may be formed from a metallic material, and in particular, may be formed from AISI 1050 steel. In some cases, the blade 140 may have a hardness rating between about 50-54 HRC. In an example embodiment, the blade 140 may also be coated in a nylon coating that may be applied to each of the upper and lower blade surfaces (200, 210). The nylon coating may have a thickness between approximately 0.015-0.035 mm. In the example embodiment described herein, the nylon coating may have a thickness of about 0.025 mm at each of the upper and lower blade surfaces (200, 210). In an example embodiment, the upper blade surface 200 may additionally be coated in an adhesive backed Mylar TPU film. The film may only be applied to the blade 140 at the first end 142 and up to about 7 inches away from the first end 142 towards the second end 144. In some cases, the film may have a thickness between about 0.15-0.17 mm. In an example embodiment, the thickness of the film may be about 0.16 mm.

[0034] Due to a combination of factors including the arcuate profile of the blade 140 (that will be described in further detail below in reference to FIGS. 6-9), the total mass of the end hook assembly 170, the blade thickness (T), the housing 110, coatings on the blade 140, and the exit geometry of the blade 140 from the housing 110 via the aperture 150, the blade 140 may experience improved standout performance. In particular, the horizontal standout distance 220, as shown in FIG. 3, may be at least 156 inches, the sideways (e.g. rotated 90 degrees) standout distance 230, as shown in FIG. 4, may be at least 44 inches, and the upside down standout distance 240, as shown in FIG. 5, may be at least 42 inches. As mentioned above, the blade 140 may be provided with an arcuate profile that may include several subprofiles disposed along the blade 140 at varying distances from the first end 142. Referring now to FIGS. 6-9, the arcuate blade profile may be defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces (200, 210). The arcuate blade profile may include a plurality of subprofiles disposed throughout the length of the blade 140 based on each subprofiles distance from the first end 142. The plurality of subprofiles of some cases may include a first subprofile 250, a second subprofile 260, a third subprofile 270 and a fourth subprofile 280. In an example embodiment, the first, second and third subprofiles (250, 260, 270) may be different from each other and the fourth subprofile (280) may be substantially the same as the first subprofile 250.

[0035] In an example embodiment, the arcuate profile, and thus each subprofile thereof, may include an inner radius of curvature disposed between two outer radii of curvature. The inner radius of curvature may be disposed on the upper blade surface 200 and the two outer radii of curvature 210 may be disposed on the lower blade surface 210, even though both the upper and lower blade surfaces (200, 210) may both be curved accordingly. All of the inner radius of curvature and the two outer radii of curvature may vary based on the subprofile in which it may be disposed. For instance, FIG. 6 depicts the cross sectional view of the first and fourth subprofiles (250, 280) in accordance with an example embodiment. The first and fourth subprofiles (250, 280) may include a first inner radius of curvature 290. In some cases, the first inner radius of curvature 290 may have a radius of between about 11.5-12.5 mm. In an example embodiment, the first inner radius of curvature 290 may have a radius of about 11.9 mm. In some cases, a first width (Wl) of the first inner radius of curvature 290 may be between about 11.5-12.5 mm. In an example embodiment, the first width (Wl) of the first inner radius of curvature 290 may be about 12.0 mm. The first two outer radii of curvature 300 may have a radius measuring between about 106-108 mm. In some cases, the first two outer radii of curvature 300 may have a radius measuring about 107 mm. Also in the first and fourth subprofiles (250, 280), the blade 140 may have a first flat width (FW1) between about 28.85-29.25 mm. In some cases, the first flat width (FW1) may be about 29.05 mm, which may be critical to quality (CTQ) for the blade 140. Furthermore, in the first and fourth subprofiles (250, 280), the blade may have a first depth (DI) measured from the first and second longitudinal edges (180, 190) to the apex of the first inner radius of curvature 290. The first depth (DI) may be between about 5.90-6.30 mm. In some cases, the first depth (DI) may be about 6.10 mm and may be CTQ as well. In this regard, a ratio of the first width (Wl) of the first inner radius of curvature 290 to the first flat width (FW1) of the first and fourth subprofiles (250, 280) may be about 2 / 5.

