Abstract: A method includes scanning a thickness of a workpiece in at least one point using a thickness sensor, determining that the workpiece is out of alignment in a cutting machine using the thickness sensor, and realigning the workpiece relative to the cutting machine or adjusting a machining operation using a controller of the cutting machine in response to determining that the workpiece is out of alignment.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a roller cone drill bit that includes planar reference surfaces for gauging and inspection In one illustrative embodiment, a method of manufacturing a drill bit is disclosed which includes forming a planar reference surface in a ball race of a component of the drill bit, the planar reference surface being substantially perpendicular to a centerline of the component, and using the planar reference surface as a reference point in positioning the component in a manufacturing tool.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to various embodiments of a self-aligning insert for use with roller cone drill bits. In one illustrative embodiment, the insert comprises a generally cylindrical body, a cutting surface, a bottom surface, a tapered surface adjacent the cylindrical body, and a generally cylindrical section positioned between the bottom surface and the tapered surface. The inserts of the present invention may be installed in a roller cone of a roller cone drill bit.