Method for identifying an exchangeable processing stable or stable type of a laser plower, and laser plower for carving, marking and / or marking a workpiece therefor

Abstract

The invention describes a laser plotter (1) and a method for identifying an exchangeable processing table (9) or table type (9) of a laser plotter (1) for cutting, engraving, marking and / or marking a workpiece (7), in which at least one radiation source (4) in the form of a laser (5, 6) is used in a housing (3) of the laser plotter (1), wherein the laser beam (10) is deflected to the focusing unit (12) or the laser head (12) by means of a deflection element (11) when the radiation source (4) is activated, and the machining table (9) or the machining space (8) is detected by means of at least one camera (23), which is preferably positioned in a cover (21). According to the invention, at least one image (32) of a processing table (9) or table type (9) of the laser plotter (1) is recorded by a camera (23) and is transferred to table evaluation software (33) of software (28) on the laser plotter (1) or to an externally connected component (15), in particular a laptop computer, subsequently, one or more defined evaluation positions of the recorded image (32) of the machining table (9) or of the table type (9) are evaluated by table evaluation software (33), the characteristics of the machining table (9) or of the table type (9) being compared with the stored characteristics of the possible machining table (9) or of the table type (9) or the identifier type (35) being read.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a method for identifying interchangeable processing tables or table types of a laser plotter for cutting, engraving, marking and / or marking workpieces, as described in claims 1 and 15, and a laser plotter for engraving, marking and / or marking workpieces. Background Art

[0002] Laser machines or laser plotters are already known from the prior art. These machines operate one or more laser sources. To this end, the laser source transmits a laser beam to a laser head or focusing unit, where the laser beam is focused by optical elements, particularly lenses. Furthermore, the laser head or focusing unit has a nozzle. Choosing the right nozzle influences the quality of the machining process, particularly the engraving, and the nozzle also protects the lens from dust or smoke. The laser machine is preferably connected to an external component, particularly a laptop. Graphics and / or text are created on the external component, particularly a computer or control unit, using commercially available or proprietary software such as CorelDraw, Paint, or Ruby. These graphics and / or text are then transmitted or exported to the laser plotter's control unit, which converts the transmitted data, particularly the graphics and / or text, for controlling the various components of the laser machine or laser plotter.

[0003] In principle, systems from the applicant, particularly Trotec Laser GmbH, and competitors are already known, in which various settings can be set for processing workpieces, such as laser power, material, material thickness, lens or lens type, nozzle, and so on. For this purpose, the processing table or table type can also be set as a parameter in the software. In other words, the user can select and set the corresponding processing table or table type under the parameter "Processing table or table type." For example, when processing films or paper, a vacuum table with high suction power is required to achieve optimal results. When cutting acrylic, on the other hand, as few support points as possible are desirable to avoid backscatter. In this case, acrylic grid tables or acrylic sheet cutting tables are ideally suited.

[0004] The processing table can be easily replaced by the user, for example by simply removing the processing table from the support element in the housing of the laser machine and inserting another processing table. Different processing tables or table types are available to the user, such as

[0005] -Aluminum grid cutting table( Figure 2a )

[0006] -Aluminum sheet cutting table ( Figure 2b )

[0007] -Acrylic Grid Cutting Table( Figure 2c )

[0008] -Acrylic sheet cutting table ( Figure 2d )

[0009] -Vacuum table( Figure 2e )

[0010] -Ferromagnetic engraving table( Figure 2f )

[0011] -Honeycomb cutting bracket( Figure 2g )

[0012] -etc,

[0013] The processing tables or table types can be used for the most diverse tasks or processing processes.

[0014] A disadvantage in this case is that, while it is possible to simply change the processing table or table type in laser systems, the type of the replaced processing table or table type must be manually set in the software. This can lead to the wrong type being entered or selected in the software, or the user forgetting to match the processing table or table type in the software. For example, if the wrong table is used for thick cutting in acrylic, significant flame formation must be expected. Summary of the Invention

[0015] The object of the present invention is to create a method for identifying an interchangeable processing table or table type of a laser plotter for cutting, engraving, marking and / or marking workpieces, as well as a laser plotter for engraving, marking and / or marking workpieces, wherein on the one hand the aforementioned disadvantages are avoided and, on the other hand, a high degree of operating convenience is achieved by identifying the processing table or table type.

