Abstract: A spray gun for applying a liquid spray coating, such as paint, to a surface incorporates a light source system for gauging the position of the spray gun relative to a worksurface in order to optimize application of the coating to the surface. The light source is preferably in the form of a laser which emits a pair of light beams toward the worksurface. The pair of light beams converge toward each other in a direction toward the surface, and the position of the beams on the surface is used by the operator to judge the distance of the spray gun from the surface. An adjustment mechanism is interconnected with one of the light beam sources, so as to adjust the point of convergence of the light beams. A closable door is associated with the spray gun housing at one of the light beam emitting locations, to selectively prevent emission of one of the light beams from the spray gun, such that a single light beam is emitted from the spray gun for use as a reference for spot application of the coating to the surface.

Abstract: An optical spray coating monitoring system uses a laser displacement sensor and a data acquisition system to monitor a spray gun operator's technique, and display information relating to coating conditions and/or technique. The system includes a laser displacement sensor having a sensor head that is removably attached to a hand held spray gun. The laser displacement sensor measures the distance from the spray nozzle to the surface being coated. The laser displacement sensor also preferably measures the angle of orientation of the spray gun with respect to the surface being coated. The sensor head can also include an infrared temperature sensor. Another embodiment of the invention also uses a second laser displacement sensor.