Question:

The instrument used for the direct measurement of surface quality by dragging a stylus across the surface is:

Show Hint

Whenever contact-type surface roughness profiling is mentioned via a traveling stylus, the measuring device is a Profilometer or Profile meter.
Updated On: Jul 9, 2026
  • Clinometer
  • Sine bar
  • Autocollimator
  • Profile meter
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Surface metrology tools are designed to evaluate the topography, roughness, or angular characteristics of components:
Clinometer Sine bar Autocollimator: Instruments specifically used for angular measurement, flatness determination, or straightness testing.
Profile meter (Profilometer): An instrument designed explicitly to quantify surface roughness and texture profile parameters ($R_a, R_z$, etc.).

Step 1: Analyze the operational mechanism described.
The core mechanism involves physically dragging a sharp diamond stylus across the workpiece surface at a controlled speed. As the stylus traverses the surface texture, its microscopic peaks and valleys cause it to deflect vertically.

Step 2: Map the mechanism to the correct metrological instrument.
These vertical movements are converted by a transducer (such as a piezoelectric crystal or inductive coil) into an electrical signal. This signal is amplified and processed to map the surface variations. This stylus-based tracking system defines the working principle of a Profilometer or Profile meter.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0