Metrology is the study of measurement science. Although classical economists have emphasized the importance of measurement per se, the majority of economics-based writings on the topic have taken the form of government reports related to the activities of specific national metrology laboratories. This book is the first systematic study of measurement activity at a national metrology laboratory, and the laboratory studied is the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) within the U.S. Department of Commerce. The primary objective of the book is to emphasize for academic and policy audiences the economic importance of measurement not only as an area of study but also as a tool for sustaining technological advancement as an element of economic growth. Toward this goal, the book offers an overview of the economic benefits and consequences of measurement standards; an argument for public sector support of measurement standards; a historical perspective of the measurement activities at NIST; an empirical analysis of one particular measurement activity at NIST, namely calibration testing; and a roadmap for future research on the economics of metrology.

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The Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) is the ultimate tool to see and measure structures on the nanoscale and to probe their elemental composition and electronic structure with sub-nanometer spatial resolution. Recent technological breakthroughs have revolutionized our understanding of materials via use of the TEM, and it promises to become a significant tool in understanding biological and biomolecular systems such as viruses and DNA molecules. This book is a practical guide for scientists who need to use the TEM as a tool to answer questions about physical and chemical phenomena on the nanoscale.

Since its development in the late 1970s, the Moire Fringe method has become a standard technique for the measurement of the behavior of materials and structures. Edited by one of the co-inventors of the technique, the Handbook of Moire Measurement brings together a series of extended case studies from recognized experts in the field. The emphasis is on the application of the method to real situations, and presents a very readable account of the technique from the point of view of the user. As an introduction to the Moire technique and its variants, this book will be of interest to readers at all levels, but is particularly suitable for undergraduates and graduate students in physics, materials science, and structural and mechanical engineering.

CESSM 3 Explained provides a detailed and highly illustrated guide to the use of the new civil engineering standard methods of measurements.

Accuracy in the laboratory setting is key to maintaining the integrity of scientific research. Inaccurate measurements create false and non-reproducible results, rendering an experiment or series of experiments invalid and wasting both time and money. This handy guide to solid, fluid, and thermal measurement helps minimize this pitfall through careful detailing of measurement techniques. Concise yet thorough, Mechanical Variables Measurement-Solid, Fluid, and Thermal describes the use of instruments and methods for practical measurements required in engineering, physics, chemistry, and the life sciences. Organized according to measurement problem, the entries are easy to access. The articles provide equations to assist engineers and scientists who seek to discover applications and solve problems that arise in areas outside of their specialty. Sections include references to more specialized publications for advanced techniques, as well. It offers instruction for a range of measuring techniques, basic through advanced, that apply to a broad base of disciplines. As an engineer, scientist, designer, manager, researcher, or student, you encounter the problem of measurement often and realize that doing it correctly is pivotal to the success of an experiment. This is the first place to turn when deciding on, performing, and troubleshooting the measurement process. Mechanical Variables Measurement-Solid, Fluid, and Thermal leads the reader, step-by-step, through the straits of experimentation to triumph.

Errors in Practical Measurement in Science, Engineering, and Technology B. Austin Barry A step-by-step presentation of how random errors occur when taking measurements, how these errors behave, how measurement errors can be used to determine the reliability of the values, and how to accord weights to different measurements of the same quantity. Introduces the concept of percentage compliance with a demand specification, discusses practical plotting of frequency distribution curves, offers tables of areas beneath the normal curve to assist in formulating the validity of measurements, and provides basic information of the probability ellipse for two-dimensional errors. Appendices contain a review and reference of significant figures, complete information for writing a specification for a procedure, suggestions for the use of a Fortran program, and more. 1978 (0 471-03156-9) 183 pp.

This book helps you understand the basic properties of semiconductor quantum wells and superlattices and describes how they can be utilized for long-wavelength infrared detectors and imaging arrays. Includes 111 illustrations and 237 equations.

