Laser processing apparatus and laser processing method

Abstract

In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a laser processing head including an input end for a laser beam, and further comprising a lens system for converging the laser beam and a scanning system for deflecting the laser beam according to a one-dimensional or two-dimensional touch pattern. Specifically, the laser processing head further includes a directional body configured relative to a housing between at least a first position and a second position to emit a deflected laser beam having the touch pattern differently in at least a first emission direction or a second emission direction. In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a laser processing apparatus and a laser processing method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to laser treatment of surfaces. Specifically, it relates to laser cleaning equipment, laser cleaning heads, and laser cleaning methods. Background Technology

[0002] Laser processing and laser cleaning are known in the relevant technologies.

[0003] For example, CN 206661838 (Herolaser) describes a laser device for cleaning surfaces. The device consists of a laser source and a separate portable laser head connected to the laser source. The laser head includes a collimator and two movable mirrors. Movement of these mirrors causes the collimated laser beam to scan the surface through a field lens and an exit window with a protective glass. The field lens and protective glass are permanently mounted in the laser head at an angle. The field lens provides focusing on the surface. The protective glass shields the field lens. An angle of approximately 20° is considered optimal. The movable mirrors are then positioned accordingly.

[0004] Furthermore, DE 202017103770 (4JET) describes another portable laser cleaning head for delivering pulsed laser beams. Here, the laser beam is also emitted at an angle tilted relative to the axis of the laser cleaning device. Preferably, the angle is approximately 50°.

[0005] Some important characteristics of laser cleaning and laser cleaning equipment are their effectiveness, capacity, and speed, as well as their autonomy, operability, user-friendliness, and ergonomics. Special attention is paid to maximizing user safety.

[0006] A drawback of existing laser cleaning equipment is the limited maneuverability of the laser head. Furthermore, existing laser heads typically have a field lens mounted at the front of the laser head. This lens is bulky and expensive. Moreover, they are easily damaged near the surface to be cleaned, where all kinds of contaminants are released. Therefore, a protective glass is preferable.

[0007] KR 20110032992 describes a trimming device for the plastic inner panel of a refrigerator.

[0008] DE 102010026107 discloses an apparatus and method for gas-assisted processing of workpieces using energy radiation.

[0009] The present invention envisions an improved laser processing apparatus and an improved laser processing method. Therefore, a solution is provided for at least one of the aforementioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0010] To this end, the present invention provides, in a first aspect, a laser processing head for processing a surface. Specifically, the laser head includes a directional body that can be configured relative to a housing at at least two different positions. Thus, a laser beam, scanned according to a one-dimensional or two-dimensional touch pattern, is further oriented according to an emission direction corresponding to a selected position of the directional body.

[0011] The variable emission direction ensures greater maneuverability of the laser processing head. Therefore, the laser head and the laser source attached to it are suitable for a variety of surfaces and are less limited by the surface geometry.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the oriented body can rotate within a range of at least 90°. This allows the launch direction to be changed within a range of at least 90°.

[0013] In another aspect, the present invention provides a laser processing apparatus having a laser head and a laser source, and a method for laser processing. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figures 1A to 3B The laser processing head according to a possible embodiment of the present invention is shown from different angles, and the oriented body is respectively configured in a first position or a second position.

[0015] Figure 4 An exposed laser processing head according to a possible embodiment of the invention is shown. The oriented body is not shown here.

[0016] Figure 5 A laser head based on another possible design is shown. Optionally, the internal structure is similar to... Figure 4 The interior of it.

[0017] Figure 6 A portion of a laser processing apparatus according to a possible embodiment of the present invention is shown, the portion including a laser source. Detailed Implementation

[0018] This invention relates to a laser processing head, a laser processing apparatus, and a method for laser processing of surfaces, such as for laser cleaning.

[0019] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification, including technical and scientific terms, shall have the meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. To better appreciate the description of the invention, the following terms are explicitly explained.

