Digital flatbed cutting machine

Abstract

The present invention describes a digital flatbed cutting machine. The digital flatbed cutting machine includes a flatbed on which a printed workpiece is positioned. The head unit of the digital flatbed cutting machine is laterally movable in a parallel plane above the flatbed in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction. A main cutting head is mounted to the head unit and includes a main cutting assembly with a main tool or main blade for cutting the workpiece. The main cutting assembly moves in a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis. A selected cutting board is removably mounted to the main cutting assembly and optionally to a secondary cutting assembly of the digital flatbed cutting machine. The cutting board includes at least one mounting mechanism, each mounting mechanism being configured to mount a respective secondary tool or secondary blade for cutting the workpiece in parallel with the main tool or main blade.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to digital flatbed cutting machines and in particular to cutting machines which can be used to cut workpieces. The workpieces may include sheets or rolls of material such as cards, paper or label material. Background Art

[0002] Digital flatbed cutting machines are known. In a typical cutting machine of this type, a workpiece such as a sheet or roll of card, paper or label material is placed on a flatbed. An example of a digital flatbed cutting machine is provided by Vivid Laminating Technologies Ltd of Matrix House, Norman Court, Ivanhoe Business Park, Ashbydela Zouch, Leicestershire, LE652UZ, United Kingdom product.

[0003] For example, the flat plate can be the upper portion of a conveyor belt. A feeder can hold a stack of workpieces at one end of the conveyor belt, and the conveyor belt can move each workpiece in turn from the feeder to a working position for cutting by a cutting machine. Each workpiece is then moved by the conveyor belt to a collection tray. Each workpiece can be printed with one or more images or designs and one or more registration marks.

[0004] The workpieces can also be supplied from a first roll upstream of the platen and collected on a second roll downstream of the platen.

[0005] A digital flatbed cutting machine typically includes a head unit mounted on an assembly above the flatbed that can move the head unit in a controlled manner in a parallel plane above the flatbed (i.e., in a plane defined by an x-axis and a perpendicular y-axis). The head unit can move along a support rail extending above the flatbed in a first direction (i.e., the Y-axis direction). For example, the support rail itself can move along a second direction (i.e., the x-axis direction) along side rails located on both sides of the flatbed. The conveyor belt is typically configured to move the workpiece in the x-axis direction. If supplied from a roll, the workpiece typically moves in the x-axis direction on the flatbed.

[0006] The head unit may include a cutting head having a tool or blade for cutting the workpiece. The tool or blade may typically be movable vertically relative to the plate (i.e., in a z-axis direction perpendicular to both the x-axis and y-axis directions). In particular, the tool or blade may be movable between a first position spaced from the workpiece and a second position in contact with the workpiece for cutting. The head unit may also include other tool heads, such as an indentation head including an indentation wheel for indenting the workpiece.

[0007] Before the workpiece is processed, the head unit can be precisely aligned with the workpiece. For example, the head unit can include a camera and use optical recognition of one or more printed alignment marks on the workpiece or the workpiece outline on the flat plate. Once the head unit is precisely aligned with respect to the workpiece positioned on the flat plate, the workpiece can be cut by moving the head unit and operating the head unit. The cutting of the workpiece can be based on information stored in a digital file, which is used to control the operation of the digital flatbed cutting machine. In particular, the digital file can include cutting information for controlling the movement of the head unit along the x-axis and y-axis directions when the workpiece is processed using a cutting head, as well as information for controlling the cutting head, such as raising or lowering a tool or knife of the cutting head.

[0008] A series of discrete images or designs are usually printed on the workpiece, which need to be cut out individually using a digital flatbed cutter. For example, the printed workpiece may include a series of printed stickers, labels, postcards or business cards. The printed workpiece may include an (rxc) array of images or designs, where r is an integer representing the number of images or designs arranged along the x-axis direction when the workpiece is arranged on the flatbed (i.e., the number of rows), and c is an integer representing the number of images or designs arranged along the y-axis direction (i.e., the number of columns). When using a traditional digital flatbed cutter, the cutter or blade of the cutting head will be used to cut around each individual image or design, so the cutting information will include information for cutting around all images or designs in the (rxc) array. For example, the cutting information may include an (rxc) array of matching cutting contours, where each cutting contour extends generally around a respective printed image or design. The digital flatbed cutting machine will be controlled by the cutting information to position the head unit at a first position above the workpiece, lower the knife or blade, move the head unit to cut around the first image or design according to the first cutting contour, raise the knife or blade and reposition the head unit to a second position above the workpiece, lower the knife or blade, move the head unit to cut around the second image or design according to the second cutting contour, raise the knife or blade and reposition the head unit to a third position over the workpiece, and so on until the cutting process is completed. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present invention provides a digital flatbed cutting machine, comprising:

[0010] a flat plate on which the printed workpiece can be placed;

[0011] a head unit movable laterally in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction;

[0012] a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable along a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis; and

[0013] A cutting plate is removably mounted to the main cutting assembly, the cutting plate including at least one secondary tool or blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or blade.

[0014] The present invention also provides a digital flatbed cutting machine, comprising:

[0015] a flat plate on which the printed workpiece can be placed;

[0016] a head unit movable laterally in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction; and

[0017] a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable along a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis;

[0018] The main cutting assembly is configured to removably mount a cutting plate. The cutting plate may include at least one secondary tool or secondary blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with the main tool or primary blade. The cutting plate may include at least one mounting mechanism, each mounting mechanism being configured to mount a respective secondary tool or secondary blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with the main tool or primary blade.

[0019] The present invention also provides a cutting board configured to be removably mounted to a main cutting assembly of a digital flatbed cutting machine (such as the digital flatbed cutting machine described above). The cutting machine may include at least one secondary tool or secondary blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with a primary tool or primary blade of the main cutting assembly. The cutting board may include at least one mounting mechanism, each mounting mechanism being configured to mount a corresponding secondary tool or secondary blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with a primary tool or primary blade of the main cutting assembly.

