About

Topics

Measurement of length and time

Description

Play with the Vernier Caliper Model. Test what you've learned by trying the input field.

Vernier calipers can measure internal dimensions (using the uppermost jaws in the picture at right), external dimensions using the pictured lower jaws, and depending on the manufacturer, depth measurements by the use of a probe that is attached to the movable head and slides along the centre of the body. This probe is slender and can get into deep grooves that may prove difficult for other measuring tools.
The vernier scales can be in metric measurements on the upper and lower part of the scale.
Vernier calipers commonly used in industry provide a precision to a hundredth of a millimetre (10 micrometres).
A more precise instrument used for the same purpose is the micrometer

Parts of a vernier caliper:

Outside jaws: used to measure external diameter or width of an object (Blue)

Inside jaws: used to measure internal diameter of an object
Depth probe: used to measure depths of an object or a hole ( not shown in this model)

Main scale: gives measurements in mm.
Vernier gives measurements up to one decimal places in mm
Retainer: used to block movable part to allow the easy transferring a measurement ( not shown in this model)

The Vernier calipers model has

an object (Blue) for the internal jaws to measure width of an object with slider to control width of the object and simple drag action to control position of object.
an object (Green) for external jaws to measure internal diameter of a cylinder for example with slider to control dimensions of the cylinder.
a slider for zero error slider
checkbox for hint to scaffold the learners attention and point of focus
checkbox for answer to show the meaning of reading on the main scale and the vernier scale with zero error calculations if any.
drop down menu of the various common vernier scales for sense making and additional testing out by learners their ideas of how vernier works.
fine <> control buttons for learners to manipulate the model with single incremental precision
slider control for fast changes in the vernier measurement
reset button to bring simulaton back to original (default) setting.

Sample Learning Goals

(g) describe how to measure a variety of lengths with appropriate accuracy by means of tapes, rules, micrometers and calipers, using a vernier scale as necessary.

Research

arXiv:1408.3803 [pdf]
Vernier caliper and micrometer computer models using Easy Java Simulation and its pedagogical design feature-ideas to augment learning with real instruments
Loo Kang Wee, Hwee Tiang Ning
Comments: 8 pages, 8 figures, Physics Education journal
Subjects: Physics Education (physics.ed-ph); Instrumentation and Detectors (physics.ins-det)
https://youtu.be/jHoA5M-_1R4

Vernier calipers

Vernier calipers can measure internal dimensions (using the uppermost jaws in the picture at right), external dimensions using the pictured lower jaws, and depending on the manufacturer, depth measurements by the use of a probe that is attached to the movable head and slides along the centre of the body. This probe is slender and can get into deep grooves that may prove difficult for other measuring tools.

The vernier scales can be in metric  measurements on the upper and lower part of the scale.

Vernier calipers commonly used in industry provide a precision to a hundredth of a millimetre (10 micrometres).

A more precise instrument used for the same purpose is the micrometer

.Parts of a vernier caliper:

1. Outside jaws: used to measure external diameter or width of an object (Blue)
   
2. Inside jaws: used to measure internal diameter of an object
3. Depth probe: used to measure depths of an object or a hole ( not shown in this model)
   
4. Main scale: gives measurements in mm.
5. Vernier gives measurements up to one decimal places in mm
6. Retainer: used to block movable part to allow the easy transferring a measurement ( not shown in this model)

The Vernier calipers model has

• an object (Blue) for the internal jaws to measure width of an object with slider to control width of the object and simple drag action to control position of object.
• an object (Green) for external jaws to measure internal diameter of a cylinder for example with slider to control dimensions of the cylinder.
• a slider for zero error slider
• checkbox for hint to scaffold the learners attention and point of focus
• checkbox for answer to show the meaning of reading on the main scale and the vernier scale with zero error calculations if any.
• drop down menu of the various common vernier scales for sense making and additional testing out by learners their ideas of how vernier works.
• fine <> control buttons for learners to manipulate the model with single incremental precision
• slider control for fast changes in the vernier measurement
• reset button to bring simulaton back to original (default) setting.
  