[0020] In this text, “a,” “the,” and “it” refer to the singular and plural, respectively, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, “a paragraph” means one or more paragraphs.

[0021] When the terms "approximately" or "circular" are used herein with respect to measurable quantities, parameters, times, or periods of time, a variation means a value that is + / - 20% or less, preferably + / - 10% or less, more preferably + / - 5% or less, even more preferably + / - 1% or less, and even more preferably + / - 0.1% or less, provided that such variation is applicable to the described invention. However, it should be understood that the values ​​of quantities using the terms "about" or "approximately" are themselves specifically disclosed.

[0022] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “consisting of,” “set up,” and “containing” are synonyms and are inclusive or open-ended terms indicating the presence of other components, features, elements, components, or steps known or described in the prior art.

[0023] The range of numbers referenced by the endpoints includes all integers, fractions, and / or real numbers between the endpoints, including those endpoints.

[0024] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a laser processing head comprising a housing having an input end for a laser beam, the housing further comprising a lens system for converging the laser beam and a scanning system for deflecting the laser beam according to a one-dimensional or two-dimensional touch pattern. Specifically, the laser processing head further comprises a directional body configurable relative to the housing at at least between a first position and a second position to variably transmit the deflected laser beam using the touch pattern in a first output direction or a second output direction relative to the housing, respectively.

[0025] Preferably, the laser head can be connected to the laser source, for example, using an optical fiber cable. The laser head and the laser source together form a laser processing device (also called a laser). Suitable cable lengths can vary from a few meters to tens of meters. For the laser source itself, a choice can be made between a continuous laser source and a pulsed laser source. Some suitable emission powers for pulsed laser sources are 100W, 500W, 1000W, and more. The invention is not limited to any of these.

[0026] Known applications of laser processing equipment include the removal of coatings, rust, paint, and / or contaminants from surfaces. Optionally, the present invention relates particularly to laser cleaning for cleaning surfaces, i.e., for removing surface contaminants. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0027] The laser treatment head or laser cleaning head according to the invention can be portable / mobile or fixedly mounted. The portable laser head can be guided by hand by an operator. Alternatively, the portable laser head can be mounted onto a robotic arm. The advantage of a portable laser head is its improved operability. Preferably, the portable laser head has at least one mounting point for attaching a handle to the laser head and / or for attaching the laser head to a robotic arm. Optionally, one or more handles of the laser head are removable, thereby allowing the laser head to be mounted onto the robotic arm at the level of these mounting points.

[0028] Preferably, the laser device includes a collimator for collimating the input laser beam. This is advantageous for further focusing and scanning. Preferably, the collimator is formed by the laser head itself. However, this is not mandatory. Optionally, the collimator is equipped with an optical isolator known in the art. Optionally, the laser head includes a thermally conductive structure tangential to the isolator and extending to the outer surface of the laser head for heat dissipation. For example, it can be a structure made of aluminum.

[0029] The lens system may include one or more lenses for focusing the laser beam onto a surface and / or for shaping the laser beam (e.g., from Gaussian beam to flat-top beam). For some processes such as laser cleaning, a narrow focal point with high energy concentration may be necessary. However, “convergence at the surface” is generally understood herein to mean convergence near the surface. Converging at a distance in front of or behind the surface is the operator’s intention. Suitable lens systems for convergence are known. In a preferred embodiment, the laser head is provided with a lens system with adjustable focus, and preferably with automatic focus adjustment (i.e., automatic convergence). Automatic convergence is particularly advantageous for worn laser heads. It provides a margin in the distance between the laser head and the surface to be treated / cleaned. Therefore, the operator’s movement is less “strict,” and the focus is automatically corrected within a certain margin (e.g., based on time-of-flight distance sensor signals). Optionally, this margin is at least 0.5 cm, and preferably greater than 0.5 cm, and further preferably greater than 2.0 cm, for example, about 5 cm.

