Patent Publication Number: US-6983533-B2

Title: Differential press tool

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application claims benefit of U.S. provisional patent application ser. No. 60/422,279 filed Oct. 30, 2002 which is herein incorporated by reference. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   Embodiments of the invention generally relate to and apparatus and method for assembling optical components. More particularly, embodiments of the invention relate to an apparatus and method for assembling an optical source or an optical lens into an optical housing in a power-on state. 
   2. Description of the Related Art 
   Assembly of optical components is generally accomplished via simple mechanical operations that may be automated. Although the automation provides for increased throughput and accuracy in the assembly process, the components are nevertheless generally tested after the assembly process to determine if the component is within tolerances. Therefore, optical component assembly processes are generally a two step process, wherein the first step is the assembly and the second step, which is conducted in a separate apparatus, is generally an inspection step. 
   Inasmuch as multiple steps require more resources to manufacture components, is desirable to eliminate the requirement to assemble the component and measure the component in separate apparatuses. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   Embodiments of the invention may generally provide an apparatus configured to assemble optical devices, and further, during the assembly process (real time), the apparatus measures input/output signals of the optical devices to correct optical offsets that may be inherent in the manufacturing process. The apparatus generally includes an outer frame and an inner frame, wherein the inner frame is vibrationally isolated from the outer frame, i.e., the inner frame is isolated from noise associated with or encountered by the outer frame. The inner frame generally supports a work plate configured to receive one of a plurality of component assembly fixtures thereon, wherein the individual fixtures are each configured for a particular optical component assembly process. The work plate also operates to position the assembly components relative to an optical measurement system, which is used to determine offset of the components prior to completion of the manufacturing process. The optical measurement system includes a camera adapted to receive an optical signal from an assembled optical device positioned in the assembly fixture. The camera receives light from a split light path having a specialized backlight system adapted to enhance the appearance of the optical signal. The output of the camera is fed into a data processing and display system configured to display the output to the user. The output may generally be presented to the user via a display, wherein the display may illustrate the focus of the output, intensity of the output, positioning of the output, and the offset of the output. Using the display, the user may adjust the offset of the component before assembly is completed, as well as measure and record various other optical parameters of the component that may be relevant to future component operation, installation, manufacturing, or other processes. 
   Embodiments of the invention may further provide an apparatus and method to assemble optical components and measure the resultant performance of the components during assembly and adjust the assembly process insitu to provide an improved optical component. The apparatus and method provide improved 3D imaging for positional information relative to the output optical signal of the component. The optical measurement system is vibrationally separated from a work plate to minimize installation errors. The apparatus is able to measure a plurality of input and output signals to determine the optical device performance during assembly. Position based on optical measurement system focus. 
   Embodiments of the invention may further provide an apparatus and method for measuring the optical offset of an optical component with a Z-Camera axis measurement device. The method generally includes loading a component shell into a fixture mounted on the measurement apparatus and then inserting an optical source into the component shell. The optical output of the component is then observed by a camera positioned below the component. The camera transmits the image of the optical signal to a processing device, i.e., a PC, that displays the position/offset of the device to the user. In response to the displayed offset, the user may adjust physical parameters of the component in order to correct for the offset prior to final assembly of the component. The correction may be automated in that the system controller may operate to control a process configured to automatically adjust the physical parameters of the component to correct for the offset. 
   Embodiments of the invention may further provide an automated component assembly fixture and method configured to press an optical assembly into a housing/body when used in conjunction with an optical component installation and measurement apparatus. The automated apparatus/method of the invention generally includes relieving backlash in the assembly system by making a movement in the direction of the assembly, checking for a signal, adjust the x and y coordinates to obtain the signal in the measurement plane, determine the quadrant of the signal, adjust the z position and re-verify the image x and y plane, scan in z to determine the focus, subtract an empirical number from the z distance and drive to that distance, take a fine z measurement, calculate the appropriate z distance, drive to the calculated z distance, and release the assembled part. This process essentially guarantees a 100% part assembly and focus without generating any throwaways as a result of overshoot. 
