All Things Loops

Three Basic Requirements of a Loop

1. Sufficient Recurve

2. Delta

3. Ridge count across a looping ridge

Loop Definition

That type of pattern in which one or more ridges enter upon either side, recurve, touch or pass an imaginary line between delta and core and pass out or tend to pass out upon the same side the ridges entered.

Ulnar Loops

Ridges flow in the direction of the little finger. Ridge count of 0#

Radial Loops

ridges flow in the direction of the thumb. Ridge count of 50+#

Pattern Area

Includes the delta, core, and ridges which are used in the classification on a loop.

Three Requirements for a Loop

1. Sufficient Recurve

2. Delta

3. Ridge count across a looping ridge

Sufficient Recurve

Consists of the space between the shoulders of a loop free of any appendages which abut upon it at a right angle on the outside of the recurve.

Shoulders of a Loop

Are the points which the recurring ridges definitely turns inwards or curves.

Appendage

An attachment or connection striking the outside of the recurve at a right angle. Will spoil the recurve.

Typelines

Are the two innermost ridges that are parallel and surround or tend to surround the pattern area.

Delta

Is that point on a ridge at or nearest the point of divergence of two typelines, and located at or directly in front of the point of divergence.

Area to be considered in front of the point of divergence of two typelines.

Dot

Most Common Type of Delta

Bifurcation

Second most common

Recurving Ridge

Meeting of Two Ridges

Ridge Fragment

Ending Ridge

Types of Delta

• Dot (most common)

• Meeting of two ridges

• Bifurcation

• Ridge Fragment

• Recurving ridge

• Ending ridge

Core

The approximate center of the pattern placed upon or within the innermost sufficient recurve.

1. Located on the shoulders of the innermost loop furthest from the delta.

2. Located on the spike or rod in the center of the innermost recurve, provided the spike or rod rises as high as the shoulders.

Loop Frequency: Radial

6%

Loop Frequency: Ulnar

94%