[0030] The aforementioned scanning system deflects a laser beam in at least one direction based on a touch pattern. Optionally, this is a random touch pattern. Optionally, it is a non-random, predetermined touch pattern. A possible example of a one-dimensional pattern is a linear reciprocating movement of the focal point on a surface. A possible example of a two-dimensional touch pattern is a zigzag motion within a rectangular area on a surface. Optionally, the touch pattern can be a repeating touch pattern. The touch pattern begins at the laser head itself; it deflects the laser beam relative to the laser head. Thus, a fine laser beam (e.g., 100 μm) 2 It will "scan" a larger scanning area (e.g., 1 cm) on the surface. 2In this process, a very high energy concentration is briefly supplied at several consecutive points. This is known in principle for laser cleaning. The movement of the laser focus according to the scanning pattern is typically much faster than the movement of the laser head relative to the surface, preferably at least an order of magnitude faster. Suitable scanning systems are known to those skilled in the art. Optionally, the laser head includes two rotatable scanning mirrors. Optionally, these are controlled by corresponding galvanometers.

[0031] The laser processing head now also includes a oriented body that can be configured relative to the housing between at least a first position and a second position. The term "position" as used herein refers to a combination of the position and orientation of the aiming part relative to the housing. The term "configurable" means that the oriented body can take at least those positions. In possible, non-exhaustive implementations, the first position is a forward position and the second position is a downward position. Furthermore, the position of the oriented body determines the final emission direction of the laser beam based on the created touch pattern. Therefore, the current laser head has much greater operability. Depending on the position of the aiming part, the laser beam can be guided forward or downward. For example, in terms of ergonomics, the forward position is preferred for vertical surfaces, while the downward position is preferred for horizontal surfaces. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0032] Optionally, the oriented body can be permanently mounted on the housing at at least in a first position and a second position. In this case, the scanning pattern is emitted accordingly in a first or second emission direction. Alternatively, the oriented body can move freely between the first and second positions. Optionally, the oriented body can be moved manually between said positions. Alternatively, the movement can be automatically controlled based on sensors. This mechanism (e.g., with an automatic leveling mechanism) is described in more detail below.

[0033] In another or alternative embodiment, a firing window is formed in the target body, which is preferably fitted with protective glass. The firing window is a fixed part of the aiming part. As an advantage, it can automatically align according to the overall emission direction of the scanning pattern.

[0034] In another or alternative embodiment, the directional body includes a mirror for reflecting and guiding the deflected laser beam. Preferably, the mirror can be positioned in different locations, thereby emitting a scanning pattern in a corresponding direction. The position of the mirror determines the emission direction.

[0035] In another or alternative embodiment, the guiding device is rotatable about a rotation axis between the positions. Preferably, the directed body can rotate continuously within a certain range. Preferably, the rotation axis intersects the mirror surface at an angle. More preferably, the rotation axis forms an angle of approximately 45° with the mirror surface. Figures 1A to 3BAs shown in the implementation, the (original) transverse scanning pattern can be emitted differently in the upward, forward, and downward directions by mirroring the oriented subject. For this purpose, the aiming part is rotated about the transverse rotation axis.

[0036] More preferably, the mirror is configured to receive the laser beam, which is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation, from the housing. Therefore, regardless of the mirror's rotational position, the scanning pattern will always be incident diagonally at an angle of approximately 45°.

[0037] In another or alternative embodiment, the oriented body can rotate within a range of at least 90°, preferably greater than 90°. According to a preferred embodiment, the oriented body also allows for obliquely projecting a scanning pattern at at least one position in the upward-tilting direction. This is advantageous for cleaning surfaces such as ceiling surfaces or surfaces located above the head.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the laser head or laser device includes computer control for automatically controlling the movement or rotation of the aiming part. Thus, the emission direction of the touch pattern is automatically configured.

