Scribe tool
1951 to 1985: Use of the scribe tool
This line drawing tool was extensively used during the late 1970s and the 1980s in the Survey Office.
The process of 'scribing' linework onto a negative emulsion reduced the number of photographic steps previously needed with pen and ink linework.
The technology used machine-precisioned sapphire tips incorporated into a swivelling platform. The varying widths of the tips were used according to line width specifications.
A reverse reading, photogrammetric generated image was photographically copied onto a negative emulsion film. A skilled draftsman could then scribe exactly over the relevant lines of the image.
The scribing process produced a crisp, consistent line and made free flowing curves, such as contours or creeks, look entirely natural in their shape.
The negative emulsion overlay was stud-registered in combination with other scribe, type or rubylith mask overlays. This was according to predetermined colour specifications.
Two scribe tool variants
Last updated: 29 September 2009