MXPA02004447A - Online screen calibration and measuring method - Google Patents

Abstract

An on line method for measuring dimensions including using a computer screen (252). The measurement method features a calibration technique which provides for the display of an indicator (254) on the computer screen which is compared to an object (250), preferably a coin, which has known dimensions. By moving portions of an indicator to correspond to at least one known dimension of the object along at least one axis, the number of pixels between two portions of the indicator may be divided into the length of the known dimension to calculate a calibration rule. The calibration rule may be utilized to convertthe number of pixels between two other locations on the screen into a length, such as may be utilized for the measuring of a human hand for fitting with a glove.

Description

METHOD FOR CALIBRATING, MEASURING AND RECORDING CERTAIN MEASUREMENTS USING A MONITOR BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to an online method for calibrating, measuring and recording certain measurements using a monitor, such as a computer screen, and an online program to determine dimensions of a person's hand to adjust with and order a glove BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART Regular-sized gloves typically do not accommodate a user who has an unconventional sized hand, including a hand that is exceptionally well-developed due to | the prolonged practice of a technique, art or sport, or a hand that is deformed. Known hand measurement scales correlate hand size to already-developed glove sizes, and often do not measure the dimensions needed to provide a perfect fit glove or glove tailored to the client for the particular hand measured, REF: 138722 A number of devices have been developed to take measurements from a person's hand. By using these measurements, a variety of glove sizes can be selected. In this way, a glove manufacturer can better provide a customer-tailored or correctly adjusted glove of a known size for a particular customer. These prior art devices must be physically-placed in the same place as the potential customer. , in order to perform the measurements of that individual's hand. Examples of these prior art devices include Tepley, United States Patent No. 4,897,924 and Mays, United States Patent No. 5,170,570.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a method and system for calibration and measurement that does not require a mechanical measuring apparatus. Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a method for measurement using the Internet. A further objective of the present invention is to provide a method for obtaining particular measurements from the hand of an individual using a visual aid in line to obtain an accurate fit or size of the glove size. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a calibration technique for a computer screen, to assist in the accurate measurement of an object, such as a hand. Another additional objective of the present invention is to provide a method for using particular measurements of the hand of an individual > , using the Internet and to recommend a particular glove size for that individual hand, and for ordering glove, Accordingly, the present invention provides a method for measuring, specifically measuring the hand and determining the size of the glove using the less a computer, and preferably connected to download a program through the Internet. An on-screen view is provided that gives the client the opportunity to measure his hand. If the client does not know the size of the screen of his particular computer monitor, the problem can visually show screens to help the user determine the particular size of his screen. The client can then enter the screen size in the program and perform a screen calibration routine to aid accurate measurement using the screen. The calibration routine can ensure that the screen of the The user's computer provides a precise measuring device. The calibration routine of the screen preferably comprises that the client places an object of known horizontal and vertical dimensions, such as a coin, a printed image or another object of known dimensions, approximate to the computer screen. The object can be compared with the indicators, such as pointers, lines or other image, such as an image of a coin visually represented. If the pointers, lines or image (collectively, hereinafter denoted as "indicators do not correspond to the object, then the client can adjust the dimensions, or the positions on the indicators screen to have the indicators that correspond to the object This routine, if used, calibrates the screen to aid in accurate measurement of the individual's hand.The individual can then select either male or female and right or left hand.The program will preferably then show a hand for the appropriate sex and will ask the user if instructions are desired A finger measurement routine begins where the user places the user's hand against the screen using an indicator to fix a particular portion of the user's hand relative to the screen ¿? I- A. t¿ Path lines may be illustrated on the screen, which extend along the visually shown fingers, and may be used to assist the user in matching his or her hand with a visually displayed hand. Beginning with each finger, a cap marker of the finger length is visually displayed on the screen, which can: be adjusted to the ends of each finger. This procedure helps in measuring the length of each finger. Next, measure the location where the fingers are between the fingers. This is referred to as the measurement of the V-depth. The path lines on the screen can appear between the fingers and the user can move a marker visually displayed on the screen, such as a V-depth marker in order to locate the depth in V: the union where two fingers meet. This process can be repeated for each joint after the positions of the length of the fingers and the positions of the depth in V are determined, as well as the length and width of the palm, the program uses at least some of this information to select a standard size or a guide: existing, or it can be used by a manufacturer to create a glove tailored to the client. Using this size or measurements of the glove, the client can order gloves and can provide information that includes the payment information, the shipping address, and the like in order to send the order through the Internet or other mod BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The particular features and advantages of the invention, as well as other objects, will become apparent from the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which: Figures 1, 1, 1, 1 and 1 comprise a composite flow diagram illustrating the operation of the system and the method of measuring the hand of an individual, determining the size of a glove, and arranging a glove according to the present invention; Figure 2 is an instantaneous screen shot of the finger measuring page according to the present invention; Figure 3 is an instantaneous screen shot of the measurement page of the V according to the principles of the present invention, Figure 4 is an instantaneous screen shot of the page of evaluation of the width according to the principles of the present invention; ; «> ** ~ * x - Figure 5 is a front elevation view of a computer screen illustrating the beginning of the calibration process by a user, by comparing an object to an indicator on the computer screen; Figure 6A is an instantaneous screen shot of a first ur mode. calibration method with a coin illustrated in dashed lines; Figure 6B is an instantaneous screen shot of a second mode of ur calibration method with a coin illustrated in dotted lines; Figure 6C is an instantaneous screen shot of a third embodiment of a calibration method with a coin illustrated in dotted lines; and Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating the preferred calibration method.

