Vernier / Callipers DIN Standards and some historical background

Some History:
vernier: / n. a small movable graduated scale for obtaining fractional parts of subdivisions
on the fixed scale of a barometer etc... [f. P. Vernier, French Mathematician (d. 1637)]
( The Oxford reference dictionary)
Vernier: Pierre 1580-1637. French Mathematician who invented a means of making
very precise measurements with what is now called the vernier scale. He was a French
government
official and in 1631 published a book explaining his method called "a new mathematical
quadrant".
(The Hutchinson Encyclopedia 10th edition)
For detailed information on Pierre Vernier and his work, please refer to:
http://www-gap.dcs.st-and.ac.uk/~history/Mathematicians/Vernier.html

Callipers: measuring instrument used, for example, to measure the internal and external
diameter of pipes.
Some callipers are made like a pair of compasses, having two legs, often curved, pivoting
about a screw
at one end. The end of the legs are placed in contact with the object to be measured, and the
gap
between the ends is then measured against a rule. The slide calliper looks like an adjustable
spanner,
and carries a scale for direct measuring, usually with a > vernier scale for accuracy.
(The Hutchinson Encyclopedia 10th edition)
While conducting this research, I have noticed that "Calliper" ( with two xL) was also spelt
"Caliper"(with one L)
This depends on the American versus English spelling.
I have decided that on this page it will be " Calliper" in accordance with the Hutchinson
Encyclopedia.....

The principle of Alignment.

The principle of alignment may be stated as: The line of measurement,and the line of the
dimension
being measured,should be coincident. This principle is so fundamental to good design that it
is rarely
departed from any serious extent.
A simple example, and one of common experience, is found in the design of an external
micrometer.
As drawn below, it is clear that the principle is completely satisfied. This applies equally to an
internal micrometer.

If however, we consider a vernier calliper, it is also clear, that the principle is not observed.
It may also be shown that as the displacement Y increases, the greater the probability of a
discrepancy arising between A and the reading B
It should be remembered that the curvature of the vernier beam may be brought about by
the measuring pressure between the jaw faces. When one considers the extent to which this
may
vary from person to person (in the absence of any device to standardize it)
it is seen that this accounts for the difficulty
in establishing the dimension A with the same degree of confidence as with the micrometer.
(Metrology for Engineers J.F Galyer & C.R Shotbolt)
Despite the evident increase in accuracy of micrometers, Callipers remain the most popular
length measuring instrument in the world. Located down below, are the two most popular
vernier scale graduation.

The above are Cask cross and length Callipers manufactured in hard wood, graduated in
Inches
with brass fittings. They were used in the colonies from the late 1800's and into
the early 1900's to determine not only the size but also the content (volume) of wooden
casks.
This was performed by "The Crown" in order to tax imported goods.

(Photos are courtesy of NZ Customs office in Dunedin)

DIN 862 STANDARD FOR VERNIER CALLIPERS.

DIN: Deutsche Industrie Normen (German Industrial Norms)
The directives for the inspection and testing of Vernier callipers can be found in the
German Industrial Norms DIN 862. I thought some of you would appreciate some facts
and figures.

It is interesting to note that over a length of 200mm with a graduation of

0,01mm,
the acceptable error of tolerance for a vernier caliper is 30 and 6 for a
micrometer....
(DIN 863 standard for micrometer are available on the micrometer page.)

Brass pocket calliper, usually found in 80 to 100mm of length. Graduation is in metric

(lower scale) and Inches for the upper scale. A very handy instrument to keep
into your overalls pocket. (for those not requiring accuracy to the hundreds)
This type of instrument has been very popular for a great numbers of years.
It is still very common today, particularly on the "Old Continent".

I recently came across this very interesting Benson Vernier Calliper,

Manufactured in Bradford, UK material grade is steel, length 12" / 300mm
with one side in Inches 1/1000 and other side in Metric 0,02 (rather unusual)
deeply etched graduation, stepped jaws and fine adjustment block
Quality of manufacture is excellent, and I believe it is dated at around 1940
I have conducted some research in respect to the Benson manufacturer, and found
that the factory no longer exists...Has anyone got some info out there?