[0016] This object is achieved by the present invention. Advantageous design and / or method measures are described in the dependent claims.

[0017] The object of the present invention is achieved by a method for identifying an interchangeable processing table or table type of a laser plotter for cutting, engraving, marking and / or marking workpieces, wherein at least one image of the processing table or table type of the laser plotter is recorded by a camera and transmitted to table analysis software of software on the laser plotter or to an externally connected component, in particular a laptop, and the table analysis software then evaluates one or more defined evaluation positions of the recorded image of the processing table or table type, wherein characteristics of the processing table or table type are compared with stored characteristics of possible processing tables or table types, or an identifier type is read.

[0018] In this case, it is advantageous to automatically identify the table being used. It is advantageous to first assess the processing table or table type being used before or during each processing operation so that the processing operation can be continued if the settings are correct. It is also possible to check the set processing operation using the assessed processing table or table type so that, for example, an error message is issued or the processing operation is stopped if the processing operation and the processing table are not compatible. Furthermore, it is also possible to detect an unconnected table and immediately stop the processing operation.

[0019] Advantageously, features for identifying the machining table or table type are formed by geometric structures, holes, grids, etc., which are preferably stored in a database. This allows the stored features to be easily compared with the recorded features.

[0020] Advantageously, a plurality of different features are stored for different evaluation positions of the machining table and used by the table analysis software. This allows the table to be identified when a workpiece is inserted. In other words, if one or more evaluation positions are covered by a workpiece, the table analysis software still has additional evaluation positions available for identifying the machining table or table type.

[0021] Advantageously, the following measures enable identification of the processing station or station type, or identification of the processing station or station type, even when a workpiece is inserted or placed. This allows the station analysis software to be activated after starting the processing process, preferably before activating the laser, and to identify the processing station or station type. In this case, it is possible to compare the identified processing station with the set processing station, so that if they match, the processing process is continued, while if they do not match, the processing process is interrupted. However, it is also possible to accept the processing station for processing the workpiece after identification.

[0022] The following measure is advantageous: the platform analysis software is formed by software, which is preferably integrated into the software of the control unit and / or in particular into the software of the creation or processing software of the external component, thereby achieving simple integration.

[0023] Advantageously, a camera is arranged in the lid of the laser plotter housing and can be activated both in the closed and open positions. This allows the camera used to detect the position of a workpiece inserted in the processing space to also be used to identify the processing table or table type. Thus, the camera is sufficient to determine the position of the workpiece in the laser plotter's processing space and to identify the processing table or table type. However, it is also possible to arrange a separate camera for identifying the processing table or table type. Advantageously, the camera arranged in the lid is used to detect the workpiece and identify the processing table or table type.

[0024] The following measures are advantageous: the identified processing table or table type is compared with the processing table or table type set in the control unit or software, or the identified processing table or table type is accepted by the control unit or software. This achieves that the replacement of the processing table or table type is automatically identified. In this case, when the processing table or table type used lacks consistency with the processing table or table type set, it is pointed out to the user, for example, by opening a window at the connected component, especially a laptop, that the processing table or table type used is inconsistent with the processing table or table type set. In addition, it is preferably queried whether the newly used or identified processing table or table type should be accepted. If the saved processing table or table type is consistent with the queried processing table or table type, the processing process can be started, for example. In this case, it is possible to automatically perform a query or inspection of the processing table or table type after activating the processing process.

[0025] The following measure is advantageous, in which a reference image or image of the processing table or table type is recorded by a camera and stored in a database, thereby enabling a simple and rapid comparison of the recorded image with the reference image.

[0026] Advantageously, one or more locations are defined in a reference image or images for evaluating the processing table or table type, and the newly recorded image is evaluated at these one or more locations. This allows for a faster evaluation, as the area to be evaluated is stored in the reference image. By using multiple locations, it is also possible to perform table identification when an inserted workpiece is obscured by the workpiece at one or more locations. However, if the workpiece obscures the entire processing table, this is detected by the table analysis software, and a corresponding message or warning is output, allowing the user to release the information.

