Abstract: Method and apparatus operates on recognizable target images disposed on upper and lower layers of master photographic images, and on apertures formed in an intermediate layer to resolve positional misalignments and requisite correctional movements of the layers to align upper and lower layers with the intermediate layer within tolerances that are improved by multiple samples of position data pertaining to the apertures formed in the intermediate layer. Inspection cameras produce output data signals representative of target images and aperture patterns detected by inspection cameras that are positioned to establish fields of view encompassing aperture patterns on an intermediate layer and distinguishable target images on upper and lower layers.

Abstract: Apparatus that supports and aligns a pair of glass image masters facilitates relative movements of the masters between separated positions to accommodate insertion of a circuit board, and proximate position in precision alignment of the images carried thereby on opposite sides of the circuit board. Various configurations of reference blocks and engaging followers mounted on one and the other masters assure precision alignment of the masters in proximate position, and resilient bias force exerted in relative orientation between the masters assures precision aligning engagement of followers and reference blocks. Precision positional alignment of one image master relative to the other image master is accomplished by a differential threaded assembly between relatively moveable members interposed between an image master and a follower that engages a reference block.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for supporting master image sheets on supporting platens includes forming vacuum seals between sheets and platens and evacuating air from therebetween to retain the master image sheets against movements on the supporting platens. An image receiving layer such as a photosensitive printed circuit board is disposed between supporting platens that are, then evacuated to retain the opposite surfaces of the layer in contact with the master image sheets for parallax-free photographic exposure to light through the platens, with inherent alignment of images thus formed on the opposite surfaces of the layer.

Abstract: Registration system and method provide for alignment of films with circuit panels. The exact position of tooling holes in the panel are found using tapered pins. After the exact position of the tooling holes are found tapered registration pins are inserted into the tooling holes. The top of the registration pin is narrower than the tooling hole so that the pin will easily slide into the tooling hole. The middle part of the registration pin is substantially the same size as the tooling hole, thereby ensuring a snug fit between the tooling hole and the registration pin. Where a tooling hole is comprised of overlapping holes, the registration pin contacts several of these holes. A loading apparatus provides pneumatic pressure beneath the registration pin to push the registration pin into the tooling hole. After the registration pins are placed in the tooling holes of the panel, a film is placed on the panel such that the registration pins are inserted into the holes of the film.

Abstract: A system for registering a work support pallet on an arm of a printing machine with a screen frame of the machine has spaced-apart rods pivotally mounted on a pallet tool and on an arm of the machine for accurate shuttle movement of the pallet tool and a work support pallet thereon into proximity with the screen frame.