I am looking for a ruler that i saw one time which can be used to draw
curves.  it can be bent as you would be able to bend a steel ruler,
(except that it will hold its shape after being bent), but it can also
be bent edgewise.
The ruler i'm after is simmilar to other things that I have found on
the web, especially the lead core veriety (in function)but much, much
larger, and the mechanics of it are exposed.  The ruler consists of
what looks like a series of links and sockets (appears that your
traced line might be bumpy).  I need it for putting lines on large
sculptures.
I am looking for a source or as many sources as possible where I could
find it.  And/or what it is called or other helpfull information.
the only reason i know it exists is because of a photo in a robert
davidson book.   Perhaps it is a tool for shipbuilders?

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Request for Question Clarification by leapinglizard-ga on 12 Dec 2003 20:53 PST

Just how large should this ruler be? And must it be of the jointed variety?

I've found three different models of flexible curve that are up to 14,
20, and 24 inches in length, respectively:

http://www.misterart.com/store/view.cfm?store=001&group_id=2844

http://www.misterart.com/store/view.cfm?store=001&group_id=1003

http://www.misterart.com/store/view.cfm?store=001&group_id=355

There's also a 12-inch adjustable ruler that you can purportedly use
to draw curves 200 inches long. I'm not sure how well it would work on
a sculpture.

http://www.misterart.com/store/view.cfm?store=001&group_id=2843

Here's a 48-inch curve made of shape-holding plastic:

http://www.artstuff.net/acu_arc_adjustable_curves.htm

That's four feet, which is pretty damn big for a ruler. I haven't seen
anything longer.

And here's a nice lead-core Staedtler curve, 24 inches in length:

http://www.artstuff.net/staedtler_adjustable_curves.htm

Do you really need anything longer?

leapinglizard

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Clarification of Question by chuj-ga on 15 Dec 2003 16:36 PST

About a metre would be the right length, htough it wouldn't have to be
marked.  And yes, what I'm looking for is the Jointed veriety.
thanx, chuj.

Note to Researchers:

You may want to refer to the customer's previous question to see
previous suggestions that are NOT what is being sought:

http://www.answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=283584

Note to pinkfreud:

Good tip.