Roulette body
A qualified craftsman, only seeing the case of a roulette wheel, can tell about its quality. Naturally, plastic is a rather unreliable material for such a tool. Despite this, most roulettes are made from it.
Better to stay on the rubberized case. It fits comfortably in the hand and is pleasant to work with. A dense rubberized insert at the outlet allows you to protect the tape from deformation and scratching of the protective layer, which occurs due to the contact of the measuring tape with the body.
Having looked at the photos of imported roulettes, you will notice that the clamps pressing the mechanism are arranged somewhat differently than in domestic counterparts. When the web is decelerated, it is not subject to friction; the entire load falls on the drum inside the wound band.
High precision roulettes are characterized by the presence of electronics located in the body itself. In this way, you can quickly measure the required length to the nearest millimeter.
The bubble level will also help to improve the accuracy of measurements, which allows you to control the accuracy of the laying of building materials.
Based on the foregoing, despite all the variety in the catalog of measuring tape measures, it is necessary to select this instrument carefully so that it will serve its owner for a long time.
How to fix a dog leash?
In most cases, the breakdown is due to too much movement of the dog. Jerks of the leash lead to breaking off of a part of the spring, so the mechanism stops working. There are simple instructions on how to fix a dog tape measure:
Unscrew the screws and remove them. Squeeze the body and split it in two.
If the problem is in the cord, then you just need to find the torn edge and fix it with a plug.
If the problem is with the coil, you need to open its middle by prying the convex part with a screwdriver.
Remove the broken spring bend
It is important that you hold the rest of the spring in the coil with your thumb during all steps.
Using pliers or tweezers, pry the edge of the spring, heat it over the fire of the lighter and bend it so that it does not fall out of the core.
Replace the cover and other parts by assembling the dog tape.
Roulette repair
Repair of any tool begins with determining the cause of the breakdown. In order to highlight it, you need to disassemble the roulette body
It is important not to break anything in the process, since some parts of the device are usually small in size. The case is disassembled in several steps:
It is necessary to separate the two covers that make up the plastic case. To do this, unscrew the connecting bolts
Usually there are only four of them or less.
Remove the lock that does not allow the tape to reverse - sharp twisting.
Unscrew the entire measuring tape carefully. If there are no problems with the canvas, then it is enough to simply remove it from the hook.
Open the coil to test the return spring.
The instruction is suitable for both parsing and collecting. There is no need to think about how to put the roulette back together, it is enough to repeat each step in the reverse order. Instrument diagnostics starts already during the parsing process. In other words, the breakage is visible immediately upon opening the case. The most common reason is that the tape stops curling.
It is easy to notice a spring that has jumped off the attachment point. To resume work, you need to return and fix a small tendril in its place, thereby attaching the mechanism. But it often happens that it is broken, or breaks right in the hands during repair.In this case, you need to cut out a part of the same shape for replacement, otherwise the operation of the tape cannot be restored.
It is possible to attach the tendril to the spring only when removing it from the grooves of the coil. It must be removed carefully, since the mechanism can be damaged during removal, or hands will suffer from the sharp edges of the parts. The tendril is bent on a spring using pliers. But it is imperative to heat the metal before processing to avoid cracks and breaks. The spring can then be returned to its place, carefully monitoring any kinks. They should not be, otherwise it will easily come out of the grooves of the coil.
A broken spring due to bending will affect the operation of the tape measure. If the fracture occurs from the edge of the mechanism, then the tool will still serve for some time. It's just that the measuring tape will not be completely hidden inside the case, which will not damage the operation in any way. But in this case, it is possible to repair the device only with slight damage. If the spring has burst in the middle, then the tape will have to be replaced with a new one.
If the hook breaks, then a new tongue is cut out - from metal or plastic. Its dimensions should be taken into account so as not to obscure the measurement scales. Any material handy that is suitable for hardness and flexibility can be used. It is fixed in place of the old one with bolts or construction glue.
Another reason is the age of the roulette wheel. In this case, the measuring tape will not roll inward due to corrosion. The canvas is metal, therefore, without proper care, it will rust. It is almost impossible to clean it. But in case of simple contamination with dust and dirt, the tape can be simply wiped off.
Do-it-yourself roulette is assembled in almost the same way as it was disassembled
It is important to take into account that the spring does not protrude over the edges of the coil. Be sure to fasten the tape so that the marks are on the back side.
This way, the tick marks will not be erased with frequent use.
How to choose a tape measure for a dog?
There are some tips from experts to consider when choosing.
The buttons of the device should work well, not be loosened or jammed. For them to work, the owner does not have to make serious efforts when pressed.
A roulette leash for large dogs, and for small ones too, must have a high-quality carabiner
It is important that it matches the size of the pet, while not being too heavy and does not interfere with its movement. It is good if the carabiner has a swivel, which ensures the rotation of its parts, thereby avoiding twisting of the tape.
