Nozzle for processing machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a nozzle for a processing machine. The invention provides a nozzle for a processing machine, which can be applied to various processing objects without replacement. A nozzle (7) for a processing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is used by being attached to a portion facing an object to be processed (9) in a laser processing machine (1) or a plasma processing machine, the nozzle being characterized in that: the laser processing machine (1) applies a laser beam and an auxiliary gas, which are irradiation objects, to the object to be processed (9); the plasma processing machine generates a plasma arc as an irradiation object between an electrode and a processing object (9), a nozzle hole (8) through which the irradiation object passes is formed in the nozzle (7) for the processing machine, and the diameter of the nozzle hole (8) is variable in the nozzle (7) for the processing machine.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-074764 (filing date: May 2, 2024) and claims the benefit of priority from that application. This application incorporates the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-074764. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a nozzle for a processing machine. Background Art

[0003] The laser processing machine focuses the laser light emitted from the laser oscillator through a lens and irradiates the laser light to the processing object, thereby partially melting the processing object. In the laser processing machine, a nozzle is detachably mounted at the end facing the processing object (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The laser light is irradiated to the processing object through a nozzle hole formed in the nozzle. At the same time as the laser light, an auxiliary gas is ejected from the nozzle hole. The auxiliary gas promotes the melting of the processing object and blows away the melt generated by the melting of the processing object.

[0004] Generally speaking, when cutting thick materials, it is necessary to use a nozzle with a nozzle hole having a larger diameter. On the other hand, when cutting thin materials, it is necessary to use a nozzle with a nozzle hole having a smaller diameter. Therefore, at the laser processing site, a machine for automatically changing the nozzle is set up, and multiple nozzles with different nozzle hole diameters are prepared on the laser processing machine side. Each time the processing object changes, the nozzle is replaced by the machine. In addition, in the absence of a machine for automatically changing the nozzle, the operator sometimes also manually replaces the nozzle.

[0005] In addition, in a plasma processing machine, it is also necessary to change the diameter of the nozzle hole according to the material and thickness of the processing object, and therefore, a plurality of nozzles having different nozzle hole diameters are prepared and the nozzles are replaced as needed.

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-111785 Summary of the invention

[0007] 1. Technical issues to be resolved

[0008] However, there are the following problems: replacing the nozzle takes time; a machine is required for replacing the nozzle; the nozzle is expensive, and preparing a plurality of nozzles increases the cost.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a nozzle for a processing machine that can be applied to various processing objects without replacement.

[0010] (II) Technical solution

[0011] The processing machine nozzle of the embodiment is characterized in that it is a nozzle installed in a laser processing machine or a plasma processing machine and used in a part opposite to the processing object, wherein the laser processing machine applies laser light and auxiliary gas as irradiation objects to the processing object, and the ion processing machine generates a plasma arc as irradiation object between an electrode and the processing object, and the processing machine nozzle is formed with a nozzle hole for the irradiation object to pass through. In the processing machine nozzle, the diameter of the nozzle hole is variable, and a main body and a plurality of nozzle hole forming components are provided. The main body forms a part of a passage for the irradiation object to pass through inside, and the plurality of nozzle hole forming components move relative to the main body, and the nozzle holes are formed on the passage by arranging the plurality of nozzle hole forming components in a circle, and the end portion of the passage side of each nozzle hole forming component, that is, the front end, moves radially toward the nozzle hole, thereby changing the diameter of the nozzle hole.

[0012] In addition, the processing machine nozzle of the embodiment is characterized in that it is a nozzle installed in a laser processing machine or a plasma processing machine and used in a part opposite to the processing object, wherein the laser processing machine applies laser light and auxiliary gas as irradiation objects to the processing object, and the plasma processing machine generates a plasma arc as irradiation object between an electrode and the processing object, and the processing machine nozzle is formed with a nozzle hole for the irradiation object to pass through. In the processing machine nozzle, the diameter of the nozzle hole is variable, and a main body and a movable part are provided. The main body is internally formed with a part of the passage for the irradiation object to pass through, and the movable part is formed with a plurality of nozzle holes of different diameters. Through the movement of the movable part, any one of the plurality of nozzle holes is consistent with the passage in the main body in the irradiation direction of the irradiation object, thereby, the irradiation object can pass through the nozzle hole.

[0013] In addition, the processing machine nozzle of the embodiment is characterized in that it is a nozzle installed in a laser processing machine or a plasma processing machine and used at a portion opposite to the processing object, wherein the laser processing machine applies a laser and an auxiliary gas as irradiation objects to the processing object, and the plasma processing machine generates a plasma arc as an irradiation object between an electrode and the processing object, and the processing machine nozzle is formed with a nozzle hole for the irradiation object to pass through, and in the processing machine nozzle, the diameter of the nozzle hole is variable, and a main body and a plurality of nozzle hole forming components are provided, and the main body has a portion of a passage for the irradiation object to pass through formed inside, and the plurality of nozzle hole forming components are relative to each other. The main body is operated to form the nozzle hole on the passage by arranging the plurality of nozzle hole forming components in a circle, and the end portion, i.e., the front end, of each nozzle hole forming component on the passage side is moved radially toward the nozzle hole, thereby changing the diameter of the nozzle hole. The processing machine nozzle comprises: a rotating component that rotates with the passage as a rotation axis, a cutting thread portion that rotates along with the rotation of the rotating component, and a plurality of claws as the nozzle hole forming component, wherein the cutting thread portion is screwed into a part of each of the claws, and the rotating component is rotated, thereby causing the claw screwed into the cutting thread portion to move, thereby changing the diameter of the nozzle hole.

[0014] (III) Beneficial effects

[0015] The processing machine nozzle according to the embodiment can be applied to various processing objects without replacement. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a laser processing machine.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the lower cover in Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the receiving component in Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the lower cover and the receiving member in the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the nozzle hole forming member in the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8This is a perspective view of the nozzle hole forming member in the first embodiment.

[0024] Fig. 9 This is a perspective view of the nozzle hole forming member that enters the lower cover in the first embodiment.

[0025] Fig.10 This is a perspective view of the nozzle hole forming member that enters the lower cover in the first embodiment.

[0026] Fig.11 This is a perspective view of a rotating member placed on a nozzle hole forming member in the first embodiment.

[0027] Fig.12 This is a perspective view of a rotating member placed on a nozzle hole forming member in the first embodiment.

[0028] Fig.13 This is a perspective view when the lower cover is removed from the nozzle of Embodiment 1.

[0029] Fig.14 This is a perspective view when the lower cover is removed from the nozzle of Embodiment 1.

[0030] Fig.15 This is a perspective view showing a cross section of the nozzle according to the first embodiment.

[0031] Fig.16 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Fig.17 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the second embodiment.

[0033] Fig.18 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the second embodiment, when the fixing member is viewed obliquely from below.

[0034] Fig.19 This is a perspective view of a movable member having an elastic protrusion and a rotation axis in the nozzle of the second embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 20 This is a perspective view of a movable member without elastic protrusions and a rotation shaft in the nozzle of the second embodiment.

