WO2017044593A1

WO2017044593A1 - Measuring device with rotating joint

Info

Publication number: WO2017044593A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/050727
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Jonathan BYRON; Ian Michael COBB; Brendan Michael Walsh; John Griffin BIERING, Jr.; Jonathan Siebert BECKWITH
Original assignee: Apex Brands, Inc.
Priority date: 2015-09-10
Filing date: 2016-09-08
Publication date: 2017-03-16

Abstract

A measuring device is provided including a wheel, a handle, a joint and a shaft including an upper portion operably coupled to the handle and a lower portion operably coupled to the wheel. The joint operably couples the lower portion to the upper portion to enable the upper portion to rotate relative to the lower portion such that the upper portion is repositionable between a working position at which the upper portion extends substantially away from the wheel and a storage position at which the upper portion extends substantially toward the wheel. The upper portion and the lower portion each lie substantially in a same plane in both the working position and the storage position.

Description

MEASURING DEVICE WITH ROTATING JOINT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/216,713 filed on September 10, 2015, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Example embodiments generally relate to measuring equipment and, in particular, relate to a measuring device with a rotating joint.

BACKGROUND

Typical measuring tools such as wheeled markers and measuring wheels may be used in surveying, sports, and other activities. Some wheeled measuring tools may have a shaft formed from a single piece, which may cause such measuring tools to take substantial storage space in a surveyor's vehicle or display space in a store. Telescoping or butt hinged wheeled survey tools may be collapsed or folded to reduce space consumption. However, these tools may not be very durable. Additionally, when collapsed or folded, these wheeled measuring tools may be awkward to carry or move and may also be aesthetically unpleasant.

Some measuring tools, such as measuring wheels, may be useful for determining distances, but actions necessary at the determined distances are performed by the operator separately from the measuring wheel. Similarly, other measuring tools, such as field markers, may be used to mark locations or distance, but do not independently determine distances from a reference point.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLES

Accordingly, some example embodiments may enable the provision of a measuring device with a rotating joint, as described below. In one example embodiment, a measuring device is provided. The measuring device includes a wheel, a handle, a joint and a shaft including an upper portion operably coupled to the handle and a lower portion operably coupled to the wheel. The joint operably couples the lower portion to the upper portion to enable the upper portion to rotate relative to the lower portion such that the upper portion is repositionable between a working position at which the upper portion extends substantially away from the wheel and a storage position at which the upper portion extends substantially toward the wheel. The upper portion and the lower portion each lie substantially in a same plane in both the working position and the storage position.

In another example embodiment, a measuring device is provided including a wheel, a handle, a shaft comprising an upper portion operably coupled to the handle and a lower portion operably coupled to the wheel. The measuring device may further include a joint comprising an inner element and an outer element configured to operably couple the upper portion of the shaft to the lower portion of the shaft. The inner element rotates within the outer element as the shaft transitions between a working position and a storage position.

In another example embodiment, a measuring device is provided including a wheel, a distance counter configured to measure the travel of the wheel, a handle, a shaft comprising an upper portion operably coupled to the handle and a lower portion operably coupled to the wheel, and a joint comprising an inner element and an outer element configured to operably couple the upper portion of the shaft to the lower portion of the shaft. The inner element rotates within the outer element as the shaft transitions between a working position and a storage position.

In yet another embodiment, a measuring device is provided including a wheel, a handle, a shaft comprising an upper portion operably coupled to the handle and a lower portion operably coupled to the wheel, a joint comprising an inner element and an outer element configured to operably couple the upper portion of the shaft to the lower portion of the shaft. The inner element rotates within the outer element as the shaft transitions between a working position and a storage position. The measuring device also includes an accessory control operably coupled to the handle, and an actuator configured to actuate an accessory in response to operation of the accessory control. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

Having thus described the measuring device in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example measuring device in a working position according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates an example measuring device in a storage position according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3, which is defined by FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, illustrates an example measuring device transitioning between the storage position (FIG. 3A) and the working position (FIG. 3B), with various positions in between being shown in FIG. 3C, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates an example cross-sectional view of a measuring device joint according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example measuring device and accessories according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 6A illustrates use of the measuring device according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 6B illustrates transport of the measuring device according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7 A illustrates a storage position for another example measuring device according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7B illustrates a transition between storage position of FIG. 7 A to a working position according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7C illustrates the measuring device of FIG. 7 A in the working position according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 8 A illustrates a perspective view of an alternative design for a measuring device in a working position according to another example embodiment; and

FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the measuring device of FIG. 8A in a storage position according to an example embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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. 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.