Credits:

The Vernier calipers model was created by created by Fu-Kwun Hwang, customized by Loo Kang Wee and Wolfgang Christian using the Easy Java Simulations (EJS) version 4.2 authoring and modeling tool.  An applet version of this model is available on the NTNU website < http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/ >.

You can examine and modify this compiled EJS model if you run the model (double click on the model's jar file), right-click within a plot, and select "Open EJS Model" from the pop-up menu.  You must, of course, have EJS installed on your computer.  Information about EJS is available at: <http://www.um.es/fem/Ejs/> and in the OSP comPADRE collection <http://www.compadre.org/OSP/>.

 

Translations

Code	Language		Translator	Run

Credits

Fu-Kwun Hwang; lookang

Main Themes and Important Ideas/Facts: Purpose as an Educational Tool: The primary purpose of this resource is to provide an interactive simulation of a vernier caliper for educational purposes. It is designed to help learners understand how vernier calipers work and how to take measurements with them. The description explicitly states: "Play with the Vernier Caliper Model. Test what you've learned by trying the input field." Functionality and Features of the Simulation: The simulation is comprehensive, offering various functionalities to aid learning. Key features include: Measurement of Internal and External Dimensions: The model allows users to simulate measuring both internal and external dimensions of objects, represented by blue and green visual elements respectively. "Vernier calipers can measure internal dimensions (using the uppermost jaws in the picture at right), external dimensions using the pictured lower jaws..." "...an object (Blue) for the internal jaws to measure width of an object with slider to control width of the object and simple drag action to control position of object." "...an object (Green) for external jaws to measure internal diameter of a cylinder for example with slider to control dimensions of the cylinder." Representation of Key Vernier Caliper Parts: The simulation visually represents the main components of a vernier caliper, although the depth probe and retainer are noted as "not shown in this model." "Outside jaws: used to measure external diameter or width of an object (Blue)" "Inside jaws: used to measure internal diameter of an object" "Depth probe: used to measure depths of an object or a hole ( not shown in this model)" "Main scale: gives measurements in mm." "Vernier gives measurements up to one decimal places in mm" "Retainer: used to block movable part to allow the easy transferring a measurement ( not shown in this model)" Interactive Controls: Users can actively engage with the simulation through various controls: Sliders to control object dimensions and vernier movement. Drag action to position objects. A "zero error slider" to simulate and account for zero errors. Checkboxes for "hint" and "answer" to provide scaffolding and immediate feedback. A "drop down menu of the various common vernier scales for sense making and additional testing out by learners their ideas of how vernier works." "fine <> control buttons" for precise adjustments. A "reset button" to return to the default settings. Toggling between combobox/input field and cm/mm units. Learning Goals Alignment: The simulation supports specific learning objectives related to measurement in physics, particularly the accurate measurement of length using various instruments, including vernier calipers with a vernier scale. The "Sample Learning Goals" section explicitly states: "(g) describe how to measure a variety of lengths with appropriate accuracy by means of tapes, rules, micrometers and calipers, using a vernier scale as necessary." It also connects to broader concepts of "Errors, uncertainties, precision and accuracy through practical work" as outlined in the "Learnng Objectives" section, suggesting the simulation can be used to discuss these concepts. Technical Details and Accessibility: The model is developed using Easy JavaScript Simulation (EJS) and is implemented as a JavaScript HTML5 applet, making it accessible across various platforms, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones (Android/iOS). "EasyJavaScriptSimulation" "Android/iOS including handphones/Tablets/iPads" "Windows/MacOSX/Linux including Laptops/Desktops" "ChromeBook Laptops" The embed code provided allows for easy integration of the simulation into webpages: Precision of Vernier Calipers: The text highlights the typical precision achievable with real-world vernier calipers used in industry. "Vernier calipers commonly used in industry provide a precision to a hundredth of a millimetre (10 micrometres)." Relationship to Micrometers: The source notes that for even more precise measurements, a micrometer is used. "A more precise instrument used for the same purpose is the micrometer." Open Educational Resource and Credits: The simulation is presented as an open educational resource under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 Singapore License. Credits are given to Fu-Kwun Hwang, Loo Kang Wee, and Wolfgang Christian for its creation and customization using EJS. "Contents are licensed Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 Singapore License." "The Vernier calipers model was created by created by Fu-Kwun Hwang, customized by Loo Kang Wee and Wolfgang Christian using the Easy Java Simulations (EJS) version 4.2 authoring and modeling tool." Availability of Related Resources: The page provides links to various versions of the vernier caliper model (Java and JavaScript), blog posts, and related resources like worksheets and videos, suggesting a comprehensive suite of learning materials. Developer Notes and Updates: The "Developer notes" section indicates ongoing refinement of the simulation, with recent updates focusing on user experience on smaller screens and bug fixes. Conclusion: The provided sources describe a valuable open educational resource: a JavaScript HTML5 simulation of a vernier caliper. This interactive model offers a range of features designed to help students understand the principles and practical application of vernier calipers in measuring internal and external dimensions. Its accessibility across multiple platforms and alignment with learning goals related to measurement and uncertainty make it a useful tool for physics education. The detailed description of its functionalities and the