For thousands of years, people of all cultures have made and used clocks, from the city sundials of ancient Rome to the medieval water clocks of imperial China, hourglasses fomenting revolution in the Middle Ages, the Stock Exchange clock of Amsterdam in 1611, Enlightenment observatories in India, and the high-precision clocks circling the Earth on a fleet of GPS satellites that have been launched since 1978. Clocks have helped us navigate the world and build empires, and have even taken us to the brink of destruction. Elites have used them to wield power, make money, govern citizens, and control lives-and sometimes the people have used them to fight back. Through the stories of twelve clocks, About Time brings pivotal moments from the past vividly to life. Historian and lifelong clock enthusiast David Rooney takes us from the unveiling of al-Jazari's castle clock in 1206, in present-day Turkey; to the Cape of Good Hope observatory at the southern tip of Africa, where nineteenth-century British government astronomers moved the gears of empire with a time ball and a gun; to the burial of a plutonium clock now sealed beneath a public park in Osaka, where it will keep time for 5,000 years. Rooney shows, through these artifacts, how time has been imagined, politicized, and weaponized over the centuries-and how it might bring peace. Ultimately, he writes, the technical history of horology is only the start of the story. A history of clocks is a history of civilization.

Planning, measuring, and paying attention to details form the basis for all successful engineering operations. Measurements pervade everything we do and must be viewed from a systems perspective. A comprehensive all-encompassing guide to measurements, Handbook of Measurements: Benchmarks for Systems Accuracy and Precision focuses on high-level engineering computations essential for benchmarks and technical innovation. The book uses a systems framework and a technically rigorous approach to systems linking of measurements-an approach that sets it apart from other handbooks. The popular saying "measure twice and cut once" bears out the importance of measurements in human endeavors. This handbook covers both qualitative and quantitative topics of measurement. It opens with a chapter on the fundamentals of measurement and includes coverage of human-centric measurements, such as measurement of personnel productivity and contractor performance. It concludes with three appendices on measurement, references, conversion factors, equations, formulas, and statistics for measurement. It is well understood that humans cannot manage anything that cannot be measured. All elements involved in our day-to-day decision making involve some form of measurement, whether in the kitchen, retail, sports, service operations, geographical exploration, health care delivery, worker productivity, clothing design, engineering product design, or space craft launching. Measuring an attribute of a system and then analyzing it against some standard, some specification, some best practice, or some benchmark empower a decision maker to take appropriate and timely actions. This book gives you a guide for sustainable practices to ensure accurate measurements, helping you make decisions backed by metrics.

The first authoritative account of the industrial potential of tomographic imaging techniques, Imaging Industrial Flows: Applications of Electrical Process Tomography provides an overview of the instrumentation used in process tomography. Assuming only a basic knowledge of instrumentation, electronics, and computing systems, the authors concisely describe the principles behind the operation of image reconstruction techniques and the application of electrical tomography to measuring flows in pipelines and other industrial equipment. This reference will help you improve the efficiency of measurement and control equipment, monitor industrial effluents, and increase the efficiency and safety of process plant equipment, in particular, in the chemical engineering, oil technology, and flow measurement instrumentation industries.

The first edition of this book was co-published by Ane Books India, and CRC Press in 2008. This second edition is an enlarged version of the web course developed by the author at IIT Madras, and also a modified and augmented version of the earlier book. Major additions/modifications presented are in the treatment of errors in measurement, temperature measurement, measurement of thermo-physical properties, and data manipulation. Many new worked examples have been introduced in this new and updated second edition.