[0036] Fig.21 This is a perspective view of the elastic protrusion in the nozzle of the second embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 22 It is a perspective view showing a cross section of the nozzle according to the second embodiment.

[0038] Fig.23 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the third embodiment.

[0039] Fig.24 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the third embodiment.

[0040] Fig.25 This is a perspective view of a main body in the nozzle of the third embodiment.

[0041] Fig.26 This is a perspective view of a fixing member in the nozzle of the third embodiment.

[0042] Fig. 27 This is a perspective view of a fixing member in the nozzle of the third embodiment.

[0043] Fig.28 This is a perspective view of a movable member with elastic protrusions in the nozzle of the third embodiment.

[0044] Fig.29 This is a perspective view of a movable member without elastic protrusions in the nozzle of the third embodiment.

[0045] Fig.30 1 is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle of Embodiment 3, at the position of the elastic protrusion, on a plane parallel to the moving direction of the movable member. Fig. 27 and Fig.28 A cross-sectional view at the position indicated by AA'.

[0046] Fig.31 This is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle according to Embodiment 3, at the position of the nozzle hole, on a plane parallel to the moving direction of the movable member. Fig.26 and Fig.28 A cross-sectional view at the position shown in BB'.

[0047] Fig.32 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the fourth embodiment.

[0048] Fig.33 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the fourth embodiment.

[0049] Fig.34 This is a perspective view of the nozzle according to the fourth embodiment.

[0050] Fig.35 This is a perspective view of the lower cover in the fourth embodiment.

[0051] Fig.36 This is a perspective view of the lower cover in the fourth embodiment.

[0052] Fig.37 This is a perspective view of a rotating member in the fourth embodiment.

[0053] Fig.38 This is a perspective view of the claw in the fourth embodiment.

[0054] Fig.39 It is a perspective view of the rotating member and the claw in the fourth embodiment.

[0055] Fig.40 It is a perspective view showing a cross section of the nozzle according to the fourth embodiment.

[0056] Fig.41 This is a cross-sectional view of a plasma processing machine.

[0057] Description of reference numerals:

[0058] 1: Laser processing machine; 2: Laser oscillator; 3: Mirror; 4: Processing head; 5: Lens; 6: Assist gas supply path; 7: Nozzle; 8: Nozzle hole; 9: Processing object; 10: Nozzle; 11: Main body; 13: Flange; 14: Rotating member; 20: Nozzle hole; 30: Central hole; 31: Tooth; 40: Lower cover; 41: Bottom wall; 42: Side wall; 43: Central hole; 44: Receiving member; 45: Groove; 46: Central hole; 47: Nozzle hole forming portion Component; 48: first protrusion; 49: second protrusion; 50: third protrusion; 51: groove; 52: front end; 53: side; 54: cutout; 55: cutout; 110: nozzle; 111: body; 112: body hole; 113: fixed component; 114: movable component; 118: fixed hole; 119: engaging hole; 120: nozzle hole; 121: elastic protrusion; 122: head; 123: shaft; 124: protrusion component; 125: spring; 126 : protrusion receiving hole; 130: rotating shaft; 131: tooth; 132: stopper; 210: nozzle; 211: main body; 212: main body hole; 213: fixed part; 214: movable part; 215: opening; 216: micro gap; 218: fixed hole; 219: engaging hole; 220: nozzle hole; 226: protrusion receiving hole; 227: high part; 228: convex strip; 310: nozzle; 311: upper cover; 314: rotating part; 320: nozzle Hole; 331: tooth; 340: lower cover; 360: claw; 361: space; 362: upper groove; 363: space; 364: lower groove; 365: convex strip; 366: convex strip; 367: concave groove; 368: concave groove; 369: thread tooth; 370: thread tooth; 401: plasma processing machine; 402: electrode; 403: plasma arc; 404: processing head; 406: flow path; 407: nozzle; 408: nozzle hole; 409: processing object. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The embodiments will be described based on the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples, and embodiments that are appropriately modified within the scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

[0060] 1. Implementation Method 1

[0061] First, the overall structure of the laser processing machine 1 will be described.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, the laser processing machine 1 of the first embodiment includes: a laser oscillator 2 that emits laser light, a mirror 3 that reflects the laser light emitted from the laser oscillator 2 toward a processing object 9, a processing head 4 through which the laser light reflected by the mirror 3 passes, and a nozzle 7 mounted on a portion of the processing head 4 that faces the processing object 9. Here, laser light is a type of irradiation object.

[0063] In addition, the nozzles of Embodiments 1 to 4 described in this specification are strictly speaking the same as those of Embodiments 1 to 4. Figure 1 The nozzle 7 shown has a different structure. However, Figure 1 A simplified nozzle 7 is shown, which is used in Figure 1 In the description of the nozzle, only general matters are explained. Figure 1 In the figure, the nozzle is marked as 7, but in Figure 2 Other reference numerals are used in the following description.

[0064] A lens 5 for converging laser light is provided inside the processing head 4. In addition, an auxiliary gas supply path 6 for supplying auxiliary gas to the inside of the processing head 4 is formed on the side wall of the processing head 4. The auxiliary gas supplied from an auxiliary gas supply device (not shown) is supplied to the inside of the processing head 4 through the auxiliary gas supply path 6. Figure 1 The dotted arrows in FIG. 8 indicate the flow of the assist gas. The type of the assist gas is appropriately selected from gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and air according to the object 9 to be processed.

[0065] A nozzle hole 8 is formed at the front end of the nozzle 7, that is, at the end on the processing object 9 side. Figure 1 In the figure, the nozzle hole is marked as 8, but in Figure 2 Other reference numerals are used in the following description. The laser light and the assist gas are applied to the processing object 9 through the nozzle hole 8. The laser light and the assist gas are immediately discharged to the outside of the laser processing machine 1 after passing through the nozzle hole 8, so the nozzle hole 8 also serves as a boundary between the inside and the outside of the laser processing machine 1.

[0066] There is no limitation on the method of mounting the nozzle 7 to the processing head 4. For example, the nozzle 7 is mounted to the processing head 4 by any of a screw-in structure based on an external thread and an internal thread, a fitting, a fixing member such as a bolt, etc. The portion of the nozzle 7 that is used for mounting to the processing head 4 is referred to as a mounting portion. In the following description, illustration and description of the structure of the mounting portion are omitted.

[0067] The object 9 is, for example, a metal plate. The laser processing machine 1 cuts, for example, a metal plate.

[0068] Figure 1The solid arrow in the figure indicates the laser path through which the laser light emitted from the laser oscillator 2 passes before being irradiated to the processing object 9. The laser path passes through the center of the processing head 4, the center of the nozzle 7, and the nozzle hole 8. The laser path extends linearly from the inside of the processing head 4 to the application to the processing object 9.

[0069] In the following description, Figure 1 As shown, the object 9 is located below the nozzle 7, and the irradiation direction of the laser beam is downward.

[0070] Next, based on Figure 2~Figure 15 The nozzle 10 of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 The nozzles 7 are different.

