Design method of dross conveying plate and manufacturing method of dross conveyor

By designing the conveyor plate to reduce thermal deformation and compressive plastic strain, and by using protective components to cover the conveyor surface of the model plate, the problem of dross conveyor plate deflection during laser processing was solved, thus achieving stability and smooth movement of the conveyor plate.

CN121285443BActive Publication Date: 2026-08-04YAMAZAKI MAZAK KK
View PDF 4 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
YAMAZAKI MAZAK KK
Filing Date
2023-12-26
Publication Date
2026-08-04

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the existing technology, the slag conveying plate is prone to bending due to thermal deformation and compressive plastic strain during laser processing, resulting in poor conveying.

Method used

By designing the conveyor plate to reduce the amount of deflection under laser irradiation to less than the base deflection, and by using protective components to cover the conveyor surface of the model plate, the thermal deformation and compressive plastic strain are reduced, thereby improving the heat resistance of the conveyor plate.

Benefits of technology

It effectively reduces the thermal deformation and compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate, ensuring that the conveyor plate maintains stability and moves smoothly during laser processing.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN121285443B_ABST
    Figure CN121285443B_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present application provides a design method of a dross conveying plate and a manufacturing method of a dross conveyor. The design method of the dross conveying plate includes: a step of defining a basic model of a dross conveying plate that conveys dross generated by irradiating laser light from a laser processing device to a workpiece as a model plate, and defining a deflection amount of the model plate generated by irradiating first laser light to the model plate as a base deflection amount; and a step of designing the dross conveying plate based on the model plate so that, when a deflection amount of the dross conveying plate generated by irradiating first laser light to the dross conveying plate under substantially the same conditions as those of the model plate is defined as a first deflection amount, the first deflection amount is smaller than the base deflection amount.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a design method for a conveyor plate for conveying scum and a manufacturing method for a scum conveyor. Background Technology

[0002] Laser processing machines equipped with chip conveyors are known to exist.

[0003] As a related technology, a chip conveyor for a laser processing machine is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The chip conveyor described in Patent Document 1 has multiple plates constituting a conveyor belt. Each plate is flexibly connected to the other plates via joints.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Microfilm of Japanese Patent Application No. 3-19091 (Japanese Patent Application No. 4-108984) Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a design method for a conveyor plate for conveying scum that can reduce the amount of thermal deformation or compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate, as well as a manufacturing method for a scum conveyor. Methods for solving problems

[0006] A design method for a conveyor plate for conveying scum in several embodiments includes: a step of obtaining a basic deflection when defining a basic model of the conveyor plate for conveying scum generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser from a laser processing device as a model plate, and defining the deflection of the model plate caused by irradiating the model plate with a first laser as a basic deflection; and a step of designing the conveyor plate based on the model plate such that when the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating the conveyor plate with the first laser under substantially the same conditions as irradiating the model plate is defined as a first deflection, the first deflection is less than the basic deflection.

[0007] A method for manufacturing a scum conveyor according to several embodiments includes: a step of obtaining a basic deflection when defining a basic model of a conveyor plate for conveying scum generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser from a laser processing device as a model plate, and defining a deflection of the model plate caused by irradiating the model plate with a first laser as a basic deflection; a step of designing the conveyor plate based on the model plate such that when defining a first deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating the conveyor plate with a first laser under substantially the same conditions as irradiating the model plate as the first laser, the first deflection is less than the basic deflection; a step of manufacturing the designed conveyor plate; and a step of manufacturing a conveying device having a conveyor body comprising a set of conveyor plates including the conveyor plate, and a drive device for moving the conveyor body along a surrounding track. Invention Effects

[0008] According to the present invention, a method for designing a conveyor plate for conveying scum that can reduce the amount of thermal deformation or compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate, and a method for manufacturing a scum conveyor are provided. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 It is a schematic outline cross-sectional view showing the appearance of a laser-processed workpiece irradiated by the laser head of a laser irradiation device. Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a comparative example laser processing apparatus. Figure 3 This is a schematic outline sectional view representing an example of a model plate. Figure 4 It is a schematic three-dimensional diagram showing how the first laser beam is shone onto the model plate. Figure 5 It is a schematic three-dimensional drawing representing how a model plate flexes due to compressive plastic strain. Figure 6 It is a schematic front view that represents the measured base deflection. Figure 7 It is a schematic three-dimensional diagram showing how the first laser is irradiated onto multiple parts of a model plate. Figure 8 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view showing how the first laser beam is irradiated onto the conveyor plate. Figure 10 It is a schematic perspective view showing how the conveyor plate flexes due to compressive plastic strain. Figure 11It is a schematic perspective view showing how a first laser is irradiated onto multiple parts of a conveyor plate. Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the design method for a conveyor plate used for conveying scum in the first embodiment. Figure 13 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of a model plate. Figure 14 It is a schematic perspective view showing how a first laser beam is irradiated onto the first part and the second part of the model plate. Figure 15 It is a schematic perspective view showing how a first laser is irradiated onto the first part of the first model plate and the second part of the second model plate. Figure 16 This is a schematic front view showing how the model plate flexes due to the first laser beam illuminating the first part of the model plate. Figure 17 This is a schematic front view showing how the model plate flexes due to the first laser irradiating the second part of the model plate. Figure 18 It is a schematic diagram showing how the basic deflection amount is determined based at least on the data representing the first deflection of the model plate and the data representing the second deflection of the model plate. Figure 19 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 20 This is a schematic front view showing how the conveyor plate flexes due to the first laser irradiating the third part of the conveyor plate. Figure 21 This is a schematic front view showing how the conveyor plate flexes due to the first laser irradiating the fourth part of the conveyor plate. Figure 22 It is a schematic diagram showing how the basic deflection amount is determined based at least on the data representing the first deflection of the model plate and the data representing the second deflection of the model plate. Figure 23 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of a model plate. Figure 24 This is a schematic perspective view of another example of a model plate. Figure 25 It is a schematic diagram showing how the first deflection amount is determined at least based on the data representing the third deflection of the conveyor plate. Figure 26 It is a schematic diagram showing how the first deflection amount is determined based at least on data representing the third deflection of the conveyor plate and data representing the fourth deflection of the conveyor plate. Figure 27This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 28 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 29 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 30 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 31 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 32 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 33 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 34 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 35 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 36 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a designed conveyor plate. Figure 37 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a manufactured scum conveyor. Figure 38 It is a schematic outline cross-sectional view representing a portion of the transport body. Figure 39 This is a schematic perspective view showing a set of conveyor plates, including a second conveyor plate, that can move along a circular track. Figure 40 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating how multiple hinged conveyor plates can move along a surrounding track. Figure 41 It is an exploded perspective view schematically representing a part of the transport body. Figure 42 It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing how the conveying device is assembled into the laser processing device. Figure 43 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a scum conveyor according to the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0010] Hereinafter, the design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum and the manufacturing method of the scum conveyor according to the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the following description of the embodiments, parts and components with the same function will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of parts and components labeled with the same reference numerals will be omitted.

[0011] (Definition of the term) like Figure 8 As illustrated, the conveying plate 3 has a conveying surface 3u. In this specification, the conveying surface of the conveying plate refers to the surface that supports the scum during scum conveying. More specifically, the conveying surface 3u of the conveying plate 3 is the surface facing approximately upwards when scum is conveyed through the conveying plate 3.

[0012] like Figure 3 As illustrated, the model plate 9 has a conveying surface 9u. In this specification, the conveying surface of the model plate refers to the surface that supports the scum in the case of scum being conveyed through the model plate.

[0013] like Figure 8 As illustrated, the conveyor plate 3 has a back surface 3n. In this specification, the back surface of the conveyor plate refers to the side opposite to the conveying surface 3u of the conveyor plate 3. More specifically, the back surface 3n of the conveyor plate 3 is the side facing approximately downwards when scum is conveyed through the conveyor plate 3.

[0014] like Figure 3 As illustrated, the model plate 9 has a back surface 9n. In this specification, the back surface of the model plate refers to the side opposite to the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9. More specifically, the back surface 9n of the model plate 9 is the side facing approximately downwards when scum is conveyed through the model plate 9, assuming that scum is being conveyed through the model plate 9.

[0015] (Definition of direction) like Figure 8 As illustrated, in this specification, the extending direction of the conveyor plate 3 is defined as the first direction DR1. Furthermore, as... Figure 3 As illustrated, the extension direction of model plate 9 is defined as the first direction DR1.

[0016] In this specification, the direction of movement of the conveying plate 3 during scum conveying is defined as the second direction DR2. Furthermore, assuming that scum is conveyed via the model plate 9, the direction of movement of the model plate 9 during scum conveying is defined as the second direction DR2.

[0017] like Figure 8 As illustrated, in this specification, the direction from the back surface 3n of the conveyor plate 3 toward the conveyor surface 3u of the conveyor plate 3 is defined as the third direction DR3. Furthermore, as... Figure 3As illustrated, the direction from the back surface 9n of the model plate 9 toward the conveyor surface 9u of the model plate 9 is defined as the third direction DR3. In this specification, the direction from the conveyor surface 3u of the conveyor plate 3 toward the back surface 3n of the conveyor plate 3 is defined as the fourth direction DR4. Furthermore, the direction from the conveyor surface 9u of the model plate 9 toward the back surface 9n of the model plate 9 is defined as the fourth direction DR4. The fourth direction DR4 is the opposite direction to the third direction DR3.