[0039] In this automatic configuration of the emission direction, the movement of the laser focus is determined by several contributions. The first contribution is the "scanning movement" of the laser focus based on the touch pattern controlled by the scanning system. The second contribution is the "aiming movement" of the touch pattern as a whole, achieved through the automatic configuration of the oriented subject. The third contribution is the "carrier movement" of the laser head as a whole relative to the surface. As described above, the "scanning movement" of the laser focus in the form of the touch pattern is an extremely rapid and continuous motion. Preferably, the "aiming movement" caused by the oriented subject causes only a relatively slow movement of the touch pattern on the surface. Preferably, it is at least an order of magnitude slower. Typically, the scanning motion is a periodic motion. This is not necessary for directional motion.

[0040] In another or alternative embodiment, the laser head is equipped with at least one sensor for measuring sensor signals associated with the position (e.g., distance), orientation, velocity, and / or acceleration of the laser processing head relative to the surface. Furthermore, the laser head includes a controller for automatically configuring the aiming portion between the aforementioned positions based on the sensor signals. This general principle allows for motion stabilization. According to a possible example, the orientation of the laser head relative to the surface is continuously monitored. If the laser head does not remain parallel to the surface (or is not at the desired angle), the emission direction is adjusted accordingly; the main body automatically rotates to the adjusted position to compensate. Therefore, an automatic leveling function exists.

[0041] Another stabilization mechanism is an automatic focusing mechanism. As a possible example, the distance between the laser head and the surface (at the focal position) is continuously monitored. Based on this, the focal length varies within a 5cm margin. This always ensures the laser beam is focused as desired on the surface. Optionally, the lens system includes another unit, for example, to adjust the focal diameter before focusing. This allows for variations in the focusing intensity on the surface.

[0042] In another or alternative embodiment, the laser processing head includes one or more surface sensors, an illuminator, an extractor, and / or spacers mounted on an aiming section. The advantage is that they are automatically aligned with the aiming section at its different locations. Optionally, the laser head is equipped with one or more surface sensors for real-time identification of released contaminants.

[0043] Optionally, the laser head includes a rangefinder, preferably configured to determine the distance to the surface based on the emission direction of the scanned pattern. The laser head shuts off when the recorded distance is too short or too long. Thresholds are set accordingly. Distances that are too short (e.g., <20 cm) can damage the system by reflecting the laser beam back to the laser head and / or by agitating all kinds of dirt. Distances that are too long (e.g., >50 cm) indicate that the laser head is not aligned with the surface to be cleaned. Turning it on in this condition is unsafe. In a possible implementation, the laser head automatically shuts off when it detects a distance greater than 110% of the focal length. In another or alternative implementation, the laser head automatically shuts off when it detects a distance less than 90% of the focal length. "Focal length" refers to the focal length of the currently active lens or lens group (see below).

[0044] Optionally, the laser head provides visual feedback to the operator through transmission over the surface to be cleaned. For example, relevant information is transmitted onto the surface using a red laser. Optionally, the laser head provides tactile feedback to the operator through one or more vibration signals. Preferably, vibration signals are generated near one or more handles. Visual and tactile feedback can be informational, alarm-based, and / or guiding.

[0045] In another or alternative embodiment, the lens system includes a rotating filter wheel (also referred to as a turntable system or rotating system) having at least two lenses or lens groups. A “lens group” includes one or more consecutive lenses that optically influence the laser beam. By rotating the filter wheel, the desired lens or lens group can be selected. A significant advantage is that the lenses can be easily replaced. It is not necessary to open the optics for this purpose. Therefore, the risk of lens contamination is lower. Optionally, the filter wheel is driven by a DC motor. Alternatively, the filter wheel can be manually adjusted. Optionally, the filter wheel can move back and forth for automatic convergence.

