Abstract: A method for laser engraving a three-dimensional image into a workpiece includes providing a plurality of pieces of artwork which form a composite three-dimensional image. Each piece of artwork corresponds to a particular layer of material to be removed from the workpiece. The pieces of artwork are sequentially read by laser system program software which translates the lines on each piece of artwork into signals corresponding to laser paths. The signals are received by the laser system control assembly for directing the laser beam along the workpiece in a layer-by-layer relationship corresponding to the sequentially read pieces of artwork. The use of the plurality of pieces of artwork allows for a layer-by-layer removal of material in the workpiece such that the power of the laser need not be continuously adjusted according to the depth of penetration into the workpiece. The method allows for various engraved images to be presented having various sloped surfaces therein.

Abstract: A method for laser engraving a three-dimensional image into a workpiece according to color shades found in an original piece of artwork. The original piece of artwork is separated into a plurality of illustrations with each illustration corresponding to a particular layer of material to be removed from the workpiece in accordance with a selected color shade found in the original artwork. The illustrations are sequentially read by laser system program software which translates the lines on each illustration into signals corresponding to laser paths. The signals are received by the laser system control assembly for directing the laser beam along the workpiece in a layer-by-layer relationship corresponding to the sequentially read illustrations. The use of the plurality of illustrations allows for a layer-by-layer removal of material in the workpiece in correspondence with the various color shades on the original piece of artwork.

Abstract: A method for engraving an image pattern onto an impression die plate utilizes laser engraving and acid attacking techniques. In one embodiment, a brass plate is provided having a nickel coating thereon. A laser removes selected portions of the nickel coating according to a preselected image pattern so as to expose the underlying portions of the brass plate. Upon immersion of the plate into an acid bath, the acid attacks the exposed plate portions so as to present depressions in the plate. Upon removal of the plate from the bath a series of depressions and remaining coating portions on the plate present undulations thereon corresponding to the desired pattern image. This image is then impressed onto a medium, e.g. as a foil or the like. Various materials may be used for the plate, coating and acid bath. An electrically charged chrome coating may also be used with a non-electrically charged chrome being the acid bath.