Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a revolution counter tool and method employs an adapter shaft with input and output ends coupled in-line between a driven part and a driving part, and an intermediate portion between the input and output ends that is coupled to a rotary encoder and encoder circuit. A memory counter circuit maintains a count of turns and increments of the driven part by the driving part, and a reference setting circuit sets a reference setting of the memory counter circuit when a count is to be taken. The device body has a first portion mounting the adapter shaft with the rotary encoder, an intermediate housing containing the memory counter circuit, and a second portion at a distance from the first portion and of a sufficient mass that acts to orient the device body to a gravity-determined position as a reference position.

Abstract: A vehicle framing system for framing an automotive vehicle body from a plurality of separate body components wherein the body components each include a reference surface. The system includes an assembly station having spaced-apart frame members positioned so that, when a vehicle carrier supporting the vehicle body components is positioned at the assembly station, the frame members extend along opposite sides of the vehicle carrier. At least two docking stations are secured to each frame member at predetermined locations. A robot mounts its associated tool arm with a docking station. At least one set of reference block and framing clamp is secured to each tool arm and these framing clamps maintain the reference surfaces of the vehicle body components against the reference blocks to hold the vehicle components at a predetermined position relative to each other.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a revolution counter tool and method employs an adapter shaft with input and output ends coupled in-line between a driven part and a driving part, and an intermediate portion between the input and output ends that is coupled to a rotary encoder and encoder circuit. A memory counter circuit maintains a count of turns and increments of the driven part by the driving part, and a reference setting circuit sets a reference setting of the memory counter circuit when a count is to be taken. The device body has a first portion mounting the adapter shaft with the rotary encoder, an intermediate housing containing the memory counter circuit, and a second portion at a distance from the first portion and of a sufficient mass that acts to orient the device body to a gravity-determined position as a reference position.

Abstract: A vehicle framing system for framing an automotive vehicle body from a plurality of separate body components wherein the body components each include a reference surface. The system includes an assembly station having spaced-apart frame members positioned so that, when a vehicle carrier supporting the vehicle body components is positioned at the assembly station, the frame members extend along opposite sides of the vehicle carrier. At least two docking stations are secured to each frame member at predetermined locations. A robot mounts its associated tool arm with a docking station. At least one set of reference block and framing clamp is secured to each tool arm and these framing clamps maintain the reference surfaces of the vehicle body components against the reference blocks to hold the vehicle components at a predetermined position relative to each other.