(under subclass 13) Process which includes a step, either before or during the cutting step, of performing an operation (other than a cutting operation) which changes the shape or state of the work, which change of shape or state facilitates the cutting.
(1) Note. The operation may either facilitate the operation of the tool upon the work or effect a necessary or desired change of shape of the work with respect to the tool.
(2) Note. Included in this subclass (14) are processes which recite a step of placing the work under tension or compression; however, applying such force for the purpose of merely immobilizing the work, as by clamping, has not been considered a treatment step to admit the patent to this subclass. Such patents are classified below on other steps of their method.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS
451, Abrading,
35, and 54+ for a process of abrading including ancillary treatment of work.