초록 ▼

A test apparatus and method utilize a proximity sensor to detect the deflection of an optical disc spindle as the spindle is supported on a rotatable spindle support. The proximity sensor is disposed at a fixed location relative to the rotational axis of the rotatable spindle support, and is configu

A test apparatus and method utilize a proximity sensor to detect the deflection of an optical disc spindle as the spindle is supported on a rotatable spindle support. The proximity sensor is disposed at a fixed location relative to the rotational axis of the rotatable spindle support, and is configured to output a variable proximity signal associated with the distance between the proximity sensor and the optical disc spindle. The output of the proximity sensor is fed to an electrical circuit to determine whether the deflection is outside of an acceptable range during rotation of the rotatable spindle support. If so, an indication is provided to an operator to permit the operator to repair or discard the spindle, as appropriate. In addition, a length detector is used to provide an indication of the length of the optical disc spindle so that the electrical circuit can adjust the acceptable deflection range for different lengths of optical disc spindles.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A test apparatus for testing the straightness of an optical disc spindle of the type having first and second ends disposed at opposite ends of a longitudinal axis, the test apparatus comprising:(a) a rotatable spindle support, configured to rotate about a rotational axis

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A test apparatus for testing the straightness of an optical disc spindle of the type having first and second ends disposed at opposite ends of a longitudinal axis, the test apparatus comprising:(a) a rotatable spindle support, configured to rotate about a rotational axis and support the first end of the optical disc spindle with the longitudinal axis thereof extending generally along the rotational axis;(b) a proximity sensor, disposed at a fixed location relative to the rotational axis of the rotatable spindle support and configured to output a variable proximity signal associated with the distance between the proximity sensor and the optical disc spindle; and(c) an electrical circuit, responsive to the proximity signal and configured to indicate if the distance between the proximity sensor and the optical disc spindle falls outside an acceptable range during rotation of the rotatable spindle support.