Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus and method for reacting on matter disposed immediately adjacent a tool by directing a beam of radiation against the tool to react on the material thereof and to transfer energy therefrom to such matter. In one form, the matter is disposed in contact with the tip or end of the tool and the radiation is directed as a beam along a passageway extending to and terminating near the tool tip. The radiation, which may be generated by a laser or an electron gun, is operable to heat the material of the tool and/or generate a shock wave therein, the energy or energies of which may be transferred to the matter in contact with the tool tip. In a particular form, the tool tip is a die employed to compress the matter reacted on wherein a change in the physical characteristics of such matter is effected by the energy of the radiation transmitted through the tool tip to such matter.

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First Claim