AbstractsEngineering

"An introduction to a thesis on least squares could be drawn out to considerable length in explanation: as the purpose of this thesis has been an investigation in applications of the method of least squares to the adjustment of level circuits, it will be found in the body of the report considerable space has been devoted to the explanation of the different applications of the method, with a view that these investigations may be of use to engineers in the profession; so the introductory remarks will be brief...The method of least squares takes first rank as an arithmetical process and by its use uniformity is secured in the process of adjustment and comparison, and the most probable balancing of errors of observations may be expected. It is believed that the method of least squares is not in general use among engineers and that approximate methods are more often substituted for the adjustment of quantities, although far superior results might be expected through the employment of the more exact method. There are those, no doubt, who although versed in mathematical science, might find it difficult to utilize this method, for lack of concentration and patience to carry this process through to completion. It is recommended, however, whenever precision is demanded and subsequent measurements are dependent upon the results" – Introduction, leaves ix-x.