Re: Laser Height Range Finder

From: <leop_at_lyradev.com>
Date: 05 Dec 2017 00:36:48 +0000

The rangefinders that are best for measuring model heights are more than just a distance rangefinder. They have inclinometers that measure the angle to the sighted object. Using this angle, the distance to the object and some basic trigonometry, the vertical height of the model can be displayed. Such rangefinders were originally used in forestry to measure tree heights. A few years ago they were adopted for golf purposes to provide "slope adjusted" ranges and vertical heights. These rangefinders are more expensive because of the added inclinometer and the extra computing power. At least the golf market made for more sales than the forestry market so the prices were very much reduced for golf purposed slope adjusted rangefinders.

 Of course an ordinary distance only range finder can be used to measure model height. However, one must stand directly below the model to get the vertical height. Slope adjusted rangefinders allow one to stand off to the side and still get a good height measurement. Knowing the height of a model is useful in adjusting the VP hub with partial motor flights as well as for fine tuning the vp hub or backoff when the model is near the ceiling.
 

 I have been told there are less expensive slope adjusted rangefinders available. However, the Nikon CoolShots use a infrared wavelength which has been found to reflect well off the thin Mylar films we use to cover our models.
 

 LeoP
 


Received on Tue Dec 05 2017 - 00:36:49 CET