[0036] FIG. 7 depicts the cross sectional view of the second subprofile 260 in accordance with an example embodiment. The second subprofile 260 may include a second inner radius of curvature 292. In some cases, the second inner radius of curvature 292 may have a radius of between about 10.5-11.5 mm. In an example embodiment, the second inner radius of curvature 292 may have a radius of about 11.1 mm. In some cases, a second width (W2) of the second inner radius of curvature 292 may be between about 13.5-14.5 mm. In an example embodiment, the second width (W2) of the second inner radius of curvature 292 may be about 14.0 mm. The second two outer radii of curvature 302 may have a radius measuring between about 45-47 mm. In some cases, the second two outer radii of curvature 302 may have a radius measuring about 46 mm. Also in the second subprofile 260, the blade 140 may have a second flat width (FW2) between about 27.5-28.5 mm. In some cases, the second flat width (FW2) may be about 27.90 mm. Furthermore, in the second subprofile 260, the blade 140 may have a second depth (D2) measured from the first and second longitudinal edges (180, 190) to the apex of the second inner radius of curvature 292. The second depth (D2) may be between about 7.00-7.20 mm. In some cases, the second depth (D2) may be about 7.10 mm. In this regard, a ratio of the second width (W2) of the second inner radius of curvature 292 to the second total flat width (FW2) of the second subprofile 260 may be about 1 / 2.

[0037] FIG. 8 depicts the cross sectional view of the third subprofile 270 in accordance with an example embodiment. The third subprofile 270 may include a third inner radius of curvature 294. In some cases, the third inner radius of curvature 294 may have a radius of between about 10-11 mm. In an example embodiment, the third inner radius of curvature 294 may have a radius of about 10.6 mm. In some cases, a third width (W3) of the third inner radius of curvature 294 may be between about 15.5-16.5 mm. In an example embodiment, the third width (W3) of the third inner radius of curvature 294 may be about 16.0 mm. The third two outer radii of curvature 304 may have a radius measuring between about 22.5-23.5 mm. In some cases, the third two outer radii of curvature 304 may have a radius measuring about 23 mm. Also in the third subprofile 270, the blade 140 may have a third flat width (FW3) between about 26.2-26.6 mm. In some cases, the third flat width (FW3) may be about 26.40 mm. Furthermore, in the third subprofile 270, the blade 140 may have a third depth (D3) measured from the first and second longitudinal edges (180, 190) to the apex of the third inner radius of curvature 294. The third depth (D3) may be between about 8.89-8.29 mm. In some cases, the third depth (D3) may be about 8.09 mm. In this regard, a ratio of the third width (W3) of the third inner radius of curvature 294 to the third total flat width (FW3) of the third subprofile 270 may be about 3 / 5.

[0038] FIG. 9 depicts the arcuate profile including the subprofiles on the blade 140 from a top down schematic view showing the arrangement of the subprofiles. As shown in FIG. 9, the first subprofile 250 may be disposed between about 0-70 inches of length measured from the first end 142. Each of the first, second and third subprofiles (250, 260, 270) may include respective first, second and third profile shapes as shown in FIGS. 6-8. The fourth subprofile 280 may have the same first profile shape as the first subprofile 250 in some example embodiments. The second subprofile may be disposed between about 70-90 inches of length measured from the first end 142. The third subprofile 270 may be disposed between about 90- 170 inches of length measured from the first end 142. The fourth subprofile 280 may be disposed between about 170 inches of length measured from the first end 142 to the second end 144. In FIG. 9, the curved cutoff at the second end 144 of the blade 140 may indicate that the blade 140 may extend further than may be shown in the schematics of FIG. 9 to the second end 144 where it may operably couple to the reel assembly 120.

