Abstract: An off-line graphical user interface (GUI) system and method provide for input control of a three-dimensional coordinate measuring machine (CMM) using the CMM's probe. A GUI image presents a plurality of control operation icons associated with the CMM. A controller uses the CMM to locate the GUI image in a coordinate system of the CMM. The controller defines coordinates of the control operation icons and references the coordinates to the coordinate system of the CMM. The controller also defines a function activation zone associated with each of the control operation icons. Each function activation zone defines criteria relating movement of the CMM's probe therein to the operational function of the CMM associated with one of the control operation icons corresponding thereto. Satisfaction of the criteria causes the operational function of the CMM to be carried out by the CMM.

Abstract: An off-line graphical user interface (GUI) system and method provide for input control of a three-dimensional coordinate measuring machine (CMM) using the CMM's probe. A GUI image presents a plurality of control operation icons associated with the CMM. A controller uses the CMM to locate the GUI image in a coordinate system of the CMM. The controller defines coordinates of the control operation icons and references the coordinates to the coordinate system of the CMM. The controller also defines a function activation zone associated with each of the control operation icons. Each function activation zone defines criteria relating movement of the CMM's probe therein to the operational function of the CMM associated with one of the control operation icons corresponding thereto. Satisfaction of the criteria causes the operational function of the CMM to be carried out by the CMM.

Abstract: A laser-based multi-axis position measurement unit measures position deviations in 5 axes while traversing a 6th linear axis. The apparatus includes three components: 1) a laser-beam unit which emits two parallel laser beams; 2) a sensor unit including at least three laser-position sensors, one of them being transparent; and 3) a microprocessor or computer unit which converts X,Y laser position data from the three sensors to displacements in 5 axes: X (horizontal), Y (vertical), Pitch (angular motion about the X axis), Yaw (angular motion about the Y axis), and Roll (angular motion about the line of travel). Readout of the 6th axis, the line of travel, is provided by means of a separate linear transducer or laser-based ranging system. The device includes an arrangement of three digital sensors on two parallel laser beams to deduce position in 5 axes.

Abstract: A precision positioning system is used for resurfacing and repairing rails and guideways of large, heavy machinery at users facilities. The system has new components, an entire machining system, a new alignment system, parallel platforms for tool support and surface scanning. A sectioned, portable monorail frame is held by fixed supports at the locus of a heavy machine requiring guideway straightening. Fixed guides extend along the outer surface of the monorail. Guide wheels and drive wheels contact the guides and support and move an outer tubular beam carriage. An assembly of machining tools is adjustably positioned on the carriage. Laser alignment sources and sensors are connected to the carriage and to heavy machines off-axis and parallel to the monorail. Intelligent controls precisely position the tools for resurfacing the rails and guideways. Scanning and a printout of machine guideway accuracy, before and after the operation, provide written verification of quality improvement.

Abstract: A highly sensitive surface plasmon waveguide sensor monitors the refractive index and thickness of thin adsorbed films. The sensor includes an optical waveguide formed by ion-exchange in a glass substrate, by selective densification of substrate material or by the incorporation of high refractive index materials during deposition of a dielectric layer. Two dielectric thin films are deposited on top of the waveguide. The layer closest to the waveguide has a lower refractive index than the guiding layer to form a buffer layer. The second dielectric layer, or tuning layer, has a higher refractive index. The tuning and buffer layers allow optimization of the resonance wavelength, full-width half maximum of the resonance wavelength range and amplitude of the resonance. The tuning layer is coated with a thin metallic layer, to effect surface plasmon resonance, such as gold, silver, aluminum or one or more semiconducting materials.

Abstract: This rotary die cylinder assembly (10) includes a cylinder (12) having end bearers (14) attached thereto. The cylinder includes intermediate body (16) and opposed end shafts (20). The body 16 is adapted to carry tool members (18) and the end shafts are externally threaded to receive the bearers, the bearers including an internally threaded bore (34). The cylinder body includes opposed annular end faces (30) adapted to receive associated bearer inner faces (32) in torqued metal-to-metal relation. An opening (42) is drilled between the faces (32, 33) of each of the bearers and extends into the the cylinder to receive a pin (44) to secure the bearers to the cylinder. Each opening extends into the cylinder body sufficiently so that the associated pins can be driven completely into the cylinder body end and out of engagement with the bearers. When this is done removal of the bearers and replacement thereof with new bearers, which can be pinned to the cylinders at a different location, is easily accomplished.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improved one-piece construction for taco shell holders, wherein, the holders are provided with a unique three legged support structure that allows the holders to be used in either a stand alone configuration or inserted into complementary recesses formed in a serving tray element specifically designed for use in combination with the taco holders.