Procedure for computer-controlled cutting out of shapes - in which outline of shape is projected onto material by computer-controlled light source and manoeuvred using computer input system

摘要

In order to cut out required shapes from a flat material, the outline of the shape is projected onto the material by a computer-controlled light source and is manoeuvred into the required position and orientation by the use of a suitable computer input system. This position and orientation are then stored in the computer for use by the cutting machine. Pre-designed closed outlines are used, and these outlines may be projected together witha suitable contrasting background colour. A menu of selectable shapes may be projected onto or near the sheet of raw material. The raw material is attached to the table of a computer-controlled cutting machine, and a video-projector may be used to project the outlines required. The device is intended for use particularly in cutting shapes out of patterned fabrics or lacquered leather. USE/ADVANTAGE - This method is used for cutting out shapes from fabric or leather or other flat materials, such as for the manufacture of footwear. The procedure proposed allows the cutting out to be achieved quickly and simply and without the use of patterns, and enables the user to minimise raw material wastage while taking account of imperfections etc. in the raw material.