6.4 Indirect measurements
6.4.1 Using indirect measurements
Note
The accuracy of measurements taken using the 'Indirect' and 'Pythagoras' functions is primarily
dependent on whether the reference position is kept constant. This is not easy to achieve if the tool is
simply held by hand, without any form of support. Greater accuracy can be achieved if the tool is set
down on a firm surface, such as a table or floor. If no firm surface is available, it can help to attach the
tool to the center of your own body, for example by securing it to a belt.
The best solution is always to rest the measuring extension on a flat, firm surface. The most effective
way to improve accuracy is to maintain the point of the measuring extension at exactly the same
reference position while the measurements are taken.
Indirect measurements can be used to determine distances that cannot be measured directly. There are
several methods that can be used to indirectly measure distances. A visual representation shows you which
distance to measure for each partial measurement. Once all of the necessary distances and inclines have
been measured, the result is calculated and shown on the display.
In principle, results obtained from indirect measurements cannot be expected to have the same accuracy as
results obtained from direct measurements.
6.4.1.1 Guidelines for indirect measurements
▶ Observe the guidelines below in order to obtain the best possible results.
▶ Pay attention to the geometry (i.e. right angles and triangle relationships).
▶ Carefully aim the tool at the corners of the object when all of the measuring points lie in the same plane
and you are taking measurements from a location not too far away from the object.
▶ Do not tilt the tool to the side when measuring at an angle as this will cause measuring errors. If the tool is
tilted to the side, a warning message will be displayed and it will not be possible to take measurements.
▶ When taking indirect measurements, ensure that all measurements are taken in either a vertical or
horizontal plane.
▶ Use exactly the same point of contact and pivot axis in all measurements for the 'Indirect' and
'Pythagoras' functions.
6.4.1.2 'Indirect' versus 'Pythagoras'
At first glance, there is little to distinguish the two functions. The main difference is that the 'Indirect' function
group relies on the tool's vertical inclination sensor, and each measurement has to be taken in the same
vertical plane. In contrast, the 'Pythagoras' function group does not use the inclination sensor, therefore
allowing measurements to be taken in a direction regardless of the incline.
The 'Indirect' function group can be used, for example, to calculate the height of a wall by measuring just
two points: To the bottom, where the floor and wall meet, and to the point exactly above this where the wall
and ceiling meet.
The tool is able to indirectly calculate the height because it knows the angle of both measurements.
The same result can be obtained using the Pythagoras functions. As the inclination sensor is not active, at
least one plumb measurement must be taken to the analyzed object.
The advantage of taking measurements using the 'Indirect' function group is that fewer steps are required.
The advantage of taking measurements using the 'Pythagoras' function group is that horizontal and diagonal
lengths can be measured indirectly, provided that at least one plumb measurement can be taken to the
section.
6.4.2 'Indirect','Vertical'
This function measures the vertical distance between two points on a completely vertical structure.
It is particularly suitable for when a vertical distance on a wall has to be measured without direct access (e.g.
determining the story height on a building).
6.4.3 Measuring horizontal distances indirectly
1. Select the option 'Indirect' and 'Horizontal' from the 'Functions' menu.
2. Measure the distance to the vertical axis of the 90° structure at any desired angle, but within the same
vertical plane in which the distance to be measured lies.
◁ The result is displayed.
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