Orthostatometer

An orthostatometer (from the ancient Greek words orthostatos - “standing straight, vertical” and metreo - “to measure”) is a device for measuring a person’s vertical posture and balance.

Historically, orthostatometers have been used in medicine and physiology to assess the functions of the vestibular system and the ability to maintain an upright body position. The principle of operation of such devices was to record deviations from the vertical axis in various positions of the subject’s body (standing, sitting, lying down).

In modern medicine, computer stabilometry is more often used for these purposes. However, classical mechanical orthostatometers are still used in scientific studies of balance and motor coordination functions.

Orthostatometer: a measuring device of the past

An orthostatometer is a measuring instrument that was used in the past to determine the verticality of building walls. Its name comes from the Greek words "orthostatos" (standing upright, vertical) and "metreo" (to measure).

The orthostatometer was invented in ancient times, but became most widespread in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. At that time, builders used stone blocks to construct the walls of buildings. To ensure that the blocks were positioned vertically, they used an orthostatometer.

The orthostatometer consisted of a vertical stand on which was mounted a thread with a weight at the end. When the weight was in the down position, it showed that the wall was vertical. If the weight deviated, the builders could adjust the position of the blocks to achieve vertical wall.

Although the orthostatometer was a very simple device, it was necessary for the accurate construction of buildings. Without it, builders would be forced to rely on their eyes and experience, which could lead to errors and distortions.

With the advent of more precise instruments such as the laser level, the orthostatometer fell into disuse. However, it remains an important historical record of how builders in the past achieved precision in their work.