[0046] Preferably, the filter wheel comprises multiple smaller lenses. Optionally, the filter wheel is located between the collimator and the scanning system. The smaller lenses are each more compact, lighter, and less expensive. Furthermore, a position of the filter wheel at the rear of the laser head, close to the laser feed source, is ergonomically preferred. The weight of the laser head is thus better balanced. Optionally, the filter wheel includes a converter for converting a Gaussian laser profile to a flat laser profile, located at at least one position. Optionally, the filter wheel comprises at least two lens groups with different focal lengths. Preferably, the laser head includes a unit (e.g., a potentiometer) for recording the rotational position of the filter wheel. Therefore, the laser head knows which lens group is active and what the current focal length is. This is followed by automatic adjustment of the threshold values ​​for the minimum and maximum distances required to shut down the laser device.

[0047] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a laser processing apparatus (i.e., a laser device) comprising a laser source for emitting a laser beam, and further comprising a portable laser processing head operatively connected to said laser source. The same features can be reproduced, and the same advantages can be repeated.

[0048] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for treating a surface with a laser beam, the method comprising:

[0049] - Generate a laser beam,

[0050] -Converging laser beam, and

[0051] - Deflect the laser beam based on a one-dimensional or two-dimensional touch pattern.

[0052] Specifically, the deflected laser beam is additionally mirrored according to a configurable beam direction. Optionally, the deflected laser beam (with a scanning pattern) is further mirrored on a configurable mirror surface to guide the scanning pattern. Optionally, the method is performed using the laser head described above.

[0053] In another or alternative embodiment, the method includes collecting sensor signals related to the position, orientation, velocity, and / or acceleration of the laser processing head relative to a surface, and configuring the emission direction based on the sensor signals.

[0054] In another or alternative embodiment, the touch pattern is compensated by the configured emission direction. Refer to the description in the accompanying drawings.

[0055] In the following description, the invention is illustrated by way of non-limiting embodiments and accompanying drawings, which are not intended to, and should not be construed as, limiting the scope of the invention.

[0056] Figures 1A to 3BThe laser processing head 1, according to possible embodiments, is shown from different angles, and the oriented body 2 is respectively configured in a first position A or a second position B. The laser head 1 includes a housing 3 having an input end 4 for laser radiation 5. For example, it is an input end of an optical fiber cable, operatively connected to a laser source 10. Figures 1A to 3B Only laser head 1 is shown.

[0057] The housing 3 of the laser head 1 includes a unit for focusing and deflecting the input laser beam 5 into a one-dimensional or two-dimensional touch pattern. Although the unit is in... Figures 1A to 3B The laser head 1 is not visible in the center. Furthermore, the housing 3 is provided with a rear handle 6 and a front handle 7. Therefore, for stable use, the laser head 1 can be gripped with both hands. The rear handle 6 is positioned around the laser input end 4. It has an initiator 8 at its bottom for activating the laser head 1. When activated, the initiator 8 is preferably flush with the surface of the handle 6. Furthermore, the initiator 8 is angled. This reduces the risk of accidental activation. The front handle 7 is mounted on the housing 3 via a ball joint 9. Therefore, it is adjustable, which contributes to its operability and ergonomics. Preferably, the front handle 7 can also be locked in a selected position / orientation.

[0058] Initially, the contact pattern of the formed laser beam 5 is guided laterally, exiting from the housing 3. This lateral direction 15' is also... Figure 3A , Figure 3B As shown in the diagram, the oriented body 2 of the laser head 1 now provides a tilted mirror 12 at approximately 45° to the lateral direction 15'. Figures 1A to 3B In this context, mirror 12 is referred to as the back surface of the converging device 2. However, those skilled in the art will understand that it is an internal mirror 12 that rests against and extends along this back surface. Typically, the laser head 1 is by no means limited to this design. The touch pattern is mirrored relative to mirror 12, changing orientation during the process. Finally, the scanned pattern exits the laser head 1 through the exit window 13 of the directed body 2 in a so-called emission direction 14. Specifically, the emission direction 14 varies depending on the positions A and B of the guiding device 2. For example, in... Figure 1A , Figure 3A In the middle, the touch pattern is emitted 16 in the forward direction. Figure 1B , Figure 3B In the middle, the touch pattern is launched diagonally downwards at an angle of 19 to the forward direction.

