Abstract: In a production line for producing color picture tubes, a conveyor system for conveying panels P and masks M between a shadow mask demounting or mounting apparatus 6, 7 and a processing apparatus 2 having downwardly directed panel carrier head 4 and upwardly directed mask table 5. The system 8, 9 includes a mask transfer device 13 and a panel transfer device 30 movably carried by upper rail devices 11, 12, and a panel traverser 41 carried by a lower rail device 40. The convey of the mask is performed solely by the mask transfer device 13, while the panel is conveyed by the panel transfer device 30 and the panel traverser 41.

Abstract: Apparatus for processing a panel for use with color television picture tubes including shadow mask mounting means for mounting a shadow mask on the panel, a processing station where various coatings are formed on the inner surface of the panel, shadow mask detaching means for removing the shadow mask from the panel, panel conveyor means, and shadow mask height variation detecting means for detecting variations in the height of different portions of the shadow mask with respect to the panel.

Abstract: Apparatus for accurately positioning a panel, which has been brought to a position near to its correct position, by using, as a reference, panel pins projecting from inner lateral surfaces of the panel in a process for manufacturing color picture tubes. The apparatus includes substantially horizontal support means for movably supporting the panel thereon, and a plurality of positioning units each having a positioning lever formed therein with a guide groove adapted to engage one of the panel pins of the panel placed on the support means for positioning the panel in a predetermined position on the support means. The apparatus also includes a panel holding device effective to hold the panel pins of the panel positioned in the predetermined position on the support means so as to move the panel upwardly to a predetermined height, thereby effecting positioning of the panel in a vertical direction.

Abstract: Apparatus for removing a shadow mask assembly from a panel and inserting same into a dummy panel. The apparatus includes panel rests for placing thereon the panel supporting the shadow mask assembly, positioning pawls adapted to engage the inner lateral surfaces of the panel for positioning the panel in a predetermined position on the panel rests, pushers cooperating with the positioning pawls for holding side walls of the panel after the latter has been positioned in the predetermined position and a mask holder operative to move into the interior of the panel from below to release the engagement between the panel and shadow mask assembly and to support the shadow mask assembly and to move same downwardly.