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Beam compasses, also known as trammels, are instruments used for describing large arcs and circles. They consist of the following components:
- Beam: A long, straight bar made of wood or metal, which serves as the main structure of the instrument.
- Beam Heads: Adjustable components that slide along the length of the beam. These heads can be locked into position at the desired locations on the beam.
- Marking Points: The beam heads are equipped with marking points, which can be either a pencil, scribe, or other marking tool. One beam head usually holds a point that serves as the pivot, while the other holds the marking tool.
Usage:
- Large Arcs and Circles: Beam compasses are specifically designed for drawing large arcs and circles that are beyond the capacity of regular compasses.
- Precision: They allow for precise adjustments and measurements, making them suitable for technical drawing, drafting, and various construction and engineering applications.
Beam compasses (trammels) are valuable tools in fields requiring accurate and large-scale arc or circle descriptions, providing both flexibility and precision.
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