[0018] (First Implementation) Reference Figures 1 to 36 The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the appearance of the workpiece W being processed by laser LB irradiation from the laser head 61 of the laser irradiation device 60. Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a comparative example laser processing apparatus. Figure 3 This is a schematic outline sectional view representing an example of model plate 9. Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view showing how the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the model plate 9. Figure 5 It is a schematic perspective view of the model plate 9 bending due to compressive plastic strain. Figure 6 This is a schematic front view representing the measured basic deflection B. Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view showing how the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto multiple parts of the model plate 9. Figure 8 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of the designed conveyor plate 3. Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view showing how the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the conveyor plate 3. Figure 10 This is a schematic perspective view showing how the conveyor plate 3 flexes due to compressive plastic strain. Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective view showing how the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto multiple parts of the conveyor plate 3. Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the design method for a conveyor plate used for conveying scum in the first embodiment. Figure 13 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of model plate 9. Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view showing how the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the first part P1 and the second part P2 of the model plate 9. Figure 15 It is a schematic perspective view showing how a first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the first part P1 of the first model plate 9-1 and the second part P2 of the second model plate 9-2. Figure 16 This is a schematic front view showing the shape of the model plate 9 as it flexes due to the first laser LB1 irradiating the first part P1 of the model plate 9. Figure 17This is a schematic front view showing the shape of model plate 9 as it flexes due to the first laser LB1 irradiating the second part P2 of model plate 9. Figure 18 It is a schematic diagram showing how the basic deflection amount B is determined based at least on the data DT1 representing the first deflection A1 of the model plate 9 and the data DT2 representing the second deflection A2 of the model plate 9. Figure 19 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of the designed conveyor plate 3. Figure 20 This is a schematic front view showing how the conveyor plate 3 flexes due to the first laser LB1 irradiating the third part P3 of the conveyor plate 3. Figure 21 This is a schematic front view showing how the conveyor plate 3 flexes due to the first laser LB1 irradiating the fourth part P4 of the conveyor plate 3. Figure 22 It is a schematic diagram showing how the basic deflection amount B is determined based at least on the data DT1 representing the first deflection A1 of the model plate 9 and the data DT2 representing the second deflection A2 of the model plate 9. Figure 23 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of model plate 9. Figure 24 This is a schematic perspective view of another example of model plate 9. Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram showing how the first deflection C is determined at least based on the data DT3 representing the third deflection E3 of the conveyor plate 3. Figure 26 It is a schematic diagram showing how the first deflection amount C is determined at least based on data DT3 representing the third deflection E3 of the conveyor plate 3 and data DT4 representing the fourth deflection E4 of the conveyor plate 3. Figures 27 to 36 These are schematic perspective views illustrating an example of the designed conveyor plate 3.

[0019] (An example of scum conveyor 12) like Figure 1 As illustrated, the scum conveyor 12 includes a set of conveyor plates 13. The set of conveyor plates 13 conveys scum D generated by irradiating a workpiece W (e.g., a plate-shaped workpiece) with a laser LB. In addition to conveying scum D, the set of conveyor plates 13 can also convey shavings CF generated by irradiating a workpiece W with a laser LB.

[0020] Additionally, in this specification, slag refers to an irregularly shaped block (in other words, a randomly shaped block) formed by the solidification of a material (more specifically, a metallic material) melted by laser irradiation.

[0021] A set of conveyor plates 13 includes a first conveyor plate 13-1 extending along a first direction DR1 and a second conveyor plate 13-2 extending along the first direction DR1. The set of conveyor plates 13 are elongated plates with the first direction DR1 as their long side. Figure 1In the example described, the second conveyor plate 13-2 is arranged adjacent to the first conveyor plate 13-1.

[0022] exist Figure 1 In the example described, the laser LB passes through workpiece W and reaches the slag conveyor 12. For example... Figure 2 As illustrated, when the laser LB reaches the conveyor plate 13, the conveyor plate 13 undergoes thermal deformation. Figure 2 In the described example, because the laser LB reaches each of the multiple conveyor plates 13, the multiple conveyor plates 13 irregularly deflect in a third direction DR3 (more specifically, deflect due to thermal deformation). The conveyor plates 13 are designed to suppress excessive deflection and also have sufficient tolerance to thermal deformation. In particular, Figure 2 The conveyor plate 13, as illustrated, has high bending rigidity and is difficult to bend. However, if the output of the laser LB is further increased or the energy density of the laser LB is further increased, even... Figure 2 The conveyor plate 13, as illustrated, may also experience excessive thermal deformation. Furthermore, if the thermal deformation of the conveyor plate 13 becomes excessive, it may hinder the smooth movement of a set of conveyor plates 13.

[0023] In the design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum in the first embodiment, the conveyor plate 3 is designed to reduce the amount of thermal deformation or the compressive plastic strain caused by thermal deformation (for example, refer to...). Figure 8 Multiple designed conveyor plates 3 are manufactured, and the manufactured conveyor plates are combined with other components to manufacture the conveyor body CA in the conveying device 20 (refer to...). Figure 37 ).

[0024] In this specification, the basic model of a conveyor plate for transporting slag generated by irradiating a workpiece with laser light from a laser processing device is defined as a model plate. Figure 3 The diagram shows an example of a basic model of the conveyor plate, namely model plate 9. Model plate 9 can be modeled from a conveyor plate used in previously manufactured slag conveyors. Alternatively, model plate 9 can be a completely new basic design.

[0025] like Figure 4 As illustrated, assume the case where the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the model plate 9. Additionally, to distinguish this from the laser LB irradiated onto the workpiece W (see reference...), Figure 1 The laser that irradiates the model plate 9 or the conveyor plate 3 without irradiating the workpiece W is referred to as "first laser LB1". In addition, in this specification, the laser that hypothetically irradiates the model plate 9 or the conveyor plate 3 in the simulation is referred to as "first laser LB1".

[0026] like Figure 4As illustrated, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the model plate 9, the model plate 9 heats up and undergoes thermal deformation. Furthermore, in cases where the localized thermal deformation of the model plate 9 is significant, compressive stress exceeding the yield stress is locally applied to the model plate 9. Subsequently, when the temperature of the model plate 9 decreases to room temperature (e.g., around 20 degrees Celsius), compressive plastic strain occurs in the areas where compressive stress exceeding the yield stress has been applied. Due to this compressive plastic strain, the model plate 9 deflects in either the third direction DR3 or the fourth direction DR4 (see reference). Figure 5 Additionally, in Figure 5 In the model, the deflection of plate 9 is emphasized compared to the actual deflection. Figure 10 In the accompanying drawings, the deflection of the conveyor plate 3 is emphasized compared to the actual deflection. In other accompanying drawings, the deflection of the model plate 9 or the conveyor plate 3 is also emphasized compared to the actual deflection.

[0027] In this specification, the amount of deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the model plate 9 with a first laser LB1 (e.g., a first laser emitted from a laser processing apparatus 6 or a first laser emitted from a device simulating a laser processing apparatus 6) is defined as the basic deflection B.

[0028] In the design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum in the first embodiment, the basic deflection amount B is obtained by simulation or experiment in the first step ST1. The first step ST1 is the process of obtaining the deflection amount.

[0029] The process of obtaining the deflection amount (first step ST1) may also include (1) actually irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (refer to) Figure 4 (2) The actual deflection of model plate 9 caused by the irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto model plate 9 (refer to) Figure 6 In this case, the basic deflection B is obtained based on the measured deflection of the model plate 9. Alternatively, the measured deflection of the model plate 9 can also be used as the basic deflection B. Furthermore, the basic deflection B can be the average of multiple measurements. For example, multiple model plates 9 can be subjected to actual irradiation with the first laser LB1, and the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the irradiation with the first laser LB1 can be measured. In this case, the average of multiple measured values ​​of the deflection of the model plate 9 can also be used as the basic deflection B.

[0030] Furthermore, irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 may also include (1) actually irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (refer to...). Figure 7 (2) The first laser LB1 is actually irradiated onto the second part P2 of the model plate 9, which is different from the first part P1 (refer to...). Figure 7 In this case, the deflection measurement process (first step ST1) includes measuring the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating multiple parts including the first part P1 and the second part P2 with the first laser LB1. Alternatively, the measured value of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating multiple parts including the first part P1 and the second part P2 with the first laser LB1 can be used as the basic deflection B.

[0031] exist Figure 7 In the described example, the second part P2 is the portion that is closer to the first direction DR1 than the first part P1. Furthermore, the line connecting the center of the second part P2 to the center of the first part P1 is approximately parallel to the first direction DR1. Additionally, in Figure 7 In the recorded example, the second part P2 is the part that is separated from the first part P1.

[0032] exist Figure 7 In the described example, irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 includes: actually irradiating two parts of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 in the direction along the first direction DR1. Irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 may also include: actually irradiating three or more parts of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 in the direction along the first direction DR1.

[0033] like Figure 6 As illustrated, the deflection of the model plate 9 is manually measured using a measuring instrument (e.g., a ruler). Alternatively, the deflection of the model plate 9 can also be measured using a deflection measuring device that mechanically or optically measures the deflection. Any known measurement method can be used to measure the deflection of the model plate 9. Since measuring the deflection of the plate is a common technique, detailed descriptions of the measurement of deflection are omitted in this specification.

[0034] Optionally, the deflection acquisition step (first step ST1) may also include obtaining the basic deflection B through computer simulation. For example, the deflection acquisition step (first step ST1) includes deriving the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the hypothetical irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the model plate 9 through simulation. Using the irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the model plate 9 as the initial condition, the heat distribution, stress distribution, strain distribution, and basic deflection B of the model plate 9 are derived by computer. The heat distribution, stress distribution, strain distribution, and basic deflection B of the model plate 9 are obtained by executing finite element analysis software on the computer.

[0035] In the simulation, the first laser LB1 can be hypothetically irradiated onto multiple parts of the model plate 9. (And...) Figure 7As in the example described, irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 in the simulation includes: (1) imaginarily irradiating the first laser LB1 onto a first portion P1 of the model plate 9; and (2) imaginarily irradiating the first laser LB1 onto a second portion P2 of the model plate 9 that is different from the first portion P1. Furthermore, the simulated value of the deflection of the model plate 9 resulting from the imaginary irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto multiple portions including the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 can be used as the basic deflection B.

[0036] In the second step, ST2, the conveyor plate 3 is designed based on model plate 9. Step ST2 is the design process. Figure 8 The image shows an example of a conveyor plate 3 designed by performing a design process (in other words, a conveyor plate 3 designed based on model plate 9).

[0037] like Figure 9 As illustrated, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the conveyor plate 3, the conveyor plate 3 heats up and undergoes thermal deformation. Subsequently, when the temperature of the conveyor plate 3 cools down to room temperature (e.g., around 20 degrees Celsius), the conveyor plate 3 returns to its original shape or undergoes compressive plastic strain. In the case of compressive plastic strain, the conveyor plate 3 flexes in either the third direction DR3 or the fourth direction DR4 (see reference). Figure 10 ).

