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Physicians' and researchers' goniometers measure joint angles and movements in physical therapy, orthopedics, and biomechanics. Likewise, tiny goniometers are used in various fields, providing compact size and high precision for angle measurement.
Below are the different types of small goniometers available in the market.
Manual small goniometer
Manual small goniometers are widely used to measure joint angles by positioning the arms of the device along the bone segments of the moving joint. Simple and affordable, goniometers offer angle readouts from their protractor-like design.
Digital small goniometer
Unlike manual goniometers that need an angle reading by eye, digital goniometers show the angle on a digital screen immediately after the arms are positioned. Many digital goniometers also store measurements and are more precise than manual versions.
Small ophthalmic goniometer
An ophthalmic goniometer is a small instrument for measuring the angles of the anterior chamber in the eye. It is applied in glaucoma and cataract surgery and is compact for easy use and accurate angle assessment of eye structures.
Small goniometer for concrete
A small goniometer for concrete measures the workability of concrete by testing its slump. It helps in evaluating the flowability and performance of concrete mixes on-site or in the lab. This tool is important for civil engineering and construction to assure the best qualities.
Inclinometer goniometer
This goniometer measures the angle of inclination or tilt of a surface. It is often used in geology, construction, and when placing structures, measuring the angle of slopes, landslides, and ensuring structures are level during construction.
Small goniometers are highly versatile. Though most people perceive them as medical devices, they can be used in various fields.
Healthcare
In the healthcare sector, goniometry measures joint angles during rehabilitation. Goniometers allow physical therapists to assess the range of motion to create better treatment plans for their patients. Moreover, they track progress during therapy.
Biomedical research
Biomedical researchers use small goniometers to measure biological angles, studying things such as the movements of limbs and the biomechanics of joints in living organisms. Similarly, they help in designing prosthetics that mimic natural movements. Moreover, in surgery, goniometers have been used to measure anatomical structures for reference in surgical procedures.
Ophthalmology
In this field, goniometers are used to assess the angles of the eye's anterior chamber. They assist in diagnosing glaucoma and other eye diseases and measuring the angles of surgical incisions during eye surgery for precision and accuracy.
Construction and engineering
By measuring slopes, angles, and alignments of structures and designs, goniometers are integral in the construction and engineering fields. They ensure proper angle placement and prevent structural mishaps. They also measure the angle of slopes for roadway and building designs, too.
Material sciences
Material scientists use small goniometers to measure contact angles in material studies such as wettability, surface tension, and adhesion of materials. These measurements inform the development of better materials and surfaces for many applications, including coatings, biomedical implants, and adhesion systems.
Geology and earth sciences
Geologists use goniometers to measure mineral crystal angles and rock structure angles; they provide valuable data for understanding geological processes, rock formation, and mineral identification. This information is then used for mining, environmental studies, and infrastructure durability.
Measurement range
The measurement range of the small goniometer varies by type and intended use. But, in general, most of them measure angles from 0 to 360 degrees, such as a concrete goniometer. However, limit joint movement goniometers only measure up to 180 degrees range.
Incremental precision
The incremental precision of a goniometer also varies, depending on the industry it is used in. For instance, the angle measurement precision of a goniometer for concrete is 1 degree. On the other hand, in the medical field, physical therapists prefer goniometers with 1- to 5-degree precision incremental measurement. These precision increments are good enough for rehabilitation and physical therapy.
Arm length
The arm length depends on the application and the device type. Most small goniometer arms extend to 6 inches for general joint measurements. Larger goniometer arms, such as 9 inches for construction or geological goniometers, allow measuring larger angles and provide greater precision.
Material
Plastic goniometer is the most commonly used small goniometer in various fields, including medicine and physical therapy, due to its lightweight structure and cost-effectiveness. However, the optometry goniometer is made of stainless steel to meet sterility and durability needs in eye procedures.
Power supply
Small goniometers with digital displays are sometimes powered by button cell batteries. However, most are powered by eco-friendly solar power. This is especially true for goniometers used outdoors, such as by geologists and construction workers.
The use of small goniometers is different because they are industry-specific.
For instance, physical therapists use goniometers primarily in the medical field. They position the goniometer on the patient's joint to align it with the bones and take the angle of the joint at rest. They then have the patient move the joint through its complete range of motion while ensuring the goniometer stays in position. They compare the measured range with normal anatomical landmarks. They then analyze the collected data to create optimal treatment plans.
