A Low-Cost 3D Printed Meterstick Caliper Jaw

Abstract

In high school and elementary college physics labs the measurement of vertical distance is often required. Measuring the distance an object falls or the vertical displacement of springs in a Hooke’s law experiment are commonplace. Determining these distances to perhaps a millimeter or two of precision is difficult without an expensive height gauge or a “jaw” attached to a meterstick. Figure 1 shows a new meterstick caliper jaw in use measuring spring elongation. This article presents an easy self-made replacement of the author’s design fabricated on a 3D printer. The printer files are available free as described.