DESCRIPTION DETA! , LADA OF THE DRAWINGS The hand measurement system and method of the invention is preferably used to record the critical dimensions of a nano for use in the selection of an appropriate glove size or in the manufacture of gloves tailored to the client. Measurements are typically not related to traditional glove sizes They are typically related to the dimensions of certain portions of the hand that are necessary in the manufacture of gloves that fit properly in the hand. People in certain professions where gloves are needed, such as professional golfers, often find it difficult or impossible to obtain a glove that fits properly in your hand. Such people who make constant use of hundreds of hand muscles that become especially well developed can also find it difficult to obtain regular gloves., such as dress gloves or gloves to handle, that are comfortable to wear. The system and method of the invention is useful for measuring all shapes and sizes of the hands to find the right size for gloves tailored to the client. With reference to Figures 1, 1, 1, and 1, a diagram is presented. which illustrates the operation of the system and the method of measuring the hand of an individual, the determination of the size of a glove, and the ordering of a glove according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. preferably access the web page (WEB) of a company that weaves gloves, in step 10 Alternatively, a computer in a glove shop, or another site can be used particular computer or the resolution of the monitor. If the resolution of the screen and it size are not known in 20, the computer can help the user determine the resolution and size of lc. screen in 22. In order to determine the size of the screen and the resolution in the preferred mode, a group of instructions will appear in order to help the client navigate through accessories on his computer to determine a screen size and particular resolution. In a Microsoft WindowsMR computer environment, the start button can be selected followed by the selections for the accessories and screen that will provide the screen size and resolution for that particular computer. Other environments can provide other methods of accessing screen properties. Common screen sizes include the 38 cm and 43 cm (15"and 17") monitors; the known resolutions are 640 x 480, 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768. It is also possible that other screen sizes and resolutions can also be used. -The user can then select the size of the screen and the resolution in 24 and start the lime sub-process Lbration of the screen in 26. The calibration thread of the screen is illustrated in 26-36. The calibration sub-process in step 26 shown in Figure IA includes the step of printing at least one and preferably two lines, a horizontal line and a vertical, on the user's printer at 28. The printed lines will have one. known length. With this impression, the customer can compare the print to one or two similar lines displayed visually on the screen at 30 Although the printed lines are of known length, the length of the line shown may not be exactly known by the program at this time. The entered size of the screen can help in the provision of an estimate of the number of pixels per inch or centimeter, or the pixels visually moved, however, the size of the monitor as well as the resolution of the screen will likely have a profound effect on the number of pixels displayed visually on the user's screen. The program will know the number of pixels displayed, but will not necessarily know the length of the lines shown. As noted below, the preferred embodiment uses Microsoft Visual Basic and Microsoft Visual Basic ActivesX. At 32, the user determines whether the printed lines and the lines shown visually correspond or not. If the lines displayed visually and the printed lines do not correspond, the user can use the vertical and horizontal controls on his monitor to adjust the length of the lines that appear on the screen in 24. In the sense of programming, elongation or shortening the displayed line will change the number of pixels shown. Once the lines correspond, the calibration step of the screen is completed as indicated in 36. The program will then know the number of pixels that constitute a given measurement. This will allow the program to use the screen as a measurement tool. Other screen calibration techniques may also be used. Although the calibration routine can be performed on liquid crystal displays (LCD), such as those commonly found in laptops, these screens are typically precalibrated screens and will not necessarily be a vertical or horizontal adjustment, if even possible. LCD screens typically do not operate in the "projector" style. These are generally precalibrated to a particular resolution. One way to think in a calibration process is to think about a projector and a screen. The adjustment of the screen relative to the light source affects the image displayed visually on the screen. Many monitors have cathode ray tubes (CRTs) that display an image on the monitor screen like a projector that projects an image onto a screen. The use of horizontal and vertical controls on the monitor to adjust the images displayed on the monitor screen.

