Scale rule
Scale rules are used to measure distances on scale drawings and physical models.
The term scale describes the relationship between a depiction of a building, object, area of land etc compared to its actual size. Scale us usually expressed as a ratio of one unit of the represented scale compared to the actual full size dimension. So full scale is 1:1, whereas a scale on fifth of the actual size is 1:5. For more information see: Scale.
Scale drawings are used to illustrate items that it is not useful or convenient to draw at their actual size. This may be because drawing the item at full size would be unmanageable, or would not easily fit on a single sheet of paper (such as a building). For more information see: Scale drawing.
Whilst a conventional ruler allows measurement of full scale (1:1) dimensions, a scale rule also allows measurement of drawings that are not at full scale without the need for any conversion.
Scale rules typically measure full scale dimensions up to 300mm. They are generally either flat (actually a flat oval shape), similar to a conventional ruler, with 8 different scales along their four edges (2 on each edge), or a three pronged star shape (generally referred to as triangular) with 12 different scales along their 6 edges.
The scales on a four edged flat scale rule are generally: 1:1, 1:100, 1:20, 1:200, 1:5, 1:50, 1:1250 and 1:2500
The scales on a 6 edged triangular scale rule are generally: 1:1, 1:10, 1:2, 1:20, 1:5, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200, 1:500, 1:1000, 1:1250 and 1:2500. However, they may only have 6 scales, one on each edge: 1:20, 1:25, 1:50, 1:75, 1:100 and 1:125.
Scale rules can be made of plastic, wood or metal.
Scale rules should only be used for measuring. They should not be used for drawing or cutting straight lines as this can damage their edges, making accurate measurement difficult.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Blueprint.
- Drawing board.
- Manual drafting techniques.
- Model.
- North American Paper Sizes
- Parallel motion.
- Paper sizes.
- Perspective.
- Projections.
- Scale drawing.
- Scale.
- Symbols on architectural drawings.
- T-square.
- Technical drawing.
- Technical drawing pen sizes.
- Techniques for drawing buildings.
- Types of drawing.
Featured articles and news
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
ECA progress on Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter
Working hard to make progress on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.