Mapúa University

School of Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Energy Engineering

ME139L-3

Mechanical Engineering Laboratory

Experiment #7

MEASUREMENT OF LENGTH, AREA, DIAMETER AND SPEED

Lorem Ipsum. Date Performed:

##### July 13, 2024

ME139L-3 / B12 Date Submitted:

Group #1 August 3, 2024

Engr. Gawayne M. Escalona

Professor
 ABSTRACT

This lab report focuses on the measurement of length, area, diameter, and speed using

various instruments. The experiment involved determining the area of a given figure using the

planimeter and ordinate methods, measuring inside and outside diameters with calipers, and

assessing the top speed of motor shafts using a tachometer and speed counter. The results

demonstrated high accuracy across all measurements, with the planimeter method and

tachometer showing slightly higher reliability. The findings confirm the importance of regular

calibration and proper usage of measuring devices to ensure precise and reliable data, essential

for various applications in engineering and industry.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

OBJECTIVES 1

THEORIES AND PRINCIPLES 1

LIST OF APPARATUS 5

PROCEDURE 8

SET-UP OF APPARATUS 9

FINAL DATA SHEET 10

SAMPLE COMPUTATIONS 12

TEST DATA ANALYSIS 13

LITERATURE REVIEW 16

QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS 18

CONCLUSION 21

RECOMMENDATION 22

REFERENCES 23

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OBJECTIVES

1. To acquaint ourselves with the use, operation and application of different types of

measuring devices.

2. To determine the area of a given figure with planimeter method and compare with the

ordinate method.

3. To be able to determine the inside and outside diameters of a given specimen using a

caliper.

4. To be able to determine the top speed of the motor shaft using a speed counter and

Tachometer

THEORIES AND PRINCIPLES

Area Determination: Ordinate and Planimeter Methods

Accurate area measurement is essential in various scientific and engineering applications.

Two widely used methods for area determination are the ordinate method and the planimeter

method.

Ordinate Method:

The ordinate method involves dividing a figure into a series of vertical strips and

calculating the area of each strip. This technique is particularly useful for irregular shapes where

direct measurement is challenging. To implement the ordinate method, the shape is plotted on a

graph, and vertical lines (ordinates) are drawn at regular intervals. The length of each ordinate is

measured from a common baseline to the edge of the shape. The area of each strip is then

approximated using the formula for the area of a rectangle, where the width of the strip is the

distance between ordinates, and the height is the length of the ordinate.

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 The sum of the areas of all strips provides an estimate of the total area. This method is

advantageous due to its simplicity and ease of implementation with basic tools like graph paper

and rulers. However, its accuracy depends on the number of ordinates used; more ordinates

generally result in a more precise measurement. The main limitation is that it can be time-

consuming and less accurate for highly irregular shapes or curves with significant variation

between ordinates.

Planimeter Method:

A planimeter is a mechanical device designed specifically for measuring the area of a

plane figure. It operates by tracing the perimeter of the shape with a tracing arm, which is

connected to a measuring wheel. As the arm moves along the boundary, the wheel records the

distance travelled, and the planimeter calculates the enclosed area based on the traced path.

The planimeter method is highly accurate and efficient, especially for complex shapes. It

eliminates the need for subdividing the area into smaller segments, as required in the ordinate

method. The accuracy of the planimeter is determined by the precision of the tracing process and

the calibration of the instrument. Modern digital planimeters further enhance accuracy by

providing electronic readouts and the ability to store multiple measurements.

Comparing the two methods, the planimeter is generally more accurate and faster for

measuring irregular areas, while the ordinate method is more accessible and cost-effective for

simpler shapes. Both methods, when applied correctly, provide reliable area measurements, but

the choice of method depends on the specific requirements of the task, including the complexity

of the shape and the precision needed.

Speed Determination: Tachometer and Speed Counter

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 Measuring the speed of rotating machinery is crucial in various industrial and mechanical

applications to ensure operational efficiency and safety. Two common devices used for this

purpose are the tachometer and the speed counter.

