Abstract: A method is disclosed for manufacturing photostencils used in screening the faceplates of color cathode ray tubes. The photostencils are produced as progeny from a parent stencil photo plotted according to the dictates of a proximity photoprinting process in conjunction with the electron optical characteristics of the operational CRT. A rectangular beam is used for radiating light through the pattern of features on the parent stencil onto the photoresist of the progeny stencil. As a result, the features of the progeny stencil differ in size or shape or both, from those of the parent stencil.

Abstract: An image display such as a cathode ray tube or flat panel display has an envelope with an external surface and an interior or otherwise non-external surface. Encapsulated indicia may be located on an external surface, or in the preferred embodiment, on an internal surface readable from the external surface. The indicia, being encapsulated on the interior surface, are safe from degradation, thus allowing for easy formation of the indicia by simple printing means which utilize fluid inks.

Abstract: A system and method for ultrasonic cleaning of an in-process shadow mask contaminated with polymeric films such as are employed in color cathode ray tube (CRTs) screen production. The ultrasonic bath contains a solution having a chemically active agent for degrading and removing a targeted cross-linked polymer film contaminant from the shadow mask. The cleaning solution may also have more conventional materials in addition to the chemically active agent. The chemically active agent, attacks PVA films contaminating the mask, may be hydrogen peroxide or a periodate. The agents act to chemically degrade the polymeric contaminants. Contaminants are thus removed from the shadow mask during CRT production to reduce clogging of shadow mask apertures and facilitate attachment of the shadow mask to a faceplate-mounted support structure.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for curing a defect in a grille formed on an interior face of a color cathode ray tube panel. The apparatus includes a support structure including a first rail member onto which is mounted a camera including a magnifying lens for viewing on a display monitor the grille of the panel. The panel is seated on a positioning apparatus which allows the panel to be adjusted such that the defect to be removed is centered on cross-hairs located on the monitor. The support structure includes a second rail member to which is mounted a laser apparatus which produces a beam of laser energy to remove the defect from the grille.