Abstract: A gloss measurement system for optically measuring gloss based solely on the specular light reflected from an object. Two polarizing filters, each oriented 90 degrees with respect to each other, are used in order to separate the diffuse or color reflection component from the specular or gloss reflection component. Two images are digitized sequentially using each of the two polarizing filters. The images are subtracted from each other on a pixel by pixel basis and the resulting image contains only specular or gloss reflections. This resulting image is then statistically manipulated in order to group gloss pixels by magnitude. This grouping results in a gloss profile which is a direct indicator of surface gloss.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing a switch having an actuating plunger, the switch undergoing a switch event in response to the actuation of the actuating plunger includes a switch nest and clamp assembly for holding the switch at a precise and predetermined location and a motor driven plunger actuator for applying force to the plunger thereby to actuate the switch. The switch test station further includes a pressure sensor coupled to the plunger actuator which measures the force being applied to the plunger during switch actuation. An electrical sensor couples to the switch nest and measures the electrical characteristics of the switch while a microcomputer responsive to the pressure sensor and the electrical sensor determines the mechanical displacement of the actuating plunger at a switch event.