[0027] Advantageously, after the identification of the processing station or the table type, this processing station or the table type is compared with the processing stations or table types stored in the software, thereby enabling deviations to be automatically determined.

[0028] Advantageously, an identification of the processing table or table type is performed when starting a job or a processing process. This ensures that, when a job is called without a connected external component, a check is performed on the processing table or table type used.

[0029] Advantageously, the identified processing table or table type, in particular the recorded images, are stored on a storage medium, in particular in the cloud. This allows for simple access for remote maintenance. Furthermore, data can be collected that can be used for warranty processing.

[0030] Advantageously, the following measures are performed, in which the identification of the processing table or the table type is performed using deep learning. This makes it possible to process a large number of images.

[0031] However, the following measure is also advantageous: for machining a workpiece, a laser beam emitted by a radiation source is preferably transmitted via a deflection element to at least one focusing unit, from which the laser beam is deflected toward the workpiece and focused for machining; control is preferably performed by software running in a control unit, preferably by processing so-called jobs, in particular transmitted or loaded data; the workpiece is machined by adjusting a slide in the XY direction, preferably via a belt drive; graphics and / or text are preferably created on an external component, in particular a computer or control unit, using commercially available or proprietary software such as CorelDraw, Paint, Ruby, etc., and are transmitted or exported to a control unit of the laser plotter, which converts the transmitted data, in particular the graphics and / or text, for controlling the various components of the laser machine or laser plotter. This allows machining of the workpiece after identifying the machining table or table type. In this case, it is possible to first automatically query the machining table or table type when starting the machining process, or to first manually query the machining table or table type and then start the machining process.

[0032] Furthermore, the object of the present invention is achieved by a laser plotter for engraving, marking and / or marking workpieces, wherein, in order to record an image of the processing table or table type used, the processing table or table type is brought or positioned into a defined position, wherein table analysis software is designed to evaluate the processing table or table type used.

[0033] In this case, it is advantageous to automatically identify the processing table or table type being used. In this case, preferably after identifying the processing table or table type, this processing table or table type is compared with the processing table or table types stored in the software, and a message is displayed in the event of a discrepancy. It is also possible to automatically accept the requested processing table or table type into the software.

[0034] An embodiment is advantageous in which the stage analysis software is designed to evaluate optical features, in particular geometric structures, holes, grids, etc. This allows the used processing stage or stage type to be evaluated by simple image recording of the processing stage or stage type.

[0035] The invention is described below in the form of exemplary embodiments, with the understanding that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments or solutions shown and described, but can be transferred to equivalent solutions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, for processing workpieces, showing a simplified schematic diagram with a camera system on the cover;

[0037] Figure 2a A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, with an aluminum mesh cutting table is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0038] Figure 2b A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, with a table for cutting aluminum sheets is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0039] Figure 2c A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, with an acrylic grid cutting table is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0040] Figure 2d A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, with a table for cutting acrylic sheets is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0041] Figure 2e A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, with a vacuum table is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0042] Figure 2f A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, with a ferromagnetic engraving table is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0043] Figure 2g A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine, in particular a laser plotter, with a honeycomb cutting support is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0044] Figure 3 A simplified schematic diagram shows an image recorded by a camera arranged in the cover of a laser machine, wherein the processing space is shown without the processing table being used;

[0045] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing a software interface at a screen of an external component in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0046] Figure 5 A diagrammatic representation of a laser machine together with the recorded image for stage identification is shown in a simplified schematic diagram;

[0047] Figure 6 A further embodiment of a laser machine is shown in a simplified schematic diagram together with a diagrammatic representation of the recorded image for stage identification; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] As an introduction, it should be noted that in different embodiments, identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component names, wherein the disclosure contained in the entire description can be transferred to the same parts with the same reference numerals or the same component names without any translation. Selected positional descriptions in the description, such as upper, lower, side, etc., also refer to the described figures and can be transferred to the new position without any translation without any translation.

[0049] exist Figures 1 to 6 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a laser machine 1 or laser device 1 , in particular a laser plotter 1 , in which a camera system 2 is integrated.