The term "measuring device," as used herein, shall be interpreted as a device employing a wheel or perambulator that may be directly or indirectly used to perform an actual or approximate measurement, surveying or marking of a surface.

In some cases, example embodiments may provide a measuring device with a rotating or pivoting joint. The measuring device may employ the rotating joint to operably couple the upper portion with a handle to the lower portion with a wheel to enable a transition between a working position and a storage position via operation of the rotating joint. The rotating joint may increase the structural durability of the measuring device. Specifically, the rotating joint may include an outer element inside which an inner element rotates, providing a substantial contact area with few or no weak points. In some cases, the rotation or pivoting of the joint may be in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the wheel, to prevent operation force from being applied in the same direction as the joint rotation.

The rotating joint may be substantially horizontal in relation to the operating position of the wheel, providing a convenient place to carry the measuring device. As such, for example, the rotating joint may be used as a carrying handle in the storage position providing a balanced ergonomic place to carry the measuring device. The storage position may also be more aesthetically pleasing, since there is a symmetrical and balanced contour of the measuring device when the measuring device is in the storage position. Particularly, a symmetrical storage position with convenient carrying handle may be desirable for aesthetic effect when the measuring device is places on a shelf or hung in a store or other point of sale.

In some embodiments, the measuring device may include a distance counter for determining a distance, such as the travel distance of the measuring device wheel. The distance counter may be a digital or analog counter and may have a display/readout and/or controls at or near the handle for ease of use. In some instances, the distance counter may be gear driven to provide a more accurate distance determination. In an example embodiment, the wheel or distance counter may include a wheel lock to inhibit travel of the wheel when the distance counter is not activated.

In an example embodiment, the measuring device may include one or more accessories, such as a marking device. The marking device may be, for example, a spray paint can or spray chalk can, which can be actuated by an actuator (e.g., a trigger) operably coupled to the handle.

In some example embodiments, the measuring device may include both the distance counter and the actuator. In such an embodiment, a user may be able to determine a distance using the distance counter and actuate an accessory to apply paint or chalk to apply a mark at the determined distance with the measuring device. Thus, both measuring and marking can be accomplished with a single device instead of measuring with one device and having to separately carry paint or chalk to apply the mark.

In one or more example embodiments, the measuring device may include an integrated writing surface on the handle for convenient note taking. In some embodiments, the writing surface may be an erasable writing surface, on which notes may be directly taken and erased.

Example Measuring Device in Working Position

An example embodiment of the measuring device will now be described in reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 illustrates a measuring device 100 in a working position according to an example embodiment. The measuring device 100 may include a wheel 102 a handle 104, a shaft 105, and a joint 110.

The shaft 105 may include an upper portion 106 operably coupled to a handle 104 and a lower portion 108 operably coupled to the wheel 102. The upper portion 106 may be operably coupled to the lower portion 108 by the joint 110. The joint 110 of this example comprises a carry portion for the measuring device 100 when the measuring device 100 is in the storage position. However, it should be appreciated that the carry portion could be a different component or portion of a component relative to the joint 110 in other examples (e.g., see the example of FIGS. 7 A, 7B and 7C below). The upper portion 106 of the shaft

105 of the measuring device 100 may extend in a direction substantially away from the lower portion 108, when in the working position, as depicted in FIG. 1. In a storage position the upper portion 106 may extend in the direction substantially the same as the lower portion 108, as depicted in FIG. 2.

The joint 110 may be a rotating joint including an inner element, such as tube HOB and an outer element, such as tube 11 OA. The inner element (tube HOB) may be operably coupled, such as by molding, adhesive, rivets, screws, or the like, to one of the upper portion

106 or the lower portion 108. The outer element (tube 110A) may be operably coupled, such as by molding, adhesive, rivets, screws, or the like, to an opposite one of the lower portion 108 or upper portion 106. The joint 110 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular (e.g., less than a small angle, such as 5 degrees, 8 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, or the like, from perpendicular) to the direction of extension of the shaft 105. The angle x between the joint 110 and the upper portion 106 or lower portion 108 may be 90 degrees, 95 degrees, 100 degrees, 110 degrees, or the like.