[0038] In this specification, the amount of deflection of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiating the conveyor plate 3 with the first laser LB1 under substantially the same conditions as irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (e.g., deflection during thermal deformation or deflection due to compressive plastic strain) is defined as the first deflection C. Furthermore, the substantially the same conditions mean that the output of the first laser LB1 irradiating the conveyor plate 3 is substantially the same as the output of the first laser LB1 irradiating the model plate 9, the energy density of the first laser LB1 irradiating the conveyor plate 3 is substantially the same as the energy density of the first laser LB1 irradiating the model plate 9, the irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the conveyor plate 3 is substantially the same as the irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the model plate 9, and the irradiation time of the first laser LB1 irradiating the conveyor plate 3 is substantially the same as the irradiation time of the first laser LB1 irradiating the model plate 9.

[0039] Furthermore, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated at multiple locations on the model plate 9 (in other words, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated at multiple parts of the model plate 9), the statement "the irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the conveyor plate 3 is a position that substantially corresponds to the irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the model plate 9" means that the multiple irradiation positions of the first laser LB1 in the conveyor plate 3 are positions that substantially correspond to the multiple irradiation positions of the first laser LB1 in the model plate 9. For example, in Figure 11In the example described, the first irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the conveyor plate 3 (more specifically, the third part P3 of the conveyor plate 3) and the first irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the model plate 9 (more specifically, Figure 7 The first part P1 of model plate 9 in the model plate essentially corresponds to this. Furthermore, in Figure 11 In the example described, the second irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the conveyor plate 3 (more specifically, the fourth part P4 of the conveyor plate 3) and the second irradiation position of the first laser LB1 in the model plate 9 (more specifically, Figure 7 The second part P2 of model plate 9 in the model plate actually corresponds to this.

[0040] In the design process (second step ST2), the conveyor plate 3 is designed based on the model plate 9 so that the first deflection C is less than the basic deflection B.

[0041] exist Figure 8 In the described example, the design process (more specifically, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) includes: designing the conveyor plate 3 by attaching a protective member 38 to the model plate 9, which covers at least a portion of the conveyor surface 9u of the model plate 9. Figure 8 In the example described, the conveyor plate 3 designed through the design process has: a base 30 having a shape corresponding to the shape of the model plate 9; and a protective component 38 installed on the base 30.

[0042] Conventionally, the design of conveyor plates in scum conveyors only considers structural strength, neglecting thermal deformation caused by laser irradiation. In contrast, in the first embodiment, the conveyor plate 3 for scum conveying is designed to reduce the amount of thermal deformation or compressive plastic strain. More specifically, by using a protective member 38 to cover at least a portion of the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9, the first deflection C of the conveyor plate 3, including the base 30, is less than the aforementioned basic deflection B. For example, in... Figure 9 In the described example, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the conveyor plate 3, the protective component 38 suppresses heat input to the base 30, which has a shape corresponding to the shape of the model plate 9. Thus, the first deflection C of the conveyor plate 3, including the base 30, is less than the aforementioned basic deflection B.

[0043] (Any additional structure) Next, refer to Figures 1 to 36 The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum in the first embodiment will be described, including any additional structures that can be used.

[0044] (The first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the first part P1 of the model plate 9) exist Figure 4 and Figure 5In the example described, the deflection acquisition process (first step ST1) includes: acquiring data DT1 representing the first deflection A1 of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 (e.g., the flat conveying surface MF1 of the model plate 9) with a first laser LB1.

[0045] In this case, the deflection measurement process (first step ST1) includes: determining a basic deflection B that at least reflects the data DT1 representing the first deflection A1. Furthermore, the aforementioned first deflection C (refer to...) Figure 10 This at least reflects the situation due to the transfer plate 3 corresponding to the first part P1 of the model plate 9, specifically the third part P3 (refer to...). Figure 9 The third deflection E3 of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiation of the first laser LB1 (refer to...) Figure 10 The amount of deflection.

[0046] Alternatively, when the first laser LB1 is actually irradiated onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9, the first laser LB1 can also be irradiated onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 while the model plate 9 is installed on the scum conveyor 12. Optionally, the first laser LB1 can also be irradiated onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 while the model plate 9 is not installed on the scum conveyor 12.

[0047] (Hot deformation and compressive plastic strain) After the first laser LB1 is applied to the model plate 9, the deflection of the model plate 9 is dominated by deflection caused by thermal deformation (more specifically, thermal expansion). On the other hand, when the model plate 9, which has been irradiated by the first laser LB1, returns to room temperature, the deflection of the model plate 9 is dominated by deflection caused by compressive plastic strain. The direction of deflection of the model plate 9 caused by compressive plastic strain is different from the direction of deflection of the model plate 9 caused by thermal deformation.

[0048] In the first embodiment, when the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by thermal deformation (more specifically, thermal expansion) is used as the basic deflection amount B, the deflection of the conveyor plate 3 caused by thermal deformation (more specifically, thermal expansion) is used as the first deflection amount C. In other words, when the basic deflection amount B is the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by thermal deformation (more specifically, thermal expansion), the first deflection amount C is the deflection of the conveyor plate 3 caused by thermal deformation (more specifically, thermal expansion).

[0049] In the case where the basic deflection amount B is the deflection amount of the model plate 9 caused by thermal deformation (more specifically, thermal expansion), in the deflection amount acquisition process (first step ST1), the deflection amount of the model plate 9 after being irradiated with the first laser LB1 is obtained by simulation or experiment and is used as the basic deflection amount B.

[0050] On the other hand, in the first embodiment, when the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 is used as the basic deflection amount B, the deflection of the conveyor plate 3 caused by the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3 is used as the first deflection amount C. In other words, when the basic deflection amount B is the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9, the first deflection amount C is the deflection of the conveyor plate 3 caused by the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3.

[0051] When the basic deflection amount B is the deflection amount of the model plate 9 caused by the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9, in the deflection amount acquisition process (first step ST1), the deflection amount of the model plate 9 after cooling after being irradiated by the first laser LB1 (for example, the deflection amount of the model plate 9 after being irradiated by the first laser LB1 and returning to room temperature) is obtained by simulation or experiment as the basic deflection amount B.

[0052] (The first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the second part P2 of model plate 9) exist Figure 13 In the recorded example, the deflection direction of the model plate 9 when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the first part P1 of the model plate 9 is different from the deflection direction of the model plate 9 when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the second part P2 of the model plate 9 (i.e., the part different from the first part P1).

[0053] For example, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9, the model plate 9 flexes in the fourth direction DR4 due to thermal expansion. In addition, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9, the model plate 9 flexes in the third direction DR3 due to compressive plastic strain (in other words, the cooled model plate 9 flexes in the third direction DR3).

[0054] On the other hand, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the second part P2 of the model plate 9, the model plate 9 deflects in the third direction DR3 due to thermal expansion. Furthermore, when the first laser LB1 is irradiated onto the second part P2 of the model plate 9, the model plate 9 deflects in the fourth direction DR4 due to compressive plastic strain (in other words, the cooled model plate 9 deflects in the fourth direction DR4).

[0055] Here, in the first embodiment, irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 includes: irradiating the first laser LB1 with a first portion P1 of the model plate 9; and irradiating the first laser LB1 with a second portion P2 of the model plate 9. Figure 13 In the described example, the second part P2 is the portion that is closer to the second direction DR2 than the first part P1. Furthermore, in a top-down view (in other words, viewed along the fourth direction DR4), the line connecting the center of the second part P2 and the center of the first part P1 is approximately parallel to the second direction DR2. Furthermore, in Figure 13 In the recorded example, the second part P2 is the part that is separated from the first part P1.

[0056] Furthermore, when the basic deflection B is measured in practice, irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 includes: actually irradiating the first laser LB1 onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9; and actually irradiating the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1. On the other hand, when the basic deflection B is derived through simulation, irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 includes: hypothetically irradiating the first laser LB1 onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9; and hypothetically irradiating the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1.

[0057] exist Figure 14 In the example described, the process for obtaining the deflection amount (first step ST1) includes: (1) irradiating one of the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with a first laser LB1; (2) moving the laser head HD irradiating the first laser LB1 relative to the model plate 9; and (3) irradiating the other of the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1. The relative movement of the laser head HD relative to the model plate 9 can be performed by actively moving the laser head HD or by actively moving the model plate 9. The active movement of the model plate 9 can be performed by driving the scum conveyor 12 on which the model plate 9 is mounted.

[0058] The process for obtaining the deflection amount (first step ST1) includes: sequentially irradiating the first part P1 and the second part P2 of the model plate 9 with a first laser LB1; and obtaining the deflection amount of the model plate 9 caused by the compressive plastic strain generated on the model plate 9 due to the irradiation of the first laser LB1 as the basic deflection amount B.

[0059] exist Figure 14 In the described example, a model plate 9 is irradiated with a first laser LB1. Optionally, as... Figure 15As illustrated, irradiating the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 includes: irradiating the first laser LB1 with a first portion P1 of the first model plate 9-1; and irradiating the first laser LB1 with a second portion P2 of the second model plate 9-2, which can be considered substantially the same as the first model plate 9-1.

[0060] Furthermore, in this specification, when multiple model plates that can be considered substantially identical are used to obtain the basic deflection B, these multiple model plates (9-1, 9-2) are collectively referred to as "model plates". Therefore, in this specification, irradiating the first portion P1 of the first model plate 9-1 with a first laser LB1 is considered as irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 with a first laser LB1, and irradiating the second portion P2 of the second model plate 9-2 with a first laser LB1 is considered as irradiating the second portion P2 of the "mentioned" model plate 9 with a first laser LB1.

[0061] The process of obtaining the deflection amount (first step ST1) may also include: (1) obtaining a first deflection A1 of the model plate 9 that is generated by irradiating the first laser LB1 onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 (e.g., the flat conveying surface MF1 of the model plate 9). Figure 16 (2) Obtain data DT1 representing the second deflection A2 of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the second part P2 of the model plate 9 (e.g., the raised conveying surface MU1 of the model plate 9) with the first laser LB1 (refer to) Figure 17 (3) determines that the data DT2 reflects at least the basic deflection amount B (refer to) the data DT1 representing the first deflection A1 and the data DT2 representing the second deflection. Figure 18 ).