   Embodiments of the invention may further provide a component assembly fixture configured to press an optical assembly into a housing/body when used in conjunction with an optical component assembly and measuring apparatus. The fixture is based upon a top press-type operation, wherein the optical assembly is pressed into the housing from the backside (electrical contact side) of the optical assembly. The top press configuration provides for high pressure assembly with great accuracy, and therefore, the focus of the optical assembly may be set without overshoot, which conventionally results in rendering the component unusable. Additionally, the top press provides easy insertion and removal of components. The physical structure generally includes two slide pins, that capture a pivot point so the pivot point and distally extending a work bridge may press the optical assembly into the body/mount. Top press allows for high accuracy press assembly, increased throughput, reduced/eliminated throwaways, and easy access for insertion and removal of components. 
   Embodiments of the invention may further provide a component assembly fixture configured to press an optical assembly into a housing/body when used in conjunction with an optical component assembly and measurement apparatus. The fixture is based upon a differential press screw that has two opposing thread speeds. Therefore, one side of the differential press screw actuates the housing in a positive z direction, while the second side of the differential press screw actuates the optical assembly in a negative z direction. This actuation causes the optical assembly to be pressed into the housing with great precision using very fine movements at very high pressure with large circumferential movement of the actuator itself. Thus, the focus of the optical assembly may be set without risking overshoot, which conventionally results in rendering the component unusable. Additionally, the present invention provides a substantial improvement in throughput, about 5 times conventional assembly speeds. The differential screw allows for precise pressing at very high pressures, which allows for pressing an optical source into a housing in a one shot-type method without overshooting the focus and rendering the part a throwaway—also without requiring more than one measuring step, as with conventional assembly apparatuses. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the invention. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cam operated laser press assembly fixture of the invention. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cam operated laser press assembly fixture of the invention having a component therein. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary cam operated laser press assembly fixture of the invention. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary automated cam operated laser press assembly fixture of the invention. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary fixture of the invention that utilizes a differential press screw assembly. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a sectional view of the differential press screw assembly illustrated in FIG.  7 . 
       FIG. 8   a  illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method of the invention. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a graphical view of the optical offset measurement process. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention. The optical component assembly apparatus  100  generally includes a substantially rigid base member  101  that supports an inner frame member  102 . Inner frame member  102  is generally separated from the rigid base member  101  via a plurality of cushioning devices  104 . The cushioning devices  104 , which may be air isolators, for example, are generally configured to isolate the components attached to inner frame member  102  from any ambient ground noise. The upper portion of inner frame member  102  generally includes an optical component press and measuring assembly  105 . Further, the substantially rigid base member  101  may also support an outer frame member  103 , which may include storage space for the mechanical and electronic devices needed to operate the optical component assembly apparatus  100 , while also providing an upper working surface for the operators of the apparatus. 
   More particularly, inner frame member  102  is generally secured to rigid base member  101  via a plurality of airbags actuators  104 . Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , inner frame member  102  generally includes a plurality of legs radially extending therefrom, which generally attach to the rigid base member  101  via airbags  104 . The radial extension of the plurality of legs from inner frame member  102  provides for a wide and stable base for the operational components of optical component assembly apparatus  100 , which as will be described further herein, generally attach to the upper portion inner frame member  102 . Furthermore, since it is desirable to isolate the working components of the assembly apparatus  100  from ambient noise sources, in addition to inner frame member  102  being isolated from rigid base member  101  via airbags  104 , the outer frame member  103  is also isolated from inner frame member  102 . More particularly, although outer frame member  103  may include several components of the optical component assembly apparatus  100 , outer frame member  103  is generally not rigidly secured or attached to inner frame member  102 , and therefore, any actuation of the outer frame member  103  will not affect the component assembly and or measuring process taking place within the operational components of apparatus  100  that are secured to the upper portion of inner frame member  102 . 
