Abstract: A cutting die is formed by scanning a laser beam along a path corresponding to a blade pattern, and introducing a selected powder to build up an integral blade of high grade, and hard-to-wear material on the relatively softer die body. The final blade shape is machined or produced by EDM or milling. Further hardening by heat treatment is optional. Other heat sources and cladding materials could be used.

Abstract: A punch system for rigid and brittle plastic sheet materials such as polycarbonates comprising a punch body mounted in a carrier board and having an upwardly projecting head portion which defines the shape of the hole to be punched, a ring of high durometer urethane mounted on the punch head to serve as a stabilizer and stripper and a disk of high durometer urethane mounted on the under surface of the press platen directly opposite the punch to receive the punch head and the slug of punched material during the punching operation. The punch is used in combination with a steel rule die but can be used either with other punches or alone.