[0071] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the nozzle 10 of the first embodiment is substantially cylindrical, has a flange 13 at the lower end, and includes a hollow main body 11 inside. Laser light passes through the inside of the main body 11.

[0072] A lower cover 40 is provided below the main body 11. The lower cover 40 is circular when viewed from the irradiation direction of the laser. Figure 4 As shown, the lower cover 40 has a circular bottom wall 41 and a side wall 42 rising from the edge of the bottom wall 41. A central hole 43 is formed at the center of the bottom of the lower cover 40 to penetrate the bottom wall 41 vertically. The upper part of the side wall 42 of the lower cover 40 is fitted with the flange 13 of the body 11.

[0073] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 4 , a receiving component 44 is stored at the bottom of the lower cover 40. Figure 5 As shown, the receiving component 44 is a circular plate-shaped component when viewed from the irradiation direction of the laser. A plurality of grooves 45 arranged in the circumferential direction are formed in the receiving component 44 (the grooves 45 are referred to as second grooves). The number of the grooves 45 is the same as the number of the nozzle hole forming component 47 described later. These grooves 45 are arranged at equal intervals on the circumference. Each groove 45 is a groove extending linearly in the tangential direction of the receiving component 44. In addition, each groove 45 penetrates the receiving component 44 in the vertical direction.

[0074] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, a central hole 46 is formed at the center of the circle of the receiving member 44. The central hole 46 of the receiving member 44 coincides with the central hole 43 of the lower cover 40 in the up-down direction.

[0075] On the receiving part 44, a plurality of nozzle hole forming parts 47 are arranged in a circular shape. Figure 7~Figure 10As shown, each nozzle hole forming member 47 has a tapered shape that becomes thinner as it is viewed from the laser irradiation direction as it approaches the center line (i.e., the laser path) extending in the vertical direction of the receiving member 44. The end portion of the nozzle hole forming member 47 on the laser path side, i.e., the front end 52, forms an acute angle (30° in the case of the figure).

[0076] like Fig.10 As shown, the front end 52 of each nozzle hole forming member 47 and the side surface 53 close to the front end 52 (see Figure 7 and Figure 8 ) forms a circular hole. The circular hole is the nozzle hole 20. The laser passes through the nozzle hole 20.

[0077] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in the figure, a rod-shaped first protrusion 48 extending upward is formed on the upper surface of the nozzle hole forming member 47 at a position away from the front end 52. In addition, a plate-shaped second protrusion 49 protruding downward is formed on the lower surface of the nozzle hole forming member 47 at a position away from the front end 52. In addition, a third protrusion 50 protruding downward is formed on the lower surface of the front end 52 of the nozzle hole forming member 47.

[0078] like Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the second protrusions 49 of the respective nozzle hole forming members 47 enter the respective grooves 45 of the receiving member 44. Fig.13 and Fig.14 As can be seen from the comparison, the second protrusion 49 is able to slide in the groove 45 .

[0079] In addition, if Fig.15 As shown, the third protrusion 50 of each nozzle hole forming member 47 enters the central hole 46 of the receiving member 44 and the central hole 43 of the lower cover 40 .

[0080] like Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , a rotating member 14 is placed on a plurality of nozzle hole forming members 47 arranged in a circle. The rotating member 14 is a member having a certain thickness and is substantially circular when viewed from the irradiation direction of the laser. A central hole 30 is formed in the center of the circular rotating member 14. Fig.15 As shown, the central hole 30 is aligned with the central hole 46 of the receiving member 44 and the central hole 43 of the lower cover 40 in the vertical direction. The laser passes through these central holes 30, 46, and 43. The laser path extends in the same direction as the irradiation direction of the laser and passes through the center of the central hole 30. The rotating member 14 can rotate with the laser path as the rotation axis.

[0081] like Fig.11 and Fig.12As shown, in the rotating member 14, a plurality of grooves 51 (the grooves 51 are referred to as first grooves) are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference centered on the rotation axis of the rotating member 14. The number of the grooves 51 is the same as the number of the nozzle hole forming members 47. Each groove 51 is a groove extending obliquely with respect to the radial direction and the circumferential direction of the rotating member 14. In addition, each groove 51 penetrates the rotating member 14 in the vertical direction.

[0082] The first protrusions 48 included in each nozzle hole forming member 47 enter into each groove 51 of the rotating member 14. Thus, each nozzle hole forming member 47 is engaged with the rotating member 14.

[0083] In such a structure, if the rotating member 14 is Fig.11 and Fig.12 When the rotating member 14 rotates as shown by the arrow in the middle, the first protrusion 48 entering the groove 51 of the rotating member 14 applies a force in the circumferential direction of the rotating member 14. In this way, each nozzle hole forming member 47 is displaced while sliding relative to the nozzle hole forming members 47 adjacent to both sides. Through this displacement, the front end 52 of each nozzle hole forming member 47 moves in the radial direction of the central hole 46 of the receiving member 44. In this way, the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 changes due to the movement of the front end 52 of the nozzle hole forming member 47.

[0084] Fig.10 , Fig.12 and Fig.14 This is a diagram when the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 is the largest. Fig. 9 , Fig.11 and Fig.13 This is a diagram when the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 is the smallest.

[0085] Furthermore, during this displacement, the second protrusion 49 of each nozzle hole forming member 47 moves in each groove 45 of the receiving member 44. Furthermore, during this displacement, the third protrusion 50 of each nozzle hole forming member 47 moves in the central hole 46 of the receiving member 44.

[0086] The receiving member 44, the nozzle hole forming member 47 and the rotating member 14 are accommodated between the lower cover 40 and the flange 13 of the main body 11. Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the lower cover 40 has a cutout 54. Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , the flange 13 of the main body 11 also has a cutout 55, and these cutouts 54 and 55 are aligned vertically. Figure 2 As shown, a portion of the rotating member 14 is exposed to the outside from the cutouts 54 and 55 .

[0087] The rotating member 14 is a gear, and a plurality of teeth 31 are formed on the outer peripheral surface. Moreover, a part of the teeth 31 of the rotating member 14 is exposed to the outside from the cutouts 54 and 55. By meshing the exposed teeth 31 with another gear and rotating the meshed gear with a motor, the rotating member 14 can be rotated.

[0088] As an example of the use of such a nozzle 10, the case of using nitrogen gas as an auxiliary gas to cut a metal plate as a processing object is described. In this case, when the processing object to be cut is changed to a metal plate thicker than before, the rotating part 14 is rotated, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 formed by the multiple nozzle hole forming parts 47 is set to be larger than before. As a result, the injection amount of the auxiliary gas from the nozzle hole 20 can be increased, and the thick metal plate can be properly cut. On the contrary, when the processing object is changed to a metal plate thinner than before, the rotating part 14 is rotated, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 is set to be smaller than before. Therefore, when the thickness of the metal plate to be cut is changed, there is no need to replace the nozzle 10.

[0089] Next, the effects of the first embodiment will be described.

[0090] Thus, in the first embodiment, a plurality of nozzle hole forming members 47 are provided to form the nozzle hole 20 on the laser path by being arranged in a circle, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 changes by the front end 52 of each nozzle hole forming member 47 moving in the radial direction of the nozzle hole 20. In this way, the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 through which the laser and the assist gas pass can be changed, and therefore, the nozzle 10 of the first embodiment can be applied to various processing objects without replacement.

