Hovedmåling

Hovedmåling is a term used in Danish and Norwegian to refer to the principal or reference measurement within a set of measurements. It denotes the main value that is used to determine a quantity, against which other measurements are compared, validated, or calibrated. The concept centers on accuracy, reliability, and traceability to established standards.

In metrology, the hovedmåling often serves as the primary result that accompanies a measurement report. Other measurements may be taken to support, validate, or refine the hovedmåling, but the hovedmåling typically anchors the reported value and its associated measurement uncertainty. The selection of a hovedmåling emphasizes traceability to national or international standards and the minimization of overall uncertainty in the measurement process.

In surveying and geomatics, the term can describe the main data collection session that defines the spatial framework, such as key distances and angles. Additional measurements may be performed to check consistency, reduce error, or improve accuracy, but the hovedmåling remains the reference for calculations of coordinates and derived attributes.

In laboratory and industrial contexts, the hovedmåling may refer to the primary property of interest that determines the outcome of an experiment or a quality assessment. Calibration and instrument response corrections are often based on the hovedmåling to ensure comparability and traceability of results.

Terminology varies by field and language. The concept is closely related to ideas such as primary standards, reference measurements, and calibration, all aimed at establishing a reliable foundation for reporting and decision-making.