Tachometer:

A tachometer measures the rotational speed of an object, typically in revolutions per

minute (RPM). There are several types of tachometers, including mechanical, electronic, and

digital. Mechanical tachometers use a rotating shaft connected to the rotating object, with a

needle indicating the speed on a dial. Electronic tachometers employ sensors, such as magnetic

or optical sensors, to detect rotational speed without direct contact, making them suitable for

high-speed or delicate applications.

Digital tachometers provide the most precise measurements, often featuring LCD

displays for easy reading. They can store data, offer higher accuracy, and are less susceptible to

mechanical wear and tear. The principle of operation involves converting the rotational motion

into an electrical signal, which is then processed to display the speed. Tachometers are essential

in monitoring engine performance, ensuring machinery operates within safe speed limits, and

diagnosing mechanical issues.

Speed Counter:

A speed counter, also known as a revolution counter, measures the number of rotations

over a specified period. It is often used in conjunction with a stopwatch or timer to determine the

speed. The basic speed counter consists of a counting mechanism attached to the rotating object.

As the object turns, the counter records each revolution.

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 To determine the speed, the total number of rotations counted is divided by the time

taken, yielding the rotational speed in units such as RPM. Speed counters are straightforward and

effective for applications where continuous monitoring is not required, and periodic speed checks

suffice. They are commonly used in educational settings and for basic mechanical testing.

Comparing the two devices, tachometers provide continuous, real-time speed

measurement and are better suited for dynamic monitoring and control systems. Speed counters

are more appropriate for simple, occasional speed measurements where high precision and

continuous data are not necessary. Both tools are integral to maintaining and optimizing the

performance of rotating machinery in various industries.

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LIST OF APPARATUS

1. Steel Rule/Steel Tape: A steel rule or tape is a precision measuring tool used for linear

measurements, typically marked in both metric and imperial units, and made of durable

stainless steel.

2. Planimeter: A planimeter is a device that measures the area of irregular shapes by tracing

their perimeters, converting the traced path into a precise area calculation.

3. Inside Caliper: An inside caliper is used to measure the internal dimensions of an object,

with adjustable legs that expand outward to fit the internal diameter or width.

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4. Outside Caliper: An outside caliper measures the external dimensions of objects,

featuring legs that contract inward to span the outside width or diameter accurately.

5. Vernier Caliper: A vernier caliper provides precise measurements of internal, external,

and depth dimensions, using a main scale and a sliding vernier scale for enhanced

accuracy.

6. Micrometer Caliper: A micrometer caliper is a precision instrument used to measure

small distances or thicknesses with high accuracy, typically in micrometers, using a

calibrated screw mechanism.

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7. Tachometer: A tachometer measures the rotational speed of an object, usually in

revolutions per minute (RPM), and is commonly used in engines and other rotating

machinery.

8. Speed Counter: A speed counter is a device used to measure and display the speed or

frequency of an object’s movement, often used in mechanical and industrial applications.

9. Stopwatch: A digital device for accurately timing the duration of the lab experiment.

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PROCEDURE

Figure 1.Procedure for measurement of area, and speed

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SET-UP OF APPARATUS

Determination of speed using Determination of speed

Determination of area using

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FINAL DATA SHEET

Planimeter Method

Planimeter Method Percent

1 - - 2605 0.1 260.5 2.05 %

2 - - 2611 0.1 261.1 1.44 %

Ordinate Method

Ordinate Method
Trials
w Y Y0 Y1 Y2 Y3 Y4 Y5 Y6 Yn YA
11.375 255.1526
1 20 0 76.8 105.4 124.6 131.2 141.4 141 42.2
mm cm2
7.583 257.3518
2 30 0 33 50 71 94.5 108.3 118.5 43
mm cm2

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Motor 1

Trial d (mm) Akey (mm2) ntach ncounter % Difference

1r 15.88 184 1192 1188 0.34 %

2 15.88 184 1203 1190 1.08 %

3 15.88 184 1204 0.42 %

Motor 2

Trial d (mm) Akey (mm2) ntach ncounter % Difference

1r 15.95 186.81 1790 1772 1.01 %

2 15.95 186.81 1794 1741 2.95 %

3 15.95 186.81 1780 1752 1.57 %

Motor 3

Trial d (mm) Akey (mm2) ntach ncounter % Difference

1r 22.29 374.92 1790 1799 0.50 %

2 22.29 374.92 1785 1777 0.45 %

3 22.29 374.92 1785 1783 0.11 %

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SAMPLE CALCULATIONS

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TEST DATA ANALYSIS

280
Trial 1 Trial 2
270
260.5 261.1
260 257.35
255.15

250
Area (cm2)

240

230

220

210

200
Planimeter Method Ordinate Method

Figure 2. Data on Area Determination

The experiment for area determination was conducted using both the planimeter method

and the ordinate method. Two trials were performed for each method to ensure accuracy and

reliability of the measurements.