[0050] In the illustrated laser plotter 1, at least one, preferably two, radiation sources 4 or laser sources 4 in the form of lasers 5 and 6 are arranged in a housing 3. The lasers 5 and 6 preferably act alternately on a workpiece 7 to be processed. The workpiece 7 is positioned or located in a processing space 8 of the laser plotter 1, in particular on a processing table 9, wherein the processing table 9 is preferably adjustable in height. A laser beam 10 emitted by the radiation source 4, in particular the lasers 5 or 6, is directed via a deflection element 11 to at least one movable focusing unit 12 or a movable laser head 12. From there, the laser beam 10 is deflected toward the workpiece 7 and preferably focused by a lens in the focusing unit 12 or laser head 12 for processing. Control, in particular the position of the laser beam 10 relative to the workpiece 7, is performed by software running in a control unit 13. The workpiece 7 is processed by adjusting a slide 14 in the XY direction, preferably via a belt drive, on which the focusing unit 12 or laser head 12 is also movably located. In this case, it is possible, for example, to adjust the slide 14 line by line in the case of the "engraving" process, while in the case of the "cutting" process the slide 14 is moved according to the contour to be cut, ie not line by line.

[0051] Graphics 16 and / or text 16 are created or loaded on an external component 15, particularly a computer, laptop, or control unit, using commercially available software 17 such as CorelDraw, Paint, or the like, or using its own application software 17, particularly Ruby 17. These graphics 16 and / or text 16 are then exported or transferred to the control unit 13 of the laser machine or laser plotter 1 in the form of a job 18. The data to be transferred is preferably converted by the same or different software so that the control unit 13 can process the job 18. It is also possible to input data directly into the laser plotter 1 via existing input devices 19, such as a touch screen 19 or input keys, or to load the corresponding job 18 from a storage medium 20, such as the cloud 20a, a USB memory stick 20b, or the like. After the data, particularly one or more jobs 18, have been transferred or directly created or loaded from the storage medium 20, the job 18 is processed by the laser machine or laser plotter 1, particularly its control unit 13. It is also possible for multiple jobs 18 to be stored simultaneously in the laser machine 1, particularly the laser plotter 1, and to be processed sequentially.

[0052] In the case of such a laser machine 1, in particular a laser plotter 1, it is necessary for safety reasons that when starting the work 18 to be processed, in which the laser beam 10 acts on the workpiece 7, a cover 21 or door 21, which is preferably at least partially transparent, must be closed, as in the example of Figure 1 . The operator can then manually or automatically position a laser point or laser pointer 22, in particular a laser pointer point 22a, on the inserted workpiece 7. This laser point or laser pointer is then coupled into the beam path of the lasers 5, 6 and deflected toward the processing table 8 by the focusing unit 12 or laser head 12. The process 18 for processing the workpiece 7 can then be started. At the end of the process 18, the slide 14 and the focusing unit 12 or laser head 12 are then preferably adjusted to the initial position so that the finished workpiece 7 can be removed. A new processing operation can then be started by inserting a new workpiece 7 or blank 7 to be processed. In this case, it is advantageous if the end of processing is indicated visually or acoustically so that the user does not have to constantly observe the laser machine 1, in particular the laser plotter 1. For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that adjustment of the focusing unit 12 or laser head 12 is possible even with the cover 21 open, although the lasers 5, 6 cannot be activated.

[0053] Furthermore, at least one camera 23 is provided in the camera system 2, wherein the camera 23 is located in the cover 21, particularly centrally in the center of the cover 21. The camera 23 is configured to record the workspace 8, particularly the worktable 9, so that an inserted workpiece 7 can be identified at the worktable 9. To be sufficient with a single camera 23 for larger workspaces 8, the camera 23 preferably has a fisheye lens, wherein calibration must be performed upon first use of the camera 23 to correct the recorded workspace 8. However, it is also possible to arrange two or more cameras 23 in the cover 21 to be able to record the entire worktable 9, wherein fisheye lenses or standard lenses can again preferably be used for this purpose. Of course, other positioning of the camera 23 is also possible, such as on a side wall of the workspace 8, i.e., not on the cover 21. The camera 23 is used to record, for example, the position of an inserted workpiece 7 and preferably displays it on an external component 15, particularly a laptop. In this case, the position of the workpiece 7 is preferably detected before machining or starting the machining process, so that the focusing unit 12 or the laser head 12 can be positioned accordingly by means of the laser pointer 22, for example, to start the machining process or to determine the height of the machining table 9. For the sake of completeness, it should be pointed out that the position of the workpiece 7 can be detected even when the cover 21 is open, i.e., an image of the machining table 9 or the machining space 8 can be recorded when the cover 21 is open.