[0020] Although the cutting board is removably mounted (or configured to be removably mounted) to the main cutting assembly, it is readily understood that, after mounting, the cutting board will remain temporarily secured to the main cutting assembly until intentionally removed by the user so that a rigid mechanical connection is maintained between the cutting board and the main cutting assembly during the cutting process. The rigid mechanical connection ensures that the cutting board moves in conjunction with the main cutting assembly, for example, so that one or more secondary tools or secondary blades are raised and lowered with the main tool or primary blade mounted on the main cutting assembly, and that one or more secondary tools or secondary blades move in conjunction with the main tool or primary blade when the workpiece is cut and the main cutting head and the main cutting assembly are moved by the head unit. In other words, this rigid mechanical connection ensures that any movement of the main tool or primary blade is substantially accurately mirrored by each secondary tool or secondary blade for consistent parallel cutting of the workpiece. The mounted cutting board can be temporarily secured to the main cutting assembly by any suitable means, such as one or more mechanical securing mechanisms.

[0021] The cutting board is preferably substantially rigid and can maintain a fixed orientation relative to the main cutting assembly during the cutting process. The cutting board can be made of any suitable material (such as metal) and can have any suitable shape or structure. For example, the cutting board can have a flat or planar structure, and it can be formed to be removably mounted to the main cutting assembly and optional auxiliary cutting assembly, see below.

[0022] When a cutting board is mounted to the main cutting assembly, a digital flatbed cutter can perform two or more identical cutting actions simultaneously or in parallel. This is because the movement of the primary cutter or blade is mirrored by each secondary cutter or blade on the cutting board. As described in detail below, this can significantly reduce the time required to cut around a printed image or design array. Because the cutting board is removably mounted (or configured to be removably mounted), it can be removed or unloaded from the main cutting assembly when it is not needed. Without a cutting board, the digital flatbed cutter can be used like a traditional cutting machine, where the cutting is performed using the primary cutter or blade.

[0023] The cutting plate can be moved along the z-axis direction by the main cutting assembly. This means that all knives or blades of the digital flatbed cutting machine will be raised and lowered simultaneously by the action of the main cutting assembly.

[0024] If the cutting board includes a mounting mechanism for mounting a secondary tool or a secondary blade, the mounting mechanism is preferably spaced substantially uniformly along the cutting board so that the secondary tools or secondary blades are spaced substantially uniformly along the cutting board. In other words, the secondary tools or secondary blades are preferably spaced at the same predetermined distance. When the cutting board is mounted to the main cutting assembly, the secondary tool or secondary blade closest to the main cutting assembly is preferably spaced at the same predetermined distance as the main tool or primary blade, that is, so that all tools or blades of the digital flatbed cutting machine are spaced substantially uniformly. The cutting board is preferably mounted to the main cutting assembly so that it extends substantially along the y-axis direction of the digital flatbed cutting machine. This means that one or more secondary tools or secondary blades are also spaced along the y-axis direction of the digital flatbed cutting machine, that is, they extend laterally across the width of the flatbed. The angle of the cutting board relative to the main cutting assembly can be fixed, for example, so that it extends completely along the y-axis direction of the digital flatbed cutting machine. If the workpiece is supplied by a roll upstream of the flatbed and optionally gathered on a second roll downstream of the flatbed, the workpiece will generally be accurately positioned on the flatbed and the angle of the cutting board may not need to be adjusted. More specifically, since the workpiece extends between the upstream roll and the downstream roll, the multiple rows of images or designs are usually completely collinear along the y-axis direction of the digital flatbed cutting machine. The sheet workpiece is usually also precisely positioned on the flatbed, but in the case where the multiple rows of images or designs are not completely collinear along the y-axis direction of the digital flatbed cutting machine, it is preferred to adjust the angle of the cutting board relative to the main cutting assembly. Therefore, the cutting board can be pivotally mounted to the main cutting assembly so that its angle can be adjusted to compensate for any slight misalignment of the workpiece on the flatbed before cutting. The angle can be adjusted by a suitable actuator, and the actuator can be optionally provided as part of the auxiliary cutting assembly or the auxiliary cutting head, see below. If the flatbed digital cutting machine does not have an auxiliary cutting head or an auxiliary cutting assembly, an actuator can be provided as part of the main cutting head or the main cutting assembly. The actuator can be, for example, a linear actuator or a rotary actuator. After the precise orientation of the workpiece on the flatbed is determined, the actuator can be controlled (for example, by a control unit) to automatically adjust the angle of the cutting board to match the collinear requirements of the workpiece. It is expected that only small angular adjustments will be required, for example, less than ±10° relative to the y-axis direction. Adjusting the angle of the cutting plate relative to the main cutting assembly means that the cutting plate can be perfectly aligned with multiple lines of images or designs printed on the workpiece for more accurate parallel cutting.

[0025] The installation of a cutting board with a secondary tool or blade allows a digital flatbed cutter to effectively cut a workpiece including an image or design of an (r xc) array. For example, if a workpiece is printed with a discrete image or design of a 4x3 array, it can be effectively cut around these images or designs by using a cutting board with two secondary tools or blades. When the cutting board is installed to the main cutting assembly, the digital flatbed cutter will have a total of three tools or blades, which are preferably substantially evenly spaced apart by the same predetermined distance along the y-axis direction. Therefore, the tool or blade can cut three images or designs in each row of the 4x3 array at the same time. It is easy to understand that the images or designs in the same row must be appropriately translated along the y-axis direction when printing. In particular, the cutting profile traced by the main tool or blade will be mirrored by each secondary tool or blade, but translated or offset along the y-axis direction. If the tool or blade is spaced apart by a predetermined distance D, the cutting profile will be translated or offset by the same predetermined distance D along the y-axis direction, and the image or design must be printed into each cutting profile. The cutting profiles in each row are identical and are translated in the y-axis direction without changing their size, shape or orientation. The secondary tool or secondary blade will cut along with the main tool or main blade (i.e., the secondary tool or secondary blade will move up and down with the main cutting assembly and also move above the workpiece through the head unit on which the main cutting head is mounted) so that each tool or blade cuts a row of identical cutting profiles. The cutting profiles in each row can have any suitable shape, but their maximum size along the y-axis direction should not exceed the predetermined distance D between the tools or blades, otherwise the cutting profiles cut by the tools or blades spaced in one row will overlap. After the first row of cutting profiles is cut, the head unit will be repositioned and the tool or blade will synchronously cut the second row of cutting profiles, etc. Although all cutting profiles in the array are usually the same, only the cutting profiles in a single row need to be the same because they are cut together in a single cutting action. Each row can have a different cutting profile. However, if the same cutting board is used for parallel cutting, the cutting profiles for a particular workpiece will have the same translation amount along the y-axis direction. The image or design printed within each cut-out outline may be the same or different.