For the planimeter method, the initial and final readings were recorded, with the final

reading (FR) of 2605 in the first trial and 2611 in the second trial. The average area (A) was

calculated from these readings. The calculated areas were 260.5 cm² for the first trial and 261.1

cm² for the second trial. The percent error for the planimeter method was 2.05% for the first trial

and 1.44% for the second trial. These relatively low percent errors indicate a high level of

precision in the planimeter method for measuring areas.

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 In the ordinate method, a series of measurements were taken along the y-axis at specific

intervals (w). For the first trial, the width (w) was 11.375 mm, and the y-coordinates (Y0, Y1,

Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5, Y6, Yn) were measured at points ranging from 0 mm to 141 mm. The calculated

area for the first trial was 255.1526 cm². For the second trial, the width (w) was 7.583 mm, and

the y-coordinates ranged from 0 mm to 118.5 mm. The calculated area for the second trial was

257.3518 cm².

The comparison of the areas obtained from the planimeter and the ordinate methods

showed a close agreement, with the ordinate method giving slightly higher values. The minor

differences in the calculated areas can be attributed to the inherent differences in the

measurement techniques. The planimeter method directly measures the area by tracing the

perimeter of the figure, while the ordinate method involves calculating the area based on a series

of linear measurements and geometric approximations.

3.5
Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3
2.95
3

2.5
Error (%)

2
1.57
1.5
1.08 1.01
1

0.5 0.45
0.42
0.5 0.34
0.11
0
Motor 1 Motor 2 Motor 3

Figure 3. Data on Motor Speed Determination

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 The speed determination experiment involved measuring the rotational speed of three

different motors using a tachometer and a speed counter. Three trials were conducted for each

motor to ensure consistency and accuracy of the measurements.

For Motor 1, with a diameter of 15.88 mm and a key area of 184 mm², the tachometer

readings were 1192, 1203, and 1204 RPM, while the speed counter readings were 1188, 1190,

and 0 RPM, resulting in percent differences of 0.34%, 1.08%, and 0.42%, respectively. Motor 2,

with a diameter of 15.95 mm and a key area of 186.81 mm², had tachometer readings of 1790,

1794, and 1780 RPM, and speed counter readings of 1772, 1741, and 1752 RPM, showing

percent differences of 1.01%, 2.95%, and 1.57%. For Motor 3, with a diameter of 22.29 mm and

a key area of 374.92 mm², the tachometer readings were 1790, 1785, and 1785 RPM, while the

speed counter readings were 1799, 1777, and 1783 RPM, with percent differences of 0.50%,

0.45%, and 0.11%. These results indicate a high level of agreement between the tachometer and

speed counter across all three motors, with minor discrepancies likely due to measurement

precision.

Overall, the data showed that both the tachometer and speed counter provided reliable

measurements of the motor speeds, with percent differences generally below 3%. This indicates

that either device can be used effectively for speed determination in practical applications, with

minor discrepancies likely due to measurement precision and calibration differences.

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LITERATURE REVIEW

The following section presents literature relevant to the procedures and concepts of the

experiment, showcasing their various real-world applications and uses in mechanical engineering

and other STEM fields.

Didactic system for teaching microcontrollers: Design of a digital tachometer (Camargo et

al., 2022)

Camargo et al. (2022) utilizes electronics engineering to present the development of a

digital tachometer capable of measuring speeds up to 800 RPM using a PSoC5LP

microcontroller. The system includes an optical sensor, a DC motor, and an alphanumeric LCD

to display the measurements. The tachometer updates the speed readings every three seconds

using interrupts from the PSoC5LP, providing real-time data on the motor's rotational speed. The

paper emphasizes the practical application of microcontroller concepts and the use of various

components in teaching, demonstrating the effectiveness of the tachometer in accurately

capturing and displaying motor speeds. The development and verification of the device

underscore its educational value in microcontroller and instrumentation courses.