The preferred screen calibration techniques of the present invention are illustrated in Figures 5-7. Figure 5 illustrates a user who begins the process of calibrating the screen by comparing an object, preferably coin 250, to screen 252 of a monitor 256. Three modes of indicators 254 are displayed on screen 252. Of course, only one modality needs to be present to use the preferred screen calibration technique. It has been found that each of these modalities function satisfactorily as an indicator 254. Of course, other indicators could also be used. 254 The three illustrated indicators 254 are pointers 262, lines 260, and images shown 264. Each of these embodiments are shown in more detail in Figures 6A-6C. The preferred method of calibration is illustrated in the form of a flowchart in Figure 7. Figure 6A illustrates the preferred embodiment, wherein pointers 262 function as indicators 254. Indicators 262 can be used to indicate at least one, and preferably two or more dimensions (such as length and width) that have been related to an object, such as a coin 250 (shown in dashed lines). The calibration of length and width have been found to be helpful, since most Screen sizes employ a different number of pixels in the vertical and horizontal directions. Although the pointers 262 are illustrated being substantially along the axes, such as the horizontal and vertical lines of the display 252, the pointers 262 could also be angled relative to the lines of latitude and longitude along the screen 252 The pointers 262 may, or may not, have arrow heads 288 to assist a user in placing the signs 262 close to a specific limit of an object, such as the periphery, or edge, of a coin 250. The individual pointers 262 are identified as 298-304 The first and second pointers 298, 300 can be moved 3 using vertical adjustments 290, 292 for the display, the adjustment controls, such as the vertical adjustments are often found in the lower portion of a monitor, below the screen. However, the monitor manufacturer could place these settings anywhere he wants. Of course, a variety of other techniques known in the art could also be used to move any of the pointers 262. An oppression on the vertical adjustment 290 moves at least one of the first and second pointers 298, 300 away from each other to along a first axis 299. An oppression 302, 304 can be moved to correspond with a particular site on an object such as the width. A 250 coin is the preferred object to be used with the calibration system and the calibration method. The 2 50 coins are an object of known dimensions that most people have readily available, such as in their bag, in a container, or a purse. Option selections 306 can be used to select a particular currency 250, for example, a 25 cents coin, 10 cents, 5 cents, etc. in the U.S. In addition, 250 coins from other countries can also be used. The computer software may only need to be programmed with the physical dimension that will be calibrated with the indicators 254. Other objects, such as paper money (for example a dollar bill), a rule, or other objects of Known dimensions can also be used with the calibration method as shown herein. Since most currencies are round, the user need not worry about the orientation of coin 250 relative to screen 252 when the calibration process occurs. Yet another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figure 6B. Instead of the pointers 262, the 260 lines are used to correspond the locations particular on currency 250, or another object. The first and second lines 308, 310 may be moved in a similar manner as indicated by 298, 300, with oppressions on vertical adjustments 290, 292, or in any other acceptable manner. The lines 308, 310 can be moved to correspond with the height, < in this case, the diameter of the coin 250 along the vertical axis. Since the diameter of a coin can be known and provided to the software running the calibration routine, the coin can function as a calibration tool: to perform the calibration routine. The first and second lines 308, 310 are shown being too close to each other in Figure 5B, and would need to be moved outwardly, such as by pressing the vertical adjustment! 290 to match lines 308, 310 to the edge of the coin. The third and fourth lines 312, 314 are illustrated being too far apart from one another and could preferably be moved towards each other with one or more pressures on the horizontal adjustment 294. The vertical adjustment 296 could be used to move the third and fourth lines 312, 314 one away from the other. A further modality is illustrated in Figure 6C. In this embodiment, a visually displayed image 264 is used as the indicator 254. The displayed image 254 can be as simple as a geometric shape, a profile of the object that is to be used as the tool calibration, such as the 250 coin, or it may be an ".jpg" image of the object or other representation. Additionally, although two sets of vertical and horizontal settings 290, 292 and 294, 296 are illustrated in Figures 5c, it may be possible for some objects, such as round objects or square images, that a set of adjustments (one for enlarge and another one to reduce).

However, preferably the vertical adjustments 290, 292 can be used to increase (or decrease) the height of the displayed image 264, while the vertical adjustments 294, 296 can be used to increase, or decrease, the width of the displayed image 264 to correspond with a calibration tool, such as the coin 250. The currently preferred displayed image is a square surrounding an image of a coin. It has been found that the square is helpful in delineating the image of the coin. an effective coin, since the sides of the square coincide with the four points on the circumference of the coin. The calibration method is illustrated in the form of a flowchart in Figure 7. In step 270, the user begins the subroutine of the coin. ibration of the screen. This subroutine is preferably substituted in Figures 1A-1C by steps 26-36. Pass 270 begins the process. In step 272, indicators 254, if these are flags 262, lines 260, a displayed image 264, or other indicators, are displayed visually. It is possible that a combination of indicator types may also be used. After visually displaying the appropriate indicator (s), the user is preferably persuaded in step 274 to place the object, or the calibration tool, such as the model: 250, next to screen 252 as illustrated in Figure 5. With coin 250 positioned proximate, or even against screen 252, the user can then perform step 276 by comparing a location, or dimension, such as the height of the coin 250 hac to the appropriate indicator, such as the pointers 298, 300. If the indicator (s), such as the first and second pointers 298, 300 do not correspond, then the user can adjust the pointer (s) 254 , such as through the mouse clicks on settings 290, 292. Once the or indicators 254 correspond to coin 250, through the comparison in step 274 and a determination in step 276 after adjustments in step 278, if necessary, then indicator (s) 254 can be compared to coin 250 in step 284 to determine whether the width of the indicator (s) 254 corresponds to the currency 25Q. A determination is made in step 280. If the width of the indicator or indicators is 254 it does not correspond to the coin 250, then the user can adjust the indicator or indicators 254 in step 282, and then compare again in step 284. The process can be repeated until the indicator or indicators 254 correspond to the coin 250. A Once the indicators 254 correspond to the currency 250, then the program may update, or record, the position of the indicator (s) 254 based on the movement, if any, of the indicator (s) 254 in step 286. Since the program knows the initial separation in terms of the coordinates or pixels, portions of the indicator 254 of the other portions (such as the number of pixels in the lines 260, such as the first and second lines 308, 310, or number of pixels between the pointers 262, such as between the corresponding ends of the first and second pointers 298, 300, etc.), the program can add or subtract the number of pixels moved during the calibration routine and assign r a length to a number of pixels, per inch value or a calibration rule that is used to assign a length measurement to the value measured on the screen, of a particular object, such as a person's hand. In the preferred calibration process, a length and a width of a particular object are compared to the different points of the b of indicators 254. For indicating indicator 262, the first and second points correspond to the tips of the arrowheads 288 of the first and second indicators 298, 300. The distance between the first indicator 298 and the second indicator 300 along the first axis 299 when they align with the object, it is the known length along that dimension of the object. Accordingly, the number of pixels can be determined between the first and second flag 298, 300. A calibration rule can be calculated by dividing the number of pixels between the first and second flag 298, 300 by the known distance of the object. . This process can then be repeated for the second, and possibly for the subsequent dimensions. Once the rule or calibration rules are determined, then the measurement program can relatively accurately measure the length by determining the number of pixels between two markers, or locations, and multiplying by the inverse of the calibration rule.