provision of related resources further enhance its educational value. Vernier Caliper Study Guide Quiz Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each. What are the three types of measurements that a vernier caliper can typically perform, according to the text? What is the precision commonly provided by vernier calipers used in industry? What unit is this precision typically expressed in? Name at least four key parts of a vernier caliper as identified in the provided text. Describe the function of the outside jaws and the inside jaws of a vernier caliper. What is the purpose of the main scale on a vernier caliper? What unit of measurement does it provide? What information does the vernier scale provide in relation to the main scale reading? This specific simulation includes controls such as sliders and checkboxes. Describe the function of the "zero error slider." What is the purpose of the "hint" and "answer" checkboxes in the Vernier Caliper Model simulation? The Vernier Caliper Model simulation offers a dropdown menu of various common vernier scales. What is the intended learning benefit of this feature? According to the text, what are micrometers and how do they compare in terms of precision to vernier calipers for the same purpose? Quiz Answer Key Vernier calipers can typically measure internal dimensions using the uppermost jaws, external dimensions using the lower jaws, and depth measurements with a probe attached to the movable head. The depth probe is useful for reaching into narrow spaces. Vernier calipers commonly used in industry provide a precision to a hundredth of a millimetre. This is equivalent to 10 micrometres. Four key parts of a vernier caliper are the outside jaws, inside jaws, main scale, and vernier scale. The text also mentions the depth probe and retainer, though the latter is not shown in the model. The outside jaws (usually blue in the model) are used to measure the external diameter or width of an object. The inside jaws are used to measure the internal diameter of an object. The main scale on a vernier caliper gives the measurement in millimetres (mm). It provides the coarser part of the measurement reading. The vernier scale provides measurements up to one decimal place in millimetres. It allows for a more precise reading by indicating the fractional part beyond the whole millimetre markings on the main scale. The "zero error slider" in the simulation allows users to introduce or correct for any initial offset in the caliper's reading when the jaws are fully closed. This helps learners understand the concept and impact of zero error on measurements. The "hint" checkbox is designed to scaffold the learners' attention and guide their focus on relevant parts of the measurement process. The "answer" checkbox reveals the reading on the main scale and vernier scale, including any zero error calculations, to help learners check their understanding. The dropdown menu of various common vernier scales allows learners to explore different divisions and resolutions, enhancing their understanding of how the vernier principle works and the relationship between the main and vernier scales. It encourages sense-making and testing of their ideas. Micrometers are described as more precise instruments used for the same purpose as vernier calipers (measuring length). While vernier calipers commonly offer precision to a hundredth of a millimetre, micrometers can achieve even higher levels of precision. Essay Format Questions Discuss the importance of understanding the different parts and functions of a vernier caliper for accurate measurement. Explain how the design of the vernier scale enhances the precision of length measurements compared to a standard ruler. Describe the process of taking a measurement using a vernier caliper for external dimensions, internal dimensions, and depth (even though the depth probe is not explicitly modeled). Explain the role of the main scale and the vernier scale in obtaining the final reading. Explain the concept of zero error in vernier calipers. Discuss how zero error can affect the accuracy of measurements and how the simulation allows users to explore and account for this error. Evaluate the pedagogical value of using a JavaScript HTML5 applet simulation like the one described in the text for learning about vernier calipers. Discuss the features of the simulation that contribute to effective learning and understanding of measurement principles. Compare and contrast the vernier caliper with other measuring instruments mentioned in the text, such as tapes, rules, and micrometers, in terms of their applications, precision, and potential sources of error and uncertainty. Glossary of Key Terms Vernier Caliper: A precision measuring instrument used to measure linear dimensions, including external and internal diameters, as well as depths. Main Scale: The primary graduated ruler on a vernier caliper that provides measurements in whole units (in this case, millimetres). Vernier Scale: A smaller graduated scale that slides along the main scale and allows for more precise fractional readings beyond the whole unit divisions of the main scale. Outside Jaws: The lower set of jaws on a vernier caliper, typically used for measuring the external diameter or width of an object. Inside Jaws: The upper set of jaws on a vernier caliper, typically used for measuring the internal diameter of an object or a hollow space. Depth Probe: A slender rod attached to the movable part of some vernier calipers, used to measure the depth of holes or recesses. (Not shown in this specific model). Precision: The degree of fineness or resolution of a measurement. A more precise instrument can measure smaller differences in values. Accuracy: The degree to which a measured value conforms to the true or accepted value. Zero Error: A systematic error where the measuring instrument gives a non-zero reading when the quantity being measured is zero. Simulation: A computer-based model that mimics a real-world system or process, allowing users to interact with and learn from it. Scaffolding: Providing support or hints to learners that are gradually removed as they become more proficient. Micrometer: A more precise measuring instrument than a vernier caliper, also used for measuring linear dimensions with even finer resolution. Retainer: A mechanism on some vernier calipers used to lock the movable part in place, allowing for easier transfer of a measurement. (Not shown in this specific model).