[0026] To further increase flexibility, a plurality of different cutting boards may be provided (e.g., as adapters), and the user may select and install the appropriate cutting board for a particular cutting process. Each cutting board may have a different number of secondary tools or blades, and / or each cutting board may be configured to mount two or more secondary tools or blades having different spacings therebetween (i.e., wherein the secondary tools or blades are spaced apart at different predetermined distances). When the cutting board is mounted to the main cutting assembly, each cutting board may be configured to mount only one secondary tool or blade, wherein the spacings between the secondary tool or blade and the main tool or blade are different. Alternatively, the cutting board may allow manual adjustment of the spacings between the secondary tools or blades. In each case, the secondary tool or blade closest to the main cutting assembly is preferably provided with the same spacings with the main tool or blade, so that when the cutting board is mounted to the main cutting assembly, all tools or blades are preferably spaced apart substantially evenly along the y-axis direction. The cutting board may also allow manual adjustment of the spacings between the closest secondary tools or blades and the main tool or blade.

[0027] The main cutting assembly may also include a cutting board mount configured for removably mounting one of a plurality of different cutting boards.

[0028] In practice, it is easy to understand that the spacing between the cutters or blades does not have to be the same, that is, the cutters or blades do not have to be evenly spaced along the y-axis direction. If the spacing is known and remains fixed during the cutting process, there can be appropriate translation or offset between the images or designs in the same row when printing the workpiece. But it is usually most convenient to make the spacing between the cutters or blades the same because this can simplify the pre-printing process. A digital file for printing a workpiece can be created for use with a specific cutting board so that the printed workpiece has an array of images or designs with an appropriate number of images or designs in each row and with appropriate translation or offset between the images or designs. Then, in the prior art, the digital file can be used to print the workpiece (for example, by inkjet or laser printing), and if a specific cutting board is equipped, the workpiece can be effectively cut using a digital flatbed cutter. For example, if a particular cutting board has n secondary cutters or blades, where n is an integer, and the predetermined distance D between each cutter or blade is the same, then the digital file for printing may include an array of (rx(n+1)) discrete images or designs, where (n+1) represents the number of images or designs arranged along the y-axis direction (i.e., the number of columns), and where the images or designs in each row are translated or offset by the same predetermined distance D. If the primary cutter or blade and the secondary cutters or blades are spaced apart by different distances along the y-axis direction (e.g., where the spacing between the primary cutter or blade and the first secondary cutter or blade of the cutting board is D1, the spacing between the first secondary cutter or blade and the second secondary cutter or blade is D2, and so on), then the images or designs in each row will be appropriately translated or offset (e.g., D1 between the first pattern or image and the second pattern or image, D2 between the second pattern or image and the third pattern or image, and so on).

[0029] Each secondary tool or secondary blade is removably mounted to the cutting board. Each mounting mechanism can have any suitable structure. For example, each mounting mechanism can be an opening in the cutting board for removably receiving the respective secondary tool or secondary blade. Each mounting mechanism can also include a suitable adapter or connector that cooperates with a matching adapter or connector on the secondary tool or secondary blade. The mounting mechanism allows different types of secondary tools or secondary blades to be fitted to a specific cutting board. Each secondary tool or secondary blade will be temporarily fixed to the cutting board or its respective mounting mechanism until the user intends to remove it. The main tool or main blade can also be removably mounted to the main cutting assembly so that different types of main tools or main blades can be fitted to the main cutting assembly.

[0030] The first end of the cutting board can be removably mounted (or adapted to be removably mounted) to the main cutting assembly. The digital flatbed cutting machine may also include a cutting head, which includes a secondary cutting assembly that can move in conjunction with the main cutting assembly. This includes the movement of the secondary cutting assembly relative to other parts of the secondary cutting head in the z-axis direction. In other words, the main cutting assembly and the secondary cutting assembly can be lifted and lowered together. The second end of the cutting board can be removably mounted (or adapted to be removably mounted) to the secondary cutting assembly. The use of the secondary cutting assembly helps to maintain the orientation of the cutting board, and also helps to avoid bending of the cutting board that negatively affects the cutting quality in the z-axis direction. The digital flatbed cutting machine may also include a support rail extending above the flatbed. The head unit may be configured to be movable along the support rail in the y-axis direction. The main cutting head is mounted to the head unit and is moved along the support rail by the head unit in the y-axis direction. The secondary cutting head may be configured to be movable along the support rail in the y-axis direction together with the head unit and the main cutting head. The auxiliary cutting head need not be driven by its own actuator to move along the support rails, but can be moved along the support rails by the main cutting head through the mechanical connection provided by the cutting board. If the cutting board is not connected to the auxiliary cutting head assembly, the auxiliary cutting head can be manually moved along the support rails by the user. The auxiliary cutting head generally includes a suitable actuator for lifting and lowering the auxiliary cutting assembly together with the main cutting assembly. The auxiliary cutting head or assembly may also include a suitable actuator for adjusting the angle of the cutting board relative to the main cutting assembly as described above. In particular, the actuator can move the second end of the cutting board forward and backward along the x-axis direction, wherein the first end of the cutting board is pivotally mounted to the main cutting board assembly, thereby adjusting the angle of the cutting board. The pivot point for the cutting board may be located at the position of the main tool or main blade. Although the second end of the cutting board will move relative to the auxiliary knife assembly, it is easy to understand that the mechanical connection between the cutting board and the auxiliary cutting assembly remains unchanged. Alternatively, a suitable actuator may also be provided in the main cutting head or main cutting assembly for adjusting the angle of the cutting board, for example, if the cutting board is pivotally mounted to the main cutting assembly, the actuator may pivot the cutting board about a pivot point. The pivot point for the cutting board may be located at the location of the main cutter or blade.

[0031] The flat plate may be a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt may be configured to move the workpiece along the x-axis direction.