[0059] Preferably, the guiding device 2 can take on multiple different positions A, B. For example, the oriented body 2 can rotate about the rotation axis 20 for this purpose. Figures 1A to 3BIn this configuration, the rotation axis 20 coincides with the aforementioned lateral direction 15'. Preferably, the oriented body 2 can rotate continuously within a range greater than 90°, for example, within a range of approximately 115°. Then, the emission directions 14 can be continuously configured within the same range. Preferably, this range covers at least one upwardly inclined emission direction 14 and one downwardly inclined emission direction 14 viewed relative to the housing 3. This provides greater operability for the laser head 2.

[0060] A key advantage is that the laser beam 5 (with a predetermined touch pattern) can be flexibly directed towards the surface 11 to be cleaned by rotating the aiming head 2. Preferably, the oriented body 2 can also be fixed at desired positions A and B. Optionally, the rotation of the oriented body 2 is automatically controlled. For example, the laser cleaning head 2 can be equipped with one or more sensors for measuring the orientation relative to the surface 11 to be treated. When the laser cleaning head 2 is manually moved along the surface 11, the oriented body 2 rotates automatically (under the control of a motor (not shown)). In this way, the optimal incident angle of the scanning pattern is achieved. This principle is also known as "automatic leveling". The invention is not limited thereto. Optionally, the oriented body 2 can be automatically controlled based on the measured position, orientation, and / or speed of the laser head 1 relative to the surface 11 to be cleaned.

[0061] Optionally, the laser cleaning head 1 provides several additional functions, such as an emergency stop / emergency button 21, a display 22 for visual feedback, and / or a control panel 23 for changing one or more processing parameters. Optionally, one or more mating surfaces on the housing 3 of the laser cleaning head 1 are covered with thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0062] Figure 4 An exposed laser processing head 1 according to a possible embodiment of the present invention is shown. The laser head 1 shown is provided with a collimator 24 for collimating the input laser beam 5. Subsequently, the laser beam 5 passes through a lens system 25 and then through a scanning system 27. The directed body 2 is in Figure 4 Not shown in the image.

[0063] The lens system 25 provides convergence on the surface 11 to be treated. Figure 4 In this system, the lens system 25 includes a filter wheel 25' having a set of five different lenses and / or lens groups 26. Each lens or lens group corresponds to a set of well-defined optical characteristics (e.g., well-defined focal length, conversion from Gaussian to flat-top laser profile, etc.). The filter wheel 25' allows for easy replacement of the lenses 26 without having to open the laser head 1 for this purpose.

[0064] The scanning system 27 deflects the laser beam 5 into a one-dimensional or two-dimensional touch pattern, as known in laser processing and laser cleaning. Optionally, the scanning system 27 deflects the laser beam 5 linearly (i.e., one-dimensionally). In the illustrated embodiment, the scanning system 27 for this purpose includes two rotatable mirrors 28 that can rotate about mutually orthogonal axes of rotation. The mirrors 28 are substantially parallel to the respective axes of rotation. This allows the laser beam 5 to be deflected independently of each other in two different spatial directions. This rotation of the mirrors 28 is controlled by an associated motor 29.

[0065] Figure 4 The aiming part 2 is not shown. Finally, the position of the aiming part 2 determines the emission direction 14 of the laser beam 5 (based on the formed touch pattern). Obviously, this emission direction 14 also affects the transmission on the surface 11. For example, a square touch pattern in the downward direction 17 will again produce square transmission on the horizontal surface 11. However, in the oblique forward direction 16, an enlarged rectangular transmission will be produced. Optionally, the touch pattern can be pre-compensated for this. For example, a narrowed rectangular touch pattern can be produced, which is obliquely transmitted forward and produces the desired square transmission on the surface 11. Optionally, the intensity of the laser beam 5 is also adjusted as described above. Preferably, this compensation is provided by the scanning system 27. Of course, the invention is generally not limited to square and / or rectangular scanning patterns.

