Abstract: Panels are positioned relative to a pattern by moving the pattern onto a registration mechanism having contact elements, engaging contact areas on the pattern with contact elements by moving the contact elements synchronously and equidistantly while allowing the registration mechanism to move as the elements engage the contact areas, locking the position of the registration mechanism, and engaging contact areas on sequential panels by moving the contact elements of the locked registration mechanism synchronously and equidistantly to contact areas on one panel after the other.

Abstract: Panels are positioned relative to a pattern by moving the pattern onto a registration mechanism having contact elements, engaging contact areas on the pattern with contact elements by moving the contact elements synchronously and equidistantly while allowing the registration mechanism to move as the elements engage the contact areas, locking the position of the registration mechanism, and engaging contact areas on sequential panels by moving the contact elements of the locked registration mechanism synchronously and equidistantly to contact areas on one panel after the other.

Abstract: A process and machine are disclosed for reflowing solder plated continuous flexible circuit webs. During reflow in a vapor environment, the flexible web is maintained in a planar orientation to produce a relatively uniform distribution of solder. Virtually all of the heat transfer fluid used in producing the vapor is recovered and retained.

Abstract: A tool adapted to simultaneously heat a plurality of spaced electrical elements for soldering includes an elongated heat generating member connected between spaced, parallel, relatively massive and high conductivity rectangular cross section bars. An arcuate lower portion of the heat generating member disposed between the bars is adapted to contact the surface to be soldered. Electrical current applied to one end of one bar and to the opposite end of the other bar is directed uniformly through the heat generating member transverse to the elongated dimension thereof to provide a uniform temperature to all the spaced elements. Upon discontinuation of the electrical current the relatively massive bars are operative to rapidly remove heat from the heat generating member.

Abstract: A tool adapted to simultaneously heat a plurality of spaced electrical elements for soldering includes a rigid low conductivity metallic strip connected between and holding first and second relatively massive high conductivity bars in spaced, parallel relation. The lower portion of the elongated metallic strip is shaped to extend from the bars and contact the elements to be soldered. Electrical current is applied between one end of the first bar and the opposite end of the second bar and is directed through a metallic strip transverse to the elongated dimension. Upon discontinuation of the electrical current, the relatively massive bars rapidly remove heat from the metallic strip.