     FIG. 2  illustrates a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the invention, and more particularly,  FIG. 2  illustrates the optical component assembly apparatus  100  of the invention, wherein the optical component press and measuring assembly  105  is removed from inner frame member for better illustration. The optical component press and measuring assembly  105  is generally secured to an upper portion of inner frame member  102  via a second frame member  201 . Second frame member  201  generally supports a fixture support  202  on an upper portion thereof. As such, the second frame member  201  and fixture support member  200  are generally rigidly attached to inner frame member  102 . Second frame member  201  also is slidably engaged with a component press and measuring assembly  215  via a Z slide  210 . Z slide  210  generally operates to allow the component press and measuring assembly  215  to move in a Z direction with respect to the inner frame member  102 , wherein the Z direction is generally defined as vertically with respect to the substantially rigid base member  101 . However, Z slide  210  is generally configured to present motion of the component press and measuring assembly  215  in any direction other than the Z direction. Additionally, inasmuch as isolation of the component press and measuring assembly  215  is an important element of the present invention, Z slide  210  may further include a pneumatic neutralizer  209  attached thereto, wherein neutralizer  209  is generally configured to apply an upward force to the component press and measuring assembly  215  sufficient to neutralize the gravitational force being exerted thereon. 
   The remaining components of the press and measuring assembly  215  are generally supported by a pair of upstanding frame members  203 , wherein the upstanding frame member  203  are generally attached to a surface of the Z slide  210 . Therefore, when slide  210  is actuated by the manual actuator  211 , which generally operates to move slide  210  in an upward or downward motion, the remaining components of the press and measurement assembly  215  will also move upward or downward, as they are rigidly attached to slide  210  via frame members  203 . However, it is to be noted that slide  210  moves relative to frame member  201  and  202 , and therefore, movement of slide  210  causes the press and measuring apparatus  215  to move relative to the remaining components of the invention. Generally speaking, the remaining components generally include an adjustable table  204  and an optical measuring device  207 . The adjustable table  204  generally attaches to the upper portion of frame members  203 , and is configured to linearly move in both X and Y directions, while preventing movement of table  204  in the Z direction. The movement of table  204  may be controlled by two manual actuators, wherein a first actuators  205  is configured to move table  204  in the X direction, while the second manual actuators  206  is configured to move table  204  in the Y direction. Therefore, embodiments of the invention essentially provide for movement of table  204  in three dimensions, i.e., x, y, and z, via actuation of manual actuators  205 ,  206 , and  211 , respectively. Therefore, embodiments of the invention provide for a table  204  that may be precisely moved in a three-dimensional space with respect to a fixed plate, i.e. plate  202 , for the purpose of measuring and/or pressing optical components into optical housings or other areas. 
     FIG. 2  also illustrates another feature of the optical component assembly apparatus  100 . More particularly,  FIG. 2  illustrates a plurality of air pressure regulators  208 , which are generally in fluid communication with individual air bags  104 . As such, when a force is exerted on an individual side of the leg portions of frame member  102 , a change in the air pressure was in the corresponding airbags  104  will be noticed in a corresponding one of the pressure regulators  208 . In response thereto, the air pressure to be airbags  104  may be increased and or decreased to maintain frame member  102  in a predetermined orientation, i.e., to maintain frame member  102  in a vertical orientation, for example. Therefore, embodiments of the invention may include a controller, i.e., a microprocessor type controller, for example, which may be in electrical communication with air bag regulators  208 , and therefore, operate to automatically maintain the predetermined orientation of frame member  102 . Additionally, another pressure regular  208  may be in fluid communication with pneumatic cylinder  209  for the purpose of maintaining slide  210  in essentially a zero gravity type situation. 
   Optical measuring device  207  generally includes a camera  225  positioned on a lower portion thereof. An intermediate portion of optical measuring device  207  generally includes a magnification unit  226  that is in optical communication with an intermediate assembly configured to provide backlight to the entire optical measuring device  207 . The upper portion of optical measuring device  207  may include a lens assembly  228  configured to receive optical signals therein and transmit the optical signals through the entire optical measuring device  207  to the camera  225 . Optical measuring device  207  is generally mounted within press and measuring assembly  105 , and more particularly, optical measuring device  205  is generally mounted such that the lens assembly  228  is positioned immediately below an aperture formed in movable plate  204 . Therefore, in this configuration, lens assembly  228  is configured to view an optical signal generated from an optical component mounted within a fixture positioned on upper work plate  202 . 
     FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cam operated laser press assembly fixture of the invention. Press assembly  300 , which may also be termed a press tool, generally includes a substantially rigid base member  301  that supports the remaining elements of press assembly  300 . A pair of upstanding support members  302  are attached to base member  301  in a configuration that provides for a working space between the two support members  302 . The inner surfaces of upstanding support members  302  include a vertical channel  310  formed therein, wherein the respective channels  310  formed into the support members  302  are positioned opposite of each other. Additionally, a central portion of support members  302  includes a recess  311  configured to support a pivotally mounted arm  309 . A pair of longitudinal apertures are also formed into support members  302 , wherein the apertures are configured to support pivotal securing members  308  therein. Pivotal support members  308  are slidably positioned within the apertures and are configured to be actuated to secure a pivotal mount  305  to support members  302 . A workpiece support press  303  is positioned between support members  302 , and in particular, support press  303  is slidably positioned within vertical channels  310 . As such, support press  303  is configured to move only in the direction of channels  310 , which is vertical in the present exemplary embodiment. Press assembly  300  further includes a pivotally mounted press arm  309  pivotally mounted to support members  302  via shafts/pivotal mounts  305 . Press arm  309  attaches to support press  303  at a first end, mounts to support members  302  via pivot mount  305  in a middle portion, and attaches to a screw member  306  at a second end. In this configuration screw member  306  may be actuated to pivotally move press arm  309  such that support press  303  moves vertically within channels  310 . Press assembly  300  further includes a component mount  307  positioned below support press  303  such that a component may be supported on component mount  307  and pressed into a housing supported within aperture  304 . 
     FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cam operated laser press assembly fixture of the invention having a component therein. The exemplary press assembly  400  includes components similar to the assembly  300  shown in FIG.  3 . In particular, press assembly  400  includes a base  401 , support members  402 , press support  403 , press arm  405 , and screw  406 . Press assembly  400  also includes a component support  410  mounted at distal ends to press support  403 . Component support  410  is attached to press supports  403  such that component support  410  remains stationary with respect to press support  403 . 
     FIG. 5  illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary cam operated laser press assembly fixture or press tool of the invention. The press assembly  500  includes a base  501 , an upstanding support  502 , slidably mounted press support member  503 , a pivotally mounted press arm  505 , and a screw assembly  506 . Additionally, a fixed component mount  510  is illustrated. In this embodiment, screw assembly  506  may be actuated to drive a second end of arm  505  upward as a result of pivotal movement about a pivot point  509 . The pivotal movement causes a first end (the end opposite second end that is attached to the press support member  503 ) to move downward. In this manner an optical housing secured within component mount  510  may have an optical component (optical source, lens, or other component) pressed therein by press support member  503  via engagement of the component with a stationary fixture or component press mounted to the base  501 . 
   More particularly, in operation, the embodiments of the invention illustrated in  FIGS. 3 ,  4 , and  5  generally operate in the same manner to press a laser into an optical housing. In particular, the press assembly is generally configured to support an optical housing in a face down manner, i.e., in a manner such that the output of the optical component is directed toward the base plate  401 , for example. In this manner the power leads for the laser being pressed into the housing are generally extending upward from the housing having the laser therein such that a power fixture may be attached to the power leads in order to power the laser during the pressing operation. As such, the laser is generally operating, i.e., emitting an optical signal during the pressing process. However, as noted above, the efficiency and intensity of the optical signal is dependent upon the pressed position of the optical source or laser. Therefore, it is critical that the optical source be pressed to a precise depth within the optical housing such that the output is optimized. This optimization is generally dependent upon the optical source being pressed to the optimal focal point within the optical housing. Further, the base member generally includes an aperture positioned below the optical housing having the laser pressed therein, such that the optical output of the laser is directed through the aperture. Thus, when the screw assembly is actuated, the press arm moves downward and presses the activated optical source into the housing while the optical signal generated by the optical component is transmitted downward through the base of the fixture. This signal may then be observed by the camera positioned there below. 
     FIG. 6  illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary automated cam operated laser press assembly fixture or press tool of the invention. The automated press assembly  600  generally includes components similar to the previously discussed press assemblies, however, the adjustment of the x, y, and z position of the press and/or camera is accomplished via an automated process, i.e., without manual adjustment. The press assembly  600  generally includes a y-axis actuator  601 , an x-axis actuator  602 , and a z-axis actuator  603 . Each of the respective actuators are in communication with a system controller configured to control the operation of the actuators. The controller is generally configured to receive input from the camera mounted on the press and measurement assembly and actuate each of the respective actuators in order to obtain an optimal optical parameter. For example, the actuators may be controlled to press a lens into an optical mount to an optimal focal point via measurement of the output intensity and shape of the optical output of the component. Similarly, the automated press assembly  600  may be configured to press an optical source into an optical housing to an optimal depth via an automated process. 
