Control and automation of a Kibble scale

Abstract

The redefinition of the kilogram in terms of fundamental constants created the need to measure mass in the laboratory following this new standard. The Watt scale, or Kibble scale, measures mass by comparing mechanical and electrical power. In this project, we intend to assemble a Kibble scale and make control and automation software to assist in its data collection and calibration. The software will be made using the Python programming language and will have an accessible graphical interface, with its code linked to an Arduino board, which will be the control hardware. This eliminates the need for data collection and manual calibration of the scale, in addition to allowing greater control over measurement uncertainty. At the end of the project, our Kibble scale will serve as a teaching tool for the Physics laboratories.