Alternatively, the number of pixels could be divided by the calibration rule to arrive at a length of the measurement. If the second dimension to be measured is substantially perpendicular to the first dimension, then the vector components of the measured lengths can be used. More specifically, an object of a unknown dimension that will be measured between two markers. The markers are moved to correspond to the ends of the object. The position of the markers can be determined by the program. The distance between the markers along the first axis can be determined as a first vector. The distance between the markers along the second axis can then be determined as a second vector. Using the Pythagorean theorem, the square root of the square of lei sum of the square of the first vector and the square of the second vector, is the distance between the two markers. Of course, other geometric principles could be used to conduct relatively precise measurements. This will complete the calibration subroutine in step 287. Next, the potential client will preferably be asked if the measurement to be taken is from a man or a woman, as indicated in 38. This step may not be required , but it has been found that it is of help to help in the precision adjustment of the gloves due to the differences between the hands of many women and men. Then, at 40 and 42, the potential client is asked if the right or left hand is measured. Depending on the hand and the particular sex entered by the user, at 44, the program visually displays on the computer screen an opposite hand in configuration at hand selected, to allow the client's hand to correspond to the hand shown visually (for example, a left hand shown will correspond to a client's right hand). A hand shown can be obtained by taking an image of a hand of the individual with a digital camera and saving it as a file c.e ".gif" or ".jpg" or another type of file that can be visually displayed on the screen. The right hand of a male person is illustrated in Figure 2. A left hand of a potential client will correspond to this image of the right hand shown, or the screen. It is anticipated that the left hand could be the hand that is to be measured from the potential client in Figure 2. Alternatively, a male left hand or a female right or left hand could be displayed visually at this point in time, Alternatively, the instructions could be provided before providing the view of Figure 2. If instructions as shown in 46 are desired, instructions may be provided as indicated in 48. Otherwise, the finger measurement process may begin as illustrated in Step 50 An individual begins the process of measuring the hand by placing his hand on the computer monitor screen as provided and indicated at 52. A mark reference such as indicator 94, illustrated in Figure 2, can be shown on the screen and can be used by the user to place his hand in relation to his fi ne position on the screen. Although indicator 94 is illustrated at the junction of the index and middle finger, any appropriate reference mark in relation to a person's hand could be used. The program can visually show a reference mark by changing the color of the selected coordinates on the screen, to create the mark. Additionally, a hand 220 can be shown on the screen to assist in the proper placement of the hand. Starting with a finger, this finger will be compared in length with the length of a finger tip marker displayed on the screen in step 54. The image of a fingertip marker on the screen can be achieved in a variety of ways and through a variety of programming techniques. Recently, the use of ActiveX files can be used in conjunction with a programming language, such as VBScript, in order to download the program through the Internet to a computer of a potential client, where the program will be run. Using this technology or other programming techniques, a fingertip marker can be programmed to be visually displayed by selecting an X coordinate and a Y coordinate for two. points, and define a line between these two points. Once this line is defined, the color of the line can be changed by changing the color attribute of the line. The marker 98 of the first finger is illustrated having a first line 208 that moves substantially along a path line 104 as will be explained in detail later herein. At the ends of the first line are two lines of clasp 210. The lines illustrated have been chosen because they are relatively easy to show, although other finger tip marker designs could also be used, as desired. Proceeding in this manner, the first finger 96 can be compared to a tip marker 98 of the first finger as indicated in F Fig. Lb at 54. The marker 98 of the first finger is shown below the end of the first finger 96 in FIG. the snapshot on screen of Figure 2 If the first 96 finger of a person is exactly overlapped by the first finger 96 shown on the screen, the marker 98 may need to be moved to correspond with the tip of the client's finger for this digit. If the first die 96 does not correspond to the tip marker 98 of the first finger corro is illustrated, the marker 98 of the tip of the first finger can be moved as shown in 62. It is also possible that the speed of movement of the integer function of the. average of the X coordinates of the extreme numbers of the first line. This intermediate point of the first line 208 can then be made to correspond to a point on the trajectory line 104. The lines in brackets 210 have endpoints which can correspond to the end points of the first line 208 and these bracket lines 21C they can be moved by the same distance in increments as the first line 208, so that all parts of the tip marker 98 move the same distance for a given change and increments. The movement in increments can be either an increase in the frame or a value assigned for each oppression of the arrow keys 106, 108. In the preferred embodiment, the tip marker 98 is moved after the instructions through the input device, like a mouse. After receiving this movement command, the color of the tip marker line 98 is changed to correspond to the colors of the background. As a result, the tip marker 98 seems to disappear. The increasing framing amount of the change in position is added to a point along the tip marker, such as the intermediate point of the first line, and the tip marker is again pulled through the coloration towards a new site that reflects the change in the amount of water. The amount of framing can be changed by selecting a new marker speed: a larger framing amount will result in a moving line that moves apparently faster. It is likely that computer programmers skilled in the art will know a plurality of other ways to move the tip marker as well. With the stationary tip marker, the program can determine the site of a particular point such as the intermediate point of the first line, in order to provide a finger length measurement. Since the program knows the coordinates on the marker screen and the reference mark, as well as the pixels per inch of the screen via the calibration step, the computer can record the relative positions of the finger. The measurement of the other fingers can be programmed in a manner similar to the programming of the first finger 96. Next, the annular dedcj 112 of