Not a silly idea but rather a fair idea that keeps popping up as new people
figure it out.
Dial indicators were used before the digital stuff came out and the followon
to dial indicators are calipers of the various kinds to get a longer range.
In other words, not a new idea but a well worn path of an old idea.

--
Bob May
Losing weight is easy! If you ever want to lose weight, eat and drink less.
Works evevery time it is tried!