Patent attributes
A marking device for attaching to a tape measure includes an attachment assembly for movably attaching the marking device to a tape measure and a guide housing movably engageable with the attachment assembly. The guide housing receives a marking member and a marking fluid storage member and directs movement of the marking member from a first position contacting the marking fluid storage member to a second position contacting an object to be marked. A compartment receives the guide housing, which directs movement of the marking member from the second position to the first position. At least one aperture enables contact of the marking member with an object to be marked. An energy storage member moves the guide housing and marking member from the first position to the second position. The guide housing may include a gear mechanism that moves the marking member from the first position to the second position.