Bill. I too tend to favor a definition of size that considers shadow projection distance. But I've never ever heard size measurements done using this criteria. I sort of like your idea of using the equinox noon distance since it is one of the basic measurable qualities that all sundials have. (however this criteria could eliminate those dials that have relatively short gnomons but huge faces.)
It's difficult isn't it? John John L. Carmichael Jr. Sundial Sculptures 925 E. Foothills Dr. Tucson Arizona 85718 USA Tel: 520-696-1709 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Website: <http://www.sundialsculptures.com> ----- Original Message ----- From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Sunday, June 16, 2002 10:34 AM Subject: Dial Size > John could you post this to the list? For some reason my emails are not > being posted. Anyone who might know why-I'd appreciate knowing. > ------------------------ > John correctly notes that there is no agreed upon yardstick for determining > sundial size. I would propose a yardstick based on function. > > How about size being determined by the distance the shadow travels in 1 > minute at noon on the equinox? Granted, not all dials show noon, but the > vast majority do, and this would be a measurement of "time resolving power", > of sorts. This ignores the ambiguities of the penumbra, but is a readily > comparible and functional value dial to dial. > > Bill > -