[0054] In the case of a new laser plotter 1 or a new laser machine 1, it is now provided that the laser machine 1 or laser plotter 1 carries out a method for identifying an interchangeable processing table 9 or table type 9 of the laser plotter 1 for cutting, engraving, marking and / or marking a workpiece 7, or that the laser plotter 1 is designed for this purpose.

[0055] To this end, Figures 2a to 2g Detailed description of the embodiment of different processing tables 9 or table types 9 is shown in FIG. Figure 2a A robust aluminum grid cutting table, especially a universal cutting table, provides a great deal of stability and is particularly suitable for cutting tasks with components smaller than 100 mm, as these components remain flat in position after cutting. Compared to an aluminum sheet cutting table, the processing table 9 has more support points. Figure 2b The aluminum sheet cutting table is particularly well suited for cutting thicker materials (from 8 mm thickness) and for parts that are cut wider than 100 mm. The sheets can be used independently. This allows the table to be adapted to any application. Figure 2cThe acrylic cutting grid prevents back reflections during cutting and is therefore particularly suitable for cutting acrylic, laminated plastics and plastic films. The acrylic cutting grid is ideal for parts smaller than 100 mm, as these remain flat in place after cutting. Figure 2d The acrylic sheet cutting table prevents back reflections during cutting and is therefore particularly suitable for cutting thicker acrylic sheets (from 8 mm thickness) and for parts that are cut larger than 100 mm. The sheets can be positioned independently and can therefore be matched to any application. Figure 2e The vacuum table fixes the material to the processing table by means of negative pressure. This results in correct focusing over the entire surface and a better engraving result. In addition, the operating effort is reduced because no manual fixing is required. The vacuum table is an ideal table for thin and light materials such as paper and film, which tend not to lie completely flat on the base. Figure 2f Ferromagnetic engraving tables make it possible to very easily fix thin materials such as paper or film using magnets. A flat working surface is an important criterion for optimal results when laser engraving or laser marking. Figure 2g The honeycomb cutting stand is particularly suitable for applications requiring back reflection and optimal flatness, such as cutting membrane keyboards. It is also possible to use the honeycomb cutting stand in combination with a vacuum table, i.e., to combine various table types 9. Of course, other processing tables 9 or table types 9, not shown and listed, can also be used.

[0056] Typically, the processing table 9 or table type 9 is designed such that it has a surrounding edge strip 24, in which different support types 25 are arranged or constructed, such as plates, grids, honeycombs, etc. The edge strip 24 or the processing table 9 is placed or fastened on preferably height-adjustable support elements 26 in the processing space 8, wherein the support elements 26 are arranged on at least two opposite sides of the processing space 8, such as by Figure 3 It can be seen.

[0057] As is known from the prior art, the table type 9 or the processing table 9 is manually selected and set by the user in the software or user software, as is done for example in Figure 4 Therefore, in Figure 42 shows an options window 27 of software 28, in particular the applicant's user software 28. Under the menu item "Station Options" 29, the table types 9 or processing tables 9 available for the laser plotter 1 in version 1 can be selected by mouse click, for example, a ferromagnetic engraving table, a vacuum table, or a vacuum table with honeycomb grid. It is possible to enter additional information 30 about the displayed and selectable table types 9. Furthermore, a schematic table image 31 of the selected table type 9 is displayed for this table option 29. For the sake of completeness, it is noted that the user can also select a second version 2, in which further selections of table types 9 are possible, or all table types 9 can be selected. Due to the manual setting of the table type 9, the user may make errors in selecting a table type 9 or processing table 9, or may forget or neglect to set a processing table 9.

