Abstract: A dimensional gage adapted to make measurements on a workpiece has a fixed member, a spindle assembly comprising a hollow spindle which receives the fixed member and is rotatable with respect to the fixed member, a motor which rotates the spindle assembly, and a sensing assembly attached to the fixed member and adapted to measure one or more dimensions of the workpiece. The dimensions may be measured both statically and dynamically, and the sensing assembly can have separate sensor assemblies for each dimension to be measured.

Abstract: A rate controllable damping mechanism is disclosed. The mechanism includes a chamber disposed within a housing; an element mounted for movement within the chamber; a damping material, preferably a low melting temperature metal alloy, in the chamber for preventing the movement of the element at a first temperature and for damping the movement of the element at a second temperature; and a heater for selectively increasing the temperature of the damping material from the first temperature to the second temperature. Controlled damping is effectuated by heating the fluid material until it reaches a molten state at which the resultant fluid damps the movement of the element in a conventional manner. A novel method is also disclosed for structural stress relief.