When I first started taking Action Angle measurements using the Common Cents system I always was concerned about holding the chart level to make certain my reading was accurate. I found an inexpensive level at a local hardware store and attached the chart. Having used this for some time now I'm much more confident in the numbers I obtain. It has occured to me that I haven't seen much discussion about this subject so I have added a picture of the tool on the Photos page for anyone that may be interested.

Stan Grace
Helena, MT
"Our best is none too good"

A man after me own hart. I put the chart on stiff cardboard and use a small level also
Was thinking about an adjustable stand to hold it

If you enlarge the the AA chart will it still be accurate?

Thanks... Jim

I've been intending to post a question about this very subject. I also use a level, but an adjustable stand would make the task much easier and more accurate. If anyone has a suggestion, I would appreciate it. haven't posted some of my CC results because of concerns that the AA was not completely accurate.

Same here. I take my measurements from the floor up. And got to make sure the floor is level??
Got it sticking out from a closet door

Enlarging the chart won't change the angles

Stan Grace
Helena, MT
"Our best is none too good"

I measure next to a peg board wall and hold the tool against the wall behind the rod. I have just enough room for the tool.

Stan Grace
Helena, MT
"Our best is none too good"

Jim -

It depends on how you enlarge the chart.

You must scale the chart proportionally. You can do it Microsoft paint if you want, but you have to enlarge twice. Once for width and once for height and use the same scale. (eg enlarge it width 100% then enlarge height 100% to double the size).

If you enlarge the image non-proportionally - The angles will be off.

BTW - I have actually done the level thing in the past - I use the cheap little line levels and super glue them on. It's a little cheaper and lot less weight.


Dan -

You can pick up cheap camera stand for just about $10. I have used them in the past and they work quite well. The bas has a level and if you level platform once and lock it in you should be good to go. If you want to get fancy.

You can hot pipe bend some Plexiglass for a 90deg angle or look around an office store for Plexiglass display stands. Then tap the hole in the base of the Plexiglass for the camera stand (IIRC it a SAE 3/8 course). Then you have a collapsible setup ready to go.


Christian

Christian is right about the enlargement but the simple way to check your enlarged chart is to compare against a protractor.

Stan Grace
Helena, MT
"Our best is none too good"

According to my old geometry classes, a large 70 degree angle is the same as a small 70 degree angle, unless they've changed it recently.