The lower portion 108 may be operably coupled to the wheel 102 by a fork 115. The fork 115 may include a single prong extending from the lower portion 108 to the wheel hub or two prongs extending from the lower portion 108 to the wheel hub on either side of the wheel 102. The fork 115 may be operably coupled to the lower portion 108 by screws, molding, adhesive, tabs, locking rings, or the like. In some example embodiments, the fork 115 may be stationary relative to the lower portion 108. In an example embodiment, the fork 115 may swivel or pivot about the lower portion 108. In an example embodiment, the fork 115 may include a debris wiper configured to remove debris from the wheel 102 as the wheel 102 rotates. In an example embodiment, the debris wiper may be a flexible or rigid blade disposed in close proximity to a travel surface of the wheel 102. The blade may scrape debris, such as litter, mud, or the like from the wheel 102, which may in turn increase or maintain traction with the terrain being traversed by the wheel 102 to improve accuracy of a measurement by increasing the consistency between linear and rotational travel of the wheel 102.

In an example embodiment, the wheel 102 may include an external periphery that is lined with a flexible material. The external periphery may be, for example, rubber and include an inner element for inflation and rigidity. In some alternative embodiments, the wheel 102 may be a rigid material, such as plastic or metal. The wheel 102 may include a plurality of tread or traction protrusions configured to increase traction of the wheel 102 over terrain being traversed by the wheel 102. In an example embodiment, the wheel 102 may optionally include a wheel lock 118. The wheel lock 118 may be configured to inhibit rotation of the wheel 102 when engaged. The wheel lock 118 may be beneficial when storing the measuring device 100, or in embodiments including a distance counter 120, as described below.

The distance counter (DC) 120 may be operably coupled to the wheel 102 and configured to measure the distance traveled by the wheel 102, e.g., measure a distance traveled by the measuring device 100 due to rotation of the wheel 102 over a surface. The distance counter 120 may be a mechanical or digital device. In an example embodiment, the distance counter 120 may be a click counter which counts the rotations of the wheel 102 and increments the measured distance based on the circumference of the wheel 102. In some example embodiments, the distance counter 120 may be a belt or chain driven counter, in which a belt or chain is operably coupled to the wheel hub and travel of the chain is converted to a measured distance as the wheel 102 rotates. In a further example embodiment, the distance counter 120 may be a gear driven counter, in which a gear 122 is operably coupled to the wheel 102 and/or wheel hub. The distance counter 120 may convert the distance traveled by the gear 122 to a measure of travel distance of the wheel 102.

In some embodiments, the wheel lock 118 may be engaged when the distance counter 120 is not active, e.g., not measuring. In an example embodiment, the wheel lock 118 may be a pin or clamp that engages a portion of the wheel 102, such as a rim of the wheel 102. In such an example, a clamp or an aperture for a pin, may engage the rim to inhibit the rotation of the wheel 102. Activating, such as by initializing, energizing, resetting, or the like, the distance counter 120 may also cause the wheel lock 118 to disengage to allow free motion of the wheel 102. In some embodiments, the wheel lock 118 may be actuated or released by a trigger or other actuator. Such trigger or actuator may be located, for example, on the handle 104. The locking of the wheel 102 during measurement may be beneficial to ensure accurate measurement and/or marking, as described below.

In an example embodiment, a distance counter display (DCD) 123 may be mounted directly or indirectly to the distance counter 120 or may be mounted remotely, such as at the handle 104. A counter control 116 may be operably coupled to the handle 104. In an example embodiment, the counter control 116 may be operably coupled to the handle 104 proximate the distance counter display 123. The counter control 116 may be configured to reset the distance counter 120, energize and/or de-energize the distance counter 120, change modes and/or measurement units, or the like. The counter control 116 may include one or more buttons, switches, touch screens, or the like, which may be positioned on the top of the handle 104, such as in a thumb operation position, below the handle 104, such as in a trigger operation position, or integrated in the handle 104, such as in a squeeze operation position.