[0091] In addition, the rotating member 14 is formed with the same number of grooves 51 (first grooves) as the nozzle hole forming members 47, and the first protrusions 48 are provided on the surface of each nozzle hole forming member 47 on the rotating member 14 side, and each nozzle hole forming member 47 is engaged with the rotating member 14 by the first protrusions 48 entering each groove 51. Furthermore, when the rotating member 14 rotates, each nozzle hole forming member 47 slides simultaneously relative to the nozzle hole forming members 47 adjacent to each other on both sides, and the front end 52 of each nozzle hole forming member 47 moves, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 changes by this movement. Therefore, the diameter of the nozzle hole 20 can be changed by a simple action of rotating the rotating member 14.

[0092] In addition, the receiving member 44 is provided with the same number of grooves 45 (second grooves) as the number of the nozzle hole forming members 47, and a second protrusion 49 is provided on the surface of each nozzle hole forming member 47 on the receiving member 44 side, and when the rotating member 14 rotates, each second protrusion 49 moves in each groove 45. With this structure, each nozzle hole forming member 47 can slide relative to the nozzle hole forming members 47 adjacent on both sides in a stable posture.

[0093] In addition, the receiving member 44 is provided with a central hole 46, and a third protrusion 50 is formed at a front end 52 of each nozzle hole forming member 47. The third protrusion 50 enters the central hole 46, and when the rotating member 14 rotates, each third protrusion 50 is displaced in the central hole 46. With this structure, each nozzle hole forming member 47 can slide relative to the nozzle hole forming members 47 adjacent to each other on both sides in a stable posture.

[0094] Furthermore, since the rotating member 14 is a gear, it can be easily rotated by meshing with other gears.

[0095] Various changes can be made to the first embodiment. For example, the vertical relationship between the rotating member and the receiving member can be reversed from that described above. That is, the rotating member can be located below the nozzle hole forming member, and the member corresponding to the receiving member can be located above the nozzle hole forming member. In addition, the rotating member can be a rotatable member and can be other than a gear. In addition, the device for rotating the rotating member is not limited.

[0096] The nozzle of Embodiment 1 can also be used as a nozzle of a laser welding machine that welds metal plates together by irradiating laser beams. Like a laser cutting machine that cuts metal plates by irradiating laser beams, a laser welding machine is a type of laser processing machine.

[0097] 2. Implementation Method 2

[0098] The laser processing machine of the second embodiment is different from the laser processing machine 1 of the first embodiment in that the nozzle is different. Figure 16~Figure 22 The nozzle 110 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0099] The nozzle 110 of the second embodiment includes a body 111 that is substantially cylindrical and hollow inside. The laser passes through the inside of the body 111. A body hole 112 (see FIG. 1 ) through which the laser passes is formed at the lower end of the body 111. Fig. 22 ).

[0100] like Fig.16 , Fig.17 and Fig. 22As shown in FIG. 1 , a fixed member 113 and a movable member 114 are provided below the main body 111 as a part of the nozzle 110 . The fixed member 113 is fixed to the main body 111 , and the movable member 114 is movable to the fixed member 113 .

[0101] The fixing member 113 is a member having a circular shape and a certain thickness when viewed from the irradiation direction of the laser. A fixing hole 118 is formed in the fixing member 113 and passes through the fixing member 113 from top to bottom (see Fig.18 and Fig. 22 The fixing hole 118 is aligned with the main body hole 112 of the main body 111 in the vertical direction. The laser passes through the fixing hole 118.

[0102] like Fig.18 As shown, a plurality of engagement holes 119 are formed on the lower surface of the fixed member 113. Each engagement hole 119 is a hole opened downward and has the same diameter and depth. These engagement holes 119 are arranged at equal intervals on a circle centered on the rotating shaft 130 of the movable member 114.

[0103] The movable member 114 is a member that is substantially circular and has a certain thickness when viewed from the irradiation direction of the laser. The movable member 114 can rotate around the rotation axis 130. Fig.16 and Fig.17 The arrow in FIG. 1 shows the rotation direction of the movable member 114. The rotation axis 130 is located at a position deviated from the laser path and extends in the same direction as the irradiation direction of the laser beam.

[0104] like Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , a plurality of nozzle holes 120 having different diameters are formed in the movable member 114. Each nozzle hole 120 passes through the movable member 114 in the vertical direction. The nozzle holes 120 are arranged on a circle with the rotating shaft 130 of the movable member 114 as the center.

[0105] In addition, if Fig.19 As shown, the movable member 114 is provided with an elastic protrusion 121, and the elastic protrusion 121 is loaded with elastic force so as to protrude toward the fixed member 113. Fig.21 As shown, the elastic protrusion 121 is composed of a protrusion member 124 and a spring 125 as an elastic member. The protrusion member 124 is composed of a conical head 122 and a shaft 123 located below the head 122 and thinner than the head 122. The spring 125 is provided around the shaft 123 of the protrusion member 124.

[0106] like Fig. 20 As shown, a plurality of protrusion receiving holes 126 are formed on the upper surface of the movable member 114. In each protrusion receiving hole 126, as shown in FIG. Fig.19As shown, elastic protrusions 121 are provided. These elastic protrusions 121 are arranged at equal intervals on the circumference of a circle with the rotating shaft 130 of the movable member 114 as the center.

[0107] Depend on Fig.18 , Fig.19 It can be seen that the number of elastic protrusions 121 is the same as the number of engaging holes 119 formed in the fixed member 113. Moreover, whenever the movable member 114 rotates by a predetermined angle, all the elastic protrusions 121 provided on the movable member 114 and all the engaging holes 119 formed in the fixed member 113 can be aligned in the vertical direction.

[0108] In the elastic protrusion 121, the shaft 123 of the protrusion member 124 and the spring 125 always enter the protrusion receiving hole 126 formed on the upper surface of the movable member 114. On the other hand, the head 122 of the elastic protrusion 121 enters the protrusion receiving hole 126 when pressed from above, and protrudes upward further than the protrusion receiving hole 126 due to the elastic force of the spring 125 when not pressed from above.

[0109] The upper surface of the movable member 114 is in contact with the lower surface of the fixed member 113 . Therefore, during the rotation of the movable member 114 , the elastic protrusion 121 is pressed against the lower surface of the fixed member 113 and is completely received in the protrusion receiving hole 126 of the movable member 114 .

[0110] However, when the elastic protrusion 121 reaches below the engaging hole 119 , it is no longer pressed from above, so the head 122 of the protrusion member 124 of the elastic protrusion 121 protrudes upward and enters the engaging hole 119 . Fig. 22 119. Thus, the elastic protrusion 121 enters the engaging hole 119, and the movable member 114 is temporarily fixed relative to the fixed member 113. However, since the head 122 of the elastic protrusion 121 is conical, if a force is applied to rotate the movable member 114, the movable member 114 rotates, and the head 122 comes out of the engaging hole 119 and is received in the protrusion receiving hole 126.