1. more worksheet:  Physics_lab_Sharjah_University_Tahani_Alsarayreh
2. Worksheet 📖 ejss_model_Micrometer02 Tahani Ibrahim Ragheb AL Sarayreh physics department :Sharjah University : UAE measurment of density.docx 06 June 2020
3. Worksheet 📖 ejss_model_Micrometer02 Tahani Ibrahim Ragheb AL Sarayreh physics department :Sharjah University : UAE measurment of density.pdf 06 June 2020
4. Worksheet 📖 :ejss_model_Micrometer02_measurments of density 1 Nawal Nayfeh, Physics instructor at university of sharjah, UAE.pdf 25 May 2020
5. Worksheet 📖 :ejss_model_Micrometer02_measurments of density 1 Nawal Nayfeh, Physics instructor at university of sharjah, UAE.docx 20 May 2020

Learnng Objectives https://sites.google.com/moe.edu.sg/a-level-physics-tlg/foundations-of-physics

Errors, uncertainties, precision and accuracy through practical work

Learning Outcomes: 

• H2: 1(f), 1(g)

Curriculum Emphasis:

• Ways of Thinking and Doing

Can uncertainty be reduced or even eliminated? How do measurement uncertainties propagate to derived quantities? 

Identify and discuss how errors and uncertainties arise in specific measurements and experiments that students carry out, and discuss ways to reduce the errors and uncertainties. It is also possible to discuss the concepts of precision and accuracy using the data collected.