In an example embodiment, the measuring device 100 may also include one or more instances of an accessory 124, such as marking devices, pneumatic tools, a camera, or the like. In an example embodiment in which the accessory is a marking device, the marking device may include a pigment spray, such as chalk or paint. The accessory 124 may be disposed proximate the wheel 102, the shaft 105, the handle 104, the fork 115, or the like. An example pneumatic tool that may form the accessory 124 may include a stake driver, nail gun, or the like. The measuring device 100 may include an accessory control 112 configured to cause, upon operation, an actuator, such as a valve on a spray can, or pneumatic tool or exposure trigger on a camera to actuate the accessory 124. The accessory control 112 may be operably coupled to the handle 104. The accessory control 112 may include one or more buttons, switches, touch screens, or the like, which may be positioned on the top of the handle 104 such as in a thumb operation position, below the handle 104, such as in a trigger operation position, or integrated in the handle 104, such as in a squeeze operation position.

Additionally or alternatively, the accessory 124 may be actuated directly, such as by depressing an actuator or valve of a spray can, in an accessory mount to actuate a spray valve and spray a color pigment. In an example embodiment, the accessory control 112 may be disposed at or near the location of the accessory 124, such as near the wheel 102 in an example in which the accessory 124 is a spray can that is disposed proximate to the wheel 102.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example measuring device 100 in a storage position according to an example embodiment. The upper portion 106 of the shaft 105 may extend in substantially the same direction as the lower portion 108 of the shaft 105 relative to the joint 110 when the measuring device 100 is in the storage position. Thus, for example, while the lower portion 108 extends in a direction toward the wheel 102 relative to the joint 110 while in both the storage position and the working position, the upper portion 106 extends in a direction away from the wheel 102 relative to the joint 110 in the working position and toward the wheel 102 relative to the joint 110 in the storage position. The joint 110 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension of the upper portion 106 and the lower portion 108 of the shaft 105. More particularly, the joint 110 may extend in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension of a radial line extending from an axis of rotation of the wheel 102 to a center of the joint 110. In an example embodiment, the extension of the lower portion 108 is mirrored by the extension of the upper portion 106 relative to a longitudinal axis A in the storage position. The length of the upper portion 106 of shaft 105 (LI) may be about equal to the length of the lower portion 108 of the shaft 105 (L2), e.g., Ll~ L2. The upper portion 106 and the lower portion 108 of the shaft 105 may extend tangentially from a point proximate the exterior surface of the wheel 102. The handle 104 may be proximate and substantially parallel to the wheel 102 in the storage position. In an example embodiment, a plane defined by the joint 110 (B) may be about parallel with a plane defined by the upper surface of the handle (C).

The joint 110 may be of a sufficient length to accommodate a hand of a user, such as 4 inches, 5 inches, or the like. The joint 110 may be configured with sufficient rigidity to accommodate carrying of the measuring device 100 by the joint 110 without causing degradation of the joint 110, upper portion 106, lower portion 108, or other component of the measuring device 100. The joint 110 include a carrying handle HOC. The carrying handle HOC may be integrated into the joint 110. The carrying handle HOC may include contoured molding, padding, or the like.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example measuring device transition between the storage position and the working position according to an example embodiment in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C. The measuring device 100 may start in the storage position, as shown in FIG. 3 A. In the storage position, the joint 110 may extend in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to direction of extension of the axis of rotation of the wheel 102, and may be spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the wheel 102 by nearly the length of the upper portion 106 and lower portion 108 of the shaft 105. The upper portion 106 and lower portion 108 of the shaft 105, and the joint 110 may form a shape substantially similar to a trapezoidal shape in combination with the wheel 102 (or more particularly in combination with a diameter of the wheel 102). The handle 104 may also be proximate to and substantially parallel with the wheel 102 when the handle 104 is folded in the storage position.

As mentioned above, in the working position shown in FIG. 3B, the upper portion 106 of the shaft 105 may extend in a direction substantially opposite the lower portion 108 relative to the joint 110. The joint 110 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the general direction of extension of the upper portion 106 and lower portion 108 of the shaft 105. In the example depicted in FIG. 3B, the accessoryl24, for example, a paint can, is disposed behind and proximate the wheel 102. Thus, for example, the accessory 124 may be supported on the fork 115, on the opposite side of the wheel 102 relative to the viewer in FIG. 3B.