It is better to choose tape measures for dogs that have a rubberized body
Such a device will be comfortable to hold in the hand, and with sudden movements of the animal, it will not slip out.
Double tape measure for dogs
Owners of two animals do not need to buy separate leashes as there is a great alternative - the double tape measure
Such a product is capable of withstanding a weight of up to 22 kg, which is important to consider, since if the weight of two pets is above this limit, the mechanism will quickly fail. The tape measure for two dogs has a rotation system, so the belts will not get tangled
Manufacturers paint the ribbons in different colors to match the buttons, making it easier to operate.
Reflective Dog Tape Measure
On the market you can find variants of tape measures, the strap of which is made of durable reflective material. In most cases, it is colored bright yellow. Reflective dog leashes are ideal for those walking the dog in the dark. With its help, you can control your pet, providing additional safety.
8 secrets of regular roulette
Every self-respecting owner has a construction tape. Its main purpose is known.And what hidden abilities does she have? In this article, we will talk about the various tricks that can be done with a regular tape measure.
1. Movable hook
Newbies using a tape measure for the first time may think that the movable hook on the end of the tape is a manufacturer's negligence. Is it possible to carry out any measurements if some parts are not properly secured? However, an experienced technician knows that a movable hook is a common necessity.
2. Measurements in openings and corners
When measuring space with corners, it is difficult enough to squeeze the tape into the corner to make an accurate calculation. In this case, the body is used as a continuation of the roulette wheel.
The case size is indicated on each model. This figure must be added to the tape readings, and then the correct measurement of the opening will turn out.
You can also use masking tape. Cut off a piece from it and take a couple of measurements on it in opposite directions.
For a mark, it is better to put not dashes, but ticks, - with the help of them, a more accurate result is obtained. Having made two measurements, we add the numbers: we get the required length.
3. Dividing numbers in half
Let's take the length on the tape measure. For example, 116 cm. Roll up the tape, aligning the zero mark with it. Directly at the place where the tape is folded and the desired result will be: in this case 58 cm.
This little trick can come in handy when you need to make an urgent calculation in half.
4. Hole on the tape measure.
Some wonder: why is it needed at all? This hole can catch on a nail or screw.
The hook will hold securely, and the tape measure can be easily maneuvered: twist, turn. This is especially useful when measuring long distances. Of course, there will be a small margin of error. But no more than 1-2 mm, since the center of the screw will practically coincide with the zero point.
It is also convenient to draw circles with a hole in the toe.
5. Roulette as a marking tool
We'll have to modify it a little. For example, fix the compasses. You can think of other tricks as well, whether it's a removable or non-removable option.
6. Roulette as a notebook for notes
By gluing the masking tape to the back of the tape, you get a comfortable writing surface. It is very convenient to use.
In the absence of paint brushes, you can sand the body a little, making it velvety to the touch. After that, the surface will be ready. You can write on it with a pencil and easily erase notes with a regular eraser.
7. Notches on the toe
You can make them using a file. They are convenient for making marks on drywall and surfaces that are easily scratched.
8. Dividing the workpiece into several parts
For example, a workpiece needs to be divided into three parts. We measure the width and do the math: divide by three.
You can do without calculations at all. We select the nearest number on the tape measure, which is greater than the width of the workpiece, but a multiple of three. Let it be 300 mm.
We make equal marks of 100 mm. Surprisingly, they will match the mathematically generated marks.
Another example. The workpiece must be divided into 4 equal parts. We take a multiple of 4: for example, 400 mm. It is desirable that the number be round for easy division.
We mark divisions of 100 mm on the workpiece.
This is how, with the help of seemingly simple tricks, you can make an irreplaceable multifunctional tool out of a roulette wheel. It's worth putting these tricks into practice and seeing how useful a common item can be.
Video version of the article:
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Basic structural elements
Despite its small size and obvious purpose, the roulette device, especially its highly professional models, has a complex design.In a tape measure, the main element is a measured piece of steel strip made of another, durable but elastic material. In professional tools used for measuring on the ground, these can be carbon fiber strips, fiberglass cloths or thickened stainless wire with a meter scale printed on it. Available with fabric measuring tape with centimeter scale printed on it
All these devices use a different scale, therefore, when measuring, the accuracy class of the tape measure is taken into account, because the error when working with a steel tape will be less than with a tape made of fabric or tarpaulin
The measuring tape, like other structural elements, is located inside the case. In most modern devices, the body is made of impact-resistant plastic. But there are examples with a stainless steel metal case. The enclosures are compact, open or closed. The compact size of the case is used for tape measures 1 and 3 meters long. The open case is used for special geodetic tape measures, the length of which is 50 and 100 meters.
