Leidpunt

Leidpunt is a Dutch noun that translates roughly to “leading point” or “reference point.” The exact meaning depends on the field of use, but the core idea is a point that serves as a guide, origin, or neutral reference for measurements, alignments, or evaluations.

In electrical engineering and power distribution, a leidpunt often refers to the reference potential used for measuring voltages in a multi-conductor system. In many cases it corresponds to the neutral point in a star-connected generator or transformer, providing a stable zero potential and a basis for protection schemes and fault analysis.

In surveying, geodesy, and navigation, a leidpunt denotes a fixed, known point used for alignment, triangulation, and positional calculations. It acts as an anchor from which directions, distances, or elevations are measured and recorded.

In data processing, computer graphics, and geometry, the term can describe an anchor or origin for coordinate transformations or for orienting a local coordinate system around which other points are defined or transformed.

Etymology and usage: leidpunt derives from leiden (to lead) and punt (point). The term is specialized and context-dependent; in practice, it is often substituted by more common terms such as referentiepunt, neutraal punt, or ankerpunt in the relevant field.

See also: referentiepunt, neutraal punt, nulpunt, ankerpunt.