FIG. 3C illustrates several positions of the measuring device 100 as the measuring device 100 is transitioned between the working position and the transport position. In an example embodiment, the measuring device 100 may include a joint release 111. The joint release 111 may be a push button, slide, cotter pin, or the like. The joint release 111 may operate a joint lock configured to inhibit rotation of the joint 110. The joint lock may be a pin and aperture, ratchet, jam nut, or the like.

The joint lock may be engaged in the working position and/or the storage position to limit or prevent movement of the joint 110 so that the upper portion 106 can be rotated relative to the lower portion 108 of the shaft 105. The joint lock may release or disengage in response to operation of the joint release 111 allowing the joint 110 to rotate from the working position to the storage position or from the storage position to the working position.

The joint 110 may rotate about an axis that extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the wheel 102, moving the upper portion 106 of the shaft 105 from the storage position to the working position (or vice versa). In other words, the upper portion 106 and lower portion 108 may lie in a substantially same plane in both the working position and the storage position after rotation about the axis of the joint 110. However, the rotation of the joint 110 may cause the upper section 106 to rotate out of the plane during the transition between the working position and storage position as shown in various stages in FIG. 3C.

In some example embodiments, the joint 110 may be locked in one or more intermediate positions, e.g., positions between the working position and the storage position. For example, to enable the measuring device to be used by an operator riding in a vehicle, the joint 110 may be rotated to any of the one or more intermediate positions shown in FIG. 3C to allow the measuring device 100 to be a distance away from the vehicle when in operation.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example cross-sectional view of the joint 110 of the measuring device 100 according to an example embodiment. The joint 110 may include an inner element, e.g., tube 100B, and the outer element, e.g., tube 100A. The tube 100B may be operably coupled to the upper portion 106 of the shaft 105, as depicted or the lower portion 108. Similarly, the tube 100 A may be operably coupled to the lower portion 108 of the shaft 105, as depicted, or the upper portion 106. In operation the tube 100B rotates within the tube 100A. The axis of rotation of the joint 110 lies coaxially at the center of both of the tubes 100 A and 100B.

Additionally or alternatively, inner element (tube 100B) and/or outer element (tube 100 A) may be shapes other than tubular, such as I shaped, square, ellipse, rectangular, triangular, or the like, allowing for rotation of the inner element within the outer element.

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative example design for a measuring device and accessories according to an example embodiment. The measuring device 400 may include one or more accessories, such as a tether 402. The tether 402 may be a strap, such as a wrist strap or belt strap configured to attach the measuring device 400 to a user or object to prevent inadvertent loss of proximity or attachment to the measuring device 400. In some embodiments, the measuring device 400 may include a writing surface 404. The writing surface 404 may be operably coupled to the measuring device 400 or may be integral therewith. The writing surface 404 may be a writing support surface configured to support an object being written upon, such as paper. Alternatively, the writing surface 404 may be an erasable writing surface configured to be directly written on. In one example embodiment, a vinyl writing surface, which may be written on directly, such as by a grease pencil or support paper, or the like, may be integrated into the handle of the measuring device 400.

In an example embodiment, the measuring device 400 may include one or more retainers 406 operably coupled to the measuring device 400 and configured to retain one or more accessories. The retainers 406 may be elastic straps, nylon straps, Velcro, or the like and may include loops, snaps, toggles, or the like. The retainers 406 may be configured to retain accessories, such as marking devices, e.g., spray pigment, flags, writing instruments, or the like.

In an example embodiment, a folding joint hinge 408 may be used in place of a rotating joint, as discussed above in reference to FIGS. 1-4. The folding joint hinge 408 may be a durable material, such as a hard polymer or metal, e.g., steel or aluminum. The folding joint hinge 408 may be machined, stamped, injection molded, or the like.

In some example embodiments, the measuring device 400 may include a gear driven distance counter 410, as discussed above. In some example embodiments, the distance counter 410 may have a magnified readout 412. The magnified readout 412 may include digits of adequate size that they may be read by an operator in the working position, or that may be provided to a magnification device to enlarge the displayed digits.

In an example embodiment, the measuring device 400 may include one or more visibility elements 414 configured to attract attention to the measuring device 400, to prevent or limit loss of the measuring device 400 in rough terrain, and to increase safety of the operator. The visibility elements 414 may be a high visibility color, such as orange painted or molding into the measuring device 400. In some example embodiments, the visibility elements 414 may be or include a reflector operably coupled to a portion the measuring device 400, such as the wheel, shaft, handle, or the like. In an example embodiment in which the upper portion, lower portion, fork, or the like are I shaped, the reflector may be disposed in the recession of the I, which may be less susceptible to abrasion or other types of damage.