   Generally, the automated process includes monitoring the optical output of the component being assembled via a camera, such as camera  225  illustrated in FIG.  2 . The camera, or other device configured to measure an output parameter of an optical source, may be in communication with a controller, such as a micro processor-type controller, for example. The controller is generally configured to compare the output to a preferred or predetermined output, and then adjust the x, y, and/or z position adjustments in order to adjust the output closer to the desired output. The process may continue until the output is within an acceptable range, which is generally optimal for the component. The analysis and/or comparison process of the controller may be conducted in accordance with a software program stored in memory and executed on a processor. 
     FIG. 7  illustrates another fixture or press tool that may be implemented with the press and measuring assembly of the invention. The press fixture illustrated in  FIG. 7  generally includes a substantially rigid base  700 . A slidably positioned assembly clamp  701  is positioned on an upper side of base member. Clamp  701  is generally configured to slide into a position to secure an optical component to a workpiece support  706  during the press or measurement operation. Additionally, a pair of release latches  702  are generally positioned adjacent the support  706 , wherein the release latches are configured to raise an optical component secured to the support once the pressing operation is completed. The lower side of base  700  generally includes differential press screw assembly  703  that includes a screw actuator  705  and a lens press nut  704 . The differential press screw  703  threadebly engages base  700 , and therefore, may be actuated into base  700  via rotational actuation of screw actuator  705 . In this configuration a lens or other optical component may be positioned on the lens nut  705  and pressed into an optical housing secured on support  706 . 
     FIG. 8  illustrates a sectional view of the differential press screw assembly illustrated in FIG.  7 . The differential press screw assembly generally includes a hollow interior optical path  810  and an outer screw actuator  801  that has a first annular surface including a first threaded region  804  formed thereon. Screw actuator  801  further includes a second annular region having a second threaded region  803  formed thereon. Screw actuator is assembled into the fixture by threadebly engaging a first inner threaded surface with the first threaded region  804 . A distal extending end of the actuator  801 , i.e., the end proximate the second threaded region, extends into an inner cavity of the fixture, where a lens press nut  805  is slidably positioned. Lens press nut  805  includes an outer surface that slidably engages the inner surface of the fixture. Additionally, an inner surface of nut  805  includes a threaded bore  808  that is configured to threadebly engage the second threaded region  803  of actuator  801 . In this configuration, screw actuator may be rotated to cause the lens press nut  805  to extend into an optical component space  806 . Thus, in operation, a lens to be pressed into an optical component may be positioned either on nut  805  or within an optical component that is positioned or secured within component space  806 . With the component secured, the screw actuator may be rotated to press the lens into the respective optical housing to a specific depth. The depth may be set by the mechanical setup of the differential screw, or alternatively, the depth may be determined through an automated process. For example, embodiments of the invention may utilize the camera assembly  225  illustrated in  FIG. 2  to analyze the output of the optical component having the lens pressed therein. The analysis process, which will be further discussed herein, generally includes pressing the lens into the component while simultaneously viewing the optical output of the component. This output may be compared to a desired optical output to determine if the lens has been pressed into the component to the proper depth, i.e., to the focal point. 
   In operation, embodiments of the invention provide a method for assembling and/or measuring optical properties of an optical component. The assembly and measurement process may be accomplished real time, i.e., the optical component may be active during the assembly and/or measurement processes. For example, assuming that the component being assembled and/or measured is an optical component having an optical source therein, then the optical source may be assembled within an optical housing with the power to the optical source being on during the assembly process. The assembly process generally includes pressing either an optical source, i.e., a laser, into a component, or alternatively, pressing an optical component, i.e., a lens, into a component already having a source via a press tool (various press tools and configurations may be used without departing from the scope of the invention). In this manner, the optical output of the component may be measured during the assembly process. Further, the optical output may be used as a control parameter for the assembly process, as the intensity, shape, contrast, and other parameters of the optical output may be measured and compared to a desired value in order to determine, for example, if the optical source is optimally positioned within the optical housing. 