Planning, measuring, and paying attention to details form the basis for all successful engineering operations. Measurements pervade everything we do and must be viewed from a systems perspective. A comprehensive all-encompassing guide to measurements, Handbook of Measurements: Benchmarks for Systems Accuracy and Precision focuses on high-level engineering computations essential for benchmarks and technical innovation. The book uses a systems framework and a technically rigorous approach to systems linking of measurements-an approach that sets it apart from other handbooks. The popular saying "measure twice and cut once" bears out the importance of measurements in human endeavors. This handbook covers both qualitative and quantitative topics of measurement. It opens with a chapter on the fundamentals of measurement and includes coverage of human-centric measurements, such as measurement of personnel productivity and contractor performance. It concludes with three appendices on measurement, references, conversion factors, equations, formulas, and statistics for measurement. It is well understood that humans cannot manage anything that cannot be measured. All elements involved in our day-to-day decision making involve some form of measurement, whether in the kitchen, retail, sports, service operations, geographical exploration, health care delivery, worker productivity, clothing design, engineering product design, or space craft launching. Measuring an attribute of a system and then analyzing it against some standard, some specification, some best practice, or some benchmark empower a decision maker to take appropriate and timely actions. This book gives you a guide for sustainable practices to ensure accurate measurements, helping you make decisions backed by metrics.

The importance of proper geometric dimensioning and tolerancing as a means of expressing the designer's functional intent and controlling the inevitable geometric and dimensional variations of mechanical parts and assemblies, is becoming well recognized. The research efforts and innovations in the field of tolerancing design, the development of supporting tools, techniques and algorithms, and the significant advances in computing software and hardware all have contributed to its recognition as a viable area of serious scholarly contributions. The field of tolerancing design is successfully making the transition to maturity where deeper insights and sound theories are being developed to offer explanations, and reliable implementations are introduced to provide solutions. Machine designers realized very early that manufacturing processes do not produce the nominal dimensions of designed parts. The notion of associating a lower and an upper limit, referred to as tolerances, with each dimen sion was introduced. Tolerances were specified to ensure the proper function of mating features. Fits of mating features included clearances, location fits, and interference fits, with various sub-grades in each category assigned a tolerance value depending on the nominal size of the mating features. During the inspection process, a part is rejected if a dimension fell outside the specified range. As the accuracy requirements in assemblies became tighter, designers had to consider other critical dimensions and allocate tolerances to them in order to ensure the assembly's functionality."

A great deal of research is being done in the areas of artificial vision and neural networks. Although much of this research has been theoretical in nature, many of the techniques developed through these efforts are now mature enough for use in practical applications. Automated Visual Inspection Using Artificial Neural Networks explains the application of recently emerging technology in the areas of artificial vision and neural networks to automated visual inspection. The information is organised in a clear, informative manner, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application. Significantly this book includes: * broad coverage of all aspects of the automated visual inspection problem, * details of the HAVENET neural network and the CAMERA vision model, and * detailed descriptions of practical applications of intelligent visual inspection.

Written for an advanced-level course in digital systems design, DIGITAL SYSTEMS DESIGN USING VHDL integrates the use of the industry-standard hardware description language VHDL into the digital design process. Following a review of basic concepts of logic design in Chapter 1, the author introduces the basics of VHDL in Chapter 2, and then incorporates more coverage of VHDL topics as needed, with advanced topics covered in Chapter 8. Rather than simply teach VHDL as a programming language, this book emphasizes the practical use of VHDL in the digital design process. For example, in Chapter 9, the author develops VHDL models for a RAM memory and a microprocessor bus interface; he then uses a VHDL simulation to verify that timing specifications for the interface between the memory and microprocessor bus are satisfied. The book also covers the use of CAD tools to synthesize digital logic from a VHDL description (in Chapter 8), and stresses the use of programmable logic devices, including programmable gate arrays. Chapter 10 introduces methods for testing digital systems including boundary scan and a built-in self-test.

