Precision Instruments for Measurement: What You Need To Know

Improve your measurement accuracy with more efficient instrumentation. This article delves into the different types of precision instruments from telescope illuminators to inclinometers. 

Inclinometers. Also known as clinometers, are instruments used to measure the angles of a slope. An inclinometer manufacturer would also designs tools to measure the angle of the elevation or depression of an object. An inclinometer is equipped with an accelerometer to measure these angles. The angle is derived from the change of capacitance between a small mass and the elastic support structure where it is suspended. 

Inclinometers are flexible precision tools. They can be incorporated into many other measuring instruments that provide accurate angles-of-elevation and depression readings. The angular measurements can be measured in different units (e.g., degrees, minutes, seconds, or percentages to the level-zero plane). 

Theodolites. When you want to measure horizontal and vertical angles, you’ll also use a theodolite. These devices date back to the early 1900’s, but today there are modern iterations called digital theodolites. It’s composed of a telescope attached to a base. It also has a sight on the top (complete with an objective lens) to help the device align with the target or the object in focus. Electronic screens are used to display the device’s readings. This data can also be stored in an electronic field book. 

Telescope adapters and illuminators. With the help of telescope adapters, cameras can capture images of an object more sharply and precisely. Lenses are attached to the camera body with the help of lens mounts. They help ensure the accuracy of the way lenses are mounted on the body, ultimately, helping the whole device capture images correctly. Meanwhile, telescope illuminators are designed to measure angular separations and guide someone during astrophotography sessions. In telescopes, various eyepieces or oculars are also used to ensure that all components are collimated or aligned. 

Protractors and surveyor’s compasses. These navigational tools can also be used as precision instruments. Surveyors use the three-arm protractor to position three different objects by measuring angles and locations. These are typically used when taking initial calculations and measurements. Compasses, on the other hand, are essential for compass surveying. Used to take angular and linear measurements, they aid surveyors in surveying large areas (e.g. Coastal areas). In particular, a surveyor’s compass is used to measure horizontal angles and identify the magnetic bearing of a line of sight. These are typically found mounted on top of a tripod. 

Gauges. An inclinometer manufacturer would typically offer different gauges that can help with a wide-ranging type of precision instrument that measures physical parameters as well as linearity, pressure, and even sensitivity. All of these precision instruments need to be maintained and calibrated regularly. Warren Knight is a NIST traceable calibration company in Philadelphia that can help keep your instruments in top condition.