[0032] As described above, the head unit can be mounted on a support rail extending above the flat panel. The head unit can be moved along the support rail (i.e., along the y-axis direction) by an actuator. The support rail can be mounted on one or more side rails. The support rail can be moved along one or more side rails (i.e., along the x-axis direction) by one or more actuators. For example, the side rails can be located on opposite sides of the flat panel and arranged substantially perpendicular to the support rails. The support rails and side rails allow the head unit to move in any direction under precise control of one or both of the x-axis and y-axis (i.e., in parallel planes above the flat panel). It will be appreciated that other methods can also be used to move the head unit under precise control.

[0033] The digital flatbed cutting machine may include a control unit configured to control the operation of the head unit, the main cutting head and the main cutting assembly, and the optional auxiliary cutting head and auxiliary cutting assembly. The control unit may control the operation of all actuators. The control unit may use a digital file including cutting information, which may specify the cutting position of the workpiece. If a cutting board is equipped, it is preferred to simplify the cutting information to take into account the auxiliary tool or auxiliary blade. For example, if the workpiece is printed with a discrete image or design of an (rxc) array, each image or design is typically associated with a respective cutting profile, so that the cutting information typically includes a matching or corresponding (rxc) array of discrete cutting profiles. However, if a suitable cutting board is equipped, the cutting information only needs to include a column of cutting profiles cut by the main tool or main blade (e.g., an array of (rx 1) discrete cutting profiles). This is because the remaining cutting profiles will be automatically cut by the auxiliary tool or auxiliary blade mounted to the cutting board, and they do not need to be included in the digital file as cutting information.

[0034] In use, the workpiece is placed on the flat plate. The head unit is precisely aligned with the workpiece on the flat plate. For example, the head unit may include a camera or other optical device, and the control unit may use optical recognition of one or more printed alignment marks or workpiece outlines on the workpiece. Optical recognition allows the control unit to know the precise position and orientation of the workpiece on the flat plate and to precisely collinear the head unit with the workpiece. Once the head unit is precisely aligned, the workpiece can be cut by a primary tool or blade and one or more secondary tools or blades mounted to the cutting board. Optical recognition can also be used to allow the control unit to automatically adjust the angle of the cutting board to compensate for any misalignment of the workpiece on the flat plate, i.e., where multiple lines of printed images or designs are not completely collinear with the y-axis direction of the digital flatbed cutter.

[0035] When the cutting board is not needed, it can be removed from the main cutting assembly and the digital flatbed cutter can be used normally. If an auxiliary cutting head is provided, the cutting board can also be removed from the auxiliary cutting head assembly and the auxiliary cutting head can be manually moved to a "parking" area on the support rails where it no longer affects the normal operation of the digital flatbed cutter.

[0036] The present invention also provides a method for using a digital flatbed cutting machine, the digital flatbed cutting machine comprising:

[0037] flat;

[0038] a head unit movable laterally in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction; and

[0039] a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable along a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis;

[0040] The method includes:

[0041] mounting a cutting plate to the main cutting assembly, the cutting plate including at least one secondary tool or blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or blade;

[0042] Positioning the workpiece on the plate; and

[0043] The workpiece is cut, wherein each secondary tool or secondary blade cuts the workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or primary blade.

[0044] The cutting board may be selected from a plurality of different cutting boards, for example having different numbers of secondary knives or secondary blades and / or different spacings between the secondary knives or secondary blades.

[0045] Before cutting a workpiece, the angle of the cutting plate relative to the main cutting assembly can be adjusted.

[0046] The present invention also provides a digital flatbed cutting machine, comprising:

[0047] a flat plate on which the printed workpiece can be placed;

[0048] a head unit movable laterally in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction;

[0049] a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable in a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis; and

[0050] at least one secondary tool or secondary blade movable in conjunction with the primary tool or primary blade for cutting the workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or primary blade;

[0051] wherein the primary tool or blade and at least one secondary tool or blade are collinear and spaced apart along the cutting axis; and

[0052] The angle of the cutting axis relative to the y-axis is adjustable.

[0053] The cutting axis may be defined by a straight line passing through the primary tool or blade and each of the secondary tools or blades.

[0054] The knives or blades may be generally evenly spaced along the cutting axis, ie, they may be spaced apart by the same predetermined distance as described above.

[0055] At least one secondary tool or secondary blade can be mounted in any suitable manner, which allows each secondary tool or secondary blade to move in conjunction with the main tool or main blade. This includes movement around the flat plate along the x-axis and y-axis in parallel planes, and movement in the z-axis direction, that is, so that each secondary tool or secondary blade moves up and down with the main tool or main blade. In one arrangement described in detail above, the digital flatbed cutting machine may also include a cutting board mounted to the main cutting assembly. The cutting board will move in conjunction with the main cutting assembly and can be used to install the above-mentioned at least one secondary tool or secondary blade. Therefore, the cutting board may include at least one secondary tool or secondary blade. However, at least one secondary tool or secondary blade can also be installed without using a cutting board, for example by being installed on the main cutting assembly, or wherein the main tool or main blade and at least one secondary tool or secondary blade are all installed on a common cutting assembly, which is part of the main cutting head and is movable in the z-axis direction.

[0056] The cutting board may extend substantially in the y-axis direction, but its angle relative to the y-axis (e.g., relative to the main cutting assembly) may be adjustable. The cutting axis may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cutting board. Adjusting the angle of the cutting board will adjust the angle of the cutting axis. If a cutting board is not provided, the angle of the cutting axis may be adjusted in other ways, for example, by moving each secondary tool or secondary blade in the x-axis direction. For example, each secondary tool or secondary blade may be moved in the x-axis direction by a suitable actuator.

[0057] The cutting board may be pivotally mounted to the main cutting assembly.

[0058] As detailed above, the cutting board may be removably mounted to the main cutting assembly.

[0059] The cutting board may include at least one mounting mechanism, each mounting mechanism being configured to mount a respective secondary tool or secondary blade.Each secondary tool or secondary blade may be detachably mounted to the cutting board.

[0060] At least one secondary cutter or secondary blade may be integrally formed with the cutting plate.

