Centimetry

Centimetry is a term used to describe the measurement of geometric quantities at or around the centimetre scale. It covers length, position, and dimensional verification where feature sizes are expressed in centimetres or fall within the 1–100 mm range. Although not universally formalized as a distinct branch of metrology, centimetry is used in industrial and educational contexts to distinguish centimetre-scale measurement from millimetre- and metre-scale metrology.

Techniques and instruments: Direct contact devices such as vernier calipers and digital micrometers can achieve accuracies of tens of micrometres to a few hundred micrometres for centimetre-scale features. Optical methods including laser scanners, structured-light probes, and optical comparators provide non-contact measurement and can capture centimetre-scale geometry rapidly. Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) with appropriate probes can measure larger parts and features in centimetre ranges, though accuracy depends on probe geometry and setup. Calibration and traceability: Centimetre measurements rely on traceability to the SI metre through certified length standards and calibration services. Temperature control and material stability are important, as expansion or contraction can exceed centimetre tolerances.

Applications and scope: Centimetry is relevant in manufacturing inspection, assembly alignment, woodworking, textile tooling, and educational labs where centimetre-scale dimensions are common. It supports checks of parts, jigs, and fixtures, as well as process control where centimetre dimensions define fit and function.

Limitations and relation to other fields: Centimetry sits between macro- and micro-scale metrology. Its precision is lower than precision nanometrology but higher than coarse gauge work; measurement uncertainty is influenced by instrument integrity, operator skill, and environmental conditions. It intersects with dimensional metrology and can be considered a practical specialization rather than a wholly separate discipline.