Abstract: A router template for fabricating a contoured tile from a workpiece is provided. The router template includes a body that defines a cavity in which a nest is formed for retaining a workpiece during a cutting operation. A bearing path is defined within the body that engages a bearing of the router bit to guide the workpiece relative to the router bit. A cutting path is formed within the body to provide clearance within the body for a rotary cutting portion of the router bit. The cutting path and bearing path are aligned with each other and correspond to the desired size and contour of the tile. A method of cutting a contoured tile by following a template is also disclosed.

Abstract: A router template for fabricating a contoured tile from a workpiece is provided. The router template includes a body that defines a cavity in which a nest is formed for retaining a workpiece during a cutting operation. A bearing path is defined within the body that engages a bearing of the router bit to guide the workpiece relative to the router bit. A cutting path is formed within the body to provide clearance within the body for a rotary cutting portion of the router bit. The cutting path and bearing path are aligned with each other and correspond to the desired size and contour of the tile. A method of cutting a contoured tile by following a template is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying adhesive film to an article. Clamps are mounted on a fixture for temporarily securing the fixture to the article. Film locator clips are mounted on the fixture to receive a segment of adhesive film. At least one of the film locator clips is moveable and biased in one direction to apply tensioning force to the film to hold at least a part of the film in a spaced relationship to the vehicle. A wiping head on the fixture is shifted to engage the film and cause one portion of the film to be applied to the vehicle. The wiping head is then moved from the one portion of the film to other portions of the film to apply the other portions of the film to the article.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying adhesive film to a article. One or more clamps are mounted on a fixture for temporarily securing the fixture to the article. Film locator clips are mounted on the fixture to receive a segment of adhesive film. At least one of the film locator clips is moveable and biased in one direction to apply tensioning force to the film to hold at least a part of the film in a spaced relationship to the vehicle. A wiping head on the fixture is shifted to engage the film and cause one portion of the film to be applied to the vehicle. The wiping head is then moved from the one portion of the film to other portions of the film to apply the other portions of the film to the article. The method of the present invention includes the steps of locating a fixture on the article and attaching a film segment to first and second clips that are arranged in a spaced relationship.

Abstract: A contour following tool for preparing the surface of a workpiece is disclosed. The tool has axially shiftable pins that are biased toward a position in which they are fully extended from a housing. As the tool is moved relative to the workpiece, changes in the contoured surface of the workpiece are accommodated by allowing the pins to shift back from their fully extended position against the biasing force. The pins may be biased by a fluid under pressure or by springs. The tool may be used with a wiping cloth or end caps that may apply a cleaning fluid that is applied either externally or internally through the tool through a bore formed in one or more of the pins. A method of cleaning a contoured workpiece is also disclosed.

Abstract: A contour following tool for preparing the surface of a workpiece is disclosed. The tool has axially shiftable pins that are biased toward a position in which they are fully extended from a housing. As the tool is moved relative to the workpiece, changes in the contoured surface of the workpiece are accommodated by allowing the pins to shift back from their fully extended position against the biasing force. The pins may be biased by a fluid under pressure or by springs. The tool may be used with a wiping cloth or end caps that may apply a cleaning fluid that is applied either externally or internally through the tool through a bore formed in one or more of the pins. A method of cleaning a contoured workpiece is also disclosed.