[0061] A plurality of different cutting plates may be provided, for example, with different numbers of secondary knives or secondary blades and / or different spacings between the secondary knives or secondary blades. The main cutting assembly may also include a plate mount for removably mounting a selected one of the plurality of cutting plates. If a cutting plate is not provided, the spacings between the knives or blades along the cutting axis may be adjusted in another manner, for example, by moving each secondary knives or secondary blades along the cutting axis by a suitable actuator.

[0062] The first end of the cutting board can be removably mounted to the main cutting assembly. The digital flatbed cutting machine may also include a secondary cutting head, which includes a secondary cutting assembly that can be moved in conjunction with the main cutting assembly. The second end of the cutting board can be removably mounted to the secondary cutting board assembly. The first end of the cutting board can be pivotally mounted to the main cutting assembly, and the position of the second end of the cutting board can be adjusted along the x-axis direction to adjust the angle between the cutting board and the cutting axis. The second end of the cutting board can be moved by a suitable actuator that forms a part of the secondary cutting head or the secondary cutting assembly. As described above, the suitable actuator may also alternatively form a part of the main cutting head or the main cutting assembly.

[0063] The digital flatbed cutting machine may further include a support rail extending above the flatbed. The head unit may be configured to be movable along the support rail in the y-axis direction. The auxiliary cutting head may be configured to be movable along the support rail in the y-axis direction together with the head unit and the main cutting head.

[0064] The present invention also provides a method for using a digital flatbed cutting machine, the digital flatbed cutting machine comprising:

[0065] flat;

[0066] a head unit movable laterally in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction;

[0067] a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable in a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis; and

[0068] at least one secondary tool or blade movable in conjunction with the primary tool or blade, wherein the primary tool or blade and the at least one secondary tool or blade are co-linear and spaced apart along the cutting axis;

[0069] The method includes:

[0070] Positioning the workpiece on the plate; and

[0071] The workpiece is cut, wherein each secondary tool or secondary blade cuts the workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or primary blade.

[0072] The method may further include adjusting the angle of the cutting axis relative to the y-axis before cutting the workpiece.

[0073] The angle of the cutting axis can be adjusted based on the orientation of the workpiece on the plate.As described above, optical recognition can be used to allow the control unit to automatically adjust the angle of the cutting axis to compensate for any misalignment of the workpiece on the plate.

[0074] The method may further include pivotally mounting a cutting board to the main cutting assembly. The cutting board may include at least one secondary tool or blade. Prior to cutting the workpiece, the angle of the cutting board relative to the main cutting assembly may be adjusted. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a digital flatbed cutting machine according to the present invention without a cutting plate installed;

[0076] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of a digital flatbed cutting machine;

[0077] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of a digital flatbed cutting machine;

[0078] Figure 3A and Figure 3B yes Figure 1 A schematic front view of a digital flatbed cutting machine with a cutting plate installed therein;

[0079] Figure 3C and Figure 3D is a schematic front elevation view of an alternative digital flatbed cutting machine having a cutting plate installed but without a secondary cutting assembly;

[0080] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C is a schematic front view of different cutting boards according to the present invention;

[0081] Figure 5 is a top view of a first printed workpiece;

[0082] Figure 6 is a visual identification of a first digital file for controlling a digital flatbed cutting machine according to the present invention;

[0083] Figure 7 is a top view of a second printed workpiece;

[0084] Figure 8 is a visual identification of a second digital file for controlling the digital flatbed cutting machine according to the present invention;

[0085] Fig. 9 is a top view of a third printed workpiece;

[0086] Fig.10 is a visual identification of a third digital file for controlling the digital flatbed cutting machine according to the present invention;

[0087] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B is a schematic top view showing how to adjust the angle of the cutting board; and

[0088] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B is a schematic top view showing how the angle of the cutting axis is adjusted when there is no cutting board. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] like Figure 1 , Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the digital flatbed cutting machine 1 includes a flatbed 2 on which a printed workpiece W can be placed.

[0090] The head unit 4 is mounted above the flat panel 2. The head unit 4 is mounted on a support rail 6 and can be moved from one side to the other along the support rail (i.e., along the y-axis direction) by a suitable actuator (not shown). The support rail 6 is mounted on a side rail (not shown) and can be moved forward and backward along the side rail (i.e., along the x-axis direction) by one or more suitable actuators (not shown). The actuators are controlled by a control unit (not shown), which may include a suitable processor and user input devices, such as a touch display or a keyboard. By controlling the actuators, the head unit 4 can be precisely positioned and can be moved in any direction in a parallel plane defined by the x-axis and y-axis above the flat panel 2.

[0091] The head unit 4 includes a main cutting head 8 with a main cutting assembly 10, which is mounted so that it can move relative to the head unit along an axis normal to the plane (i.e., along the z-axis direction). The main cutting assembly 10 includes a removably mounted main tool or blade 12. The main cutting assembly 10 can be moved by an actuator in a first position (e.g., Figure 1 , Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 3A and Figure 3B 1 and a second position, in which the main tool or main blade 12 is spaced apart from the workpiece W, and in which the main tool or main blade is in contact with the workpiece for cutting.

[0092] The auxiliary cutting head 14 is mounted on the support rail 6 and can move from one side to the other side along the support rail (i.e., along the y-axis direction). In particular, the auxiliary cutting head 14 is directly mounted to the support rail 6, rather than being indirectly mounted to the main cutting head 8 of the head unit 4. The auxiliary cutting head 14 includes an auxiliary cutting assembly 16, which is mounted so that it can be moved in conjunction with the main cutting assembly 10 along the z-axis direction by an actuator. Figure 1 In the figure, the auxiliary cutting head 14 is shown in a "parking" area at one end of the support rail 6, where it can stay when it is not needed, for example when only the main tool or main blade 12 is used to cut the workpiece.

