Patent ID: 6517298
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: B23C,B26D,G05B,Y02P,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for selectively relieving sharp edges in a tool used in die cutting web or sheet-type work material, comprising the steps of:providing a tool for use in die cutting web or sheet-type work material having at least one aperture extending therethrough; providing a machining apparatus for supporting said tool thereon, said machining apparatus including a rotary cutter mounted thereon and moveable relative to said tool; providing a controller having machine readable shape data corresponding to at least one of said tools stored therein; operating said controller to determine, responsive to said stored shape data, locations of edge segments defined by said tool against which said work material will impinge as said work material is advanced onto said tool in a first direction; causing said controller to generate a machining path, including a path approximately equivalent to a shape defined by said at least one aperture, shifted in said first direction by a predetermined distance, which when followed by said cutter will relieve said edge segments; and operating said machining apparatus to cause said cutter to follow said machining path in response to command signals generated by said controller, thereby relieving said edge segments and preventing said work material from catching on said tool as it is advanced thereon.