Gauge for measuring length of an opening

Abstract

A hand-held gauge for measuring the distance between the near and far edges of an elongated opening in an element, thereby to determine the opening length, and wherein there is access to only one end of the opening. The gauge includes an elongated probe for insertion into the opening. A hook on the probe is operative to engage the far edge of the opening and an elongated member longitudinally slidable upon the probe is adapted to engage the near edge of the opening. A handle is provided to press the probe and elongated member against the opposite edges of the opening, and a measuring scale and pointer are provided on portions of the probe and elongated member to indicate the extent of relative movement between them to thereby indicate the opening length. An interconnection between the probe and elongated member effects engagement of the hook with the far edge of the opening upon initial squeezing of the handle. In one embodiment such initial movement causes the hook to rotate laterally outwardly to hook the far edge of the opening, while in another embodiment such initial movement causes a rod to move up adjacent the hook, filling the opening and thereby preventing the hook from disengaging the far edge of the opening. In either case the result is to securely seat the hook in position prior to engagement of the elongated member with the near side of the opening.