RadGauge Companion Calculator

About

This is a companion app for the 3D-printable RadGauge radius gauge. STL-file for printing can be found on Thingiverse. It can measure radii down to around 40 mm (the small version can measure smaller) and up to infinity, but accuracy will suffer for extreme values. For very small radii, it's generally better to use something like this (16-30 mm) or this (2-14 mm)

Disclaimer: The printed model may not be accurate, and some bug in this calculator might produce erroneous result values. Please report any errors, but keep in mind that you use this tool at your own risk.

Instructions

The RadGauge is attached to the end of your caliper. The depth probe is then used to measure the height difference between the two points and the probe. The RadGauge fits calipers roughly 16 mm wide x 5 mm thick.

Measuring

There are two versions of the RadGauge, one has a 60 mm gap, the other 30 mm. Select the one you are using.

Measure the radius by putting the RadGauge firmly against the curved surface, and extend the depth probe until it touches. Make sure the caliper base touches the bottom of the slot. Enter the measured value (in millimeters) into the calulator. It doen't matter if it's an inner or outer curve, the calculator works either way.

Fine tuning

The 20 mm offset will probably not be exactly 20 mm when it comes out of your printer. When measuring large radii (some furniture, for example), a small error will make a big difference. The tip of depth probe will most likely never be exactly centered, so you will not get perfect accuracy with this tool. You can, however, do some fine tuning to get pretty good results.

Method 1, custom offset: Check the error by measuring against a flat suface. Take this value (I get 19.52 from my first print) and enter it into the "Custom" height offset field. The calculations will now be compensated for this value.

Method 2, zeroing a digital caliper: Measure againt a flat surface and press the Zero button. Set Offset to 0 when using the calculator.

Manual calculation

The formula for calculating the radius from a circular arc or segment is R = H/2+W²/(8*H) where R = radius, H = height and W = width. When using the RadGauge, eithe zero your caliper, or use H = abs(20-H). Width is 60 or 30 mm

Support and feedback

You may post any questions, comments or error reports to the RadGauge Thingiverse page

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I like beer. If you'd like to buy me one, just open up my Thingiverse profile and hit Tip Designer!

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