Abstract: Apparatus for the inspection of the surface of a cylindrical object which comprises a rotator for rotating the object to be inspected about its axis, a projector for projecting an incident beam of radiation to form a spot on the surface of the object whilst the object is rotating, a device for providing, relative to the object when being rotated, translation of the spot formed by the projection means, a detector for detecting a scattered beam of radiation which comprises radiation of the incident beam after scattering by the surface of the object and a processor for deriving from the detection by the detector of the scattered beam information about the depth of the surface of the inspected object in the region where the incident beam spot is applied.

Abstract: A transfer apparatus having a platform in the form of two members extending in adjacent parallel relationship in a substantially linear direction. Vibrators are arranged to oscillate the members independently of each other in out-of-phase relationship in the linear direction. The members may have their faces in angular facing relationship. The faces of the members have thereon cushion elements which comprise a multiplicity of extremely fine, flexible synthetic polymer fibers having a length no greater than about 2.5mm, and an inclined orientation of at least 70.degree. from a backing.