[0039] FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of the blade 140 wound up as it would be inside the housing 110 in accordance with an example embodiment. In this regard, when wound up, the blade 140 may have an overall flat width (OFW) between about 31.45-32.05 mm. In some cases, the overall flat width (OFW) may be 31.75 mm, which may be CTQ for the measuring tape device 100. In the wound state shown in FIG. 10, the blade 140 may have a wound diameter (WD) between about 65.5-66.5 mm. In some cases, the blade 140 may have a wound diameter (WD) of 66.10 mm.

[0040] As described herein, the dimensions, ranges of dimensions, masses, and other measurements relating to the blade 140 or other portions of the measuring tape device 100 may all be critical in defining the increased standout distances described above. Each measurement / aspect described above combines with other measurements / aspects described above to define a delicate balance of weight, strength, and shape that culminates in the blade 140 experiencing improved standout and rollover resistance. Other dimensions may be possible in other example embodiments.

[0041] In an example embodiment, a blade for a measuring tape device may be provided. The blade may include a first end at which an end hook assembly may be configurable, a second end which may be configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly, a first longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end, a second longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end and parallel to the first longitudinal edge, an upper blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a lower blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a flat width which may be between about 31.45-32.05 mm, a horizontal standout distance which may be at least 156 inches, a sideways standout distance which may be at least 44 inches, an upside down standout distance which may be at least 42 inches, and an arcuate blade profile which may be defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces. The arcuate blade profile may include a plurality of subprofiles based on a position along the blade.

[0042] In some embodiments, the features of the blade described above may be augmented or modified, or additional features may be added. These augmentations, modifications and additions may be optional and may be provided in any combination. Thus, although some example modifications, augmentations and additions are listed below, it should be appreciated that any of the modifications, augmentations and additions could be implemented individually or in combination with one or more, or even all of the other modifications, augmentations and additions that are listed. As such, for example, the arcuate blade profile may further include a blade thickness of 0.14 mm, the blade thickness may be measured between the upper and lower blade surfaces. In an example embodiment, the end hook assembly may include an end hook, an end hook backing plate, and end hook rivets. In some cases, the total mass of the end hook assembly may be between about 7-8 grams. In an example embodiment, the plurality of subprofiles may include a first subprofile, a second subprofile, a third subprofile and a fourth subprofile. In some cases, the first, second and third subprofiles may be different from each other and the fourth subprofile may be the same as the first subprofile. In an example embodiment, the first subprofile may be a first profile shape and may be disposed between about 0-70 inches of length measured from the first end. In some cases, the second subprofile may be a second profile shape and may be disposed between about 70-90 inches of length measured from the first end. In an example embodiment, the third subprofile may be a third profile shape and may be disposed between about 90-170 inches of length measured from the first end. In some cases, the fourth subprofile may be the first profile shape and may be disposed between about 170 inches of length measured from the first end to the second end. In an example embodiment, in the second subprofile, the upper blade surface may include an inner radius of curvature of between about 10.5-11.5 mm. In some cases, the lower blade surface may include two outer radii of curvature on opposing sides of the inner radius of curvature of between about 45-47 mm. In an example embodiment, a width of the inner radius of curvature may be between about 13.5-14.5 mm. In some cases, a total flat width of the blade in the second subprofile including the inner radius of curvature and the two outer radii of curvature may be between about 27.5-28.5 mm. In an example embodiment, a ratio of the width of the inner radius of curvature to the total flat width of the second subprofile may be about 1 / 2. In some cases, in the third subprofile, the upper blade surface may include an inner radius of curvature of between about 10-11 mm. In an example embodiment, the lower blade surface may include two outer radii of curvature on opposing sides of the inner radius of curvature of between about 22.5-23.5 mm. In some cases, a width of the inner radius of curvature may be between about 15.5-16.5 mm. In an example embodiment, a total flat width of the blade in the second subprofile including the inner radius of curvature and the two outer radii of curvature may be between about 26.2-26.6 mm. In some cases, a ratio of the width of the inner radius of curvature to the total flat width of the third subprofile may be about 3 / 5.

