Abstract: In a known method for machine-cutting a plate-shaped workpiece, position and/or geometry and/or dimensions of the workpiece are detected without contact by means of a camera and the corresponding data are subjected to an evaluation by means of image processing. Starting from this, to permit a precise and reproducible detection of the position and/or geometry and/or dimensions of the workpiece to be treated without spending a lot of time, it is suggested according to the invention that the recording of the data should comprise a method step for the coarse localization of a workpiece edge, in which the camera is operated in a first operative mode with lower optical resolution, and a second method step for determining the exact positional data of the found workpiece edge, in which the camera is operated in a second operative mode with higher optical resolution.

Abstract: The cutting torch according to the invention is provided with an electric internal ignition device (3) and comprises a high-voltage source (19) arranged inside the cutting torch. The high-voltage source (19) contains a high-voltage transformer (4) with a rod-shaped ferrite core and an electronic controller (5) comprising a Meissner oscillator (20).

Abstract: A thermal working tool (1) is movable along a workpiece surface (7) and includes a torch head (2) which has exchangeably mounted thereon cutting or welding tools (3; 4; 5) extending between the torch head (2) and the workpiece surface (7). A distance control for setting a predetermined working distance (A) between the working tool (1) and the workpiece surface (7) is carried out by a magnetic system, an alternating magnetic field being produced in a sensor body with ferromagnetic properties above the workpiece surface (7). The torch head (2) and at least one of the cutting or welding tools (3; 4; 5) contain ferromagnetic material and form at least part of the sensor body (2; 3; 4; 5). The magnetic field produced is sensed by two measuring coils, and is used for controlling the working distance (A).