Abstract: A punching station that utilizes low cost, interchangeable, linearly operating die sets, and may be disposed in line with a printer to punch individual sheets as they proceed through the printer. Sheets exiting a printer or other machine are rapidly accelerated along a circuitous path in the punching station, and then into position between the die plates of a linearly actuated die. The sheet is stopped and punched, and then rapidly accelerated out of the punch to exit the punching station. Each sheet is accelerated to a speed that is typically greater than the speed of the sheet as it exits the printer. Die sets having different pin sizes and configurations are interchangeable within the punching station in order to permit rapid die changes, and the die pins are preferably made of powdered metal to yield low cost die sets.

Abstract: A die pin retainer subassembly for use in a die assembly that slidably engages with a die punching machine comprises an elongated retainer, which includes at least one hole for receiving a die pin, and an elongated retaining bar disposed over the enlarged head of the die pin. At least one of the retainers on the retaining bar is in the form of a channel and the retainer and the retaining bar are sized and configured to nest along the lateral direction to minimize any relative lateral movement.

Abstract: A die pin retainer subassembly for use in a die assembly that slidably engages with a die punching machine comprises an elongated retainer, which includes at least one hole for receiving a die pin, and an elongated retaining bar disposed over the enlarged head of the die pin. At least one of the retainers on the retaining bar is in the form of a channel and the retainer and the retaining bar are sized and configured to nest along the lateral direction to minimize any relative lateral movement.