AN ODD SOLUTION

摘要

The ubiquitous caliper has existed in some form or another since the need for mensuration became apparent, presumably from the time when men started tinkering with things in the 'garden shed, 'and long before Mr. Harrison decided to make a decent clock. I would hazard a guess that possibly the first wheelwrights had a lot to do with it, photo 1.rnFrom the various different types of caliper that have over the years evolved there has emerged a type that we now know as the 'Odd Leg' or 'Jenny' caliper. Also known as 'Hermaphrodite' calipers, (meaning combining or containing opposite qualities), it usually consists of various elements, i.e. one straight leg and one bent, or one leg with a stepped locating end and another with a blind end and/or combinations of the same.rnThis simple tool is usually made with a hinged friction joint (termed as a 'Firm' joint in some engineering catalogues), and was originally intended as a centre finder for both round or square material although through usage it appears to have become a 'Maid of all work'. Various designs appear to be commonly available, photo 2.