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CHAPTER V.

Problems Involving Averaging.

Discussion.

When we consider that without the aid of the Planimeter this calculation for finding the mean height of these diagrams must be made by drawing a greater or less number of equidistant lines through the diagram perpendicular to the base, and measuring the intercepted length of each perpendicular separately, and from this sum obtaining the average height, some idea of the usefulness of the instrument may be arrived at.

A further proof of its accuracy and importance is gained from the fact that, on the results of the measurements of these diagrams with the Planimeter in the manner just described is based the engine and speed tests of all vessels designed for the U. S. Navy, involving in each instance the thousands of dollars in bonuses or penalties apportioned as the results of these tests.

It is, of course, evident that the use of the Planimeter in this form of operation is by no means limited to the case of Steam Engine indicator diagrams, but is equally applicable, as has already been stated, to any and every form of diagram in which the average or mean value of a variable quantity is to be obtained from a greater or less number of observed values of the variables.

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