How Can You Measure Wood Plate Thickness from One Side?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to measure the thickness of a wooden plate from only one side, exploring potential techniques and considerations related to the material and measurement accuracy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using acoustic methods, noting that effectiveness may depend on the type of wood and the orientation of the cut.
  • Another participant proposes drilling a hole and using a plug or screw if drilling is acceptable, implying this could provide a direct measurement.
  • It is mentioned that an analog proximity sensor could be utilized, with a reference to a specific patent that discusses its application for measuring thickness.
  • A later reply reiterates the use of an analog proximity sensor, emphasizing the need for a metallic object on the opposite side for accurate measurement.
  • One participant questions the definition of a "plate," raising concerns about the presence of nails or fasteners and the necessity of a boundary for detection.
  • Another participant inquires about the required accuracy for the thickness measurement, suggesting that this could influence the choice of method.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the methods available for measuring thickness, with no consensus on the best approach or the implications of the material characteristics involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of understanding the material's properties and the context of the measurement, including potential interference from fasteners and the required accuracy, which remain unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in woodworking, material science, or measurement techniques may find the discussion relevant.

qnach
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I have access to only one side of the plate, i.e. cannot clamp both sides of the plate to measure.
Is there any way, perhaps acoustic methods, to measure a plate thickness from only one side?
 
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Drill a hole, then put a plug or screw in the hole if a hole is a problem.
Acoustic methods will depend on the type of wood and the orientation of the cut.
 
jrmichler said:
You can use an analog proximity sensor.
"...an inductive sensor positioned on one side of the material to be measured and a metallic object placed on the opposite side..."

qnach said:
I have access to only one side of the plate...
:confused:
 
No confusion at all. @DaveC426913 simply did a better job of reading the OP than I did. :oops:
 
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Likes   Reactions: Tom.G
What is a “plate”?
Does it include nails or other fasteners?

To be detected, there must be a boundary where the material characteristics change.

What is on the other side of the wooden plate?
How accurately do you need to know the thickness?
 

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