[0111] Whenever the movable part 114 rotates a predetermined angle, all the elastic protrusions 121 of the movable part 114 simultaneously enter all the engaging holes 119 of the fixed part 113, and the movable part 114 is temporarily fixed. When the movable part 114 is temporarily fixed, any one of the plurality of nozzle holes 120 comes to the right below the fixing hole 118 of the fixed part 113, and the nozzle hole 120 and the fixing hole 118 are aligned in the irradiation direction of the laser. As a result, the laser and the auxiliary gas can be discharged outward through the nozzle hole 120. In this way, the nozzle hole 120 of any diameter can be aligned with the fixing hole 118, and the nozzle hole 120 can be used as a laser passage.

[0112] The movable member 114 is a gear, and a plurality of teeth 131 are formed on the outer peripheral surface. Therefore, the movable member 114 can be rotated by meshing the teeth 131 of the movable member 114 with another gear and rotating the meshed gear with a motor.

[0113] In addition, if Fig. 22 As shown, disc-shaped stoppers 132 are provided above and below the rotating shaft 130. The upper stopper 132 presses the fixed member 113 from above, and the lower stopper 132 presses the movable member 114 from below, so that the fixed member 113 and the movable member 114 are not separated.

[0114] As an example of the use of such a nozzle 110, the case of cutting a metal plate as a processing object using nitrogen gas as an auxiliary gas is described. In this case, when the processing object to be cut is changed to a metal plate thicker than before, the movable part 114 is rotated, and the nozzle hole 120 that is consistent with the laser passage in the main body 111 is changed to a larger nozzle hole 120 than before. As a result, the injection amount of the auxiliary gas from the nozzle hole 120 can be increased, and the thick metal plate can be properly cut. On the contrary, when the processing object is changed to a metal plate thinner than before, the movable part 114 is rotated, and the nozzle hole 120 that is consistent with the laser passage in the main body 111 is changed to a smaller nozzle hole 120 than before. Therefore, when the thickness of the metal plate to be cut is changed, there is no need to replace the nozzle 110.

[0115] Next, the effects of the second embodiment will be described.

[0116] In the second embodiment, the movable member 114 can rotate around the rotation axis 130, and the plurality of nozzle holes 120 are arranged on a circumference around the rotation axis 130. Moreover, by the rotation of the movable member 114, any one of the plurality of nozzle holes 120 is aligned with the laser path in the main body 111 in the irradiation direction of the laser, thereby allowing the laser and the auxiliary gas to pass through the nozzle hole. In this way, the diameter of the nozzle hole 120 through which the laser and the auxiliary gas pass can be changed, so the nozzle 110 of the second embodiment can be applied to various processing objects without replacement.

[0117] In addition, a plurality of elastic protrusions 121 are provided on the movable member 114, and each elastic protrusion 121 is loaded with elastic force so as to protrude toward the fixed member 113, and a plurality of engaging holes 119 opening toward the movable member 114 side are formed in the fixed member 113. Moreover, when each elastic protrusion 121 enters each engaging hole 119, one of the plurality of nozzle holes 120 is aligned with the fixing hole 118 of the fixed member 113 in the irradiation direction of the laser, and the laser and the auxiliary gas can pass through the fixing hole 118 and the nozzle hole 120. In this way, the elastic protrusion 121 and the engaging hole 119 temporarily fix the movable member 114, and play a role in keeping the nozzle hole 120 at a position where the laser and the auxiliary gas can pass.

[0118] Furthermore, since the movable member 114 is a gear, it can be easily rotated by meshing with other gears.

[0119] Various changes can be made to Embodiment 2. For example, the upper and lower relationship between the engaging hole and the elastic protrusion can be reversed, the engaging hole is formed on the upper surface of the movable part, and the elastic protrusion is provided on the lower surface of the fixed part. In addition, the number of elastic protrusions and the number of engaging holes may be different. For example, only one elastic protrusion is provided, and the movable part can be temporarily fixed relative to the fixed part by the elastic protrusion entering any engaging hole. In addition, the movable part only needs to be a rotatable part, and it does not need to be a gear. In addition, the device for rotating the movable part is not limited.

[0120] The nozzle of Embodiment 2 can also be used as a nozzle of a laser welding machine that welds metal plates together by irradiating laser beams. Like a laser cutting machine that cuts metal plates by irradiating laser beams, a laser welding machine is a type of laser processing machine.

[0121] 3. Implementation method 3

[0122] The laser processing machine of the third embodiment is different from the laser processing machine 1 of the first embodiment in that the nozzle is different. Figure 23~Figure 31 , the nozzle 210 of embodiment 3 is described.

[0123] like Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the nozzle 210 of the third embodiment includes a body 211 that is substantially cylindrical and hollow inside. The laser passes through the inside of the body 211. Fig.25 As shown, a main body hole 212 is formed at the lower end of the main body 211 for laser to pass through.

[0124] like Fig.23 and Fig.24As shown, a fixed component 213 and a movable component 214 are respectively provided below the main body 211 as a part of the nozzle 210. The fixed component 213 is fixed relative to the main body 211. The movable component 214 can move in a straight line direction ( Fig.23 and Fig.24 moves in the direction of the arrow.

[0125] like Fig.26 and Fig. 27 As shown in the figure, the fixed part 213 is a generally hollow cylindrical shape with a rectangular cross section. The fixed part 213 has openings 215 on both sides of the moving direction of the movable part 214. In addition, a micro-slit 216 is formed at the lower part of the fixed part 213, and the micro-slit 216 connects the two openings 215 and opens to the lower side. The movable part 214 slides inside the fixed part 213.

[0126] A fixing hole 218 is formed in the portion of the fixing member 213 that is sandwiched between the main body 211 and the movable member 214 and passes through the fixing member 213 from top to bottom (see Fig.26 The fixing hole 218 is aligned with the main body hole 212 of the main body 211 in the vertical direction. The laser passes through the fixing hole 218.

[0127] like Fig. 27 As shown in FIG. 1 , a plurality of engagement holes 219 are formed on the inner surface of the fixed member 213 on the upper side of the movable member 214. Each engagement hole 219 is a hole opened downward and has the same diameter and depth. The number of the engagement holes 219 is the same as the number of the nozzle holes 220 described below. The plurality of engagement holes 219 are arranged in a row in the moving direction of the movable member 214.

[0128] The movable member 214 is a plate-shaped member. Fig.28 and Fig.29 As shown, a plurality of nozzle holes 220 having different diameters are formed in the movable member 214. Each nozzle hole 220 passes through the movable member 214 in the up-down direction. These nozzle holes 220 are arranged in a row in the moving direction of the movable member 214.

[0129] In addition, if Fig.28 As shown in FIG. 1 , an elastic protrusion 121 is provided on the upper surface side of the movable member 214, and the elastic protrusion 121 is loaded with elastic force so as to protrude toward the inner surface of the fixed member 213. The elastic protrusion 121 of the third embodiment is the same as the elastic protrusion 121 of the second embodiment. Fig.21 The elastic protrusions shown.