In some example embodiments, the wheel of the measuring device 400 may include traction elements 416, such as one or more ribs, treads, protrusions, or the like, configured to provide traction for the wheel as it travels over various terrain, such as pavement, mud, grass, or the like.

In an example embodiment, the measuring device 400 may include a debris wiper 418 operably coupled to the fork. The debris wiper 418 may be a rigid or flexible blade or wall configured to be in proximity to the wheel and wipe or block debris as the wheel travels through the fork.

FIGS. 6 A and 6B illustrate use of the measuring device 100 in an example embodiment. FIG. 6A depicts a user pushing the measuring device 100. In the depicted case, the user is gripping the handle 104 in a manner in which the measuring device 100 extends from the bottom of the hand, e.g., away from the thumb. This arrangement may provide an ergonomic wrist position. The measuring device 100 may, additionally or alternatively, be operated by gripping the handle 104 in manner in which the measuring device 100 extends from the top of the hand, e.g. the direction of the thumb. In the example of FIG. 6A, the handle 104, upper portion 106, lower portion 108 and joint 110 form an S shape. When held in the opposite orientation, the handle 104, upper portion 106, lower portion 108 and joint 110 form a shape substantially similar to the shape of an S that is reversed. In the example of FIG. 6A, the accessory 124 (e.g., a marking device, which in this instance is a spray can) is depicted spraying a pigment on to a surface, proximate the wheel 102.

FIG 6B depicts a user carrying the measuring device 100 by the joint 110. The center of gravity of the measuring device 100 may be substantially centered below the joint 110 in the storage position thereby providing a balanced ergonomic place to carry the measuring device 100. The joint 110 therefore serves as a carrying handle in the storage position. However, the joint 110 could also easily serve as the point from which the measuring device 100 can be hung for storage or display in a retail outlet.

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate an example measuring device according to another alternative example embodiment. Although the measuring devices discussed above in reference to FIGS. 1-6 include a joint which rotates the upper portion 106 out of the same plane as the lower portion 108 during the transition between the working position and the storage position, other example embodiments, such as depicted in FIGS. 7A-7C may include a joint which rotates the upper portion 706 relative to the lower portion 708 while maintaining the upper portion 706 in same the plane as the lower portion 708 during the entire transition between the working position and the storage position.

FIG. 7A illustrates a measuring device 700 in including a wheel 702, handle 704, a shaft 705 and a joint 710 in a storage position. The shaft 705 may include an upper portion 706 and a lower portion 708. In an example embodiment, the lower portion 708 may include a carry portion 730. The carry portion 730 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the wheel 702 and be spaced apart therefrom, while also being parallel to a tangent line extending from a point on the wheel 702 that is closest to the carry portion 730.

The joint 710 may be a pin joint operably coupling the upper portion 708 of the shaft

705 to the carry portion 730 of the lower portion 708 of the shaft 705. The joint 710 may allow for the rotation of the upper portion 706 to transition from the storage position, as depicted in FIG. 7A to a working position, as depicted in FIG. 7C through a range of motion shown in FIG. 7B. The joint 710 may cause the rotation of the upper portion 706 of the shaft 705 to transition between the storage position and the working position while the upper and lower portions 706 and 708 stay in the same plane defined by the lower portion 708 of the shaft 705, as depicted in FIG. 7B.

In an example embodiment, the measuring device 700 may include a joint release 711. The joint release 711 may be a push button, slide, cotter pin, or the like. The joint release 711 may operate a joint lock configured to inhibit rotation of the joint 710. The joint lock may be a pin and aperture, ratchet, jam nut, or the like.

The joint lock may be engaged in the working position and/or the storage position to limit or prevent movement of the joint 710. The joint lock may release or disengage in response to operation of the joint release 711 allowing the joint 710 to rotate from the working position to the storage position or from the storage position to the working position. Moreover, in some cases, the joint 710 may be fixable in intermediate positions between the working position and the storage position. These intermediate positions may define alternate working positions for operators of different heights, or that are using the measuring device 700 in different environments.