[0093] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cutting board 18 is shown removably mounted between the main cutting assembly 10 and the secondary cutting assembly 16. More particularly, as shown, a first end of the cutting board 18 is removably mounted to the main cutting assembly 10, and a second end of the cutting board is removably mounted to the secondary cutting assembly 16. The cutting board 18 is substantially rigid and extends in the y-axis direction. The cutting board 18 is raised and lowered by the main cutting assembly 10 and the secondary cutting assembly 16, and the two components can move in coordination in the z-axis direction. A pair of secondary tools or secondary blades 20a, 20b are removably mounted to the cutting board 18. For example, the cutting board 18 can include a pair of mounting openings or other mounting mechanisms to which each secondary tool or secondary blade is fixed. Each secondary tool or secondary blade 20a, 20b will be temporarily fixed to the cutting board 18 until it is intentionally removed by the user. Therefore, the secondary tool or secondary blade can be used with different cutting boards. In other words, once a specific cutting board is selected, the required number of auxiliary tools or auxiliary blades can be fixed to the cutting board before the cutting board is mounted on the digital flatbed cutting machine. This eliminates the need for each cutting board to include one or more fixed auxiliary tools or auxiliary blades. This also means that different types of auxiliary tools or auxiliary blades can be used for different cutting processes or for different types of workpieces. Alternatively, the cutting board can also have one or more fixed auxiliary tools or auxiliary blades, which can be optionally integrated with the cutting board, that is, mounted non-detachably, so that the mounting mechanism can be omitted.

[0094] The secondary cutters or blades 20a and 20b are spaced apart by a distance D ( Figure 3B ). When the cutting board 18 is mounted to the main cutting assembly 10, the secondary cutter or blade 20a is spaced the same distance D from the primary cutter or blade 12. This means that all three cutters or blades are evenly spaced along the y-axis direction.

[0095] The auxiliary cutting head 14 and the auxiliary cutting assembly 16 are not essential. Figure 3C and Figure 3DThe digital flatbed cutting machine 1 is shown without the secondary cutting head 14 and the secondary cutting assembly 16. In this case, the second end of the cutting plate 18 is unsupported.

[0096] The cutting board 18 may be selected from a plurality of different cutting boards. Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C Some examples of different cutting boards 18 are shown, which include different numbers of secondary tools or blades, and / or different spacings. In all cases, the secondary tools or blades are evenly spaced along the y-axis direction. The secondary tool or blade 20a closest to the main tool or blade 12 (shown in dotted lines) is also spaced the same predetermined distance from the main tool or blade to make all tools or blades evenly spaced along the y-axis direction. Figure 4A A cutting board 18 is shown with three secondary knives or blades 20a, 20b and 20c spaced apart a predetermined distance D1. Figure 4B A cutting board 18 is shown with three secondary knives or blades 20a, 20b and 20c spaced apart by a predetermined distance D2, wherein D2 is greater than D1. Figure 4C A cutting board 18 is shown with four secondary cutters or blades 20a, 20b, . . . , 20d spaced apart by a predetermined distance D3, wherein D3 is equal to D1. A suitable cutting board 18 may be selected and fitted to the digital flatbed cutting machine 1.

[0097] Figure 5 A first printed workpiece W is shown, which can be conveniently used Figure 3A and Figure 3B The workpiece W is cut using the cutting board 18 shown in FIG. 1 , i.e., using two secondary cutters or blades 20a, 20b spaced a predetermined distance D apart. The workpiece W may be, for example, a printed sheet of paper, card or label material. The workpiece W is printed with a 4x3 array of discrete images or designs. 11 ,I 12 ,I 13 ,I 21 ,...,I 43 These images or designs may be printed by any suitable printing process, such as inkjet printing or laser printing. The images or designs in each row are translated or offset in the y-axis direction by a predetermined distance D that matches the spacing between the knives or blades.

[0098] The operation of the digital flatbed cutting machine 1 is controlled by a control unit (not shown).

[0099] During cutting, the movement of the head unit 4 may be controlled by a control unit using the digital file.

[0100] Figure 6FIG. 4 shows a visual representation of a digital file for cutting a first printed workpiece W, wherein the cutting information is shown in solid lines. The cutting information includes a list of identical cutting contours. 11 , O 21 ,... 41 . Cutting Outline O 11 , O 21 ,... 41 express Figure 5 The position of the first workpiece W to be cut by the primary tool or blade 12 is shown. The workpiece W will be cut in parallel by the secondary tools or blades 20a and 20b on the cutting plate 18. These same cutting profiles are shown in dotted lines but do not form part of the cutting information used by the control unit. It will be understood that only the cutting profile O 11 , O 21 ,... 41 These are provided as simple examples, and in practice they may have any suitable shape, and will generally be dictated by the shape of the printed area on the workpiece to be cut.

[0101] The first workpiece W also includes six printed alignment marks M1 , M2 , . . . , M6 .

[0102] Figure 7 A second printed workpiece W is shown, which can be conveniently used Figure 3A and Figure 3B The workpiece is cut by the cutting board 18 shown in FIG. 1 , i.e., using two secondary cutters or blades 20a, 20b spaced a predetermined distance D apart. The workpiece may be, for example, a printed sheet of paper, card or label material. The workpiece W is printed with a 4x3 array of discrete images or designs I 11 ,I 12 ,I 13 ,I 21 ,...,I 43 The images or designs may be printed by any suitable printing process, such as inkjet printing or laser printing. The images or designs in each row are translated or offset in the y-axis direction by a predetermined distance D that matches the spacing between the cutters or blades. In the second workpiece W, the images or designs in the same row have the same shape, but the shapes of the images or designs in each row are different.

[0103] Figure 8 1 shows a visual representation of a digital file for cutting a second printed workpiece W, wherein cutting information is represented by a solid line. The cutting information includes a list of cutting contours. 11 , O 21 ,... 41 . Cutting Outline O 11 , O 21 ,... 41 express Figure 7The second workpiece W is shown where it should be cut by the primary cutter or blade 12. The workpiece W will be cut in parallel by the secondary cutters or blades 20a and 20b on the cutting plate 18. These cutting contours are shown in dotted lines but do not form part of the cutting information.

[0104] The second workpiece W also includes six printed alignment marks M1 , M2 , . . . , M6 .