[0130] In such an elastic protrusion 121, the shaft 123 of the protrusion member 124 and the spring 125 always enter the protrusion receiving hole 226 (see Fig.29 and Fig.30 On the other hand, the head 122 of the protrusion member 124 enters the protrusion receiving hole 226 when being pressed from above, and protrudes upward further than the protrusion receiving hole 226 due to the elastic force of the spring 125 when not being pressed from above.

[0131] The upper surface of the movable member 214 contacts the inner surface of the fixed member 213 . Therefore, when the movable member 214 moves inside the fixed member 213 , the elastic protrusion 121 is pressed from above by the inner surface of the fixed member 213 and is completely received in the protrusion receiving hole 226 of the movable member 214 .

[0132] However, if the elastic protrusion 121 reaches below the engaging hole 219 of the fixing member 213, it is no longer pressed from above. Fig.30 As shown in FIG. 2 , the elastic protrusion 121 (more specifically, the head 122 of the protrusion member 124) protrudes upward and enters the engaging hole 219. In this way, the movable member 214 is temporarily fixed relative to the fixed member 213 by the elastic protrusion 121 entering the engaging hole 219. However, since the head 122 of the elastic protrusion 121 is conical, if a force is applied to move the movable member 214 in the horizontal direction, the movable member 214 moves in the direction of the applied force, and the head 122 comes out of the engaging hole 219 and is stored in the protrusion storage hole 226.

[0133] In such Fig.30 When the elastic protrusion 121 enters any of the engaging holes 219, the nozzle hole 220 corresponding to the engaging hole 219 is as shown in FIG. Fig.31 As shown in the figure, the laser beam is directed directly below the fixing hole 218 of the fixing part 213, and the nozzle hole 220 is aligned with the fixing hole 218 in the direction of laser irradiation. Thus, a straight laser path is realized through the main body hole 212 of the main body 211, the fixing hole 218 of the fixing part 213, and the nozzle hole 220 of the movable part 214, and the laser beam and the auxiliary gas are discharged outward through the nozzle hole 220.

[0134] By moving the movable member 214, the elastic protrusion 121 can be placed in any engagement hole 219, thereby making any nozzle hole 220 consistent with the fixing hole 218. Here, the movable member 214 can be moved by various moving devices. For example, a moving device such as a stepping motor, a linear motor, a servo motor, etc. can be used, and various moving devices other than the devices listed here can also be used.

[0135] High parts 227 that are higher than the opening 215 of the fixed part 213 are provided on both sides of the moving direction of the movable part 214. The movable part 214 cannot escape from the fixed part 213 because the high parts 227 contact the opening 215 of the fixed part 213.

[0136] Fig.24 As shown, a ridge 228 is formed on the lower surface side of the movable member 214, and the ridge 228 extends in the moving direction of the movable member 214. The lower end of the nozzle hole 220 opens on the lower surface of the ridge 228. The ridge 228 is located at the micro-slit 216 of the fixed member 213 (refer to Fig. 27 If the movable member 214 slides relative to the fixed member 213, the convex strip 228 slides in the micro gap 216.

[0137] As an example of the use of such a nozzle 210, the case of cutting a metal plate as a processing object using nitrogen gas as an auxiliary gas is described. In this case, when the processing object to be cut is changed to a metal plate thicker than before, the movable part 214 is moved, and the nozzle hole 220 that is consistent with the laser path in the main body 211 is changed to a nozzle hole 220 that is larger than before. As a result, the injection amount of the auxiliary gas from the nozzle hole 220 can be increased, and the thick metal plate can be properly cut. On the contrary, when the processing object is changed to a metal plate thinner than before, the movable part 214 is moved, and the nozzle hole 220 that is consistent with the laser path in the main body 211 is changed to a nozzle hole 220 that is smaller than before. Therefore, when the thickness of the metal plate to be cut is changed, there is no need to replace the nozzle 210.

[0138] Next, the effects of the third embodiment will be described.

[0139] As described above, the nozzle 210 of the third embodiment is provided with: a main body 211 through which laser light passes, and a movable member 214 formed with a plurality of nozzle holes 220 having different diameters. Here, the movable member 214 can move in a straight line direction, and the plurality of nozzle holes 220 are arranged in the moving direction of the movable member 214. Moreover, by the movement of the movable member 214, any one of the plurality of nozzle holes 220 is aligned with the laser path in the main body 211 in the irradiation direction of the laser light, thereby allowing the laser light and the auxiliary gas to pass through the nozzle hole 220. In this way, the diameter of the nozzle hole 220 through which laser light and auxiliary gas pass can be changed, and therefore, the nozzle 210 of the third embodiment can be applied to various processing objects without replacement.

[0140] In addition, a fixed member 213 is provided relative to the main body 211, and a fixing hole 218 is formed in the portion between the main body 211 and the movable member 214 in the fixing member 213, and the laser passes through the fixing hole 218. In addition, an elastic protrusion 121 is provided on the movable member 214, and the elastic protrusion 121 is loaded with elastic force to protrude toward the fixed member 213, and a plurality of engaging holes 219 are formed in the fixed member 213, which are open to the side of the movable member 214. Moreover, when the elastic protrusion 121 enters any of the engaging holes 219, the nozzle hole 220 corresponding to the engaging hole 219 and the fixing hole 218 of the fixing member 213 are aligned in the irradiation direction of the laser, and the laser and the auxiliary gas can pass through the fixing hole 218 and the nozzle hole 220. In this way, the elastic protrusion 121 and the engaging hole 219 temporarily fix the movable member 214, and play a role in keeping the nozzle hole 220 at a position where the laser and the auxiliary gas can pass.

[0141] Various changes can be made to the third embodiment. For example, the engaging hole can be formed in the movable part and the elastic protrusion can be provided on the inner surface of the fixed part, which is opposite to the above. In addition, a plurality of elastic protrusions can be provided, and the movable part can be temporarily fixed relative to the fixed part by these elastic protrusions entering each engaging hole.

[0142] The nozzle of Embodiment 3 can also be used as a nozzle of a laser welding machine that welds metal plates together by irradiating laser beams. Like a laser cutting machine that cuts metal plates by irradiating laser beams, a laser welding machine is a type of laser processing machine.

[0143] 4. Implementation method 4

[0144] The laser processing machine of the fourth embodiment is different from the laser processing machine 1 of the first embodiment in that the nozzle is different. Figure 32~Figure 40 , the nozzle 310 of embodiment 4 is described.

[0145] like Figure 32~Figure 34 As shown, the nozzle 310 of the fourth embodiment includes: a substantially cylindrical upper cover 311, a lower cover 340 below the upper cover 311, a rotating member 314 sandwiched between the upper cover 311 and the lower cover 340, and a plurality of claws 360 extending from the upper cover 311 to the lower cover 340 and protruding downward from the lower cover 340.

[0146] A cylindrical space 361 extending in the up-down direction is formed inside the upper cover 311. Fig.40 As shown, the space 361 passes through the upper cover 311 from top to bottom. The laser passes through the space 361.

