Winkelskala

Winkelskala is a term used to describe a graduated scale for measuring angles on various instruments. It can be circular, as on dials and protractors, or linear, found on sliding rulers and goniometers. Readings are typically expressed in degrees, though some scales also show radians or gradians. The Winkelskala serves as the primitive interface for converting an angular position into a numeric value that can be recorded, compared, or used in calculations.

In use, a Winkelskala maps an angle to a position along the scale. Circular scales are laid out around a center with markings that increase with the angle, while linear scales rely on a pivot or reference edge. Some designs feature dual or bi-directional scales, multiple zero references, or contrasting scales to suit specific workflows such as alignment, surveying, or optical measurements. The scale may include finer subdivisions for greater resolution and may be printed on glass, metal, or plastic components.

Applications of Winkelskala span metrology, engineering, optics, and education. It appears on devices such as protractors, goniometers, dial indicators, angular encoders, and alignment instruments. Proper use requires setting a known zero point, aligning the instrument with the angle of interest, and reading the corresponding value with attention to the scale’s unit and direction of increasing values.

See also: Goniometer, Protractor, Angular measurement, Dial gauge, Circular scale.