[0105] Fig. 9 A third printed workpiece W is shown, which can be conveniently used Figure 3A and Figure 3B The workpiece is cut using the cutting board 18 shown in FIG. 1 , i.e., using two secondary cutters or blades 20a, 20b spaced a predetermined distance D apart. The workpiece may be, for example, a printed sheet of paper, card or label material. The workpiece W is printed with an 8x3 array of discrete images or designs. 11 ,I 12 ,I 13 ,I 21 ,...,I 83 These images or designs can be printed by any suitable printing process, such as inkjet printing or laser printing. The images or designs in each row are translated or offset in the y-axis direction by a predetermined distance D that matches the spacing between the knives or blades. In this workpiece, the images or designs have the same shape, but the rows are offset relative to each other.

[0106] Fig.10 FIG. 2 shows a visual representation of a digital file for cutting a third printed workpiece W, wherein cutting information is represented by a solid line. The cutting information includes a list of cutting contours O 11 , O 21 ,... 81 . Cutting Outline O 11 , O 21 ,... 81 express Fig. 9 The third workpiece W is shown in position to be cut by the primary cutter or blade 12. The workpiece W will be cut in parallel by the secondary cutters or blades 20a and 20b on the cutting plate 18. These cutting contours are shown in dotted lines but do not form part of the cutting information.

[0107] The third workpiece W also includes six printed alignment marks M1 , M2 , . . . , M6 .

[0108] Figure 5 , Figure 7 or Fig. 9The workpiece W shown is positioned on the flat plate 2 using a feed mechanism (not shown). A stack of identical printed workpieces can be located at one end of the flat plate 2, and a single workpiece can be picked up from the stack and placed on the flat plate. The head unit is precisely aligned with the workpiece W. For example, the head unit 4 may include a camera (not shown), and the control unit may use optical recognition of printed alignment marks M1, M2, ..., M6 to determine the exact position and orientation of the workpiece W on the flat plate 2. Once the head unit 4 is precisely aligned relative to the workpiece W, the workpiece can be cut by the main tool or main blade 12. The workpiece W will also be cut in parallel by the auxiliary tools or auxiliary blades 20a, 20b. In particular, the control unit can position the head unit 4 above the workpiece W so that the tool or blade is in a position for surrounding the first row of images or designs I 11 ,I 12 ,I 13 The control unit lowers the primary and secondary cutting assemblies 10, 16 and thus the cutting board 18 until the primary tool or blade and the secondary tool or blade contact the workpiece W. The control unit then moves the head unit 4 with the tool or blade to contact the workpiece to cut around the first line of the image or design, i.e. around the cutting contour O. 11 , O 12 , O 13 The control unit raises the primary and secondary cutting assemblies 10, 16 to raise the primary tool or blade and the secondary tool or blade from the workpiece, and repositions the head unit 4 above the workpiece so that the tool or blade is in a position for cutting around the second row of images or designs. 21 ,I 22 ,I 23 The control unit lowers the main cutting assembly and the auxiliary cutting assembly 10, 16 until the main tool or blade and the auxiliary tool or blade contact the workpiece W. The control unit then moves the head unit 4 with the tool or blade to contact the workpiece W to cut around the second row of the image or design, i.e., around the cutting contour O. 21 , O 22 , O 23Synchronous cutting. The same process is performed to cut around the remaining rows. By using a cutting board 18 with sub-cutters or sub-blades 20a and 20b, the digital flatbed cutting machine 1 can cut around an entire row of printed images or designs in the same amount of time, whereas previously it was only possible to cut around a single image or design. It is not difficult to understand that different cutting boards with three, four, or five sub-cutters or sub-blades can be used to cut around discrete images or designs in an (r×4), (r×5), or (r×6) array, where r is an integer representing the number of images or designs arranged along the x-axis direction (i.e., the number of rows). In general, a cutting board with n sub-cutters or sub-blades can be used to cut around discrete images or designs in an (rx(n+1)) array, where n is an integer and (n+1) represents the number of images or designs arranged along the y-axis direction (i.e., the number of columns).

[0109] Movement of the head unit 4 along the support rails 6 also moves the secondary cutting head 16 along the support rails because the cutting board 18 is mechanically connected between the primary cutting assembly 10 and the secondary cutting assembly 16 .

[0110] The digital flatbed cutting machine 1 may include a feeding mechanism (not shown) for positioning the workpiece on the flatbed 2. Any suitable feeding mechanism may be used, for example, any suitable vacuum feeding that may be integrated into the head unit 4 or the support rails 6 and which may be used to pick up a single workpiece from a stack and position it on the flatbed 2.

[0111] The flat plate 2 may be a conveyor belt, which may be used to support the workpiece W while it is being processed, and to move the workpiece W to a collection tray. The workpiece may alternatively be supplied from a roll (not shown).

[0112] Fig.11A and Fig. 11BIt is shown how the angle of the cutting board 18 can be adjusted to match the colinear patterns A1, A2 of multiple lines of printed images or designs on the workpiece W. In particular, the first end of the cutting board 18 is pivotally connected to the main cutting assembly 10, and the auxiliary knife assembly 16 includes a suitable actuator (not shown) that moves the second end of the cutting board along the x-axis direction. Alternatively, a suitable actuator (not shown) can also be provided as part of the main cutting head or assembly 8, 10, and can adjust the angle of the cutting board 18. For example, if the digital flatbed cutting machine 1 does not include an auxiliary cutting head 14, this can be the case. The cutting board 18 pivots around the positioning point of the main tool or main blade 12. The cutting axis C is shown as a straight line, which passes through the main tool or main blade 12 and the auxiliary tools or auxiliary blades 20a, 20b and 20c. It can be seen that the cutting axis C is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cutting board 18. In this example, due to the positioning method of the workpiece W on the flatbed 2, the printed image or design is not completely colinear along the y-axis direction. The misalignment is detected (e.g., using optical recognition of printed alignment marks on the workpiece W), and the actuator is controlled to move the second end of the cutting board 18 in the X-axis direction by an appropriate distance to match the angle of the cutting board 18 with the colinear pattern A1, A2 of the printed image or design, i.e., until the cutting axis C is parallel to the colinear pattern. After this adjustment, the angle of the cutting board 18 remains fixed when cutting the workpiece W. Fig.11A and Fig. 11B In FIG. 1 , the cutting plate 18 ′ is shown in dashed lines in an initial position, in which the cutting plate extends completely in the y-axis direction. Fig.11A and Fig. 11B The cutting board 18 shown is suitable for cutting (r x 4) arrays of images or designs.