[0062] In this case, the aforementioned first deflection C, which should be compared with the basic deflection B, becomes at least a reflection of the third portion P3 of the conveying plate 3 (refer to) that corresponds in position to the first portion P1 of the model plate 9. Figure 19 The third deflection E3 of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiation of the first laser LB1 (refer to...) Figure 20 ); and due to the fourth part P4 of the conveyor plate 3 corresponding to the second part P2 of the model plate 9 in position (see Figure 19 The fourth deflection E4 of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiation of the first laser LB1 (refer to...) Figure 21 The amount of deflection. Additionally, in Figure 19 In the recorded example, the fourth part P4 is the part that is closer to the second direction DR2 than the third part P3. Furthermore, in a top-down view (in other words, viewed along the direction of the fourth direction DR4), the line connecting the center of the fourth part P4 and the center of the third part P3 is approximately parallel to the second direction DR2. Furthermore, in Figure 19In the examples recorded, the fourth part, P4, is the part that is separated from the third part, P3.

[0063] The process of obtaining the deflection amount (first step ST1) includes: (1) obtaining data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 generated by irradiating the first part P1 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1, as the first data DA1 (refer to Figure 16 (2) Obtain data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the second part P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1, as the second data DA2 (refer to Figure 17 (3) and determine that it at least reflects the basic deflection B of the first data DA1 and the second data DA2 (refer to) Figure 22 ).

[0064] In this case, the aforementioned first deflection C, which should be compared with the basic deflection B, at least reflects the deflection due to the conveying plate 3 (refer to the third part P3) which corresponds in position to the first part P1 of the model plate 9. Figure 19 The data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3 generated by irradiating the first laser LB1, and the data corresponding to the fourth part P4 of the conveyor plate 3 that corresponds to the second part P2 of the model plate 9 (see reference). Figure 19 The deflection amount corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3 generated by irradiation of the first laser LB1.

[0065] exist Figure 22 In the recorded examples, determining the basic deflection amount B, which at least reflects the first data DA1 and the second data DA2, may also include adding the first data DA1 and the second data DA2. Determining the basic deflection amount B, which at least reflects the first data DA1 and the second data DA2, can be done using a computer 81 or manually.

[0066] Furthermore, in this specification, the deflection in the third direction DR3 is defined as a "positive deflection," and the deflection in the fourth direction DR4 is defined as a "negative deflection." In other words, the deflection in the third direction DR3 is represented by a positive value, and the deflection in the fourth direction DR4 is represented by a negative value. Therefore, the value obtained by adding the first data DA1 and the second data DA2 may be less than the value represented by the first data DA1 (or, the value represented by the second data DA2). As an example, in Figure 16 In the data, the first data point, DA1, is +0.49 mm. As an example, in... Figure 17 In the figure, the second data DA2 is -0.33mm. In addition, the basic deflection B is the value obtained by adding +0.49mm and -0.33mm, which is 0.16mm.

[0067] exist Figure 16In the described example, the first data DA1 is flexural data (more specifically, flexural data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 generated by irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1). Alternatively, the first data DA1 may also be the distribution data of compressive plastic strain (more specifically, the distribution data of compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 generated by irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1). The distribution data of compressive plastic strain as the first data DA1 can be derived by using computer simulation.

[0068] exist Figure 17 In the described example, the second data DA2 is flexural data (more specifically, flexural data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1). Alternatively, the second data DA2 may also be the distribution data of compressive plastic strain (more specifically, the distribution data of compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1). The distribution data of compressive plastic strain as the second data DA2 can be derived by using computer simulation.

[0069] Additionally, the deflection measurement process (first step ST1) may also include: acquiring data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 generated by irradiating other parts of the model plate 9 (in other words, parts different from part P1 and part P2) with the first laser LB1, as third data. In this case, at least the first data DA1, the second data DA2, and the third data are reflected in the basic deflection measurement B.

[0070] exist Figure 13 In the example described, the first part P1 of the model plate 9 is the part that is more prone to bending compared to the other parts of the model plate 9. Therefore, in the deflection amount acquisition process (first step ST1), the basic deflection amount B is determined only based on the data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 generated by irradiating the first laser LB1 onto the first part P1 of the model plate 9 (e.g., the middle part 9m of the model plate 9).

[0071] exist Figure 22In the described example, the first data DA1 corresponds to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1, and the second data DA2 corresponds to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1. Optionally, the first data DA1 may also be data corresponding to the thermal expansion of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (e.g., deflection data caused by thermal expansion). Furthermore, the second data DA2 may also be data corresponding to the thermal expansion of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the second portion P2 of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (e.g., deflection data caused by thermal expansion).

[0072] (Model board 9) exist Figure 13 In the described example, the second part P2 is the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9 (more specifically, the central portion of the front end portion 9f along its long side). The second part P2 can also be the raised conveying surface MU1 of the model plate 9. Figure 13 In the example described, the first part P1 is the middle part 9m of the model plate 9 (more specifically, the central part of the long side of the middle part 9m). The first part P1 can also be the flat conveying surface MF1 of the model plate 9.

[0073] The following is the first example of the shape of model plate 9 (refer to...). Figure 23 The second example of the shape of model plate 9 (refer to) Figure 24 (This will be explained.)

[0074] exist Figure 23 or Figure 24 In the example described, the model plate 9 has a front end 9f, a rear end 9e, and an intermediate portion 9m connecting the front end 9f and the rear end 9e. In addition, the front end 9f of the model plate 9 is the end on the front side of the movement direction (in other words, the end on the second direction DR2 side), and the rear end 9e of the model plate 9 is the end on the rear side of the movement direction (in other words, the end on the side opposite to the second direction DR2).

[0075] like Figure 23 or Figure 24 As illustrated, the model plate 9 has a conveying surface 9u and a back surface 9n. In the case of conveying scum via the model plate 9, the conveying surface 9u is the surface that is assumed to support the scum. In the model plate 9, the back surface 9n is the surface opposite to the conveying surface 9u.

[0076] like Figure 23 or Figure 24 As illustrated, model plate 9 has a left end 9a and a right end 9b. Figure 23 or Figure 24 In the example described, when the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9 is viewed from the rear end 9e toward the front end 9f, the left end 9a of the model plate 9 is the left end, and when the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9 is viewed from the rear end 9e toward the front end 9f, the right end 9b of the model plate 9 is the right end.

[0077] exist Figure 23 In the described example, the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9 has a protruding curved portion 91f that extends along a first direction DR1 and protrudes towards a third direction DR3. Furthermore, the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9 has a protruding conveying surface MU1 extending along the first direction DR1. The protruding conveying surface MU1 is the surface of the protruding curved portion 91f on the third direction DR3 side. Figure 23 In the example described, the raised conveying surface MU1 is a surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3 (more specifically, a curved surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3), forming part of the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9.

[0078] exist Figure 23 In the example described, the rear end 9e of the model plate 9 has an upright setting portion 93e that extends along the first direction DR1 and protrudes toward the third direction DR3.

[0079] exist Figure 23 In the example described, the middle portion 9m of model plate 9 connects the front end 9f to the rear end 9e. Figure 23 In the described example, the front end of the middle portion 9m is connected to the front end portion 9f (more specifically, the protruding curved portion 91f) via a first curved portion 94 extending along the first direction DR1. Furthermore, the rear end of the middle portion 9m is connected to the rear end portion 9e (more specifically, the erected portion 93e) via a second curved portion 95 extending along the first direction DR1.

[0080] exist Figure 23 In the described example, the intermediate portion 9m has a flat plate portion 96m. Furthermore, the intermediate portion 9m has a flat conveying surface MF1 extending along a first direction DR1. The flat conveying surface MF1 is the surface of the flat plate portion 96m on the third direction DR3 side. The flat conveying surface MF1 constitutes a part of the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9.

[0081] Furthermore, the shapes of the front end 9f, the rear end 9e, and the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 are not limited to [specific shapes]. Figure 23Examples described herein. For instance, when viewed along the first direction DR1, the shape of the rear end 9e of the model plate 9 may be approximately arcuate or approximately circular. Furthermore, when viewed along the first direction DR1, at least a portion of the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 has an approximately arcuate shape, an approximately V-shape, or an approximately U-shape.

[0082] exist Figure 24 In the described example, the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9 has multiple front receiving portions 92f for accommodating rods (more specifically, multiple through holes for rod insertion). Furthermore, the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9 has a raised conveying surface MU1 extending along a first direction DR1. The raised conveying surface MU1 is the surface of the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9 on the third direction DR3 side. Figure 24 In the example described, the raised conveying surface MU1 is a surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3 (more specifically, a curved surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3), forming part of the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9.

[0083] exist Figure 24 In the described example, the rear end portion 9e of the model plate 9 has multiple rear receiving portions 94e for accommodating other rods (more specifically, multiple through holes for inserting other rods). Furthermore, the rear end portion 9e of the model plate 9 has a second raised conveying surface MU2 extending along a first direction DR1. The second raised conveying surface MU2 is a surface on the third direction DR3 side of the rear end portion 9e of the model plate 9. Figure 24 In the example described, the second convex conveying surface MU2 is a curved surface that convexes toward the third direction DR3 and constitutes part of the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9.

[0084] exist Figure 24 In the example described, the middle portion 9m of model plate 9 connects the front end 9f to the rear end 9e. Figure 24 In the described example, the intermediate portion 9m has a flat plate portion 96m. Furthermore, the intermediate portion 9m has a flat conveying surface MF1 extending along a first direction DR1. The flat conveying surface MF1 is the surface of the flat plate portion 96m on the third direction DR3 side. The flat conveying surface MF1 constitutes a part of the conveying surface 9u of the model plate 9.

[0085] Furthermore, the shape of model plate 9 is not limited to Figure 23 and Figure 24 The examples recorded.

[0086] The length of the model plate 9 (more specifically, the length of the model plate 9 along the first direction DR1) is, for example, more than 1m and less than 3m.

[0087] The width of the model plate 9 (more specifically, the width of the model plate 9 along the second direction DR2) is, for example, more than 40 mm and less than 200 mm.

[0088] The thickness of the model plate 9 (e.g., the thickness of the middle part 9m of the model plate 9) is, for example, less than 10mm, less than 5mm, or less than 3mm.

[0089] exist Figure 23 In the recorded example, the thickness of the front end 9f of model plate 9 is approximately constant, and the thickness of the rear end 9e of model plate 9 is approximately constant. Furthermore, the thickness of the middle portion 9m of model plate 9 is approximately constant. Figure 23 In the examples described, the thickness of model plate 9 is generally constant.

