Gauge and method for measuring animal backs and saddles

1. Field of Invention This invention is a simple device and method of measurement that employs a mechanical device having articulated transverse linkages comprising a parallelogram assembly having the first arm as one link, an opposing link, and further comprising a hub member, with transverse opposing wings each of the wings being pivotingly joined to the hub member for defining shape and indicia to determine a series of angles, and thereby be able to describe angles and arcs in order to determine the convex and concave portions of polyform shapes-in this preferred embodiment relating to animal backs and their corresponding saddles. A method and formula to adjust the shape of such a device to compensate for the weight of the rider relative to the weight of the animal as well as additional factors is also provided by this process. Additional calibration can also be refined by employing interface pressure measurement.