Abstract: A temperature-compensated laser measuring method and apparatus for determining the dimensions of long parts is disclosed. Parts to be measured are positioned along a y-axis fence (19) against an x-axis fence (21). A gantry (15) is moved along a precision support rail (17) to the desired longitudinal (x-axis) position. Then a probe (23) is moved inwardly or outwardly to a desired y-axis position and lowered to a desired z-axis position. A Doppler laser measuring system that includes a Doppler laser head (25) and retroreflector (27) measures x-axis length. Y-axis and z-axis encoders (29, 31) determine y-axis and z-axis probe position with respect to the y-axis fence and the top (39) of the table (13). A temperature compensation unit (103) receives the laser measurement information and modifies the x-axis length measurement based on part temperature and the coefficient of expansion of the part.

Abstract: The metal edge of a ski is coated with carbon by creating an electrical voltage differential between a relatively moving carbide electrode and the metal edge of the ski spaced therefrom such that an electrical arc passes from the electrode to the metal ski edge across the space. The electrical arc carries carbide from the electrode and deposits it on the metal ski edge.

Abstract: A process of depositing carbide on the metal edge of a ski including creating an electrical voltage differential between a relatively moving carbide electrode and the metal edge of a ski spaced therefrom such that an electrical arc passes from the electrode to the metal ski edge across the space. The electrical arc carries carbide from the electrode and deposits it on the metal ski edge. The product formed by this process and apparatus for carrying out the process.