A measuring apparatus is provided comprising: a stage, including three or more pads formed on a surface of the stage, the pads forming an invisible plane and capable of supporting a panel to be measured; a movable measuring stylus, having a tip, the measuring stylus being movable between an initial position, through an insertion region, and a measuring position; a spring, the spring being disposed to apply downward force upon the measuring stylus so that the measuring stylus presses against the panel; a lever, movably mounted on said base, capable of moving the measuring stylus between the initial position, through the insertion region, and the measuring position; and a means for measuring the difference between the height of a tip of the measuring stylus in the measuring position and the height of the invisible plane.