- The functions of the safecracking geometer are as follows:
- It converts coordinates between polar and Cartesian systems.
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The polar coordinate system used here is the safecrackers' standard,
where angles are measured clockwise from top dead center.
- It converts length units between 'in' & 'mm'
- It converts angular units between dials of different graduations.
- It accomodates crackers of indirect-drive safe locks by adding vectors: p1 + p2 = p3,
- where p1 is the wheelpack center relative to the dial center,
- p2 is a drill point relative to the wheelpack center,
- & p3 is the same point but measured relative to the dial center.
- It displays all data graphically, in actual size, in a style based partly on the HUD of a fighter jet.
For printing, the HUD background is automatically converted to white.
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The dial position is represented by green crosshairs.
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The wheelpack position is represented by gray crosshairs.
- The drill point is represented by a gray dot.
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A green target square is positioned at the drill point based on p2.
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A green aim diamond is positioned at the drill point based on p3
& should be aligned with the target.
- One application of the geometer is as follows, for an indirect drive lock:
- Enter Cartesian coordinates (x, y) for wheelpack center (p1) in inches.
- Switch to millimeters, automatically converting previously entered data.
- Enter polar coordinates (angle x radius) for drill point (p2) in millimeters
- (because this measurement happens to come from overseas).
- Switch back to inches, if that's what you prefer to use.
- You now have your drill point, from dial center, in both polar & Cartesian coordinates.
Take your pick.
- The StrongArm Uni-Temp uses Cartesian coordinates.
- For manual positioning, use polar coordinates if preferred.
- The web page can also be printed and used as a template.
- For a direct drive lock, simply leave the default coordinates for p1, as p2 is all that applies.