Abstract: A flexible assembly jig for positioning a workpiece multi-dimensionally by a plurality of positioner units to enable a tool to operate thereon. Each positioner unit includes a locator adjustable in three-dimensions into unrestricted operative positions, including positions in horizontal fields overlapping the horizontal fields of operative positions of the locators of adjacent positioner units. The positioner units with the locators are movable into storage chambers of a diameter less than the maximum horizontal operating fields in which the locator is adjustable.

Abstract: A hollow base member has a working surface and a plurality of spaced apart ways all extending parallel to an x-axis of a cartesian coordinate system. A plurality of hollow positioning members are slidably received in the ways. A plurality of vacuum hold down members are slidably sealingly received within bores in the base member and in the positioning members, respectively, and move along lines parallel to the z-axis relative to the working surfaces. A work piece is placed on a plurality of the hold down members which establish its position in the z-direction, then advanced against stop members fixed to the base member to establish its position along the y-axis. Then the positioning members are slid in the ways until integral stop members engage the work piece to establish a plurality of positions along the x-axis and within an xy-plane of the coordinate system.