[0147] In addition, the same number of upper grooves 362 as the number of claws 360 are formed around the space 361 of the upper cover 311 (see Fig.40). These upper grooves 362 are independent. In addition, these upper grooves 362 are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference centered on the laser path through which the laser passes. In addition, each upper groove 362 extends obliquely relative to the up-down direction and opens at the lower end of the upper cover 311. The claw 360 enters each upper groove 362.

[0148] A substantially conical space 363 extending in the vertical direction is formed inside the lower cover 340 (see Fig.40 The space 363 passes through the lower cover 340 from top to bottom. The laser passes through the space 363.

[0149] In addition, if Fig.35 and Fig.36 As shown, the same number of lower grooves 364 as the number of claws 360 are formed around the space 363 of the lower cover 340. These lower grooves 364 are independent. In addition, these lower grooves 364 are arranged at equal intervals on the circumference of the laser path through which the laser passes as the center. In addition, each lower groove 364 extends obliquely with respect to the up-down direction and opens at both the upper end and the lower end of the lower cover 340. The claw 360 enters each lower groove 364.

[0150] like Fig.37 As shown, the rotating member 314 is a gear having a hole around the rotating shaft. The laser passes through the hole of the rotating member 314. The rotating member 314 can rotate with the laser path through which the laser passes as the rotating shaft. A thread is cut on the inner diameter surface (the wall surface of the hole) of the hole of the rotating member 314 to form a thread tooth 369. The portion where the thread tooth 369 is formed is used as a cut thread portion.

[0151] In addition, convex strips 365 and 366 are formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the rotating member 314 and extend around the rotating axis (see Fig.37 , Fig.40 Grooves 367 and 368 are formed on the lower surface of the upper cover 311 and the upper surface of the lower cover 340 respectively, which surround the spaces 361 and 363 (see Fig.35 , Fig.40 ), the convex strips 365, 366 of the rotating member 314 enter the grooves 367, 368. Due to such a structure, the rotating member 314 can rotate between the upper cover 311 and the lower cover 340. During the rotation of the rotating member 314, the upper cover 311 and the lower cover 340 do not rotate.

[0152] like Fig.38 and Fig.39 As shown, a plurality of claws 360 are arranged on a circumference with the laser path as the center. The laser passes through the inner side of the plurality of claws 360 arranged on the circumference. The front ends (lower ends) of the plurality of claws 360 form the nozzle hole 320. Therefore, each claw 360 is a nozzle hole forming member.

[0153] A thread 370 is formed on the surface of each claw 360 on the opposite side to the laser path, and the thread 370 can be fitted with the thread 369 of the rotating member 314. The portion where the thread 370 is formed is a cut thread portion.

[0154] like Figure 38~Figure 40 As shown, each claw 360 is inclined in a direction that is closer to each other at the bottom and farther away from each other at the top. The inclination direction and inclination angle of the claw 360 are the same as the inclination direction and inclination angle of the upper groove 362 and the lower groove 364.

[0155] like Fig.40 As shown, each claw 360 is provided from the inside of the upper groove 362 of the upper cover 311 to the inside of the lower groove 364 of the lower cover 340. Further, the lower portion of each claw 360 extends from the lower end of the lower groove 364 to the lower side of the lower cover 340. In addition, between the upper cover 311 and the lower cover 340, the thread teeth 370 of each claw 360 are engaged with the thread teeth 369 of the rotating member 314.

[0156] Due to such a structure, when the rotating member 314 rotates, the plurality of claws 360 meshing with the thread teeth 369 of the rotating member 314 move up and down simultaneously. When these claws 360 descend, the lower ends of the claws 360 approach each other, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 320 decreases. The surface of each claw 360 on the laser path side becomes a curved surface. Fig.34 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the lower ends of the plurality of claws 360 arranged on the circumference contact each other, the curved surfaces coincide with each other, forming a completely circular nozzle hole 320. On the other hand, if the claws 360 are raised, as shown in FIG. Fig.33 As shown in FIG. 1 , the lower ends of the claws 360 are moved away from each other, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 320 becomes larger. Fig.33 and Fig.34 In the figure, the movement of the claw 360 is indicated by arrows.

[0157] As described above, the rotating member 314 is a gear, and a plurality of teeth 331 are formed on the outer peripheral surface. Therefore, the rotating member 314 can be rotated by meshing the teeth 331 of the rotating member 314 with another gear and rotating the meshed gear with the motor.

[0158] Furthermore, there are gaps between adjacent claws 360 further below the lower cover 340. Therefore, the auxiliary gas not only flows out from the nozzle holes 320 formed by the front ends of the plurality of claws 360, but also leaks out from these gaps. In order to prevent leakage from such gaps, rubber may be provided to fill the gaps between adjacent claws 360.

[0159] As an example of the use of such a nozzle 310, the case of using nitrogen gas as an auxiliary gas to cut a metal plate as a processing object is described. In this case, when the processing object to be cut is changed to a metal plate thicker than before, the rotating part 314 is rotated, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 320 formed by the plurality of claws 360 is set to be larger than before. As a result, the injection amount of the auxiliary gas from the nozzle hole 320 can be increased, and the thick metal plate can be properly cut. On the contrary, when the processing object is changed to a metal plate thinner than before, the rotating part 314 is rotated, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 320 is set to be smaller than before. Therefore, when the thickness of the metal plate to be cut is changed, there is no need to replace the nozzle 310.

[0160] Next, the effects of the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0161] As described above, in the nozzle 310 of the fourth embodiment, the nozzle hole 320 is formed by arranging a plurality of claws 360 as a nozzle hole forming member in a circular shape. In addition, the nozzle 310 includes, in addition to the claws 360, a rotating member 314 that rotates with the laser path as a rotation axis, and a cutting thread portion (a portion having thread teeth 369 formed thereon) that rotates along with the rotation of the rotating member 314. In addition, the structure is such that the cutting thread portion of the rotating member 314 is screwed (engaged) with each claw 360, and the claw 360 moves by the rotation of the rotating member 314. Moreover, by the movement of the claw 360, the front end of the claw 360 moves in the radial direction of the nozzle hole 320, and the diameter of the nozzle hole 320 changes.

[0162] As described above, the diameter of the nozzle hole 320 changes due to the rotation of the rotating member 314 , and therefore the nozzle 310 according to the fourth embodiment can be applied to various processing objects without replacement.

[0163] Furthermore, since the rotating member 314 is a gear, it can be easily rotated by meshing with other gears.

[0164] Various modifications can be made to the fourth embodiment. For example, the rotating member may be any member that can rotate, and may not be a gear. In addition, the device that rotates the rotating member is not limited.

[0165] The nozzle of Embodiment 4 can also be used as a nozzle of a laser welding machine that welds metal plates together by irradiating laser. Like a laser cutting machine that cuts metal plates by irradiating laser, a laser welding machine is a type of laser processing machine.

[0166] 5. Implementation Method 5

[0167] The nozzles of Embodiments 1 to 4 can be used as nozzles of a plasma processing machine.