[0058] To avoid this, the present invention provides for automatic table recognition of the processing table 9 or table type 9 in the laser machine 1, in particular in the laser plotter 1. Table recognition can be initiated manually or automatically before each processing operation. To this end, at least one image 32 of the processing table 9 or table type 9 of the laser plotter 1 is recorded by the camera 23 and transmitted to table analysis software 33 of the software 28 in the laser plotter 1 or to an externally connected component 15, in particular a laptop 15. The table analysis software 33 then evaluates one or more defined evaluation positions 34 of the recorded image 32 of the processing table 9 or table type 9, comparing the characteristics of the processing table 9 or table type 9 with stored characteristics of possible processing tables 9 or table types 9.

[0059] It is possible here that the platform recognition or platform analysis software 33 can be carried out with an inserted workpiece 7, as is the case in Figure 5 , in which table recognition is also possible without an inserted workpiece 7. For this purpose, an image 32 with a workpiece 7 inserted at the processing table 9 is recorded. At least one evaluation position 34 is then defined and queried by table analysis software 33 running in its own software window or in the background in the control unit 13 or in an external component 15. However, if the evaluation position 34 is covered by a workpiece 7, as in Figure 5As shown in , this is identified based on the recording of the image 32, so that at least one additional evaluation position 34 is specified and retrieved in another area of ​​the recorded image 32. Features for identifying the processing table 9 or table type 9 are then loaded. These features are preferably formed by geometric structures, holes, grids, etc., which are preferably stored in a database so that they can be retrieved or loaded by the table analysis software 33. Preferably, different representations of the features of various processing tables 9 or table types 9 are also stored for different evaluation points 34 and can be retrieved to make it as easy as possible to compare the stored features with the recorded image 32 or image features. In this case, the table analysis software 33 can, for example, zoom in on the recorded evaluation position 34 of the image 32 to better analyze details of the processing table 9 used. Of course, it is also possible to store multiple different features for different evaluation positions 34 of one processing table 9 or multiple processing tables 9 and to use these features by the table analysis software 33. It is advantageous if image recordings of various processing tables 9 are stored as features for various evaluation positions 34 , so that the used or inserted processing table 9 can be identified by a simple comparison by the table analysis software 33 .

[0060] If the table identification has been successfully performed, it is possible to compare the identified processing table 9 or table type 9 with the processing table 9 set in the software 28 or to display the identified processing table 9 in the software 28 or on the screen of the external component and / or on the input device 19 of the laser plotter 1 so that the user can accept or reject the identified processing table, for example, by selecting a button. If, for example, the selected processing table 9 deviates from the identified processing table 9, the software 28 displays a corresponding message so that the user must then take corresponding measures, such as accepting or rejecting the identified processing table 9. Of course, it is also possible to accept the identified processing table 9 or table type 9 directly in the software 28.

[0061] Furthermore, it is also possible for the table analysis software 33 or software 28 to implement additional functions that can be activated or automatically executed in the software 28. For example, a "parameter consideration" function can be selected or implemented as standard, in which specific settings or parameters for the processing process are assigned to the processing table 9 or table type 9. Based on the set parameters, in particular the material type, material thickness, processing type such as cutting, engraving, marking, etc., the table analysis software 33 checks whether the user has used and / or selected a processing table 9 or table type 9 that is suitable for this purpose. In other words, after identifying the processing table 9 or table type 9, the table analysis software 33 checks whether the processing table 9 used is also possible or permitted for the intended processing process with the set parameters. This can also be used as standard. To this end, one or more parameters are assigned to each processing table 9 or table type 9 in the software 28, in particular in the table analysis software 33. It is possible to assign a plurality of different processing stations 9 or station types 9 to the set parameters, so that if an identified processing station 9 matches a possible processing station 9, it is accepted or the user must manually agree to this. When assigning processing stations 9 or station types 9 to specific settings or parameters, it is advantageous to prevent the possibility of starting a processing process by selecting a processing station 9 and a corresponding identified processing station 9 in the software 28, but this processing station is unsuitable due to the set parameters or settings, i.e., although the user has selected and set a processing station 9 in the software 28 and has inserted this processing station 9 into the processing space 8, in particular onto the support element 26, the selected processing station 9 is recognized by the station analysis software 33 as unsuitable for the set processing process due to the settings or parameters, so that a corresponding warning is output and the processing process is not started. Thus, it can be said that the set parameters, such as material selection, material thickness, etc., are assigned to the various table types 9 or processing tables 9 or are stored, so that it can also be checked whether the processing table 9 or table type 9 used is suitable for the set parameters. In this case, a table identification is preferably performed before each processing process.