[0113] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12BIt is shown how to adjust the angle of the cutting axis C to match the alignment A1, A2 of the multiple lines of printed images or designs on the workpiece W. This co-linearity can be performed without the need for a cutting board 18. The auxiliary tools or blades 20a, 20b and 20c are mounted on the digital flatbed cutting machine so that they move in conjunction with the main tool or blade 12. In addition, each auxiliary tool or blade 20a, 20b and 20c can be moved along the x-axis direction by a suitable actuator (not shown). As shown by the arrows, each auxiliary tool or blade 20a, 20b and 20c can be moved a required distance along the x-axis direction until the cutting axis C is parallel to the alignment A1, A2 of the multiple lines of printed images or designs. (A suitable actuator (not shown) can also be used to adjust the spacing of the tools or blades along the cutting axis C. Compared with using a cutting board, this can provide additional flexibility for the spacing of the tools or blades). In this example, due to the positioning of the workpiece W on the flatbed 2, the printed image or design is not completely co-linear along the y-axis direction. After detecting the misalignment (e.g., using optical recognition of alignment marks printed on the workpiece W), the actuator is controlled to move the secondary tools or blades 20a, 20b, and 20c by an appropriate distance in the x-axis direction so that the angle of the cutting axis C matches the alignment forms A1, A2 of the printed image or design. After the adjustment is completed, the angle of the cutting axis C remains fixed when cutting the workpiece W. In other words, during the parallel cutting process, the secondary tools or blades 20a, 20b, and 20c maintain a fixed position relative to each other and the main tool or blade 12. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B The primary cutter or blade and secondary cutters or blades 12 and 20a, 20b and 20c shown in FIG. 1 are suitable for cutting an image or design of an (r x 4) array.

Claims

1. A digital flatbed cutting machine, comprising: A flat plate on which the printed workpiece can be placed; a head unit capable of translating in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction; a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable along a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis; as well as at least one secondary tool or secondary blade movable in conjunction with the primary tool or primary blade for cutting the workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or primary blade; wherein the primary tool or blade and at least one secondary tool or blade are collinear and spaced apart along the cutting axis; and The angle of the cutting axis relative to the y-axis is adjustable.

2. The digital flatbed cutter of claim 1, wherein the knives or blades are generally evenly spaced along the cutting axis. 3 . The digital flatbed cutting machine of claim 1 , further comprising a cutting plate mounted to the main cutting assembly, the cutting plate comprising at least one secondary tool or blade. The digital flatbed cutting machine of claim 3 , wherein the cutting plate extends substantially along a y-axis direction.

5. The digital flatbed cutter of claim 3, wherein the cutting plate is pivotally mounted to the main cutting assembly.

6. The digital flatbed cutting machine of claim 3, wherein the cutting plate is removably mounted to the main cutting assembly. 7 . The digital flatbed cutting machine according to claim 3 , wherein the cutting plate comprises at least one mounting mechanism, each mounting mechanism being configured to mount a corresponding auxiliary tool or auxiliary blade.

8. The digital flatbed cutting machine of claim 3, wherein each secondary cutter or secondary blade is detachably mounted to the cutting plate.

9. The digital flatbed cutting machine of claim 3, wherein at least one auxiliary tool or auxiliary blade is integrally formed with the cutting plate.

10. The digital flatbed cutting machine of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of different cutting boards, and wherein the main cutting assembly further comprises a board mount for removably mounting a selected one of the plurality of cutting boards.

11. A digital flatbed cutting machine according to claim 3, wherein a first end of the cutting plate is detachably mounted to a main cutting assembly, the digital flatbed cutting machine further comprises an auxiliary cutting head, the auxiliary cutting head comprises an auxiliary cutting assembly capable of moving in coordination with the main cutting assembly, and wherein a second end of the cutting plate is detachably mounted to the auxiliary cutting assembly. 12 . The digital flatbed cutting machine of claim 11 , further comprising a support rail extending through the flatbed, wherein the head unit is configured to be movable along the support rail in a y-axis direction. 13 . The digital flatbed cutting machine according to claim 12 , wherein the auxiliary cutting head is configured to be movable along the support rail in cooperation with the head unit and the main cutting head in a y-axis direction.

14. A method of using a digital flatbed cutting machine, the digital flatbed cutting machine comprising: flat; a head unit capable of translating in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction; a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable along a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis; as well as at least one secondary tool or blade movable in conjunction with the primary tool or blade, wherein the primary tool or blade and the at least one secondary tool or blade are co-linear and spaced apart along the cutting axis; The method includes: Positioning the workpiece on the plate; as well as The workpiece is cut, wherein each secondary tool or secondary blade cuts the workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or primary blade.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising adjusting an angle of a cutting axis relative to the y-axis before cutting the workpiece, and wherein the angle of the cutting axis is adjusted based on an orientation of the workpiece on the flatbed.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising pivotally mounting a cutting board to the main cutting assembly, the cutting board including at least one secondary cutter or blade, and adjusting an angle of the cutting board relative to the main cutting assembly prior to cutting the workpiece.

17. A digital flatbed cutting machine, comprising: A flat plate on which the printed workpiece can be placed; a head unit capable of translating in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction; a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting the workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable along a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis; as well as A cutting plate is removably mounted to the main cutting assembly, the cutting plate including at least one secondary tool or blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or blade.

18. A method of using a digital flatbed cutting machine, the digital flatbed cutting machine comprising: flat; a head unit capable of translating laterally in a parallel plane above the plate in an x-axis direction and in a perpendicular y-axis direction; as well as a main cutting head mounted to the head unit and comprising a main cutting assembly with a main tool or blade for cutting a workpiece, the main cutting assembly being movable along a z-axis direction normal to the plane and perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis; The method includes: removably mounting a cutting plate to the main cutting assembly, the cutting plate including at least one secondary tool or blade for cutting a workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or blade; positioning the workpiece on the plate; and The workpiece is cut, wherein each secondary tool or secondary blade cuts the workpiece in parallel with the primary tool or primary blade.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the cutting board is selected from a plurality of different cutting boards.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising adjusting an angle of the cutting plate relative to the main cutting assembly prior to cutting the workpiece.

Images