Patent ID: 8389903
Filing Date: 2013-03-05
Classification: B26F

Abstract:
1. A method of introducing a structure, preferably a hole or cavity or channel or well or recess, in a region of an electrically insulating substrate, said method comprising the steps: a) providing an electrically insulating substrate, b) storing electrical energy across said substrate using an energy storage element which is charged with said electrical energy, said amount of electrical energy being in the range of from 1-50000mJ/mm substrate thickness, said energy storage element being electrically connected to said substrate, said electrical energy being sufficient to significantly heat, and/or melt and/or evaporate parts or all of a region of said substrate, c) applying additional energy, preferably heat, to said substrate or a region thereof to increase the electrical conductivity of said substrate or said region thereof, and thereby initiate a current flow and, subsequently, a dissipation of said stored electrical energy within the substrate, and d) dissipating said stored electrical energy, wherein the rate of dissipating said stored electrical energy is controlled by a current and power modulating element, said current and power modulating element being part of the electrical connection between said energy storage element and said substrate.