pantograph

• Instrument mécanique articulé servant à reproduire un dessin ou un plan à une échelle différente, généralement en suivant le tracé original avec un stylet pendant qu'un bras parallèle le reproduit.

A mechanical device used to copy a figure or plan on a different scale, typically by tracing the original with a stylus and having a second arm reproduce the movement.

1. Mechanical copying deviceC1formal

   A mechanical instrument used to copy a drawing, plan, or figure at a different scale, typically by tracing.

   pantographe (dispositif de copie)

   • The architect used a pantograph to reduce the blueprint size.
   • Artists once relied on a pantograph to reproduce sketches accurately.
   • The engineer adjusted the pantograph to enlarge the technical drawing.

2. Electrical current collectorC1formal

   A device mounted on the roof of an electric train or tram that collects power from an overhead wire.

   Pantographe (collecteur de courant)

   • The train's pantograph made contact with the overhead cable.
   • A spark flew as the pantograph connected to the power line.
   • Modern high-speed trains use a streamlined pantograph design.

   Synonymespanpanto