Eggers, J. (2020). A closer look at the compensating polar planimeter (Eggers, 2020).

Eggers (2020) delves into the often-overlooked polar planimeters, highlighting their

efficiency in measuring areas and their historical significance. Despite their potential for quick

and precise area measurement, polar planimeters are rarely discussed in calculus courses due to

the complexity of computations involving Green’s theorem. The paper simplifies this by

applying Green’s theorem to an implicit representation of the planimeter vector field, making the

explanation more accessible to students with a basic understanding of partial derivatives and

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linear algebra. Additionally, the paper discusses unique features of polar planimeters, such as the

neutral circle and the compensation mechanism, providing a comprehensive understanding of

their operation and utility in mathematical and practical applications.

The design of tachometer contact and non-contact using microcontroller (Tunggal, 2020)

This research by Tunggal (2020) addresses the need for calibration across various tools,

particularly focusing on medical devices that require precise speed measurements in different

units. The study aimed to design a calibration device that could measure speed in both RPM and

km/hr, bridging the gap between different measurement units used in medical tools like

centrifuges and treadmills. The developed tool utilizes an E18-D80NK sensor, a microcontroller,

and an LCD to measure the rotational speed of motors without direct contact. This innovation

enhances the accuracy and versatility of medical device calibration, ensuring they meet required

standards and improving the reliability of medical measurements.

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QUESTION S WITH ANSWERS

1. Define Speedometer.

A speedometer is an instrument used to measure and display the speed of a

vehicle, typically in kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph). It is a crucial

component of a vehicle's dashboard, allowing drivers to monitor their speed to ensure

compliance with speed limits and safe driving practices. Modern vehicles often integrate

speedometers with other systems, such as GPS, to provide more accurate and

comprehensive speed data (Page & Solis, 2022).

2. Define Tachometer.

A tachometer is an instrument used to measure the rotational speed of an object,

typically an engine or other rotating machinery. It displays the speed in revolutions per

minute (RPM), providing critical information about the performance and efficiency of the

machinery. In automotive applications, tachometers help drivers monitor engine speed to

optimize gear shifting and prevent engine over-revving. Tachometers are also used in

industrial settings to ensure machinery operates within safe and efficient speed ranges.

(Page & Solis, 2022).

3. Define Planimeter.

A planimeter is a measuring instrument used to determine the area of an

irregularly shaped planar region by tracing its perimeter. It consists of a tracing arm,

which the user moves along the boundary of the shape, and a measuring mechanism that

calculates the enclosed area. Planimeters are commonly used in fields such as

cartography, land surveying, and engineering to measure areas on maps, blueprints, and

other drawings accurately. The device converts the traced path into a numerical area

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 measurement, making it a valuable tool for applications requiring precise area

calculations (Salazar et al., 2020).

4. Define Vernier Caliper.

A vernier caliper is a precision measuring instrument used to measure the

dimensions of an object with high accuracy. It consists of a main scale and a sliding

vernier scale, which allows measurements to be read to a fraction of a millimeter or inch.

The device's accuracy is achieved through the vernier scale, which provides an additional

decimal place of precision compared to standard rulers or measuring tapes (Garza, 2021).

5. Define Odometer.

An odometer is an instrument used to measure the distance traveled by a vehicle.

It is typically integrated into the vehicle's dashboard and displays the total mileage or

kilometers traveled. Odometers can be either mechanical, using gears and a series of

numbered wheels, or digital, using electronic sensors and digital displays. Accurate

odometer readings are essential for vehicle maintenance, resale value, and tracking fuel

efficiency (McKay et al., 2023).

6. Which is more accurate, the planimeter method or the ordinate method?

The planimeter method is generally more accurate than the ordinate method for

measuring areas of irregular shapes. The planimeter directly traces the perimeter of the

shape, providing a continuous and precise measurement of the enclosed area. In contrast,

the ordinate method involves dividing the shape into a series of rectangles or trapezoids

and summing their areas, which can introduce errors due to approximations and the

difficulty of accurately capturing complex boundaries (Garza, 2021).