[0043] In an example embodiment, a measuring tape device may be provided. The measuring tape device may include a housing which may have an aperture, a reel assembly which may be enclosed within the housing, and a blade that may be formed from a metallic strip of material. The blade may include a first end at which an end hook assembly may be configurable, a second end which may be configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly, a first longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end, a second longitudinal edge which may extend from the first end to the second end and parallel to the first longitudinal edge, an upper blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a lower blade surface which may be bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge, a flat width which may be between about 31.45-32.05 mm, a horizontal standout distance which may be at least 156 inches, a sideways standout distance which may be at least 44 inches, an upside down standout distance which may be at least 42 inches, and an arcuate blade profile which may be defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces. The arcuate blade profile may include a plurality of subprofiles based on a position along the blade.

[0044] In an example embodiment, a blade for a measuring tape device may be provided. The blade may include a first end at which an end hook assembly may be configurable, a second end which may be configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly, a flat width which may be between about 31.45-32.05 mm, a horizontal standout distance which may be at least 156 inches, a sideways standout distance which may be at least 44 inches, an upside down standout distance which may be at least 42 inches, and an arcuate blade profile which may include a first subprofile, a second subprofile, a third subprofile and a fourth subprofile disposed at different positions along the blade.

[0045] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and / or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. In cases where advantages, benefits or solutions to problems are described herein, it should be appreciated that such advantages, benefits and / or solutions may be applicable to some example embodiments, but not necessarily all example embodiments. Thus, any advantages, benefits or solutions described herein should not be thought of as being critical, required or essential to all embodiments or to that which is claimed herein. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED:

1. A blade for a measuring tape device, the blade comprising: a first end at which an end hook assembly is configurable; a second end configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly; a first longitudinal edge extending from the first end to the second end; a second longitudinal edge extending from the first end to the second end parallel to the first longitudinal edge; an upper blade surface bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge; a lower blade surface bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge; a flat width of between about 31.45-32.05 mm; a horizontal standout distance of at least 156 inches; a sideways standout distance of at least 44 inches; an upside down standout distance of at least 42 inches; and an arcuate blade profile defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces, the arcuate blade profile comprising a plurality of subprofiles based on a position along the blade.

2. The blade of claim 1, wherein the arcuate blade profile further comprises a blade thickness of 0.14 mm, the blade thickness being measured between the upper and lower blade surfaces.

3. The blade of claim 1, wherein the end hook assembly comprises an end hook, an end hook backing plate, and end hook rivets, and wherein the total mass of the end hook assembly is between about 7-8 grams.

4. The blade of claim 1, wherein the plurality of subprofiles includes a first subprofile, a second subprofile, a third subprofile and a fourth subprofile, and wherein the first, second and third subprofiles are different from each other and the fourth subprofile is the same as the first subprofile.

5. The blade of claim 4, wherein the first subprofile is a first profile shape and is disposed between about 0-70 inches of length measured from the first end,wherein the second subprofile is a second profile shape and is disposed between about 70-90 inches of length measured from the first end, wherein the third subprofile is a third profile shape and is disposed between about 90- 170 inches of length measured from the first end, and wherein the fourth subprofile is the first profile shape and is disposed between about 170 inches of length measured from the first end to the second end.

6. The blade of claim 5, wherein in the second subprofile, the upper blade surface comprises an inner radius of curvature of between about 10.5-11.5 mm, and wherein the lower blade surface comprises two outer radii of curvature on opposing sides of the inner radius of curvature of between about 45-47 mm.

7. The blade of claim 6, wherein a width of the inner radius of curvature is between about 13.5-14.5 mm, and wherein a total flat width of the blade in the second subprofile including the inner radius of curvature and the two outer radii of curvature is between about 27.5-28.5 mm.

8. The blade of claim 7, wherein a ratio of the width of the inner radius of curvature to the total flat width of the second subprofile is about 1 / 2.