[0090] Model plate 9 is made of metal. Model plate 9 is made of steel, for example, hot-rolled mild steel sheet, cold-rolled steel sheet, or cold-rolled stainless steel sheet.

[0091] (Design process) The design process (second step ST2) may also include confirming the flexural characteristics of the conveyor plate 3.

[0092] exist Figure 16 , Figure 18 In the example described, the above-mentioned deflection acquisition process (first step ST1) includes: (1) acquiring data DT1 (e.g., deflection data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9) representing the first deflection A1 of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the first laser LB1 onto the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 (more specifically, the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 or the flat conveying surface MF1 of the model plate 9); and (2) determining the basic deflection amount B that at least reflects the data DT1 representing the first deflection A1.

[0093] like Figure 19 , Figure 20 , Figure 25 As illustrated, the design process (second step ST2) includes: (1) obtaining the third part P3 of the conveyor plate 3, which corresponds to the first part P1 of the model plate 9 in position (refer to...). Figure 19 The data DT3 (e.g., the deflection data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3) of the third deflection E3 generated by irradiation of the first laser LB1 (refer to) Figure 20 (2) Determines that at least the first deflection C of the data DT3 representing the third deflection E3 is reflected (refer to) Figure 25 (2) and (3) confirm that the condition that the first deflection C is less than the basic deflection B is met.

[0094] Furthermore, the data DT3 representing the third deflection E3 is obtained by actually measuring the third deflection E3 of the conveyor plate 3 caused by the actual irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the conveyor plate 3. Optionally, the data DT3 representing the third deflection E3 can also be obtained by using computer simulation. The determination of the first deflection amount C, which at least reflects the data DT3 representing the third deflection E3 (e.g., deflection data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3), can be performed by computer 81 or manually. In addition, confirming that the condition of the first deflection amount C being less than the basic deflection amount B can be performed by computer 81 or manually.

[0095] exist Figure 16 , Figure 17 as well as Figure 22 In the example described, the above-mentioned deflection acquisition process (first step ST1) includes: (1) acquiring data DT1 (more specifically, data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the first portion P1 of the model plate 9 (more specifically, the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 or the flat conveying surface MF1 of the model plate 9) with the first laser LB1), representing the first deflection A1 of the model plate 9, as first data DA1 (refer to...). Figure 16 (2) Obtain data DT2 (more specifically, data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the second part P2 of the model plate 9 (more specifically, data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate 9 caused by irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the second part P2 of the model plate 9), as the second data DA2 (refer to) Figure 17 (3) and determine that it at least reflects the basic deflection B of the first data DA1 and the second data DA2 (refer to) Figure 22 ).

[0096] like Figure 19 , Figure 20 , Figure 21 as well as Figure 26 As illustrated, the design process (second step ST2) includes: (1) obtaining the third part P3 of the conveyor plate 3, which corresponds to the first part P1 of the model plate 9 in position (refer to...). Figure 19 The third data DT3 (more specifically, the data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiating the third part P3 of the conveyor plate 3, which corresponds to the first part P1 of the model plate 9, with the first laser LB1 irradiating it) is used as the third data DA3 (refer to) the third data DA3 (see Figure 20(2) Obtain the fourth part P4 of the conveyor plate 3, which corresponds to the second part P2 of the model plate 9 in position (refer to...). Figure 19 The fourth data DT4 (more specifically, the data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiating the fourth part P4 of the conveyor plate 3, which corresponds to the second part P2 of the model plate 9, with the first laser LB1 irradiating it) is used as the fourth data DA4 (refer to) the fourth data DA4 (see Figure 21 (3) Determines that at least the first deflection C of the third data DA3 and the fourth data DA4 is reflected (refer to) Figure 26 (4) Confirm that the condition that the first deflection C is less than the basic deflection B is met.

[0097] Furthermore, the acquisition of the third data DA3 and the fourth data DA4 can be based on experiments including the actual irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the conveyor plate 3, or it can be done through computer simulation. The determination of the first deflection C, which at least reflects the third data DA3 and the fourth data DA4, can be performed using a computer 81 or manually. Furthermore, confirming that the condition of the first deflection C being less than the basic deflection B can be performed using a computer 81 or manually.

[0098] In addition, in the design process (second step ST2), if the conveyor plate 3 is designed to clearly satisfy the condition that the first deflection C is less than the basic deflection B, the confirmation of the deflection characteristics of the conveyor plate 3 can be omitted.

[0099] exist Figure 13 , Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 In the example described, the direction of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 is ( Figure 16 The direction of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the first laser LB1 irradiating the front end 9f of the model plate 9 (DR3) is the same as the direction of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the first laser LB1 irradiating the front end 9f of the model plate 9. Figure 17 (The fourth direction DR4) is opposite. In this case, the design process (second step ST2) may also include: designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9 such that the difference between the absolute value of the magnitude of the deflection of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiating the first front end portion 3f with the first laser LB1 and the absolute value of the magnitude of the deflection of the conveyor plate 3 caused by irradiating the first middle portion 3m with the first laser LB1 is less than the difference between the absolute value of the magnitude of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the front end portion 9f with the first laser LB1 and the absolute value of the magnitude of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the middle portion 9m with the first laser LB1.

[0100] (The first example of the design) exist Figure 27 or Figure 28 In the example described, the design process (second step ST2) includes: through model plate 9 (refer to...) Figure 23 or Figure 24 The conveyor plate 3 is designed by attaching a protective component 38 to at least a portion of the conveyor surface 9u of the cover plate 9. Figure 27 or Figure 28 In the described example, the conveyor plate 3 designed through the design process has: a base 30 having a shape corresponding to the shape of the model plate 9; and a protective member 38. The protective member 38 is configured to contact the base 30. More specifically, the protective member 38 is mounted on the base 30.

[0101] By using the protective component 38 to cover at least a portion of the surface of the base 30, which has a shape corresponding to the shape of the model plate 9, heat input to the base 30 (i.e., heat input caused by laser irradiation) is suppressed. This suppresses thermal deformation of the base 30 caused by irradiation of the first laser LB1 (or laser LB). Furthermore, it suppresses the generation of compressive plastic strain in the base 30.

[0102] exist Figure 27 or Figure 28 In the described example, the protective member 38 has a first plate portion 381, a second plate portion 382, ​​and a bent portion 383. The bent portion 383 is disposed between the first plate portion 381 and the second plate portion 382 and extends along a first direction DR1.

[0103] When the protective member 38 has two plate portions and a bend 383 disposed between the two plate portions, the second moment of cross-section of the protective member 38 becomes larger. Therefore, the protective member 38 is less prone to bending. In addition, the plate thickness of the protective member 38 can be relatively reduced.

[0104] like Figure 27 or Figure 28 As illustrated, the first plate portion 381 can also be configured to contact the base 30. Furthermore, the second plate portion 382 can also be configured to stand upright in a direction away from the base 30. Figure 27 or Figure 28 In the example described, the protective component 38 has an approximately L-shaped profile in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0105] like Figure 29 As illustrated, the curved portion can also be omitted from the protective member 38. More specifically, the protective member 38 can also have a flat plate shape.

[0106] The surface of the third-direction DR3 side of the protective component 38 can also be composed of the surface 38r of a laser reflective layer (e.g., a copper layer, a silver layer, or an aluminum layer). For lasers with wavelengths of 1060 nm to 1080 nm, the laser reflectivity of the surface 38r of the laser reflective layer is, for example, 70% or more, 80% or more, or 90% or more.

[0107] The protective member 38 (e.g., the first plate portion 381) may also be configured to flex away from the base 30 in the direction of laser LB irradiation onto the protective member 38. Alternatively, it may be configured to form an air layer between the base 30 and the protective member 38 by flexing the protective member 38 away from the base 30.

[0108] Furthermore, the shape of the protective member 38 is not limited to a generally L-shaped or flat plate shape. For example, in a cross-section perpendicular to the first direction DR1, the protective member 38 may also have a generally C-shaped, generally U-shaped, or generally V-shaped shape.

[0109] like Figure 30 As illustrated, the protective component 38 may also include a first protective component 38a and a heat insulation component 38b. Figure 30 In the described example, a heat insulation element 38b is disposed between the first protective member 38a and the base 30. Alternatively, an air layer may exist between the first protective member 38a and the base 30.

[0110] exist Figures 27 to 30 In the described example, the protective member 38 extends along the first direction DR1. The length of the protective member 38 along the first direction DR1 can be 0.5m or more, 0.8m or more, or 1m or more. Alternatively, the length of the protective member 38 along the first direction DR1 can be 2m or less.

[0111] exist Figures 27 to 30 In the described example, the base 30 includes: a first front end portion 3f having a shape corresponding to the shape of the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9; a first middle portion 3m having a shape corresponding to the shape of the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9; and a first rear end portion 3e having a shape corresponding to the shape of the rear end portion 9e of the model plate 9. Furthermore, the first front end portion 3f has a raised conveying surface RU1, which has a shape corresponding to the shape of the raised conveying surface MU1 of the model plate 9. Moreover, the first middle portion 3m has a flat conveying surface RF1, which has a shape corresponding to the shape of the flat conveying surface MF1 of the model plate 9.

[0112] exist Figure 13 , Figure 16 as well as Figure 17In the example described, the magnitude AM1 of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (refer to...) Figure 16 The deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the front end 9f of the model plate 9 is greater than AM2 (refer to...). Figure 17 ).

[0113] In this case, the design process (in other words, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) preferably includes: designing the conveyor plate 3 by attaching a protective member 38 that mainly covers the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 (more specifically, a protective member 38 that mainly covers the flat conveyor surface MF1 of the model plate) to the model plate 9.

[0114] In other words, such as Figures 27 to 30 As illustrated, the design process (in other words, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) preferably includes: placing a protective member 38 (more specifically, a protective member 38 that mainly covers the flat conveyor surface RF1 of the base 30) on the base 30 to reduce the deflection of the first intermediate portion 3m of the base 30.

[0115] (Second example of design) exist Figure 31 or Figure 32 In the example described, the design process (second step ST2) includes designing the conveyor plate 3 by changing the shape of the model plate 9 itself. Figure 31 or Figure 32 In the example described, the conveyor plate 3 designed through the design process includes: a first front end portion 3f having a shape corresponding to the shape of the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9; a first rear end portion 3e having a shape corresponding to the shape of the rear end portion 9e of the model plate 9; and a first intermediate portion 3m connecting the first front end portion 3f and the first rear end portion 3e.

