Method for raising the precision in reading scales of measuring instruments

Conclusions

In striving to raise the precision of readings the designers are now either increasing the size of instruments (lengthening the scale) or complicating considerably their design (multiscale dials and instruments with many pointers). The suggested method of reading with a target simplifies the operator's task and does not require any alterations of the instrument dial. The application of this method results in:

• a) a higher reading precision; the method is particularly effective in the case when the operator has to read tenths of a graduation interval (in this case the root-mean-square reading error is approximately halved);

• b) a substantial reduction of the effect of an operator's peculiarities on the readings, with a resulting rise in the objectivity of measurements.

The leveling out of individual differences owing to the utilization of the target serves to raise the precision in calculating the measurement error. The target is suitable for use in instruments with uniform scales. The scale can have any shape (linear, arched, or circular).

The suggested reading method has been adopted at the Moscow Manometer plant.