9. The blade of claim 5, wherein in the third subprofile, the upper blade surface comprises an inner radius of curvature of between about 10-11 mm, and wherein the lower blade surface comprises two outer radii of curvature on opposing sides of the inner radius of curvature of between about 22.5-23.5 mm.

10. The blade of claim 9, wherein a width of the inner radius of curvature is between about 15.5-16.5 mm, and wherein a total flat width of the blade in the second subprofile including the inner radius of curvature and the two outer radii of curvature is between about 26.2-26.6 mm.

11. The blade of claim 10, wherein a ratio of the width of the inner radius of curvature to the total flat width of the third subprofile is about 3 / 5.

12. A measuring tape device comprising:a housing having an aperture; a reel assembly enclosed within the housing; and a blade formed from a metallic strip of material, the blade comprising: a first end at which an end hook assembly is disposed, the first end being configured to extend from the housing through the aperture; a second end configured to be wound on the reel assembly; a first longitudinal edge extending from the first end to the second end; a second longitudinal edge extending from the first end to the second end parallel to the first longitudinal edge; an upper blade surface bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge; a lower blade surface bounded by the first end, the first longitudinal edge, the second end and the second longitudinal edge; a flat width of between about 31.45-32.05 mm; a horizontal standout distance of at least 156 inches; a sideways standout distance of at least 44 inches; an upside down standout distance of at least 42 inches; and an arcuate blade profile defined by the upper and lower blade surfaces, the arcuate blade profile comprising a plurality of subprofiles based on a position along the blade.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the arcuate blade profile further comprises a blade thickness of 0.14 mm, the blade thickness being measured between the upper and lower blade surfaces.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein the end hook assembly comprises an end hook, an end hook backing plate, and end hook rivets, and wherein the total mass of the end hook assembly is between about 7-8 grams.

15. The device of claim 12, wherein the plurality of subprofiles includes a first subprofile, a second subprofile, a third subprofile and a fourth subprofile, wherein the first, second and third subprofiles are different from each other and the fourth subprofile is the same as the first subprofile,wherein the first subprofile is a first profile shape and is disposed between about 0-70 inches of length measured from the first end, wherein the second subprofile is a second profile shape and is disposed between about 70-90 inches of length measured from the first end, wherein the third subprofile is a third profile shape and is disposed between about 90- 170 inches of length measured from the first end, and wherein the fourth subprofile is the first profile shape and is disposed between about 170 inches of length measured from the first end to the second end.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein in the second subprofile, the upper blade surface comprises an inner radius of curvature of between about 10.5-11.5 mm, wherein the lower blade surface comprises two outer radii of curvature on opposing sides of the inner radius of curvature of between about 45-47 mm, wherein a width of the inner radius of curvature is between about 13.5-14.5 mm, and wherein a total flat width of the blade in the second subprofile including the inner radius of curvature and the two outer radii of curvature is between about 27.5-28.5 mm.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein a ratio of the width of the inner radius of curvature to the total flat width of the second subprofile is about 1 / 2.

18. The device of claim 15, wherein in the third subprofile, the upper blade surface comprises an inner radius of curvature of between about 10-11 mm, wherein the lower blade surface comprises two outer radii of curvature on opposing sides of the inner radius of curvature of between about 22.5-23.5 mm, wherein a width of the inner radius of curvature is between about 15.5-16.5 mm, and wherein a total flat width of the blade in the second subprofile including the inner radius of curvature and the two outer radii of curvature is between about 26.2-26.6 mm.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein a ratio of the width of the inner radius of curvature to the total flat width of the third subprofile is about 3 / 5.

20. A blade for a measuring tape device, the blade comprising: a first end at which an end hook assembly is configurable; a second end configured to be operably coupled to a reel assembly;17a flat width of between about 31.45-32.05 mm; a horizontal standout distance of at least 156 inches; a sideways standout distance of at least 44 inches; an upside down standout distance of at least 42 inches; and an arcuate blade profile comprising a first subprofile, a second subprofile, a third subprofile and a fourth subprofile disposed at different positions along the blade.

Images