Printing and=or processing of electrically conductive workpiece of unknown form using three=dimensional coordinate system - applying voltage between tool and workpiece, repeatedly positioning tool in two coordinates and bringing into contact with surface by moving in third coordinate direction.

摘要

The method involves measuring the conducting surface in at least one coordinate direction and using the measured data to print on or machine the surface. An electrical voltage is applied between the writing or machining tool and the surface of the workpiece. The shape of the surface is determined by moving the tool to points defined in the other two coordinate directions and bringing it into contact with the surface. When contact is made the tool direction is reversed and the tool moved to another point in the other two coordinates. USE/ADVANTAGE - For use with workpieces with conducting surfaces. Eliminates need for separate sensing tool.