Force measuring device – In the daily life that we live, of course, it will issue various types of forces with different intensities. Force is a parameter that shows the work of a machine or energy-producing device, for example in a motorcycle engine or car engine. This force can be measured with a special tool called a dynamometer.
With a force measuring device, a dynamometer, we will know the magnitude of the force that occurs, so that we can maximize the force in everyday life. On this occasion, we will discuss more about the force measuring device or better known as the dynamometer. So, read this article until it’s finished, Sinaumed’s.
Definition of Force Measurement Tool
Force measuring devices are also called dynamometers or spring balance. A dynamometer is a device for measuring the size of a force by applying the principle of spring force. Another name for a dynamometer in a physics laboratory is a spring balance.
This spring balance is also commonly used to measure weight instead of mass. Therefore, one of the main parts of this tool is the spring which is located on the dynamometer.
Dynamometers are also used to measure engine speed/RPM and torque, where the force or power generated from a rotating machine or tool can be calculated. Therefore, this dynamometer can also be found on cars or motorcycles, because it has a driving engine.
The Purpose of Using a Force Measurement Tool
The function of a force measuring device or dynamometer is as a tool to measure the size of the force, where when we give a push or pull to an object, we will not know how much pull or push we are giving.
In other words, to know the magnitude of the force we apply, we need a measuring instrument. This tool is called a dynamometer or spring balance.
For example, a force that can be measured with a dynamometer is a force that can be measured with a dynamometer is weight or the weight of an object that is a mass by gravity.
Dynamometer Parts
The parts of the dynamometer are hangers, scale pointers, springs, scales, rods and hooks. Each part of the dynamometer has its own function. The following functions of each of these parts are as follows
a. Hanger
Hanger as a place to hold the dynamometer (spring balance) so as not to interfere with the measurement process. So, the function of the hanger is to make it easier for someone to hold the dynamometer.
b. Hook
Hook as a place where objects are placed. Then, the function of this hook is as a place to put the object whose force you want to measure.
c. Stem
The stem is the outer part that wraps the spring so that it becomes a system.
d. Scale
The price scale is printed on the dynamometer (spring balance) which shows the measurement results. With this scale, we will know the results of measuring the force on an object.
e. Spring
Spring part of the dynamometer (spring balance) which is very vital. This is because with this spring, the dynamometer system functions properly.
f. Scale Pointer
The section scale pointer serves to indicate the scale (result) of measurement.
Dynamometer Scale
The lines on the scale on the dynamometer or spring balance follow the official unit of force in International Units (SI), namely Newton (N). The spring balance has two scale lines, namely the N (newton) and g (gram) scales. To weigh the load (object), first set the scale to 0 (zero) by rotating the scale adjustment screw.
Then, hang the object on the balance hook, then read the measurement results. The advantage of weighing a load using a spring balance is that once you weigh an object, you can know the mass and weight of the object at once.
Dynamometer Working Principle
In general, the dynamometer (spring balance) uses a principle that follows Hooke’s law, namely: “Elastic force as a cause of harmonic vibration is directly proportional and opposite to the deviation” .
Hooke’s law states that the length of a spring is proportional to the force it pulls. That is, when we apply a force to a spring, this force causes the spring to lengthen or shorten.
It can be concluded, the working principle of the dynamometer, namely the object to be measured is mounted on the end of a helical spring whose extension shows the value of the object’s weight on a calibrated scale. Therefore, it can be said that the working principle of this balance is quite simple where a spring balance can measure the mass of an object by balancing the existing balance arm.
Types of Force Measuring Instruments
Dynamometer force measuring devices (spring balance) are distinguished by the method of measurement as well as by shape and use. There is a dynamometer that is used to measure pulling force, there is also a dynamometer that is used to measure thrust and grip strength. Here’s an explanation.
Based on Measurement Method
Based on the measurement method, dynamometers are divided into two types, namely Engine Dynamometer (ED) and Chassis Dynamometer (CD).
1. Engine Dynamometer (ED)
Engine Dynamometer (ED) is a measurement method that is carried out with the engine output shaft connected directly to the dynamometer. In this measurement, the engine dynamometer provides data that is read in units of horsepower or horsepower. This unit is denoted by the letter dk.