the user will be compared to a finger tip marker 114. The annular finger marker 114 is illustrated in the correct position relative to a finger 112 in Figure 2. If the ring finger 112 does not correspond to the annular finger tip marker 114, the annular finger tip marker 114 may be moved in step 62. It is also possible that the speed of movement of the narrator 114 can be adjusted in step 58. If it is desired to adjust the speed in step 58 the speed of the marker is adjusted in step 60 by pressing the slowest command button 100 or the fastest command button 102. A trajectory line 116 of the ring finger is provided in Figure 2 such that the annular finger tip marker 114 moves substantially along the line of trajectory 116. The marker 114 of the tip of the ring finger can be moved by the use of oppressions e: the mouse on the movements of arrows 118 and 120. The measurement can be recorded in box 122 of the finger. Next, the middle finger 124 of the user will be compared to a tip marker 12 5 of the middle finger. The finger marker 126: o is illustrated in the correct position in relation to a finger 124 in Figure 2. If the middle finger 124 does not correspond to the tip marker 126 of the middle finger, the finger tip marker 126 It can also be moved in step 62. It is also possible that the speed of movement of the marker L26 can be adjusted in step 58. If it is desired to adjust the speed in step 58 the speed of the marker is adjusted in step 60 by pressing the command button 100 slower or button 102 command faster. A middle finger path line 132 is provided in 1 to FIG. 2, such that the marker 126 of the tip of the finger moves substantially along the path line 132. The marker 126 of tip of the middle finger can be moved by using mouse clicks on the keys 128 and 130 of the arrow. The measurement can be recorded in box 134 of the middle finger. Next, the index finger 136 will be compared to a tip marker 138 of the index finger. The index finger marker 138 is illustrated in a correct position relative to a finger 136 in Figure 2. If the index finger 136 does not correspond to the index marker 138 of the index finger, the index marker 138 of the index finger can be moved. in step 62. It is also possible that the speed of movement of the marker 138 can be adjusted in step 58. If it is desired to adjust the speed in step 58, the speed of the marker is adjusted in step 60 by pressing the button 100. command slower or the command button 102 faster. A trajectory line 144 of the index finger is provided in Figure 2 such that the marker 138 of the tip of the index finger moves substantially along the path line 144. The tip marker 138 of the index finger can be moved by the use of oppressions in the mouse on the movement arrows 140 and 142. The measurement can be recorded in the index finger chapel 146. Next, the thumb 148 of the user will be compared to a tip marker 150 of the thumb. The term "finger" is broad enough to encompass a thumb" . The thumb marker 150 is illustrated in the correct position relative to the thumb 148 in Figure 2.

If the thumb 148 does not run, pinpoint the marker 150 of the thumb, the tip marker 150 of the thumb can be moved in step 62. It is also possible that the speed of the marker movement 150 can be adjusted in step 58. If it is desired to adjust the speed in step 58, the speed of the marker is used in step 60 by pressing the slower command button 100 or the faster command button 102. A trajectory line 156 of the thumb is provided in Figure 2, such that the marker 150 of the tip of the thumb moves substantially along the trajectory line 156. The marker 150 of the tip of the thumb can be moved by the use of oppressions in the mouse on the keys 152 and 154 of the arrow. The measurement can be recorded in box 158 of the thumb. Of course, the finger measuring orfunction 96, 112, 124, 136 and 148 may be selected by the user or otherwise provided. In addition, it should be understood that the steps as noted above are related to the flowchart and are effectively separate separate steps. In addition, it is important that measurements of the length of the fingers may need to be made in relation to another portion of the client's hand other than the reference mark 94. For example, a measurement that is helpful in adjusting gloves is the length of the middle finger 124, as measured from the tip of the finger to the base of the palm. The line of travel 214 and the marker 222 of the end of the palm can. be used in a similar manner as the trajectory lines 104, 116, 132, 144, and 156 and the tip markers 98, 1] 4, 126, 138, and 150 of the tip of the finger to locate the base of the palm of a client. The marker 222 of the palm can be adjusted similar to the setting of the fingertips 98, 114, 126, 138 and 150 of the fingers, uti! raising the movement arrows 24, 226. When the marker 222 of the palm is aligned with the base of a palm of a c. As a potential tool, more information will be available to the glove supplier in order to provide a glove with better fit, although the technique illustrated to locate the base position of a customer's palm is similar to the technique used to To measure the location of the tips of the fingers, other techniques could also be used to locate these positions Figure 2 also shows an option box 160. Inside the box ie option 160 are choice options if 1 is measured > s fingers 162: the procedure followed in steps 50 to 66. Alternatively, the Hand measurement procedure 164 can be selected, which includes steps 68 through 84. In addition, the width measurement method 165 including steps 300 through 322 can be selected. Additionally, the selection of whether or not to proceed at a slower speed 100 or at a faster speed 102, is also provided. The slower and faster buttons 100, 102 can be used to adjust the speed of the marker provided in step 60. Other methods for adjusting the speed in step 60 can also be used. Figure 3 is a second snapshot of the one hand screen 220 displayed visually. Option box 160 may be provided with similar selections as provided in Figure 2. In this illustration, fingers 96, 112, 124, 136 and 148 are illustrated. In the spaces between the fingers are the portions of the V s or of the joints, for example, the joints or joints of the fingers. The trajectory lines 170, 172, 174 and 176 can be used to locate the particular points known as depths of the V. The trajectory lines 170, 172, 174 and 176 can be programmed having points at fixed, preselected ends. The markers 178-182 of the profundity in V are two lines that are in a V. These lines each have two extreme points, however, other markers could have other configurations. The point of the V can be linked to the trajectory line using simple equations and the movement of the V can be affected using framing increments similar to the movement of the fingertip markers. In the preferred embodiment, the reference indicator 94 is maintained at the depth location of the V between the index and middle fingers. Alternatively, this location may have a depth indicator of the V similar to the other depths of the V. To locate the depths of the V, the hand option 164 on the option cassette 160 may be selected. Other methods can be used to begin measuring the depth of the V in step 68.