Overview International System of Units (SI) (Print On-Demand Edition) is a one-of-a-kind book. It provides detailed information on the metric system, its origin, history, and how the base and derived units were established. The book has four chapters (Measurement Systems, the International System of Units, Metrication in the United States, and United States Metric Association), appendices, an afterword, and references. The book is principally aimed at educating students in the United States, but it will also be of interest to anyone who enjoys the popular sciences. This is a Print-On-Demand title. It has a CD-ROM companion (ISBN 978-0-8311-3466-2) for which publication has ceased. Dr. Edmund Isakov. Ph.D., has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in metalworking. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree in Mechanical Engineering at the V. Bakul Institute for Superhard Materials (Kiev, Ukraine). He is known for his work in research, development and applications of cuttting tools for milling, turning and boring. Dr. Isakov has authored Mechanical Properties of Work Materials and numerous articles and papers on metalcutting. He holds several U.S. patents and numerous U.S.S.R Inventor's Certificates pertaining to carbide and diamond tools. during nearly two decades at Kennametal, Inc., he became a noted authority on the technical analysis of cutting tools. Dr. Isakov is now an independent consulant and manufacturing sciences writer based in Florida. He is a senior member of SME.Introduction Chapter 1: Measurement Systems Brief history of the English System Brief history of the Metric System Chapter 2: International System of Units (SI) SI Base Units of Measurement SI Derived Units of Measurement Chapter 3: Metrication in the United States Brief history Current usage of the metric units Chapter 4: United States Metric Association (USMA) USMA establishment Brief history Summary of metric usage in the United States Appendix 1: Signatories to the Meter Convention (Treaty of the Meter) Appendix 2: Associate States of the CGPM Appendix 3: CGPM Meetings Appendix 4: Prefixes for Multiples and Submultiples of the SI units Appendix 5: Medals awarded to scientists, after whom the units of measurement are named Appendix 6: Standard Inductor Values Appendix 7: The Sixteen Bronze Statues Appendix 8: Temperature Conversion Formulas References Index - Biographical Names

 Overview The fifth edition features one completely new chapter covering The Measurement of Geometric Dimensions and Tolerances, while providing comprehensive state-of-the-art treatment of all known dimensional measurement devices and techniques. The Handbook of Dimensional Measurement is a unique resource organized into chapters by gage (gauge) type and function. Individual chapters move from simple to complex, from timeless measurement techniques to the most modern and innovative. As the single best (and most recognized and respected) reference on engineering measurement, the Fifth Edition improves its position as the most comprehensive source for dimensional measurement information available! Features Includes a completely new chapter covering The Measurement of Geometric Dimensions and Tolerances.   Includes an improved and expanded illustration program, with 50 new figures and new digital photographs. Supplements discussions with nearly 600 illustrations, line drawings and photographs. Includes improvements and innovations made by the leading manufacturers of dimensional measurement equipment, hardware, and machinery from the last edition. Describes equipment, hardware, and machinery in explicit narrative detail. Brings all references to national and international standards up-to-date.   Introduction Line Graduated Measuring Instruments Fixed Gages Gage Blocks Comparative Length Measurements with Mechanical and Electronic Indicators Pneumatic Gaging Electronic Gages Engineering Microscopes Optical Projectors Angle Measurements The Measurement of Straightness, Flatness and Perpendicularity The Systems and Applications of Measuring Machines Profile Measurements The Measurement of Roundness and Circular Contours Surface Texture Measurement Screw Thread Gaging and Measurement The Measurement of Gears Process Control Gaging Automated Dimensional Measurements New Developments in Dimensional Measurement The Measurement of Geometric Dimensions and Tolerances Appendix A: Principle Changes and Technological Improvements by Chapter Appendix B: National and International Standards Referenced Index

"John Russ is the master of explaining how image processing gets applied to real-world situations. With Brent Neal, he s done it again in Measuring Shape, this time explaining an expanded toolbox of techniques that includes useful, state-of-the-art methods that can be applied to the broad problem of understanding, characterizing, and measuring shape. He has a gift for finding the kernel of a particular algorithm, explaining it in simple terms, then giving concrete examples that are easily understood. His perspective comes from solving real-world problems and separating out what works in practice from what is just an abstract curiosity."