[0066] Figure 5 A laser head 1 according to another possible design is shown. Optionally, the interior is similar to... Figure 4 The interior is thus utilized using collimator 24, lens system 25, and scanning system 27. Figure 5 The oriented body 2 is also shown. At the rear, the oriented body 2 is again provided with a tilted mirror 12. Optionally, the forward-facing oriented body 2 is provided with an illumination device 30. For example, this involves a pair of LEDs arranged in a ring around the emission window 13. Advantageously, these LEDs are automatically oriented according to the emission direction 14 of the laser beam 5, regardless of the positions A and B of the oriented body 2.

[0067] Figure 6 A portion of a laser processing apparatus 1, 10 according to a possible embodiment of the invention is shown, which in particular surrounds a laser source. This portion is also referred to herein as the "laser source" 10. Preferably, this portion comprises a housing 3' made of a lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic material. Preferably, it is also provided with at least one lifting ring 32, which can be in a folded position (see...). Figure 6 The laser source 10 can rotate between the working position and the operating position. It also provides an emergency stop 21', a control panel 23', and a connector for the fiber optic cable 31. Preferably, the laser source 10 is further equipped with various electronic devices and controllers, and optionally, an air-cooled or water-cooled system.

[0068] Example: Laser processing device specifications - Depending on the possible implementation, the laser processing device is dustproof and waterproof, at least according to IP53 standards. Optionally, it can be used in explosive atmospheres (e.g., ATEX Type 1). The device can be stored in ambient temperatures ranging from -5°C to +55°C and can be used in ambient temperatures ranging from 0°C to 40°C. Preferably, the device can withstand 80% relative humidity at 40°C and 90% relative humidity at 30°C.

[0069] Example 2: Weld Seam Tracking - According to possible implementations, the present invention is used for weld seam cleaning. The concept is to scan the weld seam (or its area) solely with a laser. Optionally, the laser follows a reciprocating scanning pattern, intersecting the weld seam. The user moves the laser head itself along the weld seam. Preferably, the laser head is equipped with a set of sensors capable of identifying the weld seam on the surface and determining the distance to the weld seam and the speed of the laser head, for example, using a time-of-flight distance meter and an accelerometer. Deviation in the y-direction (transverse to the weld seam) is compensated by the scanning system. The margin can be, for example, 3 cm. Deviation in the x-direction (along the weld seam) is compensated by the aiming system. The margin in the emission direction can be, for example, 30° to 40°. Additionally, the desired focal length is continuously maintained on the surface by an automatic converging lens system. The convergence intensity can also be changed by adjusting the waist mechanism. Movement along the weld seam that is too fast or too slow, as well as deviations in the y and z positions, are communicated to the user. This ensures that the margin is not exceeded.

[0070] The components numbered in the attached diagram are:

[0071] 1. Laser processing head (=laser head)

[0072] 2. Directed Subject

[0073] A First Position

[0074] B, second position

[0075] 3. Shell

[0076] 4 Input terminals

[0077] 5 laser beams (based on the touch pattern)

[0078] 6 Rear Handle

[0079] 7 front handle

[0080] 8. Starter

[0081] 9. Ball joint

[0082] 10 laser sources

[0083] 11 (Surface to be processed)

[0084] 12 Mirrors

[0085] 13. Window for shooting

[0086] 14. Launch direction

[0087] 15. Horizontal direction

[0088] 16 Forward direction

[0089] 17 Downward direction

[0090] 18. Upward direction

[0091] 19 corner

[0092] 20 Rotation axis

[0093] 21 Emergency Stop / Emergency Button

[0094] 22 monitors

[0095] 23 Control Panel

[0096] 24 Collimator

[0097] 25 Lens System

[0098] 26. Lens or lens group

[0099] 27 Scanning System

[0100] 28. Twistable mirror

[0101] 29 engines

[0102] 30 illuminators

[0103] 31 Cable

[0104] 32 Lifting Ring

[0105] Assuming that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, some modifications or changes may be added to the examples and figures.