For operation, it is important that the device includes a measuring strip winding mechanism or simply a tape measure mechanism. In older models, this role was played by a rotating drum on which the tape was wound.
And such a drum was driven by a folding handle. For construction tape lengths of 1, 3, 5, 7.5 and 10 meters, the mechanism is most often spring-loaded today - when unlocked, it automatically winds the tape back into the case.
A hook is installed at the end of the measuring strip. In different models, it has a special look. For ordinary building tape measures, this is a metal tip in the form of a corner with one or more slots. There are tips in the form of a metal staple or even with an installed carabiner, and professional lumberjack tape measures are also equipped with a hook for fixing in wood.
On the body of automatic roulettes there are several buttons - latches. They are used to block the rolling mechanism of the measuring tape so that during operation the tape does not uncontrollably wind into the housing. If you remove the strip retainer, it will automatically go into the body.
The hitchhiking device is designed for fast, but controlled folding of the web to the desired length
This is very important especially when one person is working with the device.
The device of a measuring tape, especially of modern models, has a number of additional units in its design that make it easier to work with it.
First of all, additional equipment includes:
- Built-in flashlight - an indispensable feature for working in low-light areas;
- Clip - a device that allows you to install it on a belt, quickly take it off and put it on;
- Strap - allows you to hang the instrument from a hook during storage or carry it on your wrist.
- Laser pointer - allows using a bright beam to form a point on an object so that the shortest distance in a straight line is measured by the tape, and not the relief;
- Pencil holder - allows you to use this measuring device to draw circles without using a compass;
- Magnets on the hook and body - allow you to fix the tape on metal objects and free your hands for other work.
Electronic measuring tape
Not so long ago, new types of construction tape appeared - these are ultrasonic and laser tape measures.
As the name implies, an ultrasonic tape uses ultrasound to measure distance. It is compact, easy to use, but not precise in its work.
The laser tape measure is an accurate and multifunctional instrument that allows you not only to measure the distance from point to point, but also immediately allows you to calculate the perimeter and volume.But due to the rather high cost, the laser tape measure remains the lot of professionals.
When choosing a construction tape, you should, first of all, decide: for what work it is needed and how often the tape will be used. If a tape measure is necessary for permanent, professional work, then you should give preference to high-quality branded products or a laser tape measure. If a tape measure is needed for domestic use, then a regular no-frills instrument will do.
Making measurements, making accurate markings are important stages of construction or installation work. To perform such operations, a construction tape is used. A convenient measuring device, consisting of a housing that holds a flexible tape with divisions, rolled into a roll, and a special mechanism for reeling, can be found in any household.
They are small, suitable for internal measurements or short distances. The length of the measuring tape in such tape measures is from 1 to 10 meters. And there are tape measures for measuring large distances or volumes, where the length of the measuring tape varies from 10 to 100 meters. The longer the measuring tape, the more massive the building tape.
Operating tips
To prevent the roulette from breaking for a long time, you need to follow a few simple rules.
- The winder spring mechanism will last longer if the spring is protected from sudden jerks during the use of the full ejection belt.
- After completing measurements, wipe the tape from dust and dirt so that the mechanism does not clog.
- The lug has a small backlash for accurate measurements. To keep it from increasing, do not roll the tape with a click. From hitting the body, the tip loosens, which forms an error in measurement of up to several millimeters, and can also lead to a detachment of the hook.
- The plastic case does not withstand impacts on a hard surface, so you should protect the tape measure from falling.
For information on how to fix a measuring tape, see the video below.
Ordinary construction tape, tape does not rewind in reverse, how to repair tape.
It's hard to tell without opening the "patient". Maybe the spring has burst, the ruler is too clogged, or there is no connection between the ruler and the spring.
Well, let's start by taking apart the body of the measuring tape. On some models, you will first have to remove the rubber cover from the case and under it you will find bolts that hold the two halves of the case together. We unscrew them.
Inside you will see a release button with strips wedging the tape and the coil itself, inside of which there is a return spring, and a measuring tape is wound outside. Wind up the measuring tape from the outside of the spool. Wash it off from dust, dirt and tar. Check it for fractures and kinks. The measuring tape of the tape measure has a semicircular profile (if you look at its cut from the end) and, unfortunately, if there is a sharp bend, not a ruler of medium-price tape measures, it no longer restores its profile and the place of bend will remain and will interfere with the tape retraction.
Inspect the spring inside the coil disc. It is better not to pull it out if it is not damaged - the tendril with which the spring clings to the slot in the central rod of the coil and the "shoulders" with which the spring holds the measuring tape are intact. You can rinse the spring directly in the coil by placing it in gasoline. But you can also try to reanimate a broken spring. Most often, the spring breaks near the stem. And this is what prevents the tape from being drawn in - the spring simply does not work.