With the hand held on the screen or placed on the screen with the indicator 94 properly positioned as illustrated by step 70, the customer can compare the indicator of the V, between two fingers, such as the little finger and the ring finger 96, 112 to determine if the indicator of V 178 corresponds or not with the depth of the V of the hand of that client. If these V s do not correspond in step 74, the customer may choose in step 76 to adjust the movement speed by adjusting the speed in step 78 using the slowest and fastest command buttons 100, 102, respectively, over option box 160, or you can simply adjust the location of the indicator the V in step 80 by using the control buttons 184, 186, the command buttons being used slower or faster depending on the amount of adjustment required. The measurement of '... depth of the V can be visually shown in the first box 188. The indicator 178 of the depth of the V is not shown in the correct position in Figure 3 to adequately measure the depth of the V between the pinky and ring fingers 96, 112. In this illustration, the depth indicator 178 of the V must be moved with the control button 186 in the upward direction to the point where the V intersects the point of the V between the fingers 96 and 112 similar to the position of the .80 depth indicator of the V, between the middle and index fingers 124, 126, respectively. In the middle of the longitudinal direction 112 and the middle finger 124 is located the path line 172. On the path line 172 the depth indicator 180 of the V is located. In the figure 3, the depth indicator 180 of the V is located in the correct position in relation to the middle finger L24 and index finger 136. This indicator of the depth of the V can be moved using the controls 190 and 192, and the measurement can be displayed visually in box 194 since the V depth between the index finger and the middle finger is the currently preferred position of the reference marker 94, n © there is a depth indicator of the V between these two fingers. It may be possible that an indicator of the depth of the V at this site is desired and the path line 174 may be used for this purpose. Additionally, the movement controls 196, 198 can be used to move an indicator of the depth of the V if it were used. The third box 200 can be used to visually show the second depth of the V. Between the index finger 136 and the thumb 148 is located the path line 176. On the path line 176 the depth indicator 182 is located. V. In Figure 3, the depth indicator of the V is located in the correct position in relation to the index finger 136 and the thumb 148. This indicator of the depth of the V can be moved using the controls 202 and 204, and the measurement can be displayed visually on the 206th wheel. Once any particular depth indicator of the V is properly located relative to the hand of the potential sensor, the next indicator of the V can be compared and / or adjusted in step 82. Finally, the process of the depth of the V ends in step 84 Illustrated in figure 4 are the width markers 212 and 216 along a path line 218. The potential client can use the movement arrows 228 and 230 to adjust the first width marker 216 to correspond with a portion of Left outer surface of the client's hand. The outer surface portion can also be characterized as an edge or periphery of the hand. The peripheral edge of the hand also includes any portion of a finger and / or wrist. The movement arrows 232 and 234 can be used to move the second width marker 212 to correspond with another outer surface portion of the client's hand. The distance between the first and second marker 212, 216 will then correspond substantially to a width of the customer's hand that can be provided to the glove supplier and / or visually shown in box 213. In addition, other widths such as the width of the Wrist or finger could be provided, or any other measurement using the methods shown herein. Figure 1d illustrate the method of measuring the width starting at step 400. The potential customer preferably keeps his hand on the screen with the indicator properly placed on e. step 402. Next, at least one width indicator is compared to a location on the customer's hand in step 404. The customer observes then the screen to determine if the width marker 212, 216 corresponds or not to an edge of the hand in step 406. If an anchoring marker does not correspond to the hand in step 406, then the pro can be repeated for each particular width measured by: the program in step 413. If only one width is measured, then the width measurement process ends at step 1 414. Otherwise, the width measurement process is repeated again at step 404 as indicated. If the marker gives width does not correspond to a location on the hand in step 406, then the width indicator can be adjusted in step 412. Of course, the speed of the width indicator can be adjusted in a way, imilar as the indicator speed of the V described above. Specifically, if you want to adjust the width indicators in step 408, this is adjusted in step 410. The width indicator can be adjusted to a different speed in 412, if necessary. The potential customer can continuously compare the width indicator 412, 416 with a location on the hand of the customer in step 404 until the width indicator ¿: 12, 416 corresponds to the portion on the hand and, each width that is measured It can be processed accordingly. Finally, the process of measuring the width may end in step 414.

At the end of the width measurement process in step 414, the program can; use some or all of these measurements, as well as possibly other measurements, to determine a particular glove size or record the measurements for an existing glove or custom-fit glove for the customer in step 416. Next, a screen ordering will be presented to the customer so that the customer can enter the relevant information such as name, address, credit card information, quantity, etc., in step 418. After entering the ordering information, the customer can send the order in pasp 420 to a server that hosts the network page, or otherwise send the order to the glove dealer. At this point, the program may return the client to the network page for additional search in step 422 or otherwise terminate the ordering process. The program of the preferred modality has been written in the VBSscript language, for example, Visual Basic, uses the controls Actives, and can be used with the programs Microsoft Internet Explorer. (MR) To this date, the Internet browser Netscape Navigator. (TM) does not support ActiveX-like applications, 'however, it is believed that subsequent developments in the Netscape Navigator (MR) program will likely allow programs similar ones are run or also this web browsing program. Explorer type programs support ActiveX controls that are typically identifiable by the ".oxc" at the end of file names. These programming controls have been found to be effective in increasing the speed of some applications. Using this technology, a potential customer can download the hand measurement program from a server to the local machine and have that handheld measurement program stored on the potential client's computer for immediate use, as well as for future use.

ActiveX controls are particularly attractive, as these are portable computer language models that support a variety of programming languages including C, Fox, and VB programming languages. However, this type of program could potentially be run on any type of computer system through any language. Numerous alternatives of the structure described herein will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure relates to the preferred embodiment of the invention, which is for the purposes of illustration only and not to be considered as limiting the invention. All modifications that do not depart from the spirit of the invention is intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (44)

1. CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property: 1. A method for obtaining dimensions of a human hand having a plurality of fingers and a thumb, using a computer that has a portion of memory and connected to a monitor, characterized the method because it comprises the steps of: turning on the computer; determine a screen size and the resolution of the monitor; the record of the size of the screen and the resolution of the monitor in the memory portion of the computer; Visual representation of a reference mark on the monitor screen placing the hand on the monitor screen, relative to the reference mark; the visual representation of at least one marker displayed on the screen; the location of at least one marker shown, on the screen, on a first edge of the human hand; recording or recording the position of at least one displayed marker in the memory portion of the computer; and the use of the registered position of at least one marker, and the recorded screen size, and the resolution thereof, to provide at least one measurement for use in determining the size of a glove. The method according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises the steps of: visually displaying at least one joint or junction marker on the screen; the placement of at least one joint marker on the screen in at least one of the joints formed between adjacent pairs of fingers; and the registration of. position of at least one binding marker in the memory of the computer. 3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it also includes the step of calibrating the screen after selecting the size of the screen. 4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the location of the marker shown, on a first edge of the hand, is used to determine a width of the hand. 5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it also includes the step of ordering a glove using the registered position of the markers. 6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it also includes the step of registering on the Internet before visually prostrating the reference mark on the screen 7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that it also includes the step of sending the registered position of the markers to a remote site via the Internet 8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises the step of visually displaying a path line on the screen along at least one local This can be done in relation to the brand shown, where the trajectory line is extended through the mark shown visually. 9. The method of compliance with the claim 8, characterized in that at least one mark shown visually comprises a first and a second mark shown visually; and which further comprises the step of visually displaying the mark shown along the path line. 10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that it also comprises the step of locating the second marker shown, on a second edge of the human hand. 11. The method of donformity with the claim 10, characterized in that it further comprises the step of determining the distance represented between the first and second numbers shown. 12. The method in accordance with the claim 11, characterized in that the distance between the first and the second marker corresponds to a width. 13. The method according to the claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises the step of selecting a right hand or a left hand before visually displaying the reference mark on the screen. 14. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises the step of selecting the sex of the human hand, before visually displaying the reference mark on the screen. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of visually displaying a model hand in conjunction with the reference mark on the screen. 16. The method of compliance with claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises the step of placing the markers on the screen at the ends of a plurality of fingers. 17. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of placing the markers on the screen in a plurality of joints formed between the pairs of adjacent fingers. 18. A method for obtaining dimensions of a human hand having a plurality of fingers and a thumb, using a computer that has a portion of memory and connected to a computer screen, characterized the method because it comprises the steps of: selecting a screen size of the computer screen; record the size of the screen over the portion of the computer's memory; calibrate the size of the screen; select a hand that will be measured; visually display a model hand and a reference mark on the screen, based on the selected hand; placing the Hupjian hand on a surface of the computer screen, by placing the human hand in an appropriate place in relation to the reference mark; the visual representation of a plurality of markers shown, on the screen; the placement of the markers shown on the screen at the edges of the hand; and the recording of the position of the markers displayed visually in the memory portion of the computer. 19. The method according to the claim 18, characterized in that the placement of the markers is carried out by means of the use of an input device for the computer, to move the markers in relation to the human hand. 20. The method of compliance with the claim 18, further characterized in that it comprises the step of connecting to a network site, before selecting the screen size of the computer. 21. The method according to the claim 18, further characterized in that it comprises the step of calculating a glove size based on the position of at least one of the markers. 22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that it also comprises the step of ordering a glove based on the registered position of each of the markers and the registered size of the screen. 23. A method to obtain dimensions of a human limb using a computer that has a portion of memory and connected to a monitor, characterized the method because it comprises the steps of: turning on the computer; visually display a reference mark on the monitor screen; place the human limb next to the monitor screen in relation to the reference mark; show visually: at least one marker on the screen; placing the marker displayed visually on the screen on an edge of at least a portion of the human extremity; register the position of the extreme marker in the memory portion of the computer; and use the registered position of the extreme marker to provide the measurements for a coverage for the extremity. 24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that the human limb is a hand, and because it also comprises the steps of determining a screen size and the resolution of the monitor, and using the size of the screen and the resolution of the same to provide measurements for coverage. 25. A park method to calibrate a monitor for measurement, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: a) placing a three-dimensional object having a first known dimension next to an indicator displayed visually on the monitor screen, the indicator has at least one prime and a second point, the first point is movable relative to the second point; b) the comparison of the object to the first and second points of the indicator; c) the correspondence of the indicator to have the first and second points substantially coincident with the first known dimension of the object; d) the determination of the number of pixels between the first and second points along the length of a first axis; and e) e ccallccuulloo dun uunnaa pprriimmeera calibration rule where the number of pixels per unit of measurement is established by mathematical comparison of the number of pixels obtained in step (d) to the first known dimension of the object. 