**Airy Points**
**Definition**
Airy points are specific support points on a beam or bar where it can be supported to minimize bending and deformation under its own weight. They are commonly used in precision measurement and engineering to ensure accurate length or shape measurements.
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### Overview
Airy points are named after the British astronomer George Biddell Airy, who identified these optimal support locations. When a beam is supported at its Airy points, the bending moment caused by the beam’s own weight is minimized, resulting in negligible deflection. This is particularly important in metrology and mechanical engineering, where precise measurements of length or straightness are required.
### Application
In practice, Airy points are located approximately 0.577 times the length of the beam from each end. Supporting a beam at these points ensures that the beam remains as close to its true shape as possible, reducing errors in measurement instruments such as gauge blocks or optical components.
### Importance
Using Airy points helps maintain structural integrity and measurement accuracy, making them essential in fields requiring high precision.
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**Meta Description:**
Airy points are optimal support locations on a beam that minimize bending and deformation, crucial for precision measurement and engineering applications.