Abstract: A tool is used to determine whether or not a dimension between two surface features on two joined work pieces is within an acceptable range. The tool includes housing, first and second supports carried on the housing and carrying fingers which engage the surface features in a dimensional measurement position. An actuator and linkage displaces the supports relative to each other to bring the fingers into engagement with the first and second surface features on the work pieces. A first sensor is carried on the housing for measuring the dimension between the first and second fingers when the first and second supports are fully displaced relative to each other. The first sensor sends a dimensional measurement signal to a controller which compares the measurement signal with predetermined acceptable and non-acceptable dimensions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the engagement state of two mating work pieces, such as two parts of an electrical connector, includes a 2D scanning profile laser sensor. The laser sensor is located in a measurement position relative to the work pieces being scanned. The laser generates a two axis surface profile of the joined work pieces. The measured surface profile is compared by a controller with a reference surface profile to determine complete or non-complete engagement of the work pieces.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for confirming identification of a tool position relative to a workpiece and selecting the tool operating program associated with the position of the tool. A laser location confirmation apparatus is mounted on a tool and measures the distance between the tool or laser source and a surface feature adjacent to the tool, after the tool is engaged with a workpiece joint. When a distance match is made by a laser controller with one of a plurality of prestored reference distances identified with each different work operation or joint, the proper tool operating program is selected and activated.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the engagement state of two mating work pieces, such as two parts of an electrical connector, includes a 2D scanning profile laser sensor. The laser sensor is located in a measurement position relative to the work pieces being scanned. The laser generates a two axis surface profile of the joined work pieces. The measured surface profile is compared by a controller with a reference surface profile to determine complete or non-complete engagement of the work pieces.

Abstract: A tool is used to determine whether or not a dimension between two surface features on two joined work pieces is within an acceptable range. The tool includes housing, first and second supports carried on the housing and carrying fingers which engage the surface features in a dimensional measurement position. An actuator and linkage displaces the supports relative to each other to bring the fingers into engagement with the first and second surface features on the work pieces. A first sensor is carried on the housing for measuring the dimension between the first and second fingers when the first and second supports are fully displaced relative to each other. The first sensor sends a dimensional measurement signal to a controller which compares the measurement signal with predetermined acceptable and non-acceptable dimensions.