2. Chassis Dynamometer (CD)
Chassis Dynamometer (CD) is a measurement method that is carried out through the vehicle’s drive wheels. By turning on the engine in a very short time until it reaches the maximum rotational speed, then the measurement results can be seen on the monitor or analog panel on the dynamometer unit.
Based on Form and Use
1. Tensile Force Measuring Dynamometer
A dynamometer for measuring the size of the tensile force is called a spring balance. This spring balance consists of a coil spring contained in a protected vessel with a scale pointer connected to the other end.
When a tensile force is applied to the end of the spring, the spring will stretch. The magnitude of the strain depends on the force. This type of dynamometer is often used to measure the amount of force needed to pull an object or to measure the weight of an object due to the influence of gravitational pull.
2. Thrust Measuring Dynamometer
In addition to pulling, force can also be a push. There are several types of dynamometers that can be used to measure the amount of thrust.
If the dynamometer pull uses spring tension, then the thrust gauge uses spring density. When a thrust is applied to the end of the spring, the spring will compress. Then, the density depends on the force.
3. Dynamometer for measuring grip strength
There is one type of dynamometer specifically used to measure hand grip strength or commonly called handgrip dynamometry.
How the Force Gauge Works
The working principle of the dynamometer utilizes the elastic properties of the spring. The physical law governing the nature of springs is called Hooke’s law. This law states that the length of a spring is proportional to the force it pulls. That is, when we apply a force to the spring, this force causes the spring to lengthen or shorten.
An example of the weight of an object due to the gravitational pull of the earth, how to measure it as follows.
Activity:
- Measure the weight of an object with a dynamometer due to the gravitational pull of the earth.
Tools and materials:
- Dynamometer or Spring Balance.
- The object to be measured, such as blocks or iron.
Measurement Step:
- Give a hook on a block or iron so that it can be attached to the dynamometer.
- Then hang the spring balance in a fixed plane.
- Hook the object to be measured on the spring.
- Let the object hang freely and record the scale measurement results.
Procedure for Using the Dynamometer
The procedure for using a dynamometer or spring balance is as follows:
1. Calibration
Calibration is a process of comparing a local reference to an applicable standard to ensure the accuracy of a measuring instrument or to standardize measuring conditions before use so that measurement results are accurate and close to the true value.
The way to calibrate the dynamometer (spring balance) is by rotating the screw at the top of the dynamometer without load until the scale pointer line shows on the zero scale.
2. Measurement
Here’s how to measure the dynamometer as follows:
- Hang the object to be measured on the hook at the bottom of the spring.
- After the system has calmed down, look at the scale indicated by the scale pointer.
3. How to Read
How to read the use of a dynamometer is the same as using a ruler, that is by looking at the number pointed to by the scale pointer. Usually, the accuracy limit or the smallest scale value on the dynamometer varies and usually what is often used in the laboratory is 0.1 N.
Force Measurement Tool Function
1. Dynamometer as a Force Measuring Tool
When we give a pulling or pushing force, we don’t necessarily know how much force we put out. To measure the amount of force that we put out, we need a tool called a dynamometer or spring balance. In the laboratory, a dynamometer is also used to measure weight, namely gravity, not mass.
The working principle of the dynamometer follows Hooke’s law, while the spring balance as a measuring device for gravity is made of a spring in a container that is given a scale. The number on the scale will indicate the amount of force that the object emits.
The load will be hung on the lower end of the spring vertically, then the spring will extend and the magnitude of the force is known through the scale on the tool. When weighing the load, the scale must be adjusted to the zero position via the scale adjuster. Then the load is hung on the hook.
2. Dynamometer as an Effort Measuring Tool
In physics, when we apply a force to an object and then the object moves from its original place, it is called work. However, if there is no object displacement, it can be concluded that the force exerted does not produce work. For example, the force released when pushing the wall.
3. Dynamometer as a Power Measuring Tool
Power in physics can be interpreted as a measure of the speed of doing work, namely the amount of energy expended per unit time. Measuring power requires a change in the value of the object’s position and the specific time when the change occurs.
