a method and system for rigidly connecting a first metallic plate to a second metallic plate are provided . the first plate over the second plate , and a force is applied to at least one first location of the first plate using a clamping arrangement so as to tightly couple the first plate to the second plate in a proximity of the first location . then , the beam source is caused to generate a beam to irradiate the first plate at the first location to produce a molten material . in this manner , at least one irradiated section of the first plate is melted throughout its thickness and rigidly connected to the second plate using the molten material . during the irradiation , the first plate and the clamping arrangement are translated with respect to one another to reach at least one second location . it is also possible to provide a bonding layer or a soldering layer between the first and second layers , which can be used to rigidly connect the first and second layers to one another . further , it is possible to simultaneously cut a section of the first layer , and weld it to the second layer .