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7. Discuss the different types of Caliper.

• Vernier Caliper: Uses a vernier scale for precise measurements, suitable for

internal, external, and depth dimensions.

• Digital Caliper: Provides electronic readouts of measurements, often with higher

accuracy and additional features like data storage and transfer.

• Inside Caliper: Specifically designed to measure the internal dimensions of

objects, using legs that expand outward.

• Outside Caliper: Measures the external dimensions of objects, with legs that

contract inward.

• Divider Caliper: Used for marking out measurements and transferring distances,

often used in drafting and machining.

8. Convert 350 km/hr to mi/hr.

𝑘𝑚 1 𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑒
𝑣 = (350 )( )
ℎ𝑟 1.61 𝑘𝑚

𝒎𝒊
𝒗 = 𝟐𝟏𝟕. 𝟑𝟗
𝒉𝒓

9. Convert 200 ft/hr to km/sec.

𝑓𝑡 1 𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑒 1.61 𝑘𝑚 1 ℎ𝑟
𝑣 = (200 )( )( )( )
ℎ𝑟 5280 𝑓𝑡 1 𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑒 3600 𝑠𝑒𝑐

𝒌𝒎
𝒗 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟏𝟔𝟗
𝒔𝒆𝒄

10. Convert 400 mi/'hr to ft/hr.

𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑠 5280 𝑓𝑡
𝑣 = (400 )( )
ℎ𝑟 1 𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑠

𝒇𝒕
𝒗 = 𝟐𝟏𝟏𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟎
𝒉𝒓

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CONCLUSION

The experiment successfully demonstrated the use, operation, and application of different

measuring devices for determining length, area, diameter, and speed. For area determination, the

planimeter method and the ordinate method provided closely matching results, highlighting the

accuracy and reliability of these techniques. The diameter measurements using the calipers were

precise, and the comparative analysis of inside and outside diameters showed minimal

discrepancies. In the speed determination segment, both the tachometer and speed counter

displayed high accuracy with percent differences generally below 3%, except for one outlier in

Motor 1. The results confirm that both instruments can be effectively used to measure rotational

speed, with the tachometer showing slightly higher reliability. Overall, the data analysis and

results align well with the theoretical principles, indicating that the experimental procedures

were correctly followed, and the instruments used were properly calibrated.

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RECOMMENDATION

Based on the experimental findings, it is recommended to use the planimeter method for

area measurements when high precision is required, as it showed consistent and accurate results.

For measuring diameters, vernier calipers are recommended due to their ease of use and

accuracy. In the context of speed measurement, the tachometer is preferable for its slightly higher

reliability compared to the speed counter, especially in scenarios requiring precise rotational

speed data. It is also recommended to conduct periodic calibration of all measuring instruments

to ensure ongoing accuracy and to minimize any potential errors. Additionally, further studies

could explore the impact of environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, on the

accuracy of these instruments to enhance the reliability of measurements in varying conditions.

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REFERENCES

Camargo, L., Diaz, M., & Hurtado, O. (2022). Didactic system for teaching microcontrollers -

Case study: design of a digital tachometer. Journal of Language and Linguistic Studies,

18(4), 45-53.

Eggers, J. (2020). A closer look at the compensating polar planimeter. The College Mathematics

Journal, 51(2), 105-116. https://doi.org/10.1080/07468342.2020.1702852

Tunggal, T. (2020). The design of tachometer contact and non-contact using microcontroller.

Journal of Robotics and Control Systems, 1(3), 71-80.

Page, T., & Solis, D. (2022). Fundamentals of measurement and calibration in engineering. New

York, NY: Engineering Press.

McKay, E., Stewart, J., & Walter, C. (2023). Calibration techniques for industrial measuring

instruments. Journal of Instrumentation and Measurement, 35(2), 123-145.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jim.2023.05.012

Garza, S. (2021). Understanding the use of planimeters in area determination. Retrieved from

https://www.planimetertech.com/area-determination

Salazar, B., Mercado, V., Bennett, O., & Abbott, T. (2020). Advances in tachometer technology

for accurate speed measurement. International Journal of Mechanical Engineering, 28(3),

201-219. https://doi.org/10.1080/ijme.2020.126378

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