Alignment device

Abstract

An alignment device provides one or more references, such as laser lines and planes in horizontal and vertical orientations. One version of the alignment device includes an optics mounting assembly situated in a pivot socket on a frame to provide an output beam. A spring system and one or more alignment assemblies align and secure the optics mounting assembly in the socket. As a result, the output beam has a desired orientation with respect to true level. The spring system holds the optics mounting assembly in communication with the alignment assemblies to reduce system backlash. One implementation of the pivot socket has a surface in the form of a sphere's interior surface. A set of support members on the optics mounting assembly rest on the pivot socket's spherical surface—causing the output reference beam to extend from the center of a sphere including the socket's spherical surface. This reduces the translation of the output reference beam's origin when the optics mounting assembly pivots in the socket.

We claim:  
     
         1 . An apparatus comprising: 
 a pivot socket;    an optics mounting assembly extending through said pivot socket;    at least one spring directing said optics mounting assembly through said pivot socket; and    at least one alignment assembly in communication with said optics mounting assembly.    
     
     
         2 . An apparatus according to  claim 1 , further including a level sensor mounted to said optics mounting assembly.  
     
     
         3 . An apparatus according to  claim 1 , further including a control subsystem adapted to position said optics mounting assembly.