The measuring device 700 may have an aesthetically balanced appearance in the storage position, due to a symmetric or substantially symmetric extension of the upper portion 706 and the lower portion 708 away form the carrying portion 730. Again, when in the storage position, the general shape of a trapezoid is formed. In some example embodiments, the weight of the measuring device 700 may be balanced or substantially balanced at the carrying portion 730, when in the storage position, providing for an ergonomic carry position. Furthermore, the carrying portion 730 may provide a convenient platform for hanging the measuring device 700 on or in a display, or in a utility cabinet or vehicle.

FIG. 8, which is defined by FIGS. 8A and 8B, shows another alternative design of a measuring wheel 800 in accordance with an example embodiment. The measuring wheel 800 is shown in the working position in FIG. 8A, and in the storage position in FIG. 8B. As described above, this example also provides a shaft 805 that is split about a joint 810 into an upper portion 808 and a lower portion 806. A handle 804 is attached to a distal end of the upper portion 808.

In an example embodiment, rotation of the upper portion 808 may only be permitted when a joint release 811. The joint release 811 may be operable to lock and unlock rotatability of the upper portion 808. In this example, the joinT 810 may include an inner tube and outer tube, as described above. The outer tube may have an aperture through which a depressible detent may be biased to extend. The detent may be depressed by force (e.g., from the user's thumb) to enable the inner tube to rotate relative to the outer tube. At least one aperture may be provided for each position in which the upper portion 808 is desired to be fixable. Thus, for example, one aperture could correspond to the storage position and one aperture could correspond to the working position. In each such position, the detent may extend through the aligned aperture to hold the upper portion 808 in the corresponding position. The joint 810 may then form a carrying portion (or second handle) from which the measuring wheel can be easily grasped for transport and/or hung for display or storage.

Wheel 802 is operably coupled to the lower portion 806 via a wheel housing 820. The wheel housing 820 of this example partially encloses the wheel 802 and is fixed to the lower portion 806 at one end of the wheel housing 820. Meanwhile, a cradle 825 is formed at an opposing end of the wheel housing 820 to provide support to the upper portion 808 when the upper portion 808 is folded to the storage position. The cradle 825 may be formed to receive the upper portion 808, as is the case in FIGS. 8A and 8B. However, the cradle 825 could be any detent, protrusion, or other receiving surface that can prevent continued motion or rotation of the upper portion 808 out of a plane in which both the upper portion 808 and lower portion 806 lie in the storage position.

An axis of rotation 830 of the wheel 802 is defined as a line about which the wheel 802 rotates. The axis of rotation 830 is about half a diameter of the wheel 802 in elevation (i.e., distance above the ground). Meanwhile, a center of gravity 835 of the measuring wheel 800 is at a lower elevation (i.e., below) the axis of rotation 830 when the measuring wheel 800 is in operation in the working position. This arrangement (i.e., having the center of gravity 835 closer to the ground than the axis of rotation 830) is achieved by providing increased mass of the wheel housing 820 at a lower elevation and consequently provides improved stability since the wheel 802 is less likely to lean forward, right or left.

As can be seen from FIG. 8A, part of the mass added to the wheel housing 820 may include the provision of a counter 840 at an end of the wheel housing 820 that is closest to the user during operation of the measuring wheel 800. A counter reset 845 may also be provided proximate to the counter 840. Components forming the counter 840 and counter reset 845 may be on an opposite side of the wheel 802 relative to the point at which the lower portion 806 connects to the wheel housing 820.

When the measuring wheel 800 is folded to the storage position, as shown in FIG. 8B, the upper portion 808 is folded to be more compact by placing the handle 804 proximate to a periphery of the wheel 802. This arrangement provides for the weight of the handle 804 to be repositioned and may correspondingly move the center of gravity closer to the axis or rotation so that the measuring wheel 800 is balanced and easy to carry when in the storage position. As stated above, the joint forms a carrying portion or second handle from which transport, storage and/or display can easily be accomplished.

