IP Library › Granted Patent US 12,638,284
Granted Patent B2
US 12,638,284 · App. 18/489,893 · Granted May 26, 2026

Difference maker tape measure and method of use

Inventor: Dennis Rappenecker (Rhinelander, WI)
G01B3/1003
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Quick Facts
Patent No.
US 12,638,284
App. No.
18/489,893
Granted
May 26, 2026
Kind
B2
Abstract

A tape measure device including a housing with branding options, a lock tab mechanism for controlling tape extension/retraction, and compatibility with different tape lengths is disclosed. The tape measure blade incorporates three distinct sets of ascending and descending numbers, each tailored for specific measurement scenarios. The first set offers traditional ascending linear measurements, identical to a standard tape measure, simplifying common length assessments. The second set (i.e., descending set) is engineered for calculating differences (i.e., section cut-offs) in 8-foot building materials, while the third set (i.e., descending set) caters to 12-foot materials. The aforementioned sets enable users to quickly identify and cut precise lengths without the need for extensive tape measure blade extension. The device's design optimizes ease of use, portability, and secure storage through a belt clip.

Claims (28)

1 . A tape measure device comprising:

a portable tape measure having a housing, a lock tab, and a tape;

wherein said lock tab having a sliding portion for sliding said lock tab from a first tape locking position for preventing said tape from extending from said housing to a second tape unlocking position for enabling said tape to retract into said housing; and

wherein said tape having at least two sets of sequential numbers including a first set of sequential numbers in an ascending order and a second set of sequential numbers in a descending order;

wherein the housing comprises an indicia;

wherein said first set of sequential numbers ascends from zero;

wherein said second set of sequential numbers descends from 96 inches; and

further wherein said third set of sequential numbers descends from 144 inches.

2 . The tape measure device of claim 1 , wherein said housing having a flat base for standing said portable tape measure on a flat surface.

3 . The tape measure device of claim 2 , wherein said housing having a clip attached to a side surface of said housing for clipping to an object for hands-free retention.

4 . A tape measure device comprising:

a portable tape measure having a housing, a lock tab, and a tape;

wherein said tape having at least three sets of sequential numbers including a first set of sequential numbers in an ascending order, a second set of sequential numbers in a descending order, and a third set of sequential numbers in a descending order;

wherein the housing comprises an indicia;

wherein the housing further comprises a clip disposed on a rear surface of the housing;

wherein said second set of sequential numbers descends from 96 inches; and

further wherein said third set of sequential numbers descends from 144 inches.

5 . The tape measure device of claim 4 , wherein said housing having a flat base for standing said portable tape measure on a flat surface.

6 . The tape measure device of claim 4 , wherein said lock tab having a sliding portion for sliding said lock tab from a first tape locking position for preventing said tape from extending from said housing to a second tape unlocking position for enabling said tape to retract into said housing.

7 . The tape measure device of claim 4 , wherein said first set of sequential numbers ascends from zero.

8 . A tape measure device comprising:

a portable tape measure having a housing and a tape;

wherein said tape having at least three sets of sequential numbers including a first set of sequential numbers in an ascending order, a second set of sequential numbers in a descending order, and a third set of sequential numbers in a descending order;

wherein said first set of sequential numbers ascend from a starting point of zero; and

wherein the housing comprises an indicia;

wherein the housing further comprises a clip disposed on a rear surface of the housing;

wherein said second set of sequential numbers descends from 48 inches; and

further wherein said third set of sequential numbers descends from 96 inches.

Continuity (2)
Provisional Application 63514609 · Jul 20, 2023
Related Publication 20250027759A1 · Jan 23, 2025
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