Board with metal calipers

[Scrivet]

Looks factory made to me. The markings are inch markings that start at the pivot for the metal caliper looking things. Overall about 6 feet long. Seems like I have seen one before in a whazzit, don't remember where, or when, or what it was, or if it was even identified. So trying the forum braintrust to help me out.

[Jim Becker]

I think it is a tool used in high schools to illustrate mathematical principles.
http://kmr.nada.kth.se/VML/Matematik-in ... ines-2.jpg

[Urbish]

I wonder if it's a railroad track gauge/level. Hmm...

[Jeff Silvey]

I wonder if it's a railroad track gauge/level. Hmm...

My thoughts as well.

[Scrivet]

OK, a little update, still don't know what it is. While the same general shape as a track gauge/level it doesn't come close in specifics or actual operating parts to any that I can find online.

I sent a picture and description off to Midwest Tool Collectors and their "Question for What's It Committee" inquiry. I got a rather impressively quick reply
"Wow, that's a tough one, I have not seen a device like this before. I'll show it to some people to see what they think and will let you know if I hear anything...."

This is in the collection of the local Historical Society that I am a member of. Found it cleaning out/straightening up a shed. We will be having a large gathering in less than a month so I will either have this thing on display with an identifying label on it or a giant "What's It" sign. I'm thinking somebody coming oughta know what it is if we don't find out before then.

[john2189]

Ever find out what this is?

[Eugene]

My guess. Marking or lay out gauge for timber framing or beam thickness - again for timber framing.

What are the dimensions of the tool?