Abstract: An arrangement is provided including an electrode extending to an electrode tip for contacting a workpiece. A welding configuration of the electrode tip is established by exposing the electrode tip to a selected welding environment for use in forming a weld having a target set of weld parameters. An electrode passage is defined in a biasing force arrangement supporting at least a portion of the length of an elongated, flexible electrode and to limit lateral movement sufficient to transfer at least a portion of a resilient force to the electrode tip so that the tip resiliently contacts the weld region. The electrode passage limits induced lateral flexing to an extent which transfers an amount of the resilient force to the first end portion of the electrode that is sufficient to provide for formation of a weld between the support arrangement and the workpiece.

Abstract: Attaching an attachment surface of an electrically conductive workpiece to an electrically conductive support surface is described. In one aspect, a biasing force is distributed at least partially around a weld region of the workpiece to urge the attachment surface of the workpiece against the support surface in a way which at least resists welding induced movement of the workpiece relative to the support arrangement. An electrode arrangement, having an electrode tip, contacts the workpiece to provide for substantially compliant movement of the electrode tip against the weld region in directions that are parallel to the support surface. In another aspect, a combined manipulation/welding arrangement is supported for controlled movement with a free end configured for engaging the workpiece to bias the workpiece against the support surface to manipulate the workpiece against the surface and to conduct an electrical current, while holding the workpiece, for welding to the support surface.

Abstract: An optical assembly includes a light path and at least one optic to be positioned in the path. A support arrangement supports the optic having a foot arrangement including at least one foot that receives a direct manipulation with the foot slidingly engaged against a support surface to move the optic relative to the light path. Movement of the foot may move the optic along a predetermined path. The foot defines a footprint for engaging the support surface and receives the direct manipulation in a way which changes the footprint on the support surface to move the optic responsive to changes in the footprint. A movement arrangement may selectively bias the foot against the support surface during a movement mode, intended to permit movement of the foot against the support surface, and in a locked mode, intended to lock the foot against the support surface.