   More particularly,  FIG. 8   a  illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method of the invention. The methodology illustrated in  FIG. 8   a  is directed to an embodiment of the invention wherein an optical source, i.e., a laser for example, is pressed into an optical housing. However, it is to be understood that the present invention is not intended to be limited to this embodiment, as the methodology is generally applicable to assembling various optical components that emit an optical signal. For example, the methodology may be utilized to press a lens into an optical component while monitoring the output of the component to determine when the lens is pressed to an optimal point, such as the focal point, for example. Further, the inventors contemplate that various other optical components may be assembled using the basic methodology of the invention. 
   The exemplary method illustrated in  FIG. 8   a  is generally directed to an embodiment wherein a laser is being pressed into an optical housing. Therefore, the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 8   a  is generally configured to press the laser to an optimal distance within the optical housing such that the optical output is optimized. The process of pressing the laser to the desired distance is accomplished by pressing the laser while observing the output of the component, as the laser is powered on during the pressing process. The laser is then pressed until the output is observed as being optimal, which corresponds to the optimal press depth. The method generally begins at step  801  wherein a laser is pre-mounted into an optical housing. At this stage the laser is generally mounted within the housing, but is mounted such that the laser may be longitudinally actuated within the housing in order to adjust the position of the laser relative to other components within the housing. Once the optical sources are mounted within the optical housing, the entire component may be mounted within a palette or fixture configured to secure the component for the press and measurement operations. For example, the optical component may be mounted within a fixture, such as the exemplary fixtures illustrated in  FIGS. 3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  7 , or  8 . Once the optical component is secured in the appropriate fixture, the fixture may be secured to an apparatus configured to press the optical source within the optical housing, as well as measure the optical output of the component during the pressing process. 
   However, prior to initiating any measurement processes, embodiments of the invention generally provide for initializing the apparatus for conducting the pressing and measurement processes. For example, steps  803  and  804  of  FIG. 8   a  illustrates initialization steps that are generally conducted prior to beginning a press and measurement process, or alternatively, prior to beginning a press and measurement process for a plurality of components, i.e., a batch. The initialization steps  803  generally corresponds to the processes associated with centering the working surface upon which the above-mentioned fixtures will be mounted with respect to a machine reference center. Further, step  803  may also include initializing the station to a reference Z plane, i.e., determining the Z position of the working surface with respect to the other components of the system, or alternatively, with respect to a reference Z position. Step  804  further illustrates initialization processes, and in particular, illustrates and initialization process that includes making initialization measurements with a backlight laser in a power off position. Initialization process of the present invention may further include initializing control devices and for systems, such as, for example, software routines, device controllers, power supplies, cameras, lighting equipment, pressure regulators, and other apparatuses or devices that may be used in conjunction with the optical component assembly and measuring apparatus of the invention. Therefore, the initialization process is generally configured to initialize the x, y, and z position of the workpiece support relative to the optical measuring equipment. Further, the initialization processes are configured to align the respective axes of the apparatus with each other, i.e., aligning the x and y axes to be exactly perpendicular to each other, while also positioning the Z axis perpendicular to the x and y axes. 
   Once the initialization process is complete, and the palette or fixture is mounted on the working surface of the press and measurement apparatus of the invention, that the method may continue to step  805 , wherein the apparatus measures the facet location of the component without the power being applied to the optical source. The measured facet location may then be recorded by an automated control system in communication with the apparatus, such as, for example, a microprocessor based controller configured to control the operation of various components of the invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the microprocessor based controller may include a personal computer configured to receive input from the measuring device, where the input may represent data corresponding to the measured facet location, and place the input into a storage medium, such as a hard drive or other commonly used computer storage medium. Thereafter, this input may be accessible to various other control systems, such that the measured facet location of the particular component may be used to conduct various other assembly or modification processes on the particular component in conjunction with the measurements taken within the press and measuring apparatus of the attention. Once the power off facet location has been measured at step  805 , the exemplary method of the invention continues to step  806 , where the optical source of the component being pressed and measured is powered on. Once the optical source of the component is powered on, the method continues to step  807 . At step  807  an initial measurement is taken of the optical output of the component with the optical source powered on. This initial measurement is generally a rough measurement configured to determine if the component is within tolerances. For example, if the optical output of the component is extremely misaligned, it may not be possible to correct for the misalignment, and therefore, the component may be discarded. Therefore, embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus that method configured to eliminate parts that are not within an initial tolerance range immediately without expending time and resources on the assembly and measurement process. As such, that method apparatus of the invention provides an efficient and accurate way of eliminating bad order parts prior to expending resources on processing the invention order parts. 
