The Mysterious .666 on a Tape Measure: Unraveling the Mystery
Have you ever noticed the strange marking .666 on a tape measure? If you're a DIY enthusiast, carpenter, or simply someone who's curious about the tools you use, you may have wondered what this mysterious marking means. In this article, we'll delve into the history and significance of the .666 marking on a tape measure.
A Brief History of Tape Measures
Before we dive into the mystery of .666, let's take a step back and look at the history of tape measures. The first tape measure was invented in the late 19th century by a British engineer named James Chesterman. His design consisted of a flexible ruler made of metal or fiberglass that could be retracted into a compact housing. Over the years, tape measures have evolved to become an essential tool for builders, carpenters, and DIY enthusiasts.
The .666 Marking: A Measurement Standard
So, what does the .666 marking on a tape measure signify? The answer lies in the world of measurement standards. In the United States, the .666 marking represents the 16th inch marking on a standard tape measure. This may seem arbitrary, but it's actually a clever way to simplify measurements.
Why .666?
In the early days of tape measures, manufacturers needed a way to divide the 16-inch foot into equal parts. Since 16 is not a power of 2 (like 8, 16, 32, etc.), dividing it evenly into smaller parts becomes tricky. By using the .666 marking, manufacturers could divide the 16-inch foot into 24 equal parts, making it easier to measure and calculate fractions of an inch.
Practical Applications
So, how does the .666 marking affect your daily life as a DIY enthusiast or builder? In reality, not much. The .666 marking is more of a historical relic than a practical tool. However, understanding the reasoning behind it can give you a deeper appreciation for the evolution of measurement tools.
In conclusion, the .666 marking on a tape measure is not a mysterious code or a sign of the apocalypse, but rather a clever solution to a measurement problem from the past. While it may not hold much significance today, it's an interesting footnote in the history of tape measures.
Next time you use a tape measure, take a closer look at the .666 marking and appreciate the ingenuity that went into creating these essential tools!