Dial Calipers were very popular for some years. However, by experience they have proven
to be relatively fragile into a "rough" environment (humidity / dust / grease ) This is because
the pinion
rack is prone to corrosion and dust collection, this due to its constant exposure to
the surrounding environment.
This will ultimately lead to potential reading errors.(unless well maintained and stored)
To be noted that they are also available with a fitted pinion rack cover.

Induction hardening of the Jaws. Note that today most of the Callipers
manufactured
are of Stainless steel Grade material: Martensite DIN X 40 Cr13

Here is a photograph of the first worldwide Digital caliper produced by

TESA Switzerland in 1977
When is see those displayed digits, it reminds me the first "Texas instruments" calculators
hitting the market in the 60's. Does anyone remember how fast the digits were flickering
when entering a "square root" calculation?

The TESA "Digit-Cal" fitted with the patented capa system

(Electronics of the latest generation) This instrument offer several and very
convenient electronics features, such as RS 232 data output / floating Zero / conversion
metric-inches (the norm for today's digital measuring instruments)
However, what makes this Digital calliper different from all their competitors, is the "finish"
quality,
the extra materials added on, combined with an outstanding "handling feel".
The 150mm version is available with a round "depth rod" diam. 1,5mm
(instead of the common rectangular)
As far as I am concerned it is the best available in today's world market.
Simply no "short cuts" and compromise over quality.....

The TESA CAL IP65 Digital calliper. A relatively new product to the industry, and designed
particularly for those working in "rough" environments.
This instrument is fully protected against penetration of liquids or solid contaminants.
It is highly reliable, and the IP65 ratings and design requirements prevents dust, particles of
metal,
spraying water or oil from entering the electronics "readouts".
Also,a new electronic measuring system makes it immune against liquids and magnetic fields.
Again, an outstanding product still unrivalled by the opposition for its design and "feel of
handling".

This type of calliper is produced by PREISSER Messtechnik (Germany) They offer some
unique and very convenient characteristics. The noticeable length of the measuring jaws
added with the extra material width offers increased rigidity. It also makes this instrument an
ideal way of measuring the diameters of shafts. Take note of the "radiused" end of jaws,
to be used for the measurements of large diameters.
The upper "Knife edge" measuring faces can be used for numerous applications, in particular
external readings of "circlips inserts" or "O-rings inserts" on small to medium shafts.
Since it is an instrument dedicated to external readings, it comes without depth rod and is
also supplied
with a fine adjustment block.
I should not hide that the excellent quality and design of this instrument makes it one of my
favorites....
(in our stock of Dunedin in 200mm and 300mm)

SYLVAC Swiss Made "Ultra Light" Digital calliper

This line of calliper is manufactured from composite materials, but still includes the use of
stainless steel in the beam. Overall the instrument offers a stable and lightweight
construction.
As you can see the long jaws are Titanium coated for reduced wear and tear.
Both jaws are adjustable (see the lever on the upper left jaw)
Note: Today, one can still find Digital callipers with Titanium coated jaws.

TESA "Eagle" A futuristic and ergonomic design....

Another "Light weight" product and result of the R+D of the 90's for light weight materials.
Light Alloy (Aluminium?) Plastic? or should I say Polyamide reinforced with fibreglass?
Stainless and tempered steel.
Great looks, but some time I wonder about the genuine benefits of "pushing it to the edge"
versus long term reliability.

Down below, several pictures of various Verniers all used for different purposes. As you will
see,
their is no shortages of the "Odd ball" ones......

Tooth Vernier, commonly used for measuring teeths on all kind of gear
boxes.

Keyway Vernier

Vernier for measuring Brake discs thickness on trucks and cars

Vernier for measuring 3 to 5 flutes machining "End Mills"

And the list goes on!......

If any one has nice photos of old Verniers from Moore and Wright, Starret
or any other reputable manufacturer.I will be very happy to put them on this
page. Please do not hesitate in forwarding them to me, your contribution will
be acknowledged