Abstract: A counterbalance and drive system for a machine slide mechanism includes a counterbalance system having a first flexible connector suspended from a machine mount and interconnecting a slide mechanism and a counterweight and a drive system having a second flexible connector suspended from the machine mount and interconnecting the slide mechanism and the counterweight. The drive system includes both a drive motor operatively engaged along a length of the second flexible connector for vertically displacing the slide mechanism and a compliant connector operating within a limited range of compliance that imparts a regulated amount of tension along at least a portion of the length of the second flexible connector between the engagement of the drive motor and the counterweight.

Abstract: An optical measurement system includes an optical sensor assembly for measuring an object located beneath the optical sensor assembly. A deployment mechanism is pivotally connected relative to the optical sensor assembly that moves a secondary measurement aid, such as a touch sensor, between a deployed position and a retracted position. When in the retracted position, the secondary measurement aid does not inhibit movement of the optical sensor with respect to the object being measured.

Abstract: A counterbalance and drive system for a machine slide mechanism includes a counterbalance system having a first flexible connector suspended from a machine mount and interconnecting a slide mechanism and a counterweight and a drive system having a second flexible connector suspended from the machine mount and interconnecting the slide mechanism and the counterweight. The drive system includes both a drive motor operatively engaged along a length of the second flexible connector for vertically displacing the slide mechanism and a compliant connector operating within a limited range of compliance that imparts a regulated amount of tension along at least a portion of the length of the second flexible connector between the engagement of the drive motor and the counterweight.

Abstract: An optical measurement system includes an optical sensor assembly for measuring an object located beneath the optical sensor assembly. A deployment mechanism is pivotally connected relative to the optical sensor assembly that moves a secondary measurement aid, such as a touch sensor, between a deployed position and a retracted position. When in the retracted position, the secondary measurement aid does not inhibit movement of the optical sensor with respect to the object being measured.

Abstract: A bearing race arrangement on a composite structure having a first coefficient of thermal expansion includes a recess formed in a surface of the composite structure for receiving a race element, at least one bearing race element disposed in the recess, the bearing race element having a coefficient of thermal expansion different from the coefficient of thermal expansion of the composite structure and a retainer securing the bearing race element to composite structure, within the recess and allowing for longitudinal expansion of the race element without creating stress on the composite structure.