In some embodiments, the measuring device may be further configured for optional modifications. In this regard, for example, the measuring device also includes a distance counter configured to measure the travel of the wheel. In some example embodiments, the distance counter is a digital counter. In an example embodiment, the distance counter further comprises a gear operably coupled to the wheel, wherein the travel of the wheel is measured based on the movement of the gear. In some example embodiments, measuring device also includes a wheel lock configured to inhibit rotation of the wheel when engaged. In an example embodiment, the measuring device also includes a wheel lock configured to resist rotation of the wheel when engaged. The wheel lock is disengaged in response to activation of the distance counter and engaged in response to deactivation of the distance counter. In some example embodiments, the measuring device also includes a counter control operably coupled to the handle configured to reset the distance counter in response to being actuated. In an example embodiment, the measuring device also includes a counter display configured to display the measured travel of the wheel. In some example embodiments, the counter display is operably coupled to the handle. In an example embodiment, the measuring device also includes an accessory control operably coupled to the handle and an actuator configured to actuate an accessory in response to operation of the accessory control. In some example embodiments, the accessory is a marking device. In an example embodiment, the marking device is a pigment spray. In some example embodiments, the measuring device also includes a writing surface operably coupled to the handle. In an example embodiment, the wring surface is an erasable writing surface. In some example embodiments, the measuring device also includes one or more retainers operably coupled to the measuring device configured for accessory retention. In an example embodiment, the measuring device may also include one or more visibility elements. In some example embodiments, the one or more visibility elements are reflectors. In an example embodiment, the measuring device may also include a debris wiper configured to wipe debris from the wheel as the wheel rotates.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the measuring device 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 measuring devices 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

THAT WHICH IS CLAIMED:

1. A measuring device comprising:

a wheel;

a handle;

a shaft comprising an upper portion operably coupled to the handle and a lower portion operably coupled to the wheel; and

a joint operably coupling the lower portion to the upper portion to enable the upper portion to rotate relative to the lower portion such that the upper portion is repositionable between a working position at which the upper portion extends substantially away from the wheel and a storage position at which the upper portion extends substantially toward the wheel,

wherein the upper portion and the lower portion each lie substantially in a same plane in both the working position and the storage position.

2. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein the joint comprises an inner element and an outer element configured to operably couple the upper portion of the shaft to the lower portion of the shaft,

wherein the inner element rotates within the outer element during a transition between the working position and the storage position.

3. The measuring device of claim 2, wherein the inner element and outer element are coaxial with each other about an axis of rotation of the joint, and

wherein the upper portion moves out of the same plane during the transition between the working position and the storage position

4. The measuring device of claim 3, wherein the upper portion is fixable at one or more intermediate locations between the working position and the storage position.

5. The measuring device of claim 1, further comprising a distance counter configured to measure a distance traveled during rotation of the wheel.

6. The measuring device of claim 5, wherein the distance counter is a digital counter.

7. The measuring device of claim 5, wherein the distance counter further comprises a gear operably coupled to the wheel, wherein the distance traveled is measured based on movement of the gear.

8. The measuring device of claim 1, further comprising a wheel lock configured to inhibit rotation of the wheel responsive to engagement of the wheel lock.

9. The measuring device of claim 5, further comprising a counter control operably coupled to the handle configured to reset the distance counter in response to being actuated.

10. The measuring device of claim 5, further comprising a counter display configured to display the distance traveled.

11. The measuring device of claim 1, further comprising:

an accessory; and

an actuator configured to actuate the accessory in response to operation of the actuator.

12. The measuring device of claim 11, wherein the accessory is a marking device.

13. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein the wheel, handle, shaft and joint form a substantially trapezoidal shape in the storage position.

14. The measuring device of claim 13, wherein the wheel, handle, shaft and joint form a substantially S shape in the working position.

15. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein the handle lies proximate to a periphery of the wheel in the storage position.

16. The measuring device of claim 1, wherein a center of gravity of the measuring device is below an axis of rotation of the wheel while the measuring device is in the working position.

17. The measuring device of claim 1, further comprising a joint release configured to operate a joint lock that inhibits rotation of the joint when engaged.

18. The measuring device of Claim 1 further comprising:

a debris wiper configured to wipe debris from the wheel as the wheel rotates.

19. The measuring device of Claim 1, wherein the upper portion of the shaft extends in a direction substantially opposite a direction of extension of the lower portion of the shaft relative to the joint in the working position.

20. The measuring device of Claim 1, wherein the upper portion of the shaft extends in a direction relative to the joint that is substantially a same direction as the lower portion of the shaft in the storage position.