Printalyzer Densitometer Step Wedge Measurement Jigs

These models are accessories for the Printalyzer Densitometer and the Printalyzer UV/VIS Densitometer made and sold by Dektronics, Inc.

When trying to measure photographic step wedges on a densitometer, it can often be quite difficult to achieve precise and repeatable alignment.  This is because once you get to the darker patches, it is very difficult to visually distinguish the boundaries from one patch to another. Furthermore, patch density is never completely uniform.  As such, when step wedges are calibrated, that calibration is typically only valid for a certain spot on each patch.

To make it easier to measure these step wedges, I've been making a variety of custom alignment jigs.  The idea is that you can use the patch edges on the lighter side of the strip to make it easier to position the patches on the darker side of the trip.

This is not a complete set, as it is mostly based on various step wedges from Stouffer Industries that I've worked with, but its still worth sharing for those who may benefit.

All the models should be setup so you can use multi-material printing to make the tick marks a different color than the base.  If you can't print this way, then I recommend using fine tipped paint markers to highlight the tick mark ridges.

I've also included a “blank” model as a STEP file, that you can import into CAD software of your choice to make your own measurement jigs.