Abstract: A method for aligning the process tools of a typical box blank die-cutting machine. The method contemplates the use of alignment openings 21 and 22 on the surface of male and female tools 19 and 20 corresponding to a cut through-hole 16 on test sheet 14. As test sheet is urged through the process, a series of alignment cylinders, 18, 24 are used to insure each of the male and female tools and test sheet are aligned by having the alignment cylinders fall cleaning through the various alignment openings and through-hole. Once the tools at each position of the process are aligned, alignment screws 31 and alignment members 28 on the machine frame 25 serve to fix the position of the tools relative to the position of the sheets to be die-cut, stripped and blanked. Accordingly, the method contemplates alignment and set-up of the machine based upon the urged position of the sheets to be etched and cut.

Abstract: The present invention contemplates an outfeed lift ramp (24) for use with a male (19) and female (18) combination of blanking dies for separating a diecut paper box blank (21) from an attendant web portion (20). Outfeed lift ramp (24) is appended to the leading edge (33) of female die member (18) adjacent to blanking through holes (32) at preselected points corresponding to a series of naturally occurring or benign box blank slots (31). During the blanking operation, the diecut and partially stripped sheet (17) is interposed over the die through holes and the upper arcuate portion of the lift ramp (38) extends through the through slots (31) of the sheet to be blanked thereby permitting the sheet to lie flush against the female die surface. After blanking, box blanks 21 are forced through female die through holes (32) and all that remains on the female die surface is a flexible and flimsy web (20).