Specs for the Pantograph
A pantograph is a mechanical instrument used in the copying of two dimensional figures. It can be applied in the creation of exact copies, as well as, reduction and enlargements of the original figures. Basic pantographs have certain common features.
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Form
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The primary components of a pantograph are the arms, of which there are two long and two short. Joined together at intersecting points, they form a parallelogram at the angle formed by the long arms.
Movement
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The movement of the instrument is performed by a castor, or roller, that allows the pantograph to move with ease across the copying surface. The rollers are mounted at a parallel angle on the underside of the instrument.
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Copying Components
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Tubes are mounted in a vertical manner on plates mounted to one of the long arms and both of the short arms. These tubes are used to hold a pencil, pointer and the axle pin of a fulcrum that allows the pantograph to turn and produce the desired angle. The positioning of the fulcrum, pointer and pencil in the tubes determines whether the copy is exact, a reduction or an enlargement.
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