Tape takes shock for precision

Problem: The basic form has become so ubiquitous that users have come to accept their limitations. They usually break if dropped from any height, the tape flops down if extended more than about 50cm, and the extreme accuracy of the main tape is often ruined when the metal end hook gets bent. Additionally end hooks are traditionally attached by rivets which get damaged further compromising the accuracy. Solution: Frazer Designers were asked to come up with a new design of measuring tape for Fisco Tools. Their first innovation was to mount the tape spool post on a perforated disk, to act as a shock absorber to prevent shearing off of the post when the tape is dropped. In order to improve accuracy and strength, the end piece hook is a two shot moulding of glass filled nylon and rubber, mounted under the blade. It is heat staked to a clear moulding on top of the blade doing away with the inaccurate rivets. The clear plastic allows gradations on the tape to be read right to the end. A further result of using a plastic end piece is that it is lighter than the traditional steel one. Further enhancements include an acetal belt clip that stays on the belt, to which the tape can be clipped and from which it may be unclipped. And instead of the usual release button on the front of the unit, a two position rocker on top allows choice of release or lock. Applications: Stephen Frazer, proprietor of Frazer Designers cites the redesign of the tape measure as an example of how relatively ordinary products can be turned into exciting new ones with the help of a bit of good industrial design. The new tapes have already been launched in the USA in 20ft and 30ft versions, but are now coming to market in the UK as 5m and 8m products. TS Frazer Designers Email Frazer Designers