Abstract: A gang-punch pin apparatus for punching selected hole patterns in thin sheet materials such as greensheets is provided. The gang-punch pin apparatus uses program plates in the punch apparatus which plates are positioned intermediate the non-punching end of the punch pins and a clearance plate wherein punch pins not used for punching a particular layer of the MLC are retracted into during punching. At the other punch pin locations, the punch pins, upon activation of the punch apparatus by compressing an expandable chamber, usually by application of a force on the punch apparatus, are extended through the lower portion of the punch apparatus to form vias in a greensheet. A die apparatus is also provided for use with the punch assembly to form the vias and to remove the punched material (slugs) from the die apparatus. The gang punch-pin may be shorter than conventional pins and be made at a low cost because of the thin sheet metal plates preferably used to make the component parts of the punch and die apparatus.

Abstract: A punch press uses a punch tool assembly which contains at least two punch pins of different diameters or cross-sections which are readily interchangeable in the working position by a control element which is slidable about the pin support member, and actuating means. When the punch tool assembly is rotatable about the ram to effect the movement of the punch pins from operative to inoperative positions, then a cooperating movable die is provided in order to ensure that the aligned die bores are cooperatively dimensioned and configured with respect to the punch pins.

Abstract: A coding system for applying identifying data bits to a segment of a film strip having an integrated circuit bonded to a lead pattern formed on the segment by selectively piercing marking areas of the segment. A die of a punch press has a predetermined number, normally a power of 2, of pin holes which are arranged in a predetermined array. Piercing punches, one for each pin hole, are mounted on a punch holder for limited vertical movement with respect to the punch holder. The punches are arranged so each can be inserted into its corresponding pin hole. To prevent movement of piercing punches relative to the punch holder on which it is movably mounted and to vary the data applied to a segment, a backup pin is placed between a punch backup plate and the head of the piercing punch.

Abstract: A punching machine for the cards or paper bands used in jacquards, dobbies and the like, comprises horizontal punches individually actuated by pusher means through presser rods which may be selectively brought to an ineffective oblique position. Each presser rod is attached to a needle itself attached by its upper end to a vertical rod. All these vertical rods are alternately raised and permitted to return downwardly so as to reciprocate in front of individual electromagnets which are selectively energized to retain some of the said vertical rods at their raised position. The vertical rods are disposed in successive longitudinal rows and the electromagnets are arranged in corresponding superposed horizontal elongated banks, the vertical rods of each row terminating upwardly short of the next bank of electromagnets in order not to interfere with them.