Set square
Contents |
[edit] What is a set square?
In the simplest of terms a set square is a template that is set at 90 degrees, it is used as an aid to the drawing, measuring or making of objects with right angle elements. Square set timbering, although similar might though refer to a construction method using heavy timber cubes as supports for underground tunnels and shafts.
[edit] Background
Traditionally set squares were often made of wood with a void in the centre and measurements along the sides, today they may be part of a basic geometry set, made of clear plastic, often used for technical drawing. A standard geometry set is likely to have two different types of set squares: One a simple isosceles triangle with a 90 degree and two 45 degree angles. The second with a 90 degree angle, a 30 degree angle and a 60 degree angle, or a special right triangle where the angle ratios are 1:2:3. Also common in addition or replacement is a geometry triangle, combining a protractor (a semicircle with graduated degree markings from 0° to 180°, set within the 45/45/90 degree triangle with mm measures along the longest side.
[edit] History
Set squares created using two straight arms fixed at right angles were probably used in ancient times, the Egyptians were known to have created set squares using strings, by marking points with knots to create triangles. There are various accounts of the first set squares some of which include Nicolas Bion in the late 1600's as having made and sold mathematical instruments in Paris,including the set square, whilst the geometry triangle is said to have been developed in 1964 by the German-Austrian manufacturer Dennert & Pape Aristo-Werke. The term set square and its function are howvere used in a number of different professions, which as such has lead to a number of differet terms for objects that geometricrally perform similar functions
[edit] Types of set square
- 60:30 set square
- 45:45 set square
- Protractor triangle (Geodrieeck)
- A square
- Adjustable square
- T-square
- Try Square
- Carpenter Square
- Framing Square
- Drywall Square
- Speed Square
- Sliding T-Bevel
- Combination Square
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The Constructing Excellence Value Toolkit
Driving value-based decision making in construction.
Meet CIOB event in Northern Ireland
Inspiring the next generation of construction talent.
Reasons for using MVHR systems
6 reasons for a whole-house approach to ventilation.
Supplementary Planning Documents, a reminder
As used by the City of London to introduce a Retrofit first policy.
The what, how, why and when of deposit return schemes
Circular economy steps for plastic bottles and cans in England and Northern Ireland draws.
Join forces and share Building Safety knowledge in 2025
Why and how to contribute to the Building Safety Wiki.
Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regs
Approved amendment coming into effect 1 March 2025.
A new CIOB TIS on discharging CDM 2015 duties
Practical steps that can be undertaken in the Management of Contractors to discharge the relevant CDM 2015 duties.
Planning for homes by transport hubs
Next steps for infrastructure following the updated NPPF.
Access, history and Ty unnos.
The world’s first publicly funded civic park.
Exploring permitted development rights for change of use
Discussing lesser known classes M, N, P, PA and L.
CIOB Art of Building 2024 judges choice winner
Once Upon a Pass by Liam Man.
CIOB Art of Building 2024 public choice winner
Fresco School by Roman Robroek.
HE expands finance alliance to boost SME house building
Project follows on from Habiko public-private place making pension partnership for affordable housing delivery.
Licensing construction; looking back to look forward
Voluntary to required contractors (licensing) schemes.