[0116] exist Figure 13 , Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 In the example described, the magnitude AM1 of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (refer to...) Figure 16 The deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the front end 9f of the model plate 9 is greater than AM2 (refer to...). Figure 17 ).

[0117] In this case, the design process (in other words, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) preferably includes: designing the conveyor plate 3 by mainly changing the shape of the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9. For example, the design process may also include: designing the conveyor plate 3 by changing the shape of the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 from a flat plate shape to a convex plate shape protruding in the third direction DR3 or the fourth direction DR4.

[0118] Furthermore, the design process may also include: designing the conveyor plate 3 by forming a first recess Q1 in the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9, recessed in the fourth direction DR4 and extending along the first direction DR1. Figure 31 In the described example, the first recess Q1 has a generally arcuate shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the first direction DR1. Figure 32 In the described example, the first recess Q1 has a generally U-shaped form in a cross-section perpendicular to the first direction DR1. Alternatively, the first recess Q1 may also have a generally V-shaped form in a cross-section perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0119] In other words, the design process (in other words, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) may also include: forming a first recess Q1 in the first middle portion 3m of the conveyor plate 3, which is recessed in the fourth direction DR4 and extends along the first direction DR1, to reduce the deflection of the first middle portion 3m of the conveyor plate 3. The first recess Q1 has, for example, a generally arcuate shape, a generally V-shaped shape, or a generally U-shaped shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0120] like Figure 31 As illustrated, the design process (in other words, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) may also include: providing a first recess Q1 extending along the first direction DR1, a first flat plate 36m extending along the first direction DR1, and a curved portion BB1 connecting the first recess Q1 and the first flat plate 36m in the first middle portion 3m of the conveyor plate 3.

[0121] (The third example of the design) exist Figure 33 or Figure 34 In the described example, the design process (second step ST2) includes: designing the conveyor plate 3 by covering at least a portion of the surface of the model plate 9 with the heat-inhibiting surface 4. Figure 33 or Figure 34 In the described example, the conveyor plate 3 designed through the design process has: a base 30 having a shape corresponding to the shape of the model plate 9; and a temperature-inhibiting surface 4. The temperature-inhibiting surface 4 covers at least a portion of the base 30, inhibiting the base 30 from heating up due to laser energy.

[0122] exist Figure 33 or Figure 34 In the described example, the temperature-suppressing surface 4 includes the surface of the laser reflective layer 4r. More specifically, at least a portion of the surface on the third-direction DR3 of the base 30 is covered by the laser reflective layer 4r.

[0123] By covering a portion of the surface of the base 30, which has a shape corresponding to that of the model plate 9, with a laser reflective layer 4r, heat input to the base 30 (i.e., heat input caused by laser irradiation) is suppressed. This suppresses thermal deformation of the base 30 due to laser irradiation. Furthermore, it suppresses compressive plastic strain in the base 30.

[0124] For lasers with wavelengths above 1060 nm and below 1080 nm, the laser reflectivity of the laser reflective layer 4r is, for example, above 70%, above 80%, or above 90%. The laser reflective layer 4r is, for example, a copper layer, a silver layer, or an aluminum layer.

[0125] The laser reflective layer 4r may include, for example, a copper plating, a silver plating, or an aluminum plating. Optionally, the laser reflective layer 4r may also include a laser reflective plate (e.g., a copper or copper alloy plate, or an aluminum or aluminum alloy plate) mounted on the base 30.

[0126] exist Figure 35 In the described example, the temperature-suppressing surface 4 includes a surface of a heat-conducting layer 4c covering at least a portion of the surface of the base 30 in the fourth direction DR4. The thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting layer 4c is higher than that of the base 30.

[0127] The heat-conducting layer 4c allows heat to rapidly diffuse from the laser-irradiated area in the conveyor plate 3 to other areas within the conveyor plate 3. Furthermore, the surface of the heat-conducting layer 4c rapidly dissipates heat from the conveyor plate 3 to the surrounding air. This suppresses thermal deformation of the base 30 due to laser irradiation. Additionally, it suppresses compressive plastic strain on the base 30.

[0128] The thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting layer 4c is, for example, 150 W / m·K or higher, 200 W / m·K or higher, or 300 W / m·K or higher. The heat-conducting layer 4c is, for example, a copper layer, a silver layer, or an aluminum layer.

[0129] exist Figure 36 In the described example, the temperature suppression surface 4 includes the surface of a heat dissipation component 40, which is configured to contact at least a portion of the surface of the base 30 on the fourth direction DR4 side. Figure 36 In the example described, the heat dissipation component 40 is mounted on the base 30.

[0130] exist Figure 36In the described example, the heat dissipation component 40 includes a heat sink 41. The heat sink 41 may have multiple heat sinks 42 (e.g., multiple heat sink pins 42p or multiple heat sink fins). The heat sink 41 may be made of aluminum, copper, or ceramic, for example.

[0131] The heat dissipation component 40 receives heat from the laser-irradiated area in the conveyor plate 3 and dissipates the received heat to the air surrounding the heat dissipation component 40. This suppresses thermal deformation of the base 30 due to laser irradiation. Furthermore, it suppresses compressive plastic strain on the base 30.

[0132] exist Figures 33 to 36 In the described example, the base 30 includes: a first front end portion 3f having a shape corresponding to the shape of the front end portion 9f of the model plate 9; a first middle portion 3m having a shape corresponding to the shape of the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9; and a first rear end portion 3e having a shape corresponding to the shape of the rear end portion 9e of the model plate 9. Furthermore, the first front end portion 3f has a raised conveying surface RU1, which has a shape corresponding to the shape of the raised conveying surface MU1 of the model plate 9. Furthermore, the first middle portion 3m has a flat conveying surface RF1, which has a shape corresponding to the shape of the flat conveying surface MF1 of the model plate 9.

[0133] exist Figure 13 , Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 In the example described, the magnitude AM1 of the deflection of the model plate 9 caused by irradiating the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 with the first laser LB1 (refer to...) Figure 16 The deflection of the model plate 9 caused by the irradiation of the first laser LB1 onto the front end 9f of the model plate 9 is greater than AM2 (refer to...). Figure 17 ).

[0134] In this case, the design process (in other words, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) preferably includes: designing the conveyor plate 3 by attaching a heat-inhibiting surface 4 that mainly covers the middle portion 9m of the model plate 9 (more specifically, a heat-inhibiting surface 4 that mainly covers the flat portion 96m of the model plate 9) to the model plate 9.

[0135] In other words, such as Figures 33 to 36 As illustrated, the design process (in other words, the process of designing the conveyor plate 3 based on the model plate 9) preferably includes: disposing a heat-inhibiting surface 4, which mainly covers the first intermediate portion 3m, on the base 30 to reduce the deflection of the first intermediate portion 3m of the base 30.

[0136] Alternatively, at least two of the first, second, and third examples of the above design can be combined.

[0137] For example, in Figure 27 In the described example, a laser reflective layer 4r may also be disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the protective member 38 on the third-direction DR3 side. For example, in Figure 31 In the described example, at least a portion of the surface of the conveyor plate 3 on the fourth direction DR4 side may also be composed of a heat-conducting layer 4c (e.g., a copper layer, a silver layer, or an aluminum layer).

[0138] (Designed conveyor plate 3) exist Figures 27 to 36 In the example described, the designed conveyor plate 3 includes: a first front end portion 3f; a first rear end portion 3e; and a first intermediate portion 3m connecting the first front end portion 3f and the first rear end portion 3e. In addition, the first front end portion 3f of the conveyor plate 3 is the end portion on the front side of the movement direction (in other words, the end portion on the second direction DR2 side), and the first rear end portion 3e of the conveyor plate 3 is the end portion on the rear side of the movement direction (in other words, the end portion on the opposite side of the second direction DR2).

[0139] like Figure 27 As illustrated, the conveying plate 3 has a conveying surface 3u and a back surface 3n. The conveying surface 3u is the surface that supports the scum during scum conveying. The back surface 3n is the surface of the conveying plate 3 opposite to the conveying surface 3u.

[0140] like Figure 27 As illustrated, the conveyor plate 3 has a left end 3a and a right end 3b. When the conveying surface 3u of the conveyor plate 3 is viewed from the first rear end 3e toward the first front end 3f, the left end 3a of the conveyor plate 3 is the left end, and when the conveying surface 3u of the conveyor plate 3 is viewed from the first rear end 3e toward the first front end 3f, the right end 3b of the conveyor plate 3 is the right end.

[0141] exist Figure 27 In the described example, the first front end portion 3f of the conveyor plate 3 has a protruding curved portion 31f that extends along a first direction DR1 and protrudes towards a third direction. Furthermore, the first front end portion 3f of the conveyor plate 3 has a protruding conveying surface RU1 extending along the first direction DR1. The protruding conveying surface RU1 is the surface of the protruding curved portion 31f on the third direction DR3 side. Figure 27 In the example described, the raised conveying surface RU1 is a surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3 (more specifically, a curved surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3), forming part of the conveying surface 3u of the conveying plate 3.

[0142] exist Figure 27 In the example described, the first rear end 3e of the model plate 9 has a first erected setting portion 33e that extends along a first direction DR1 and protrudes toward a third direction DR3.

[0143] exist Figure 27 In the described example, the front end of the first intermediate portion 3m of the conveyor plate 3 is connected to the first front end portion 3f (more specifically, the protruding curved portion 31f) via a first curved portion 34 extending along the first direction DR1. Furthermore, the rear end of the first intermediate portion 3m is connected to the first rear end portion 3e (more specifically, the first upright setting portion 33e) via a second curved portion 35 extending along the first direction DR1.

[0144] exist Figure 27 In the described example, the first intermediate portion 3m has a first flat plate portion 36m. Furthermore, the first intermediate portion 3m has a flat conveying surface RF1 extending along a first direction DR1. The flat conveying surface RF1 is the surface of the first flat plate portion 36m on the third direction DR3 side. The flat conveying surface RF1 constitutes a part of the conveying surface 3u of the conveyor plate 3.

