METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS

摘要

An apparatus for supporting a manufacturing tool relative to a workpiece is disclosed. The apparatus includes a track assembly adapted to be attached to the workpiece, and a carriage moveably coupled to the track assembly and moveable relative to the workpiece along a translation axis, the carriage including a tool support adapted to receive and support a manufacturing tool. The apparatus also includes an opposing-force support assembly operatively coupled to the carriage and adapted to be secured to the workpiece to at least partially counterbalance a manufacturing force exerted on the workpiece by the manufacturing tool.