This is a way of building on existing practical work throughout the year to reinforce students' understanding of error and uncertainty through experiential learning.

Resources: 

• UNC - Introduction to Measurements & Error Analysis

Apps

Pro
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ionicframework.vernierpro698620 
Free
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ionicframework.vernierapp777926 

Free

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/vernier-calipers-simulator/id1163657388?ls=1&mt=8

Pro

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/vernier-calipers-simulator-pro/id1244019319?ls=1&mt=8

How to Use

General Description

This JavaScript App simulates the Vernier Caliper. The simulation shows the instrument setup with a rectangular object .

The Vernier calipers model has an object (Blue) for the internal jaws to measure width of an object with slider to control width of the object and simple drag action to control position of object.

An object (Green) for external jaws to measure internal diameter of a cylinder for example with slider to control dimensions of the cylinder.

Visual Elements

• Outside jaws: used to measure external diameter or width of an object (Blue)
• Inside jaws: used to measure internal diameter of an object
• Depth probe: used to measure depths of an object or a hole ( not shown in this model) .
• Main scale: gives measurements in mm.
• Vernier gives measurements up to one decimal places in mm
• Retainer: used to block movable part to allow the easy transferring a measurement ( not shown in this model)
• fine control buttons for learners to manipulate the model with single incremental precision control
• Vernier gives measurements up to one decimal places in mm

Controls

• ComboBox 1: Sets the type of caliper scales.
• ComboBox 2: Show and hide hints, answers, common objects etc
• ComboBox 3: Sets the zero error
• play button to run the caliper to move automatically.
• reset button to bring simulaton back to original (default) setting.
• ?= click to toggle between combobox or input field.
• combobox/inputfield to ease selecting answers like 0.00 and key in numbers.
• cm/mm text click to toggle between the 2 units, centimeter and millimeter

iCTLT2016 ePosterGuide Example

{/source}

Video  iCTLT2016 Sample of ePoster by  lookang lawrence wee

Worksheet

1. more worksheets:  Physics_lab_Sharjah_University_Tahani_Alsarayreh
2. Worksheet 📖 ejss_model_Micrometer02 Tahani Ibrahim Ragheb AL Sarayreh physics department :Sharjah University : UAE measurment of density.docx 06 June 2020
3. Worksheet 📖 ejss_model_Micrometer02 Tahani Ibrahim Ragheb AL Sarayreh physics department :Sharjah University : UAE measurment of density.pdf 06 June 2020
4. Worksheet 📖 :ejss_model_Micrometer02_measurments of density 1 Nawal Nayfeh, Physics instructor at university of sharjah, UAE.pdf 25 May 2020
5. Worksheet 📖 :ejss_model_Micrometer02_measurments of density 1 Nawal Nayfeh, Physics instructor at university of sharjah, UAE.docx 20 May 2020

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsBHciYPMJI

https://youtu.be/zz4Fha5sISo

https://youtu.be/qXtE07tbK8s

 

 

 

GIF

https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p0SadXZAkzo/V1Yg5C07E6I/AAAAAAAA37g/CFiB0StCka0jlQHUIFW-OsvKwJRAO12YgCLcB/s640/vernier.gif 

Version:

1. http://weelookang.blogspot.com/2018/09/vernier-caliper-javascript-html5-applet.html added external, internal and depth measurements by Fu-Kwun Hwang and lookang
2. http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2015/07/ejss-vernier-caliper-model.html by Fu-Kwun Hwang and lookang JavaScript version blogpost
3. http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2010/06/ejs-open-source-vernier-calipers-java.html by Fu-Kwun Hwang and lookang Java version blogpost
4. http://iwant2study.org/lookangejss/01_measurement/ejs/ejs_model_AAPTVernierCaliper.jar by Fu-Kwun Hwang and lookang OSP@SG digital library copy
5. http://www.opensourcephysics.org/items/detail.cfm?ID=9707 by Fu-Kwun Hwang and lookang first Open Source Physics catalog item
6. http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/index.php?topic=1408.0 by Fu-Kwun Hwang with different measure jaws options
7. http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/index.php?topic=684.0 by Fu-Kwun Hwang and lookang remix Java version
8. http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/index.php?topic=567.0 by Fu-Kwun Hwang with zero errors