[0168] like Fig.41 As shown, the plasma processing machine 401 includes a processing head 404 and a nozzle 407 installed at a portion of the processing head 404 that faces a processing object 409. An electrode 402 is provided inside the processing head 404, and a gas flow path 406 is formed between the electrode 402 and the inner surface of the processing head 404. In addition, the plasma processing machine 401 includes a power source (not shown) for generating a plasma arc 403 from the electrode 402.

[0169] A nozzle hole ( Fig.41 408 denotes a nozzle hole). The plasma arc 403 is generated between the electrode 402 and the processing object 409 in the form of passing through the nozzle hole 408. The path of the plasma arc 403 extends linearly from the electrode 402 to the processing object 409. The plasma arc 403 is a type of irradiation object.

[0170] There is no limitation on the method of mounting the nozzle 407 on the processing head 404. For example, the nozzle 407 may be mounted on the processing head 404 by any of a screw-in structure based on an external thread and an internal thread, a fitting, a fixing member such as a bolt, etc. The part of the nozzle 407 that is used for mounting on the processing head 404 is referred to as a mounting portion.

[0171] The object to be processed 409 is, for example, a metal plate. The plasma processing machine 401 cuts, for example, a metal plate.

[0172] As the nozzle 407 in such a plasma processing machine 401, any nozzle of Embodiments 1 to 4 can be used. In the plasma processing machine 401, the diameter of the nozzle hole 408 needs to be changed according to the material and thickness of the processing object 409, but by using any nozzle of Embodiments 1 to 4, the diameter of the nozzle hole 408 can be changed without replacing the nozzle 407.

Claims

1. A nozzle for a processing machine, which is a nozzle installed in a laser processing machine or a plasma processing machine and used at a portion facing a processing object, wherein: The laser processing machine applies laser light and auxiliary gas as irradiation objects to the processing object, the plasma processing machine generates a plasma arc as irradiation object between an electrode and the processing object, and the processing machine nozzle is formed with a nozzle hole for the irradiation object to pass through. In the processing machine nozzle, The diameter of the nozzle hole is variable. A main body and a plurality of nozzle hole forming components are provided, wherein a portion of a passage for the irradiated object to pass through is formed inside the main body, and the plurality of nozzle hole forming components move relative to the main body. The nozzle hole is formed on the passage by arranging a plurality of the nozzle hole forming members in a circular shape. The diameter of the nozzle hole changes as the end portion, that is, the front end, of each of the nozzle hole forming members on the passage side moves in the radial direction of the nozzle hole.

2. The processing machine nozzle according to claim 1, characterized in that: When viewed from the irradiation direction of the irradiated object, each of the nozzle hole forming members has a tapering shape that becomes thinner as it approaches the passage. Each of the nozzle hole forming members slides relative to the nozzle hole forming members adjacent to each other on both sides thereof, whereby each of the front ends moves and the diameter of the nozzle hole changes.

3. The processing machine nozzle according to claim 2, characterized in that: A rotating member is provided which can rotate with the passage as a rotation axis. A first protrusion is provided on a surface of each of the nozzle hole forming members on the rotating member side. The rotating member is formed with the same number of first grooves as the nozzle hole forming member, The first protrusions enter the first grooves, so that the nozzle hole forming members are engaged with the rotating member. As the rotating member rotates, each of the nozzle hole forming members slides simultaneously with respect to the nozzle hole forming members adjacent to each other on both sides thereof.

4. The processing machine nozzle according to claim 3, characterized in that: A receiving member is provided at a position on the opposite side of the nozzle hole forming member from the rotating member, and the receiving member is formed with the same number of second grooves as the nozzle hole forming member. A second protrusion is provided on a surface of each of the nozzle hole forming members on a side opposite to the first protrusion. When the rotating member rotates, each of the second protrusions moves in each of the second grooves, and each of the nozzle hole forming members slides simultaneously with respect to the nozzle hole forming members adjacent to each other on both sides thereof.

5. The processing machine nozzle according to claim 4, characterized in that: The receiving member is formed with a central hole wider than the passage, A third protrusion that enters the central hole is formed on a surface of the front end of each of the nozzle hole forming members on the second protrusion side.

6. A nozzle for a processing machine, which is a nozzle installed in a laser processing machine or a plasma processing machine and used at a portion facing a processing object, wherein: The laser processing machine applies laser light and auxiliary gas as irradiation objects to the processing object, the plasma processing machine generates a plasma arc as irradiation object between an electrode and the processing object, and the processing machine nozzle is formed with a nozzle hole for the irradiation object to pass through. In the processing machine nozzle, The diameter of the nozzle hole is variable. A main body and a movable member are provided, wherein the main body has a part of a passage formed inside thereof for the irradiated object to pass through, and the movable member has a plurality of nozzle holes having different diameters. By the movement of the movable member, any one of the plurality of nozzle holes is aligned with the passage in the main body in the irradiation direction of the irradiated object, whereby the irradiated object can pass through the nozzle hole.

7. The processing machine nozzle according to claim 6, characterized in that: A stationary fixing component is provided relative to the main body. The fixing member has a fixing hole formed therein, the fixing hole being the passage between the main body and the movable member. One or more elastic protrusions are provided on one of the fixed member and the movable member, and the elastic protrusions are loaded with elastic force to protrude toward the other party. A plurality of engaging holes opening toward each other are formed on the other of the fixed member and the movable member. When at least any one of the elastic protrusions enters at least any one of the engagement holes, the nozzle hole corresponding to the engagement hole and the fixing hole are aligned in the irradiation direction of the irradiated object.

8. The processing machine nozzle according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The movable member extends in the same direction as the irradiation direction of the irradiated object and is rotatable around a rotation axis located at a position offset from the passage. The plurality of nozzle holes are arranged on a circle centered on the rotation axis.

9. The processing machine nozzle according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The movable member is movable in a linear direction, and the plurality of nozzle holes are arranged in a moving direction of the movable member.

10. A nozzle for a processing machine, which is a nozzle installed in a laser processing machine or a plasma processing machine and used at a portion facing a processing object, wherein: The laser processing machine applies laser light and auxiliary gas as irradiation objects to the processing object, the plasma processing machine generates a plasma arc as irradiation object between an electrode and the processing object, and the processing machine nozzle is formed with a nozzle hole for the irradiation object to pass through. In the processing machine nozzle, The diameter of the nozzle hole is variable. A main body and a plurality of nozzle hole forming components are provided, wherein a portion of a passage for the irradiated object to pass through is formed inside the main body, and the plurality of nozzle hole forming components move relative to the main body. The nozzle hole is formed on the passage by arranging a plurality of the nozzle hole forming members in a circular shape. The end portion, that is, the front end, of each of the nozzle hole forming members on the passage side moves in the radial direction of the nozzle hole, thereby changing the diameter of the nozzle hole. The processing machine nozzle comprises: a rotating member rotating with the passage as a rotating axis, a cutting thread portion rotating along with the rotation of the rotating member, and a plurality of claws as the nozzle hole forming member. The cutting thread portion is screwed to a portion of each of the claws, As the rotating member rotates, the claw screwed into the cutting thread portion moves, and the diameter of the nozzle hole changes.

Images