[0062] However, it is also possible to manually activate the table recognition, for which purpose a button is preferably provided in the software 28. In this case, manual table recognition is also possible even with the lid 21 opened and closed.

[0063] However, it is also possible to additionally store the identified processing table 9 or table type 9 , in particular the recorded images 32 , on a storage medium 20 , in particular in the cloud 20 a. For this purpose, the settings or parameters and criteria under which the job 18 was processed are preferably also stored, in particular in the external component 15 and / or the cloud 20 a, so that error sources or disturbances can be subsequently analyzed. Thus, for example, remote maintenance can also verify whether the original processing table 9 or table type 9 was used. This is particularly important for disturbance analysis and can also provide important information for ensuring and guaranteeing the progress of the situation. Generally speaking, it is advantageous to save or store the recorded images 32 of the camera 23 , preferably together with the set parameters, in a database. The database is preferably stored on the component 15 and / or other external storage medium 20 , in particular the cloud 20 a, and is preferably also configured or set up for remote access, for example by a remote maintenance team. However, the database can also be stored or arranged internally in the software of the control unit 13 .

[0064] exist Figure 6 , another possibility for table identification is shown in FIG. , in which one or more evaluation locations 34 are again specified in the recorded image 32. However, the table analysis software 33 now no longer compares based on features of the table surface or structure, but instead searches for the evaluation location 34 based on an identifier type 35, in particular an identifier or a 2D code, in particular a Data Matrix code, or a code, in particular a QR code. In the illustrated embodiment, the evaluation location 34 shows an imprinted or applied identifier "vacuum table" and a code, in particular a QR code, although only one or more identifier types may be present. This identifier type is preferably located at the edge of the processing table 9 or the table type 9. In this case, multiple identifier types 35 may also be applied to the processing table 9. It is also possible to use a code, in particular a QR code, and have the code directly read by the table analysis software 33. Even in this case, table identification is possible with or without an inserted workpiece 7. However, it is also advantageous to position the 2D code, in particular the Data Matrix code, near the guide plate (linear), i.e., in the edge region of the processing table 9.

[0065] Furthermore, the recognition of the processing table 9 or table type 9 can be performed using deep learning. In the case of deep learning, a neural network is trained using a series of tables or table types 9. The trained network can then be located locally, i.e., at the laser plotter 1 or at a connected component 15 or in the cloud 20a. Deep learning is used to recognize the image 32.

[0066] It is also possible to detect whether the processing table 9 or the table type 9 is not being used, so that processing is prevented, i.e., the table analysis software 33 detects by recording the image 32 of the processing space 8 that the processing table 9 or the table type 9 is not placed on the support element 26, so that the start of the processing process is prevented.

[0067] By identifying the processing table 9 with the help of the recorded image 32, it is also possible to detect modifications to the table or processing table 9. If modifications to the processing table 9 are detected, the processing of the workpiece 7 can be prevented, or the customer can be informed of this and must, for example, manually release or start the processing process.

[0068] It is advantageous if the camera 23 used to record the workpiece 7 is also used to detect the image 32 of the processing table 9 or the type of table 9, i.e., the detection of the workpiece 7 and the identification of the processing table 9 or the type of table 9 are performed using the camera 23, which is preferably arranged in the cover 17. Thus, it can be said that the camera 23 used to detect the position of the inserted workpiece 7 in the processing space 8, in particular at the processing table 9, is also used to identify the processing table 9 or the type of table 9, in particular for recording the image 32 of the processing table 9 or the type of table 9. The detection of the workpiece and the identification of the processing table can be performed in one working step or sequentially.

[0069] It is intended to point out that the invention is not limited to the embodiment variants shown, but can also encompass other designs and configurations.