   Once the optical device is powered up in step  806 , a measurement device, such as a camera or other device configured to receive and determine the position of the optical signal output from the component being assembled, may be used to determine both the x and y position of the optical output relative to a reference point, as well as the threshold power of the optical output, as illustrated steps  808  and  809 . The measurements taken at steps  808  and  809  may be committed to a database that is accessible to various systems, as illustrated in its steps  810  and  811 . Once the power on x and y coordinates are determined and stored in the database, the method continues to step  812  wherein the laser focus is determined. In this step, the laser focus is generally determined through careful selection of the z position of the camera relative to the output of the optical device. Furthermore, both the x and y positions may be varied during the focus determination, such that the field of view of the camera is consistently able to capture the entire optical signal emitted by the optical component. Thus, in order to determine the laser focus the present invention, the apparatus essentially scans in the z direction looking for a predetermined or desired contrast that generally corresponds to laser focus, while maintaining the contrast invention within the field of view of the camera via adjustment of the x and y position of the camera or the fixture having the component secured therein. The process of adjusting the x, y, and z position is represented by step  813 . 
   The data obtained in step  813  is then committed to a database for future use, as illustrated in step  814 . The method further includes calculating the offset of the optical signal emitted from the optical component position within the measuring apparatus, as illustrated in step  815 . More particularly, the process of calculating the offsets illustrated in step  815  may generally include determining the x coordinate, y coordinate, and z coordinate with respect to a reference point, plane, or axis of the system, wherein the x, y, and z coordinates generally corresponds to the position of the optical signal at the location or the optical signal is in focus, i.e., the focal point. Additionally, step  815  includes the process of calculating a pointing angle, wherein the pointing angle generally corresponds to the angle between a horizontal axis extending from the optical source to a separate axis extending from the emission point of the optical source to the point on the reference plane in the determined z position. Thus, the pointing angle generally corresponds to the angle between the optimal signal trajectory axis, i.e., the axis upon which the optical signal would travel away from the optical component if there were zero offset present in the component, and the axis upon which the optical signal actually travels away from the optical component. Since these two axes are different, the pointing angle represents the angle between the respective axes. 
   Once the respective components of the offset are calculated, the components are generally committed to one or more databases, as illustrated in step  816 . In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 8   a , individual databases are set up to receive the individual plane or components, as well as a separate database configured to receive the pointing angle for each component measured in the exemplary apparatus of the invention. With the optical offset measured and recorded, the method of the invention generally continues to step  817 , where the optical component is removed from the fixture or palette of the invention. Thereafter, the optical component may be moved to a separate apparatus configured to compensate for the optical offset inherently present within the optical component, wherein the optical offset has been measured and stored in the above noted databases, as illustrated in step  818 . 
   Once the optical component is moved to a second machine configured to mechanically adjust the optical offset of the component, as stated in step  818 , the second machine may access the previously stored data, i.e., the data obtained at step  816 ,  810 ,  811 , and  814 , in order to determine what physical modifications may be made to the component to correct for the optical offset. For example, the information obtained in step  815  and stored in step  816  may be used to determine what portions of the outer diameter of the optical housing/optical component may be milled in order to counteract for the optical offset of the component. Put simply, the offset information may be used to determine what portions of the outer mounting surface of the optical component may be milled or shaved away in order to physically adjust the optical axis of the component such that the optical output is aligned with the center of the component, i.e., such that the optical offset of the output of the component is removed or at least counteracted via the physical adjustment of the mounting surfaces of the component, which is illustrated in step  819  and  820 . Once the outer portion of the optical component is machined to adjust for the optical offset measured in the above noted process, the method may continue to press the laser into the housing at step  821 , mount the optical component on the camera station at step  822 , and then mechanically adjust for the optical housing, i.e., a bend component, at step  824 , in order to finally align the optical output of the optical component. Once the final alignment has been made, the information corresponding to measurements of the optical component may be committed to a database at step  825 . The information contained in the database may then be accessed by other component assembly processes, sales processes, test processes, and or any other processes associated with optical components such that the exact parameters of the component, i.e., the outer dimensions and the characteristics of the optical output, may be taken into account in subsequent processes. 
