Measurement Errors and Uncertainties: Theory and Practice

A practical reference on theory and methods of estimating measurement errors and uncertainty for both scientists and engineers in industry and experimental research. Building on the fundamentals of measurement theory, this book offers a wealth of practial recommendations and procedures. It differs from the majority of books in that it balances coverage of probabilistic methods with detailed information on the characterization, calibration, standardization and limitations of measuring instruments, with specific examples from both electrical and mechanical systems. In addition to a general updating to reflect current research, new material in this edition includes increased coverage of indirect measurements, with a new, simpler, more efficient method for this class of measurements. Rabinovich was head of the Laboratory of Theoretical Metrology at the All-Union State Research Institute of Metrology in the former Soviet Union. His theory of galvanometrical self-balancing instruments led to the creation of numerous new measuring devices. General information about measurements.- Measuring instruments and their properties.- Prerequisites for the analysis of the inaccuracy of measurements and for synthesis of their components.- Statistical methods for experimental data processing.- Direct measurements.- Indirect measurements.- Examples of Measurements and Measurement Data Processing.- Combined measurements.- Combining the results of measurements.- Calculation of the errors of measuring instruments.- Problems in the theory of calibration.- Conclusions.