Abstract: Apparatus and processes are utilized to pierce holes in a brittle material by the use of laser induced shock waves. The waves are generated in an environment of compressed gas which confines the shock wave and carries the debris away. The material is moved into and/or through the work area in the y-direction either by a supporting web with associated rollers or sliding action. The laser beam scans in the x-direction and computer control is utilized to either deflect a continuous beam or switch a pulsed beam "on" where a hole is desired in the material.

Abstract: This patent discloses an improved gas discharge display panel typically of the type used for luminous displays showing lines of electrically changeable alpha-numeric characters, figures and the like. The gas discharge display panel comprises a transparent front cover plate, a rear cover plate, and marginal sealing areas extending adjacent to and about the periphery of each of the plates.The rear plate includes a plurality of contiguous layers of gas impervious material and electrical wiring intermediate the layers. Intermediate the plates is a thin flat chamber containing ionozable gas. Facing each other are a plurality of dielectrically coated electrodes mounted in the chamber, the electrodes of one group being mounted on the front plate at substantially right angles to but not contacting the electrodes of the second group mounted on the rear plate. To effect a localized ionization discharge of the gas, voltages are applied to electrically selected facing electrodes.