Joseph Gerber invented the Gerber Variable Scale and the GERBERcutter.
According to the Gerber Scientific website, "While studying aeronautical engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1945), H. Joseph Gerber was frequently required to solve intricate and time-consuming mathematical problems, many involving the plotting of points. One night, in an effort to reduce the tedious and repetitive nature of his homework assignments, he created an "expandable ruler" from the elastic waistband of his pajama bottoms -- thereby inventing a new method of scaling distances between points. An instant sensation on campus, his invention was eventually modified to incorporate a unique triangular spring...giving birth to the Gerber Variable Scale ® The Gerber Scientific Instrument Company was incorporated in 1948 to refine and manufacture H. Joseph Gerber's original Variable Scale."
©Mary Bellis