Claims

1. A laser processing head (1) comprising a housing (3) having an input (4) for a laser beam (5), the housing further being provided with a lens system (25) for converging the laser beam (5) and a scanning system (27) for deflecting the laser beam (5) according to a one- or two-dimensional touch pattern, wherein, The laser processing head (1) further includes a directional body (2) configured relative to the housing (3) at at least a first position (A) and a second position (B) to variably deflect the laser beam (5) in a first emission direction (14') and a second emission direction (14") relative to the housing (3) according to the touch pattern, wherein the lens system (25) includes a filter wheel (25') comprising at least two lens groups (26) with different focal lengths, characterized in that the laser processing head includes a unit for recording the rotational position of the filter wheel, wherein the laser processing head (1) includes a rangefinder configured to determine the distance to the surface according to the emission direction of the touch pattern, wherein the laser processing head (1) is configured to be turned off when the measured distance exceeds an allowable distance range defined relative to the focal length of the lens group activated according to the recorded rotational position of the filter wheel, wherein the allowable distance range includes a minimum distance and a maximum distance defined according to the focal length.

2. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The oriented body (2) forms an exit window (13).

3. The laser processing head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The first position (A) of the directed body (2) is a forward position, the second position (B) of the directed body (2) is a downward position, and the directed body (2) can be configured between at least the forward position and the downward position.

4. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The oriented body (2) includes a mirror (12) for mirroring and aligning the deflected laser beam (5) having the aforementioned touch pattern.

5. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The oriented body (2) is capable of rotating about the rotation axis (20) between the first position (A) and the second position (B).

6. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 5, wherein, The axis of rotation (20) intersects the mirror (12) at an angle.

7. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The rotation axis (20) intersects the mirror (12) at an angle of 45°.

8. The laser processing head (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, The mirror (12) is configured to receive the laser beam (5) substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (20) from the housing (3).

9. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 5, wherein, The oriented body (2) is capable of rotating within a range of at least 90°.

10. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The oriented body (2) is capable of rotating within a range of greater than 90°.

11. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 1, wherein the laser processing head is equipped with at least one sensor for measuring sensor signals related to the position, orientation, velocity and / or acceleration of the laser processing head (1) relative to the surface (11), and the laser processing head further includes a controller for automatically configuring the oriented body (2) between the first position (A) and the second position (B) based on the sensor signals.

12. The laser processing head (1) according to claim 1, the laser processing head further comprising one or more surface sensors, illuminators (30), extractors and / or spacers mounted on the oriented body (2) and oriented according to the oriented body (2).

13. A laser processing apparatus comprising a laser source (10) adapted to emit a laser beam (5), and further comprising a laser processing head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the laser processing head (1) being operatively connected to the laser source (10).

14. A method for treating a surface (11) with a laser beam (5) using a laser processing head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the method comprising the steps of: - Generate a laser beam (5). - Converge the laser beam (5), and - Deflect the laser beam (5) according to a one-dimensional or two-dimensional touch pattern. The laser beam (5) deflected by the aforementioned touch pattern is emitted by further mirroring in a configurable emission direction, wherein the laser beam (5) is converged by a lens system (25), wherein the lens system (25) includes a filter wheel (25') comprising at least two lens groups (26) with different focal lengths, wherein the method includes an additional step of determining the distance to the surface by the rangefinder according to the emission direction of the touch pattern, wherein the laser processing head (1) is shut off when the measured distance exceeds an allowable distance range, wherein the allowable distance range is defined relative to the focal length of the lens group activated according to the recorded rotation position of the filter wheel, wherein the allowable distance range includes a minimum distance and a maximum distance defined according to the focal length.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising collecting sensor signals associated with the position, orientation, velocity, and / or acceleration of the laser processing head (1) relative to the surface (11), and The transmission direction is configured based on the sensor signal.

16. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein, The touch pattern is compensated for according to the configured emission direction.

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