[0145] exist Figure 28 In the described example, the first front end portion 3f of the conveyor plate 3 has a plurality of front receiving portions 32f for receiving rods (more specifically, a plurality of through holes for inserting rods). Furthermore, the first front end portion 3f of the conveyor plate 3 has a raised conveying surface RU1 extending along a first direction DR1. The raised conveying surface RU1 is the surface of the first front end portion 3f of the conveyor plate 3 on the third direction DR3 side. Figure 28 In the example described, the raised conveying surface RU1 is a surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3 (more specifically, a curved surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3), forming part of the conveying surface 3u of the conveying plate 3.

[0146] exist Figure 28 In the described example, the first rear end portion 3e of the conveyor plate 3 has a plurality of rear receiving portions 34e for accommodating other rods (more specifically, a plurality of through holes for inserting other rods). Furthermore, the first rear end portion 3e of the conveyor plate 3 has a second convex conveying surface RU2 extending along a first direction DR1. The second convex conveying surface RU2 is a surface on the third direction DR3 side of the first rear end portion 3e of the conveyor plate 3. Figure 28 In the example described, the second protruding conveying surface RU2 is a curved surface that protrudes toward the third direction DR3 and constitutes part of the conveying surface 3u of the conveying plate 3.

[0147] exist Figure 28 In the described example, the first intermediate portion 3m of the conveyor plate 3 has a first flat plate portion 36m. Furthermore, the first intermediate portion 3m has a flat conveying surface RF1 extending along a first direction DR1. The flat conveying surface RF1 is a surface of the first flat plate portion 36m on the third direction DR3 side. The flat conveying surface RF1 constitutes a part of the conveying surface 3u of the conveyor plate 3.

[0148] exist Figure 31 and Figure 32 In the described example, the first intermediate portion 3m has a first recess Q1. The presence of the first recess Q1 reduces the area of ​​the flat conveyor surface RF1. Figure 31 and Figure 32 In the described example, the first recess Q1 is recessed in the fourth direction DR4. Furthermore, the first recess Q1 extends along the first direction DR1.

[0149] exist Figures 27 to 30 In the described example, the conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a protective member 38 mounted on the base 30. The base 30 has the aforementioned first front end portion 3f, the aforementioned first intermediate portion 3m, and the aforementioned first rear end portion 3e. The base 30 is made of steel, for example (more specifically, hot-rolled mild steel sheet, cold-rolled steel sheet, or cold-rolled stainless steel sheet). Since the protective member 38 has already been described, a repetitive description of the protective member 38 is omitted. Furthermore, the protective member 38 is made of steel, for example (more specifically, hot-rolled mild steel sheet, cold-rolled steel sheet, or cold-rolled stainless steel sheet).

[0150] exist Figure 33 and Figure 34 In the described example, the conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a laser reflective layer 4r disposed on the base 30 in such a way that it covers at least a portion of the third-direction DR3 side surface of the base 30. Since the base 30 and the laser reflective layer 4r have already been described, a repeated description of the above structure is omitted.

[0151] exist Figure 35 In the described example, the conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a heat-conducting layer 4c disposed on the base 30 such that it covers a portion of the surface of the base 30 on the fourth direction DR4 side. Since the base 30 and the heat-conducting layer 4c have already been described, a repeated description of the above structure is omitted.

[0152] exist Figure 36 In the described example, the conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a heat dissipation member 40 configured to contact at least a portion of the surface of the base 30 on the fourth direction DR4 side. Since the base 30 and the heat dissipation member 40 have already been described, a repeated description of the above structure is omitted.

[0153] The length of the conveyor plate 3 (more specifically, the length of the conveyor plate 3 along the first direction DR1) is, for example, more than 1m and less than 3m.

[0154] The width of the conveyor plate 3 (more specifically, the width of the conveyor plate 3 along the second direction DR2) is, for example, more than 40 mm and less than 200 mm.

[0155] The thickness of the conveyor plate 3 (e.g., the thickness of the first middle section 3m of the conveyor plate 3) is, for example, less than 10mm, less than 5mm, or less than 3mm.

[0156] exist Figure 27 In the described example, the plate thickness of the first front end portion 3f of the base 30 is approximately constant, and the plate thickness of the first rear end portion 3e of the base 30 is approximately constant. Furthermore, the plate thickness of the first middle portion 3m of the base 30 is approximately constant. Figure 27 In the examples described, the thickness of the base 30 plate is generally constant.

[0157] (Second Implementation) Reference Figures 1 to 43 The manufacturing method of the slag conveyor is explained. Figure 37 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a manufactured scum conveyor 2. Figure 38 This is a schematic outline cross-sectional view representing a portion of the transport body CA. Figure 39 This is a schematic perspective view showing a set of conveyor plates, including conveyor plate 3 and second conveyor plate 3-2, that can move along the surrounding track OB. Figure 40 This is a schematic perspective view showing how multiple conveyor plates (3, 3-2, 3-3) connected by hinges can move along the surrounding track OB. Figure 41 This is an exploded perspective view schematically representing a portion of the transport body CA. Figure 42 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing how the conveying device 20 is assembled into the laser processing device 6. Figure 43 This is an example flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a scum conveyor according to the second embodiment.

[0158] In the second embodiment, the description focuses on the differences from the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, repetitive descriptions of matters already described in the first embodiment are omitted. Therefore, even if not explicitly described in the second embodiment, matters already described in the first embodiment can certainly be applied to the second embodiment. Conversely, all matters described in the second embodiment can also be applied to the first embodiment.

[0159] The manufacturing method of the scum conveyor according to the second embodiment includes the "deflection amount acquisition process (first step ST1)" and the "design process (second step ST2)" described in the first embodiment. Since the deflection amount acquisition process (first step ST1) and the design process (second step ST2) have already been described, repeated descriptions of these processes are omitted.

[0160] In the third step ST3, the conveyor plate 3 designed by performing the design process (second step ST2) is manufactured. The third step ST3 is the conveyor plate manufacturing process. Since the designed conveyor plate 3 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated description of the designed conveyor plate 3 is omitted. The conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) may, for example, include: cutting the steel plate and / or bending the steel plate to obtain the designed shape of the conveyor plate 3.

[0161] like Figures 27 to 30 As illustrated, when the designed conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a protective member 38, the conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) includes mounting the protective member 38 to the base 30. The protective member 38 is mounted to the base 30, for example, via a fixing member such as welding or bolts. The conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) may also include configuring a laser reflective layer on at least a portion of the surface of the protective member 38 on the third-direction DR3 side.

[0162] like Figure 33 and Figure 34 As illustrated, when the designed conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a laser reflective layer 4r, the conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) includes distributing the laser reflective layer 4r on at least a portion of the surface of the base 30 on the third-direction DR3 side. The conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) may also include coating the laser reflective layer 4r on at least a portion of the surface of the base 30 on the third-direction DR3 side.

[0163] like Figure 35 As illustrated, when the designed conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a heat-conducting layer 4c, the conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) includes disposing the heat-conducting layer 4c on at least a portion of the surface of the base 30 on the fourth direction DR4 side. The conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) may also include coating the heat-conducting layer 4c on at least a portion of the surface of the base 30 on the fourth direction DR4 side.

[0164] like Figure 36 As illustrated, when the designed conveyor plate 3 has a base 30 and a heat dissipation component 40, the conveyor plate manufacturing process (third step ST3) includes mounting the heat dissipation component 40 onto the base 30. The heat dissipation component 40 is mounted onto the base 30, for example, via a fixing component such as welding or bolts.

[0165] In the fourth step ST4, the conveying device 20 is manufactured. The fourth step ST4 is the manufacturing process of the conveying device. In the manufacturing process of the conveying device (fourth step ST4), the conveying device 20 (in other words, the scum conveyor 2) is manufactured, which has a conveying body CA comprising a set of conveying plates including the aforementioned conveying plates 3. Figure 37 In the example described, the conveying device 20 has a conveyor CA and a drive device 29 for moving the conveyor CA along a circular track.

[0166] exist Figure 37 In the described example, a set of conveyor plates includes the aforementioned conveyor plate 3, the second conveyor plate 3-2, and the third conveyor plate 3-3. Furthermore, the conveyor body CA includes a set of conveyor plates (3, 3-2, 3-3) and an annular component 21 (more specifically, an annular chain 22) for mounting the set of conveyor plates. The shape and structure of the second conveyor plate 3-2 may also be substantially the same as that of the conveyor plate 3. Optionally, the shape and structure of the second conveyor plate 3-2 may also differ from the shape and structure of the conveyor plate 3 in details. The shape and structure of the third conveyor plate 3-3 may also be substantially the same as that of the conveyor plate 3. Optionally, the shape and structure of the third conveyor plate 3-3 may also differ from the shape and structure of the conveyor plate 3 in details.

[0167] exist Figure 38 In the described example, the manufacturing process of the conveying device (fourth step ST4) includes: mounting the conveyor plate 3 onto the annular component 21 (more specifically, the annular chain 22) such that the first front end 3f of the conveyor plate 3 overlaps with the rear end 3e-2 of the second conveyor plate 3-2, and the first rear end 3e of the conveyor plate 3 overlaps with the front end 3f-3 of the third conveyor plate 3-3. Figure 38 In the example described, the conveyor plate 3 is mounted to the ring component 21 (more specifically, the ring chain 22) via bolts BT.

[0168] exist Figure 38 In the example described, in a conveyor CA that consists of a set of conveyor plates, the first front end 3f of the conveyor plate 3 covers the rear end 3e-2 of the second conveyor plate 3-2, and the front end 3f-3 of the third conveyor plate 3-3 covers the first rear end 3e of the conveyor plate 3.

[0169] exist Figure 37 In the example described, the conveyor 20A manufactured by performing the manufacturing process (fourth step ST4) of the conveyor has a conveyor body CA, multiple sprockets 28 and a drive device 29.

[0170] The conveyor body CA has: a set of conveyor plates including a conveyor plate 3, a second conveyor plate 3-2, and a third conveyor plate 3-3; and a first annular chain 22a and a second annular chain 22b supporting the set of conveyor plates. Figure 37 In the example described, a set of conveyor plates are respectively installed on the first annular chain 22a and the second annular chain 22b.

[0171] exist Figure 39In the described example, the first annular chain 22a and the second annular chain 22b are driven directly or indirectly by the drive device 29. More specifically, the first annular chain 22a is driven directly or indirectly by the drive device 29 to travel along the first circular track OB1, and the second annular chain 22b is driven directly or indirectly by the drive device 29 to travel along the second circular track OB2, which is parallel to the first circular track OB1. The interval G1 between the first circular track OB1 and the second circular track OB2 (in other words, the distance between the first circular track OB1 and the second circular track OB2 along the direction of the first direction DR1) is, for example, more than 1 m and less than 3 m.

