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From: noring@netcom.UUCP (Jon Noring)
Newsgroups: comp.graphics,comp.misc,misc.wanted,sci.chem,sci.misc,sci.engr
Subject: Advice and Ideas Wanted For the Precision Cutting of Paper
Message-ID: <18061@netcom.UUCP>
Date: 4 Dec 90 16:46:47 GMT
Organization: Netcom- The Bay Area's Public Access Unix System {408 241-9760 guest}
Lines: 28


Hello all,

I'm currently working on a project which requires the precision
cutting (within 0.01 inch) of paper or paper-like material using a
computer to guide the cutter.  The cut shape will, in general,
be quite complex (i.e., it won't be a straight line but rather will
be quite "jagged").  I'd like to get your ideas as to how to do
this.  Of course, doing this at a minimum of cost, and to be able
to do it at home, without the need for bulky and costly equipment,
would definitely be a plus.  For various reasons, I'm not interested
in jobbing this out to another company.

At this time, I've only identified variations of laser cutters as the
way to cut the paper, but I have not yet found any that are reasonably
priced (i.e., less than $10,000).  Maybe combining a laser with a
precision x-y plotter will do the job.  Since I am not necessarily
restricted to paper, maybe some chemical etching process with a paper-
thin material might work.  The sky's the limit with innovative ideas
that are not, at first glance, obvious.  Of course, I would like to
know of any commercial equipment that meets my requirements.

I thank you in advance for your help and ideas.

Jon Noring

(415) 294-8153
(415) 862-1101 (voice mail) 


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