If the tendril is broken off, you can make another, the same geometry on the spring. In terms of stiffness, the springs are different, for some I made a new antennae simply with pliers without heating, and some need to be heated - they break on cold. Having made the same tendril, insert it into the stock and "charge" the spring. By winding a ruler on the outside of the coil.turn the charged spring a few turns so that the hook of the ruler, which is at the zero mark, is pressed against the shoulder with barely perceptible pressure. Reassemble the roulette body in reverse order.
It happens that the "shoulders" come off or bend.
This often happens when the ruler is pulled out sharply and for the entire overhang. After that, the tape just crawls along the spool, although the spring works fine, but there is no clutch between them. The shoulders can be cut with metal scissors. In some tape measures, you can simply solder the spring and the watering can together, making the longitudinal grooves with a grinder in one of them for a better bunch of solder.
Measuring tape is a very popular tool, without which construction, assembly, locksmith and many other types of work cannot do. Its principle of operation is quite simple, however, this mechanism also malfunctions and sometimes breaks down. A specialist will tell you how to fix a measuring tape - what types of breakdowns occur and how they can be eliminated.
Types of roulettes and their features
For many professions, both ordinary universal tape measures and highly professional measuring instruments are used. Professional roulette wheels are developed taking into account the peculiarities of its use by qualified workers and working conditions. Thus, both traditional geodetic instruments and new types of measuring instruments - electro-optical rangefinders are used to measure the terrain. And although the accuracy of electronics is higher, it is possible to correctly measure the distance, taking into account the terrain, only with a geodetic tape with a scale division of 0.5 or 1 meter.
For the work of the lumberjack, a special lumberjack tape is used. Its design provides an additional carabiner on the body, for fixing on the employee's belt. And at the end of the measuring tape there is a special metal tip, which makes it possible to quickly fix the edge on the log.
Construction tape measures usually have a double scale - in centimeters and millimeters and in inches. The tape is usually 2 cm wide and the scale is marked in bright contrasting colors to make it easier to find the value on the scale.
How roulette works
Construction tape is a compact measuring device. It consists of a flexible strap with unit marks, a twisting mechanism and a body that holds the entire structure. The standard length can be from 1-10 meters to 100 m. The longer the tape measure, the larger its body.
The construction tape device is quite simple. The basis is a flexible tape with marked divisions in different units of measurement. It is made from flexible metal or plastic. The scale is marked with millimeter, centimeter and meter marks. Subsequently, the canvas is painted.
The edge of the tape is marked with a concave sheet with additional metal or magnetic reinforcement. This is a prerequisite due to which the rigidity of the tape is achieved. The concavity also makes single measurements easier: the edge clings easily to any surface, allowing the tape to stretch. The hook is used to fix the tape at the reference point from which the measurement begins. Some models have a button that does not allow the tape to unwind, or performs this operation on its own.
It is not difficult to figure out how to make a roulette wheel. The principle of operation is based on folding the measuring tape into a roll around the reel. Construction tape can be classified according to the winding method:
- Manual method. Often these are devices with a large footage used in geodesy and large construction. The web is wound onto a reel using a lever. Manual work greatly increases the life of the measuring tape. It unwinds gradually, without being erased by the abrupt automatic folding.
- Mechanical return method. The most common type of tape measure.The device is a return spring put on a reel. A common cause of breakage is a loose hook, worn out divisions and bending of the tape.
- Electronic drive. Roulettes equipped with a special motor are often specialized. They are also additionally equipped with a function for calculating the results displayed on a small monitor.
Each variety has pros and cons, but any mechanism sooner or later fails. You can make the necessary repairs yourself by determining the cause of the problem.
Types of devices by the method of winding the tapes
According to the method of wrapping the measuring tape, devices are classified:
- Manual is when physical effort is required to rewind the leash. Usually these are devices that have a tape length of 10-25 meters or more. The large length of the tape requires the application of prolonged physical efforts, therefore, specialists often choose modern devices - laser tape measures
- Mechanical - having a return mechanism, due to which the tape is twisted in automatic mode. The longer the leash is, the more difficult it is to create an automatic retraction mechanism. Usually, tape measures over 10 meters are equipped with handles for manual winding, and it is rare to find devices with a tape up to 25 m that have a winding mechanism.
- Electric - they have a drive that is connected to the drum. An electric motor drives the drum, which reels the tape. Buying such devices for the home is not rational, since they have a high cost, and with the slightest mechanical stress, they fail
- Electronic are laser roulettes
The tape has a graduated scale and allows measurements not only in meters, but also in millimeters. However, it is rational to use the tool if you need to know the distance of more than 1 meter. To clarify the distance up to 1 meter, large rulers are used.
This is interesting! The need to obtain measurements almost always arises, so manufacturers produce mini-roulettes in the form of key rings. They represent a reduced copy of standard devices, allowing measurements up to 1 meter.