Tom Malzbender, Hewlett-Packard Laboratories, Palo Alto, California, USA

Useful for those working in fields including industrial quality control, research, and security applications, Measuring Shape is a handbook for the practical application of shape measurement. Covering a wide range of shape measurements likely to be encountered in the literature and in software packages, this book presents an intentionally diverse set of examples that illustrate and enable readers to compare methods used for measurement and quantitative description of 2D and 3D shapes. It stands apart through its focus on examples and applications, which help readers quickly grasp the usefulness of presented techniques without having to approach them through the underlying mathematics.

An elusive concept, shape is a principal governing factor in determining the behavior of objects and structures. Essential to recognizing and classifying objects, it is the central link in manmade and natural processes. Shape dictates everything from the stiffness of a construction beam, to the ability of a leaf to catch water, to the marketing and packaging of consumer products. This book emphasizes techniques that are quantitative and produce a meaningful yet compact set of numerical values that can be used for statistical analysis, comparison, correlation, classification, and identification.

Written by two renowned authors from both industry and academia, this resource explains "why" users should select a particular method, rather than simply discussing how to use it. Showcasing each process in a clear, accessible, and well-organized way, they explore why a particular one might be appropriate in a given situation, yet a poor choice in another. Providing extensive examples, plus full mathematical descriptions of the various measurements involved, they detail the advantages and limitations of each method and explain the ways they can be implemented to discover important correlations between shape and object history or behavior. This uncommon assembly of information also includes sets of data on real-world objects that are used to compare the performance and utility of the various presented approaches.

In the field of mechanical measurements, Mechanical Measurements continues to set the standard. With an emphasis on precision and clarity, the authors have consistently crafted a text that has helped thousands of students grasp the fundamentals of the field. "Mechanical ""Measurements 6th edition " gives students a methodical, well thought-out presentation that covers fundamental issues common to all areas of measurement in Part One, followed by individual chapters on applied areas of measurement in Part Two. This modular format fits several different course formats and accommodates a wide variety of skill levels.

The concept of traceability has evolved to ensure measurements can be communicated consistently and unambiguously. This new edition of a classic reference offers a systematic treatment of traceable temperature measurement and presents a practical guide to the principles and purpose of measurements. With an emphasis on recognizing sources of uncertainty, Nicholas and White examine the most commonly used thermometers: liquid-in-glass thermometers, platinum resistance thermometers, thermocouples and radiation thermometers.

The new edition features:

• How to make measurements fit for purpose; the importance of traceability, uncertainty and measurement standards.
• The latest advances in industrial and laboratory thermometry, with a unique emphasis on practical advice on how to recognise and treat errors.
• An updated chapter on calibration, reflecting the changes brought about by the release of the ISO 17025 standard for laboratory accreditation.
• A systematic treatment of uncertainty in measurement consistent with ISO guidelines, including numerous thermometry examples and exercises.

Machine vision technology has revolutionised the process of automated inspection in manufacturing. The specialist techniques required for inspection of natural products, such as food, leather, textiles and stone is still a challenging area of research. Topological variations make image processing algorithm development, system integration and mechanical handling issues much more complex. The practical issues of making machine vision systems operate robustly in often hostile environments together with the latest technological advancements are reviewed in this volume. Features:- Case studies based on real-world problems to demonstrate the practical application of machine vision systems.- In-depth description of system components including image processing, illumination, real-time hardware, mechanical handling, sensing and on-line testing.- Systems-level integration of constituent technologies for bespoke applications across a variety of industries.- A diverse range of example applications that a system may be required to handle from live fish to ceramic tiles.Machine Vision for the Inspection of Natural Products will be a valuable resource for researchers developing innovative machine vision systems in collaboration with food technology, textile and agriculture sectors. It will also appeal to practising engineers and managers in industries where the application of machine vision can enhance product safety and process efficiency.