Further, during eye surgery, doctors use the ophthalmic goniometer to measure angle structures in real time for precision and accuracy.
In construction and geology, engineers and geologists use clinometers and goniometers to measure the angle of a slope of a project site and of rocks, respectively. They take angle measurements by placing the goniometer protractor over the angle and reading the angle on the protractor. They then compare this data with standard values to identify any abnormality.
Continuous and proper maintenance of small goniometers is important in extending their lifespan and improving precision. Below is how to maintain goniometers.
Regular cleaning
Depending on the type, physically clean actives with soft brushes, compressed air, or solvents. One the other hand, thoroughly wipe digital goniometers with soft cloths. This removes dust, dirt, or debris that affects precision and functionality.
Proper storage
Most goniometer manufacturers recommend storing the goniometer in a protective case when not in use to avoid physical damage, bending, or breakage. Digital goniometers should be stored in a cool, dry environment to prevent internal battery damage and electronic component deterioration.
Regular calibration
Goniometers that are used frequently in critical applications should be regularly calibrated to avoid measurement errors. Take the goniometer to a professional, or if there are standard calibration tools, do it manually.
Battery checks and replacements
For digital goniometers, always switch off the goniometer when not in use to save the battery. Also, frequently check the battery or replace it when the battery level is low to prevent the goniometer from malfunctioning unexpectedly.
Regular inspection
Always inspect the goniometer for physical damage, such as bent arms or cracks in the protractor, before use. If there is any visible damage, replace the goniometer with a new one for accurate measurements.
For quality and safety, small goniometers have certain industry standards they have to pass. The degree of strictness of these standards depends on the use. For example, regulations in regard to small goniometers used in medical and surgery fields are stricter than those of construction or material science.
Material quality
For instance, materials that are used to make goniometers intended for surgery and medical monitoring should be non-toxic, properly sterilizable, non-corrosive, and foolproof to electromagnetic interference. They should also be strong and flexible. This is to ensure they do not break or bend easily during use and tamper with readings.
Precision and accuracy
Surgical goniometers and those used in physical therapy require high precision and accuracy since small angle measurement errors can lead to serious health problems. They, therefore, have strict measurement standards of +/- 1% and +/- 2% precision, respectively. These medical goniometers also have to be regularly calibrated to ensure they provide accurate readings all the time.
Further, in order to ensure the goniometer is functioning properly, goniometer manufacturers advise users to take the instrument for calibration at least once a year, depending on usage or take it to a professional for expert calibration. There are also standard tools for digital goniometers that allow users to calibrate them manually.
Safety check
Surgical goniometers are required to pass a biocompatibility test to ensure they are safe to use inside the human body. They also undergo sterility validation tests. The sterility check tests how effective a cleaning method is at removing microorganisms. The most common method of sterilizing goniometers is autoclaving, which uses steam under pressure. Other sterilization methods include chemical and radiation sterilization.
Digital display precision
Small goniometers, like the digital goniometer for concrete, use electronic systems to provide real-time readings. Digital goniometers for construction have to comply with electronic system standards such as the International Electrotechnical Commission and the ISO. These standards encompass data processing, electronic display, and power supply handling. These standards protect against data tampering and ensure the instrument accurately portrays readings even in tough worksite conditions.
Environmental considerations
Goniometers used in environmental fieldwork should be eco-friendly materials to prevent any form of pollution. Digital goniometers are more harmful than manual goniometers because of their electronic components. Many manufacturers are making the tiny goniometers from greener materials to reduce their carbon footprint.
A small goniometer digital meter measures angles and spherical coordinates. It is also used to measure the angle of a joint, slope, crystal, and of an object. The measurements can be displayed on a digital LCD screen in real time for accuracy and precision.
While both instruments are used to measure angles, they measure different things. Goniometers measure the angles and range of motion at human joints during therapy and anatomical research. Inclinometers measure the angle of tilt or slope of a surface or object.
Goniometers in concrete measure the workability and slump of the concrete mix by placing the concrete sample in a funnel-shaped apparatus and measuring the distance it slumps. They practically measure the angle of the slab and show how the mixture will perform once placed in real conditions.
Only digital goniometers have batteries. They are usually powered by small button cell batteries. Some goniometers are also solar powered, particularly those used outdoors, such as by construction workers and geologists.