Claims

1. A method for identifying an interchangeable processing table (9) or table type (9) of a laser plotter (1) for cutting, engraving, marking and / or marking workpieces (7), wherein at least one radiation source (4) in the form of a laser (5, 6) is used in the housing (3) of the laser plotter (1), wherein when the radiation source (4) is activated, the laser beam (10) is deflected by a deflection element (11) to a focusing unit (12) or a laser head (12), and the processing table (9) or the processing space (8) is detected by at least one camera (23), which is preferably positioned in a cover (21), characterized in that At least one image (32) of a processing table (9) or a table type (9) of the laser plotter (1) is recorded by the camera (23) and the image is transferred to table analysis software (33) of software (28) on the laser plotter (1) or to an externally connected component (15), in particular a laptop, whereupon the table analysis software (33) evaluates one or more defined evaluation positions of the recorded image (32) of the processing table (9) or the table type (9), wherein features of the processing table (9) or the table type (9) are compared with stored features of possible processing tables (9) or table types (9), or an identifier type (35) is read.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that Features for identifying the processing table (9) or the table type (9) are formed by geometric structures, holes, grids, etc., which are preferably stored in a database.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A plurality of different features are stored for different evaluation positions (34) of the processing station (9) or of a plurality of processing stations (9) and are used by the station analysis software (33).

4. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that Even when a workpiece (7) is inserted or placed, it is possible to identify the processing table (9) or the table type (9).

5. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that The station analysis software (33) is formed by software, which is preferably integrated in the software (17, 28) of the control unit (13) and / or in particular in the software (17, 28) of the creation job (18) or processing software (17, 28) of the external component (15).

6. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that The camera (23) is arranged in a cover (21) of a housing (3) of the laser plotter (1) and can be activated both in a closed position and in an open position of the cover (21).

7. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that The identified processing station (9) or table type (9) is compared with the processing station (9) or table type (9) set in the control unit (13) or software (17, 28), or the identified processing station (9) or table type (9) is accepted by the control unit (13) or software (17, 28).

8. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that A reference image or image (32) of the processing table (9) or table type (9) is recorded by the camera (23) and stored in a database.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that One or more positions are defined in the reference image or image (32) for evaluating the processing table (9) or table type (9), and the newly recorded image (32) is evaluated at the one or more positions.

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that After the processing station (9) or the station type (9) has been identified, the processing station (9) or the station type (9) is compared with the processing stations (9) or the station types (9) stored in the software (17, 28).

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that When starting a job (18) or a machining process, the machining table (9) or the table type (9) is identified.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The identified processing table (9) or table type (9), in particular the recorded image (32), is stored on a storage medium (20), in particular in the cloud (20a).

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The identification of the processing table (9) or the table type (9) is performed with the aid of deep learning.

14. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that For processing the workpiece (7), a laser beam (10) emitted by the radiation source (4) is preferably sent via a deflection element (11) to at least one focusing unit (12), from which the laser beam (10) is deflected in the direction of the workpiece (7) and focused for processing, wherein the control is carried out by software running in a control unit (13), preferably by processing so-called jobs (18), in particular transmitted or loaded data, wherein the workpiece (7) is processed by adjusting a slide (14) in the XY direction, preferably via a belt drive. ), wherein graphics (16) and / or texts (16) are preferably created at an external component (15), in particular a computer or a control device, by means of commercially available or own software (17), such as CorelDraw, Paint, Ruby, etc., and the graphics and / or texts are transmitted or exported to a control unit (13) of the laser plotter (1), which converts the transmitted data, in particular the graphics (16) and / or the texts (16), for controlling the individual elements of the laser machine or the laser plotter (1).

15. A laser plotter for engraving, marking and / or marking a workpiece (7), comprising: a processing space (8) for positioning the workpiece (7); at least one, but preferably two, radiation sources (4) in the form of lasers (5, 6) with corresponding deflection elements (11); and a control unit (13) for controlling a slide (14) preferably driven via a belt and having a focusing unit (12) or a laser head (12) arranged movably thereon, wherein a camera (23) is arranged for image recording of the processing space (8), characterized in that In order to record an image (32) of the processing table (9) or table type (9) used, the processing table (9) or table type (9) is brought or positioned in a defined position, wherein table analysis software (33) is designed to evaluate the processing table (9) or table type (9) used.

16. The laser plotter (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that The stage analysis software (33) is designed to evaluate optical features, in particular geometric structures, holes, grids, etc.

17. The laser plotter (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that The laser plotter (1) is designed to use or carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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