Tape Measure With Machine-Readable Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tape measures lack the ability to efficiently record, process, and transmit measurement data in various units and formats, particularly in applications like parcel handling where multiple readings are required quickly and accurately, and users need to convert between different units or store data for future reference.
Innovation Solution
A handheld tape measure with an internal scanner that reads machine-readable codes on one side of the tape, allowing for data processing and wireless transmission to a remote device, featuring a curved code layout and human-readable numerals for easy data manipulation and identification of the measuring device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If machine-readable codes are imprinted on the tape for automated scanning, then data recording and transmission efficiency is improved, but the tape structure and reading mechanism become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual reading of measurement data with an automated optical scanning system. The scan engine reads machine-readable codes (barcodes or data matrices) printed on the tape, converting mechanical/optical information into digital data that can be processed and transmitted electronically, thereby improving data recording efficiency while managing complexity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces machine-readable codes as an intermediary layer between the physical measurement tape and the digital processing system. These codes serve as a mediator that bridges the mechanical measurement function with electronic data management, allowing efficient automated reading without requiring direct integration of complex sensors into the tape itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple data processing functions are integrated into the tape measure, then data manipulation capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple data processing functions into a single handheld device, including scanning, processing, storing, and wireless transmission of measurement data. The device can perform unit conversions, calculate volumes and areas, and communicate with external systems, making one tool replace multiple separate devices while managing complexity through integrated circuitry and software.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the traditional measuring tape function with digital scanning, processing, storage, and communication capabilities into a single integrated device. The mechanical tape structure is merged with electronic components (scan engine, processor, memory, wireless transmitter) to create a multi-functional tool that consolidates previously separate measurement and data management tasks.
3Measurement precision
If a scan engine with optimized scanning angle is used, then reading accuracy is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the scanning parameters by positioning the scan engine at a specific non-vertical angle (10-20 degrees from vertical) relative to the tape surface. This angular parameter optimization improves code reading accuracy by accounting for the curved geometry of the extended tape, while avoiding the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms through fixed geometric design.
4Productivity
If wireless transmission capability is added to the tape measure, then data communication efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements wireless transmission capability that operates periodically or on-demand rather than continuously. The device can store multiple measurements locally and transmit them in batches or when triggered by user action, reducing energy consumption while maintaining efficient data communication capability when needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate, efficient recording, processing, and wireless communication of measurement data in various units, facilitating calculations and logistical decisions, while allowing users to select data formats and identify the measuring device, enhancing user convenience and data management.
Implementation Method 1
a scan engine having a reading zone through which the coilable tape can be extended, the scan engine being configured to detect a machine-readable measurement code positioned within a reading zone
Data Source
AI summary
A device for measuring length of an object, comprising a coilable tape having a plurality of machine-readable measurement codes on at least one surface, each of the plurality of machine-readable measurement codes encoding for a length value corresponding to a length, a scan engine having a reading zone through which the coilable tape can be extended, the scan engine being configured to detect a machine-readable measurement code positioned within a reading zone, a processor in communication with the scan engine, and an output means selected from one or more of a visual display, a wireless transmitter, a memory, and a remote device, wherein upon extending the coilable tape to a particular length, such that the machine-readable measurement code encoding for the corresponding length value is positioned within the reading zone, the scan engine detects the machine-readable measurement code, receives the corresponding length value and provides the corresponding length value to the processor, the processor processes the corresponding length value, and provides the processed length value to the output means.