Measurement is the oldest math and science in the world. Body parts were the first standard for measurements. Even the ancient citizens of Ur had ways to measure things. As recently as the Renaissance, there were hundreds, if not thousands, of measurement systems. In parts of Europe, there were different measuring systems in neighboring villages. In the 21st century, we’ve advanced to nearly the whole world using the same measuring system based on the number 10, the number of fingers most people have on both hands together. This article will look at three ways technology plays a part in achieving measurement accuracy.
1. Ability to Measure Smaller and Smaller
“Back in the day,” it was impossible to measure accurately beyond a certain point. As metrology tools and technology increased, the ability to measure smaller and smaller increments than ever before also increased. Whereas the ancients might be able to measure down to half-centimeters, we can now accurately measure the most infinitesimal objects and spaces. A subatomic “barn” is 100 square femtometres. That’s the size of the nucleus of a uranium atom. Sheds are smaller still. Angstrom units are 1/10,000,000 of a millimeter, yet they are 10 times the size of a barn.
Most of those extremely tiny measurements have very limited use, but when physicists need to measure these things, they do come in handy. Even just a few decades ago, it wasn’t possible to measure them, meaning that scientists had to guess about some things. Being able to measure these things is crucial for the development of scientific knowledge.
2. Ability to Measure Much More Accurately Than Ever Before
Even concerning the relatively large measurement of 1,000ths of an inch, it’s possible to be incredibly exacting when cutting pipes or other parts in a machine shop. Working with such tight tolerances lets us use more and more advanced devices and machines in society than we’ve ever been able to do. And, that accuracy is essential in many, many applications. From ensuring dimensional lumber fits together correctly when constructing a house to making the smallest pieces of circuitry in isolinear chips match up, accuracy is the glue upon which manufacturing and other industries depend.
3. Ability to Measure Consistently
Along with the ability to measure smaller and more accurately than ever, we can now be quite consistent with our measurements. The reason for this is that the machines we use to make measuring instruments are accurate and consistent. The standard deviations are so small that one mold for casting automobile parts will be virtually identical to every other mold for making the same automobile parts. Every die for making machining tools will also be virtually identical to every other machining die that makes the same tools.
Technology is a huge part of any industry that relies on measurements to function. Successful companies today will leverage evolving measuring technologies for both their betterment and that of their customers. As it has been with the development of measuring from the ancients until now, it promises to continue to evolve well into the future.
