In "engines" episode, old surveying instruments are said to have many "verniers".
I wonder how many AWADtalk members have ever used one. I still have a small
caliper that has one, so enable more accurate readings. Now my vision won't let
me use it.
vernier
n.
5after Pierre Vernier (1580-1637), Fr mathematician who invented it6
1 a short graduated scale that slides along a longer graduated instrument and is used to indicate fractional parts of divisions, as in a micrometer: also vernier scale
2 any device that makes possible a finer setting of a tool or measuring instrument
adj.
of or fitted with a vernier
Which brings up another question. I wonder how many members know what "calipers" are.
The one I mentioned has parallel jaws whose opening is altered by a thumb roller.
I used to use the c;urved leg ones when working with a lathe.
caliper
n.
5var. of CALIBER6
1 [usually pl.] an instrument consisting of a pair of movable, curved legs fastened together at one end, used to measure the thickness or diameter of something: there are inside calipers and outside calipers
2 CALIPER RULE
3 thickness, as of paper or cardboard, expressed in mils
4 a) the part pressed against the spinning wheel in a hand-operated bicycle braking system b) the automotive disc brake housing containing the friction pads
vt., vi.
to measure with calipers