Discussion

In this experiment, we were measuring the geometrical parameters which are the minor, major and
the effective diameter of screw thread by using the profile projector. Profile projector is basically an
optical measuring instrument that enlarged the image of the specimen placed under the lens. Besides,
another experiment which examines an old 10 cent and new 20 and 50 cent was also conducted using
the profile projector.

On the first experiment, by following all the procedures, we have obtained all the parameters
needed. Three readings were taken for each minor and major diameter, and two readings for effective
diameter. For the minor diameter, the value for every reading is 24.879 cm, 24.879 cm and 24.839 cm
respectively while for the major diameter, the value obtained are 29.919 cm, 29.918 cm and 29.914 cm
each. Then, for the effective diameter, the readings are 27.513 cm and 27.722 cm. From the data, there
are variations of reading. The variations may due to the wrong eye position of the data reader since we
every reading was taken by different person.

Based on all the data obtained, some calculation need to be done to get the percentage error. Since
the reading was taken 3 times, the average reading for each diameter can be calculated. From the
calculation, minor diameter has the highest percentage error which is 5.131 %. The percentage error for
minor diameter is 0.277% while for the effective diameter is 0.393%. The main cause for all these errors
is human error. There might be a misalignment of specimen during the experiment. Besides, the error
may occur because the specimen is not clamped properly that leads to the changing in position of the
specimen. Furthermore, the specimen is unclean. There was a hair and dust on the specimen during
the experiment and it was a little bit hard to decide the right point on the screw thread to be used as
the measuring point. Another cause of error is the bumps on the specimen because of the imperfect
finishing. Other than human error, the error can also be caused by the instrumental error. The profile
projector is an old machine. The system might have change over time and not functioning very well
since it was used for too long and for so many times. Besides, the machine may not well calibrate.

For another set of experiment, we were asked to examine three types of coins. For the old 10 cents
coin, we need to find out how many marbles are there on the coin. Six of us got the same amount which
is 45 marbles and the diameter for the marble is 0.228mm. For the next new 20 cents and 50 cents coin,
the hidden or unseen is the letter B, N and M. For this experiment, we were having same hard times at
first. We cannot see clearly the enlarged image of the coin. This was due to the coin we used not shiny
and not really clean.

In order to get the right measurement or reading, the possible errors need to be minimized. During the
experiment, the students must give their full attention and must know how to handle the machine. Their
eyesight must be very good to get the consistency in reading. Other than that, students must make sure
that they have attach the specimen properly and tightly to avoid any movement. Before starting the
experiment, the specimen has to be cleaned or wipe first. For another experiment, student must choose
the most shining coin so that it is easier to see the enlarged image clearly.