MICROPOSITIONING SYSTEM

摘要

The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for accurately positioning tools for use in manufacturing or inspection operations whilst reducing the need for costly tooling such as jigs. The methods for accurately positioning tools comprises at least the steps of projecting an image onto a surface, detecting the projected image, processing the projecting image, calculating at least two dimensional co-ordinates of the projected image relative to a tool, and moving the tool so that it is positioned in a pre-defined spacial relationship with respect to the projected image. The micropositioning system comprises a radiation source for projecting an image onto a surface, a radiation detector for detecting the projected image, tool conveyancing means for carrying a tool, processor means for calculating at least two dimensional co-ordinates of the projected image detected by the radiation detector relative to the tool, and control means for controlling the tool conveyancing means so as to position the tool in a pre-defined spacial relationship with the projected image in response to a signal from the processor means.