The Pocket Rod™

This tool is ideal for vertical measurements.  It is rigid enough to be set on the ground or floor and the numbers can be read from the ground level up.  It can be taped to a wall to help hold it in place. 

The Pocket Rod™ looks like a regular tape measure.  When the metal is pulled all the way out of its housing, it straightens into a semi-rigid upright scale.  Scales are printed on both sides.  Black numbers on a white background are on one side, and red numbers on a white background are on the other side.  Extended length is 6'6".