Shadow mask inserter apparatus and method

Abstract

Apparatus is disclosed for use in the manufacture of a color cathode ray picture tube. The tube has a glass face panel with a rearwardly extending flange with a plurality of studs extending radially inwardly from the flange. The tube includes a shadow mask suspended in precise proximity to the panel by an equal plurality of leaf springs. The rearwardly extending springs are attached to the mask in an orientation substantially parallel with the axis of said tube. The springs have an aperture at the distal end for engagement with an associated one of the studs. Engagement means for each of the springs for engaging the apertures with the studs during insertion of the mask into the panel comprise the following: Spring depressor means provide for bending the spring adjacent to the mask, and the spring depressor means include channel means parallel with the spring for accepting the distal end of the spring. V-groove tip means at a distal end of the spring depressor means and aligned with the channel means provide for locating and aligning the stud with the channel means. Pusher means provide for pushing the distal end of the spring along the channel toward and over the stud during mask insertion. As a result, as the distal ends of the springs are pushed over the studs, the apertures, being aligned with the studs, positively snap into substantial engagement with the studs, after which the V-groove tip means are withdrawn, thus providing consistent and unequivocal mutual engagement of the mask with the panel.