26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that the mathematical comparison of the number of pixels obtained in step (d) to the first known dimension of the objects, comprises the division of the number of pixels obtained in the pasq (d) between the first known dimension of the object. 27. The method according to claim 25, further characterized in that it comprises the steps of: a) measure a distance by providing two sites displayed visually, on the screen; b) the movement of at least one of the two sites shown visually, in relation to others of the two sites displayed visually; c) determination of the number of pixels between the first and second sites displayed visually; and d) comparing the number of pixels obtained in step (c) to the first calibration rule, to determine a length between the two sites. 28. The method of compliance with the claim 27, characterized in that the movement of the two sites occurs substantially in a direction parallel to the first axis. 29. The method of compliance with the claim 27, characterized in that it further comprises a first vector wherein the first length corresponds to a length component of the first vector. 30. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that the second point is movable towards and away from the first point. 31. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that the known 4-dimension is a height of the object. 32. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that it also comprises the steps of: determining a screen cover and a resolution of the monitor; and recording the size of the screen and the resolution of the monitor in a memory portion of a computer, 33. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that the object is substantially circular. 34. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that the object is a coin. 35. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that the object also comprises a second known dimension, and wherein the indicator also comprises third and fourth steps, the third point is movable relative to the fourth point, which also comprises the steps from: a) compare object a) L third and fourth points of the indicator; b) matching the indicator to have the third and fourth points substantially coincident with the second known dimension of the object; c) determine the number of pixels between the third and fourth points along a second axis; Y d) the calculation of a second calibration rule where the number of pixels per unit of measurement is established by means of a mathematical comparison of the number of pixels obtained in step (c) to the second known dimension of the object. 36. The method of compliance with the claim 35, characterized in that the number of pixels obtained in step (d) is compared mathematically to the second known dimension of the object, which comprises the division of the number of pixels obtained in step (d) between the second known dimension of the object, The method according to the claim 36, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of a) measuring a distance by providing two sites displayed visually, on the screen; b) move at least one < The two sites shown visually, one referring to the other of the two visually displayed sites; c) determine the number of pixels between the first and second sites shown; and d) multiply the number of pixels obtained in step (c) by the inverse of the second calibration rule, to determine a second length between the two sites. 38. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that the movement of the sites occurs substantially in a direction parallel to the second axis. 39. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that it further comprises a second vector wherein the second length corresponds to a length component of the second vector 40. A method for calibrating a monitor for measuring, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: a) the placement of a three-dimensional object having first and second known dimensions close to an indicator displayed visually on a monitor screen, the indicator has at least first, second, third and fourth point s, the first point is movable relative to the second point, the third point is movable is movable with relation .1 fourth point, and the first axis is substantially p <; to the second axis; b) the comparison of the object or the first and second points of the indicator; c) the correspondence of the first and second points of the indicator to coincide substantially with the first known dimension of the object; d) determining the number of pixels between the first and second points along a first axis; e) the calculation of a first calibration rule where the number of pixels per unit of measurement is established by mathematical comparison of the number of pixels obtained in step (d) to the first known dimension of the object; f) compare the object to the third and fourth points of the indicator; g) the correspondence of the third and fourth points of the indicator to substantially coincide with the second known dimension of the object; h) determining the number of pixels between the third and fourth points along a second axis; and i) calculating the second calibration rule, wherein the number of pixels per unit of measurement is established by mathematically comparing the number of pixels obtained in step (h) to the second known dimension of the object. 41. The method according to claim 40, characterized in that the mathematical comparison of the number of pixels obtained in step (d) to the first known dimension of the object, comprises the division of the number of pixels obtained in step (d) between the first known dimension of the object, and mathematically compare the number of pixels obtained in step (h) to the second known dimension of the object, which comprises the division of the number of pixels obtained in step (h) by means of the second known dimension of the object. 42. The method of compliance with the claim 41, characterized in that it also comprises the steps of: a) measuring a distance by providing two sites displayed visually, on the screen; b) moving at least one of the two sites displayed visually in relation to the other of the two sites displayed visually; c) determining the number of pixels between the first and second sites displayed visually, along the first axis; d) determining the number of pixels between the first and second sites displayed visually, along the second axis; e) dividing the number of pixels obtained in step (c) between the first calibration rule, to determine a length between the sites along the first axis, to obtain a first vector; f) dividing the number of pixels obtained in step (d) between the second rule ie calibration, to determine a length between the two sites along the second axis, to obtain a second vector; Y g) determine a length between the first and second sites, by taking the square root of the sum of the first vector squared and the second vector squared. 43. The method according to claim 41, characterized in that the object is a coin. 44. The method of compliance with the claim 42, characterized in that the two sites shown visually are used to measure a dimension of a human hand. 57 pMMi or SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An online method for measuring dimensions is described, which includes the use of a computer screen (252). The measurement method is characterized by a calibration technique that provides the visual representation of an indicator (254) on the computer screen, which is compared to an object (250), preferably a coin, which has known dimensions by means of movement of the portions of an indicator to correspond to at least one known dimension of the object along at least one axis, the number of pixels between two portions of the indicator can be divided by the length of the known dimension to calculate a calibration rule The calibration rule can be used to convert the number of pixels between two other sites on the screen into a length, such as can be used for the measurement of a human hand for adjustment with a glove.