     FIG. 9  illustrates a graphical view of the optical offset measurement process  900 . The graphical illustration of measurement process  900  is best illustrated with respect to three reference axes, i.e., x axis  909 , y axis  910 , and z axis or machine  0  axis  901 . The optical signal emitting end of the optical component being measured is generally represented by  902 . Therefore, if the optical component to admitting the optical signal is perfectly aligned, then the optical signal will be transmitted therefrom and intersect the x-y plane at point  911 , wherein point  911  is positioned directly below point  902 . By away of example, if the point of optical emission corresponds with the machine  0  axis and the optical component is perfectly aligned, then the point at which the optical signal intersects the x-y plane will correspond with the intersection of axis  901 , axis  910 , and axis  909 . When the optical point  911  does not correspond with the machine zero point, then the offset of point  911  may be measured, and generally is measured in terms of the x component of the machine offset  904  and the y component of the machine offset  906 . However, regardless of the initial position of point  902 , the measuring apparatus and method of the invention may calculate the optical offset of the component. More particularly, once the optical component to be measured is positioned within the apparatus of the invention, the optical component may be powered all on such that the  10  optical signal is admitted therefrom. The optical signal, which is generally represented by arrow  912  in  FIG. 9 , propagates towards the x-y plane and intersects the plane at point  903 . Since point  903  does not correspond with point  911 , it is apparent that the optical component has an offset. Therefore, embodiments of the invention are configured to measure the offset between point  903  and point  911 , and furthermore, correct for the optical offset between the respective points. 
   Once point  903  is determined, the method of the present invention may calculate the x-component  905  of the optical offset, the y-component of the optical offset  906 , the pointing angle  908 , and the z-axis correction for the optical offset/focal point. In particular, trigonometric calculations may be used to determine each of the above noted in parameters from the measured position of point  903  in the measurement plane. However, the z-direction offset and the pointing angle are generally not measured parameters, as they need to be calculated from the measured parameters, i.e., the x and y components of the measured offset. Further, although the pointing angle is an important to the method of the invention, the calculation of the z-axis offset correction is critical to the future operation of the component. More particularly, as described in the methodology above, the measurement plane generally corresponds to the focal point of the component. However, the focal point of the component as measured corresponds to the focal point to at the offset, and therefore, once the offset is corrected, the focal point measured for the component with the offset when the longer be valid for the component with the offset corrected. By way of explanation, the path of optical signal  912  generally corresponds to the hypothenuse of a triangle consisting of a first side (the z direction side) and a second side (the reference plane side). Therefore, when the pointing angle is minimized, i.e., when the offset is corrected, then the hypothenuse generally corresponds with the first side of the previously mentioned triangle. Since the hypothenuse is always longer than either of the remaining sides of a triangle, it is apparent that the measured focal point of the optical component with the optical offset the will be shorter then the two focal point of the component with the optical offset corrected, as when the hypothenuse is swung toward the first side, it will be longer than the first side. Thus, it is important to calculate and record the z-offset correction, as this number will directly change the previously measured focal point distance of the component. 
   In another embodiment of the invention the press and measurement apparatus of the invention may be used to press an optical component into an optical housing proximate an optical source. More particularly, the apparatus of the invention may be used to press an optical lens into an optical housing having an optical source therein. In this type of pressing operation the lens may be pressed into the optical housing toward an optical source, such as a laser, for example, while the output of the component is observed or measured by the apparatus of the invention. Thus, the pressing operation, i.e., the depth to which the lens is pressed into the housing, may be controlled in accordance with the optical output of the component as the lens is pressed therein. More particularly, the optical output may be observed in order to press the lens to the optimal focal point of the device via observance of the optical output. The observance process may include observing and/or measuring the intensity, shape, configuration, contrast, and other parameters of the output and comparing the observed parameters to parameters corresponding to a component that is optimized. The comparison process may then be used to control the press operation to insure that the lens is pressed to the optimal depth, which is generally the focal point. 
   While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow