Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

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.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim