A tape measure is effectively a flexible ruler that is usually sprung on a retractable mechanism for easy storage, helping to measure the distance or size of any space or object. With linear-measured markings usually covering a number of different scales, a measuring tape can be many different materials. The most common tend to use a curved metallic ribbon that remains stiff and straight when extended, with lock mechanisms designed to keep the length in place, which then retracts into a coil when not in use.