Kinds of Style
Friction
Friction is the force generated by the surfaces of objects rubbing against each other. This is due to the contact of one object with another, so this force is a type of touch force. For example, people sharpen knives on a whetstone.
Gravity (Gravity)
Gravity or gravity is an attractive force between two objects that have mass. The magnitude of the force of attraction of an object depends on the mass of the object. The existence of the earth’s gravity makes objects on the surface of the earth always attracted towards the center of the earth.
Spring Style
Spring force is the force possessed by a hanging spring or a stretched or compressed spring. An example of this style is when we ride a trampoline.
Electric Force
Electric force is the force caused by electrically charged objects. For example in electronic devices.
Muscle Style
Muscle force is a pulling or pushing force against an object produced by muscles. In everyday life, an example is a horse pulling a carriage or a person pushing a car when it breaks down.
Machine Style
Machine force is the pulling or pushing force exerted by the engine. For example, when a car or motorcycle moves because of the engine.
Magnetic Force
Magnetic force is a pull or push force exerted by a magnet. For example, the magnet attached to the refrigerator.
Examples of Objects That Have a Spring Style
In everyday life, consciously or not there are some objects that use a spring force in them. The following are among the objects that we often encounter in everyday life:
Per
Per is a suspension technology used in vehicles to stabilize the shake and shock of the vehicle. Apart from that, there is another benefit from having Per on the vehicle on the bicycle so that the user’s waist does not hurt when passing through an unstable road.
On bicycles, Per is placed under the seat. This is to make it easier for the user when sitting on a bicycle so that it is not hard and more flexible. Not only in vehicles, Per is also found in modern pens to make it easier to insert the tip of the pen into by pressing a button-like part.
Dynamometer
The dynamometer is a force measuring device in which there is a spring. The spring in the dynamometer will stretch when it is subjected to an external force.
A dynamometer is a machine that is used to measure the torque (torque) and rotational speed (rpm) of the power produced by an engine. Like a motor or other rotating drive. In general, a dynamometer is used to determine the power and torque required to operate an engine.
Shockbreaker
Shockbreaker or shock absorber is a mechanical device designed to dampen shocks caused by kinetic energy. Shockbreaker as the most important part of a vehicle, especially in the suspension of motorized vehicles, aircraft wheels and some industrial machines used.
Shockbreaker in motorized vehicles utilizes springs. When a vehicle crosses an unstable road such as a pothole, the spring on the shock breaker will work so that it can dampen the shock of the motorized vehicle. In addition, springs on motorized vehicles have other benefits to maintain the stability of motorized vehicles such as when turning or when driving at high speed.
Slingshot
A slingshot is a tool used by people to traditionally hunt animals such as birds. The catapult adopts the spring force that exists in the rubber used as a catapult.
The workings of a catapult are objects that have mass. For example, we store a stone in front of the rubber and then pull and release it, the stone will bounce very quickly because it uses a spring force as a catapult.
Trampoline
A trampoline is a tool that is usually used for jumping sports. This causes us to jump up repeatedly and the jump is getting faster. Not only as a medium to improve physical fitness, but this trampoline is widely used for fun.
Rubber
Rubber is the main material of some spring tools. Because the spring force is already attached to the rubber. In general, if the rubber is stretched there is elasticity which will return to its original shape like a “spring”. The main ingredient of rubber is a hydrocarbon polymer which contains the latex of several plant species, such as the sap of the rubber tree.
Mattress
Mattress is a manufactured product that is used as a mat for sleeping or just for lying down. The mattress consists of cloth, filled with cotton, rubber, foam and covered with cloth on the outside. In addition, the mattress also contains springs in it, although not all of them.
Having a spring on the mattress will make the mattress not feel soft. This of course will be more comfortable when used.
That’s an explanation of the force measuring tool . So which books aren’t on the bookshelf right now, Sinaumed’s? If Sinaumed’s is still confused, still needs references regarding force measuring devices, then you can visit the sinaumedia book collection at sinaumedia.com . As #FriendsWithoutLimits, we will always provide the best and most complete information for Sinaumed’s and make your life #MoreWithReading with sinaumedia. I hope this article inspires you!
Author: Rosyda Nur Fauziyah
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