Abstract: A system and method for automatically turning the pages of an open book (80) without user intervention for the purposes of digital imaging or viewing. One embodiment of the system includes a rotating platform (15) for mounting the open book (80), a page lifter (51), a transparent stationary hood (62), and a camera (201). As the platform (15) rotates, the page lifter (51) is dropped onto the uppermost page on the leading side of the book (80). The uppermost page is held fast and lifted up by the page lifter (51). The platform (15) continues to rotate, peeling the uppermost page free from the page lifter (51) and eventually trapping the book completely under the hood (62) which holds the book (80) open and keeps the uppermost pages visible. The platform (15) rotation is paused momentarily to allow for image capture by a camera (201) viewing the open book (80) through the hood (62). Other embodiments are described and shown.

Abstract: One embodiment of an alignment apparatus for aligning an object, such as a tool or other implement, perpendicular with respect to a horizontal or a vertical target surface, comprises a three-axis accelerometer and at least two forward-facing distance sensors and a projection display comprising four addressable laser projectors. The accelerometer and distance sensor outputs are mapped to a predefined graphic symbol representing the orientation of the tool relative to the target surface, in particular when the tool is perpendicular to the target surface. The projection display projects the predefined symbol onto the target surface where it may be easily viewed by the tool operator allowing the operator to make any necessary corrections to the tool position.