 

Other Resources

1. http://physci.kennesaw.edu/html5/tm-vernier.html by Taha Mzoughi 
2. https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/model.html?id=8d9c6f18404cb75dc918062ff9c5ac49
3. https://www.geogebra.org/m/jybrnwgp By Seng kwang

Developer notes

 

Simulation completed on 4 Nov:

1. Vernier Caliper

    - enlarged the dragme objects on the bottom scale (yellow) and bottom object (blue) to help make the dragging easier on smaller mobile screen

    - added "mm" on top scale

    - added checkAndroid for fullscreen

    - removed bug for initial tail values (yellow) when measuring depth. (so that yellow tail won't "pierce" through the pink container.

Frequently Asked Questions: Vernier Calipers Simulation

• What is a vernier caliper and what does this simulation allow me to do? A vernier caliper is a precision measuring instrument used to determine internal and external dimensions of objects, and sometimes depth. This JavaScript HTML5 simulation model allows you to interact with a virtual vernier caliper to measure the width of a rectangular object (using internal jaws) and the internal diameter of a cylinder (using external jaws). You can manipulate the objects and the caliper itself to understand how measurements are taken.
• What parts of a vernier caliper are represented in this simulation? The simulation visually represents the outside jaws (blue), inside jaws, the main scale (in mm), and the vernier scale (providing measurements up to one decimal place in mm). While a depth probe and retainer are mentioned as parts of a physical vernier caliper, they are not shown in this particular simulation model.
• How can I interact with the objects being measured in the simulation? For the internal jaws (measuring the blue rectangular object's width), there is a slider control to adjust the width of the object. You can also use a simple drag action to control the position of this object. For the external jaws (measuring the green cylinder's internal diameter), a slider control is available to change the dimensions of the cylinder.
• What interactive controls are available for the vernier caliper itself? The simulation offers several controls, including: a slider for introducing zero error, checkboxes to show or hide hints and the correct answer (including zero error calculations), a drop-down menu to select different common vernier scales, fine control buttons for precise adjustments, a slider for making fast changes to the vernier measurement, and a reset button to return the simulation to its default state. There are also clickable text toggles to switch between centimeter (cm) and millimeter (mm) units.
• What are the learning goals associated with this vernier caliper simulation? This simulation is designed to help learners describe how to measure a variety of lengths with appropriate accuracy using instruments like calipers with a vernier scale. It aims to enhance understanding of measurement techniques and the function of the vernier scale.
• How precise are vernier calipers, and how does this compare to other measuring instruments mentioned? Vernier calipers commonly used in industry offer a precision of a hundredth of a millimetre (10 micrometres). The text mentions that a micrometer is a more precise instrument used for the same purpose of measuring length.
• Can this simulation help with understanding measurement errors and uncertainties? Yes, the simulation includes a slider to introduce zero error, which is a common source of measurement error. By observing how this zero error affects the readings and utilizing the "answer" checkbox, learners can gain a better understanding of the importance of accounting for such errors in precise measurements. The associated "Learning Objectives" section also highlights the broader concepts of errors, uncertainties, precision, and accuracy in practical work.
• Who created this simulation and are there other versions or resources available? This Vernier calipers model was created by Fu-Kwun Hwang and customized by Loo Kang Wee and Wolfgang Christian using the Easy Java Simulations (EJS) authoring tool. There are several listed versions of this model, including Java applet versions and blog posts detailing their development. Additionally, worksheets and video tutorials by other educators using similar simulations are mentioned, indicating a wider range of learning resources available