Abstract:
Apparatus and method for the automatic insertion of a cathode ray tube shadow mask into a mating front panel. The apparatus includes means for aligning the shadow mask such that the mask alignment holes are positioned at points which lie in a substantially horizontal hole reference plane with each hole positioned at a predetermined location, and means for engaging the panel studs and aligning the panel by means of the studs to a position where the studs are located at points which lie in a substantially horizontal stud reference plane and at a location within that plane which places each stud in vertical alignment with and at a predetermined distance above its corresponding mask alignment hole. With the shadow mask and its panel in positions of alignment, the mask springs are compressed to permit insertion of the mask assembly into the panel, the mask is raised the predetermined distance between the hole reference plane and the stud reference plane, and the springs are released to permit engagement between each stud and its corresponding alignment hole.