3201 Lecture 1: Report on Area Measurement
Document Summary
A planimeter is a mathematical instrument used to precisely measure the area bounded by an irregular curve and, hence, a definite integral value. A tracing arm is an arm that uses a hinge to control the location of the tracing point at one end. The tracing point is a movable needle point that is attached to the tracing arm. This point is pushed over the outline of the area to be measured. On the plan, the anchor arm is used to control the anchor location or needle point position. It has one end connected to the weight and needle point and the other end connected to the integrating unit. At the base of the heavy block is a fine needle point. This needle point is anchored on the plan at the appropriate station. Clamps are used to keep the tracing arm at its normal length without allowing for any extension.