[0172] exist Figure 39 In the described example, the plurality of sprockets 28 include a first sprocket 28a, a second sprocket 28b, a third sprocket 28c, and a fourth sprocket 28d. A first ring chain 22a engages at least with the first sprocket 28a and the second sprocket 28b (more specifically, the first ring chain 22a is at least wound around the first sprocket 28a and the second sprocket 28b). Furthermore, a second ring chain 22b engages at least with the third sprocket 28c and the fourth sprocket 28d (more specifically, the second ring chain 22b is at least wound around the third sprocket 28c and the fourth sprocket 28d).

[0173] exist Figure 39 In the described example, the first annular chain 22a is driven by the drive device 29 at least via the first sprocket 28a, and the second annular chain 22b is driven by the drive device 29 at least via the third sprocket 28c.

[0174] A set of conveyor plates moves along the circular track OB. For example... Figure 39 As illustrated, the circular track OB of a set of conveyor plates is parallel to the first circular track OB1 of the first circular chain 22a and parallel to the second circular track OB2 of the second circular chain 22b.

[0175] Figure 40 and Figure 41 The transmission device 20B and Figures 37 to 39 The difference in the conveyor device 20A is that a set of conveyor plates are hinged together with other conveyor plates.

[0176] exist Figure 40In the described example, a set of conveyor plates includes the aforementioned conveyor plate 3, the second conveyor plate 3-2, and the third conveyor plate 3-3. Furthermore, the conveyor body CA includes a set of conveyor plates (3, 3-2, 3-3) and an annular component 21 (more specifically, an annular chain 22) for mounting the set of conveyor plates. The shape and structure of the second conveyor plate 3-2 may be substantially the same as that of the conveyor plate 3. Alternatively, the shape and structure of the second conveyor plate 3-2 may differ from that of the conveyor plate 3 in details. The shape and structure of the third conveyor plate 3-3 may be substantially the same as that of the conveyor plate 3. Alternatively, the shape and structure of the third conveyor plate 3-3 may differ from that of the conveyor plate 3 in details.

[0177] like Figure 41 As illustrated, the manufacturing process of the conveying device (fourth step ST4) includes: hingedly connecting the first front end 3f of the conveying plate 3 and the rear end 3e-2 of the second conveying plate 3-2, and hingedly connecting the first rear end 3e of the conveying plate 3 and the front end 3f-3 of the third conveying plate 3-3.

[0178] exist Figure 41 In the described example, the first rod RD1 is configured to pass through both the first front end 3f of the conveyor plate 3 and the rear end 3e-2 of the second conveyor plate 3-2, thereby hingedly connecting the first front end 3f of the conveyor plate 3 and the rear end 3e-2 of the second conveyor plate 3-2. Furthermore, the second rod RD2 is configured to pass through both the first rear end 3e of the conveyor plate 3 and the front end 3f-3 of the third conveyor plate 3-3, thereby hingedly connecting the first rear end 3e of the conveyor plate 3 and the front end 3f-3 of the third conveyor plate 3-3.

[0179] like Figure 40 As illustrated, the manufacturing process of the conveying device (fourth step ST4) may also include: mounting the conveyor plate 3, the second conveyor plate 3-2 and the third conveyor plate 3-3 onto the ring component 21 (more specifically, the ring chain 22).

[0180] exist Figure 40 In the example described, the conveyor 20B manufactured by performing the manufacturing process (fourth step ST4) of the conveyor has a conveyor body CA, multiple sprockets 28 and a drive device 29.

[0181] The conveyor body CA has: a set of conveyor plates including a conveyor plate 3, a second conveyor plate 3-2, and a third conveyor plate 3-3; and a first annular chain 22a and a second annular chain 22b supporting the set of conveyor plates. Figure 40 In the example described, a set of conveyor plates is mounted on the first annular chain 22a and the second annular chain 22b.

[0182] Since the first annular chain 22a, the second annular chain 22b, the plurality of sprockets 28 and the drive device 29 have already been described, a repeated description of the above structure is omitted.

[0183] like Figure 42 As illustrated, the manufacturing process of the conveying device (fourth step ST4) may also include assembling the conveying device 20 to the laser processing apparatus 6 such that a set of conveying plates, including conveyor plate 3, second conveyor plate 3-2, and third conveyor plate 3-3, traverses the area directly below the laser head 61 of the laser processing apparatus 6. In this case, the workpiece W (e.g., a plate-shaped workpiece) is processed using laser LB irradiated from the laser head 61, and a portion of the laser LB of the workpiece W reaches the conveyor plate 3.

[0184] The amount of thermal deformation of the model plate 9 caused by laser irradiation is not large. However, if compressive plastic strain caused by thermal deformation accumulates on the model plate 9, it may hinder the smooth movement of the model plate 9. In contrast, in the first or second embodiment, the conveyor plate 3 is designed to reduce the amount of thermal deformation or compressive plastic strain caused by laser irradiation. Therefore, even if a portion of the laser LB passing through the workpiece W reaches the conveyor plate 3, it will not hinder the smooth movement of the conveyor plate 3. In particular, when the conveying device 20 of the second embodiment is assembled into the laser processing apparatus 6 with high laser output, the conveying device 20 makes a greater contribution to the smooth conveying of slag.

[0185] In this specification, the surface at the lowest end of the workpiece W, which is supported by the workpiece support member 63 of the laser processing apparatus 6 and is parallel to the horizontal plane, is defined as the workpiece support surface PL1 (refer to...). Figure 42 ).

[0186] In either the first or second embodiment, the conveyor plate 3 is designed to reduce the amount of thermal deformation or compressive plastic strain caused by laser irradiation. Therefore, the distance L1 between the workpiece support surface PL1 and the surrounding track OB of the set of conveyor plates can be further reduced. The distance L1 between the workpiece support surface PL1 and the surrounding track OB of the set of conveyor plates is, for example, less than 1 m, less than 0.9 m, or less than 0.8 m. Because this distance L1 is small, the height of the laser processing apparatus 6 can be reduced.

[0187] This invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments or modifications. Within the scope of the technical concept of this invention, the embodiments or modifications can be appropriately modified or changed. Furthermore, various technologies used in the embodiments or modifications can be applied to other embodiments or modifications as long as they do not create technical contradictions. Moreover, any additional structures in the embodiments or modifications can be appropriately omitted. Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0188] 2: Scum conveyor; 3: Conveying plate; 3-2: Second conveying plate; 3-3: Third conveying plate; 3a: Left end of conveying plate; 3b: Right end of conveying plate; 3e: First rear end; 3e-2: Rear end; 3f: First front end; 3f-3: Front end; 3m: First middle part; 3n: Back side of conveying plate; 3u: Conveying surface of conveying plate; 4: Heating suppression surface; 4c: Heat conduction layer; 4r: Laser reflection layer; 6: Laser processing device; 9: Model plate; 9-1: First model plate; 9-2: Second model plate; 9a: Left end of model plate; 9b: Right end of model plate; 9e: Rear end of model plate; 9f: Front end of model plate; 9m: Middle part of model plate; 9n: Back side of model plate ; 9u: Conveying surface of the model plate; 12: Scum conveyor; 13: Conveying plate; 13-1: First conveying plate; 13-2: Second conveying plate; 20, 20A, 20B: Conveying device; 21: Ring component; 22: Ring chain; 22a: First ring chain; 22b: Second ring chain; 28: Sprocket; 28a: First sprocket; 28b: Second sprocket; 28c: Third sprocket; 28d: Fourth sprocket; 29: Drive device; 30: Base; 31f: Protruding curved part; 32f: Front receiving part; 33e: First upright setting part; 34: First curved part; 34e: Rear receiving part; 35: Second curved part; 36m: First flat plate part; 38: Protective component; 38a: First protective component; 38b: Heat insulation component; 38r: Surface of laser reflective layer; 40: Heat dissipation component; 41: Heat sink; 42: Heat sink fin; 42p: Heat dissipation pin; 60: Laser irradiation device; 61: Laser head; 63: Workpiece support component; 81: Computer; 91f: Protruding curved part; 92f: Front receiving part; 93e: Erecting setting part; 94: First curved part; 94e: Rear receiving part; 95: Second curved part; 96m: Flat plate part; 381: First plate part; 382: Second plate part; 383: Curved part; A1: First deflection; A2: Second deflection; B: Basic deflection; BB1: Curved part; BT: Bolt; C: First deflection; CA: Conveyor body; CF: Cut-off piece; D: Dross; DA1: First number According to; DA2: Second data; DA3: Third data; DA4: Fourth data; DR1: First direction; DR2: Second direction; DR3: Third direction; DR4: Fourth direction; DT1, DT2, DT3, DT4: Data; E3: Third deflection; E4: Fourth deflection; G1: Interval; HD: Laser head; LB: Laser; LB1: First laser; MF1: Flat conveyor surface; MU1: Raised conveyor surface; MU2: Second raised conveyor surface; OB: Circular track; OB1: First circular track; OB2: Second circular track; PL1: Workpiece support surface; Q1: First recess; RD1: First rod; RD2: Second rod; RF1: Flat conveyor surface; RU1: Raised conveyor surface;RU2: Second raised conveyor surface; W: Workpiece.

Claims

1. A method of designing a delivery plate for dross delivery, wherein, include: The process of obtaining the basic deflection amount when defining a basic model of a conveyor plate that transports slag generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser from a laser processing device as a model plate, and defining the deflection amount of the model plate caused by irradiating the model plate with a first laser as the basic deflection amount; and The conveyor plate is designed based on the model plate, such that when the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating the conveyor plate with the first laser under substantially the same conditions as irradiating the model plate with the first laser is defined as the first deflection, the first deflection is less than the base deflection. The basic deflection is the deflection of the model plate caused by the compressive plastic strain of the model plate. The first deflection is the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate.

2. The design method of the conveying plate for conveying scum according to claim 1, wherein, The process of obtaining the basic deflection includes: The model plate is actually irradiated with the first laser; and The actual measurement shows the amount of deflection of the model plate caused by irradiating the model plate with the first laser.

3. The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The process of obtaining the basic deflection includes obtaining the basic deflection through computer simulation.

4. The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The process of obtaining the basic deflection includes: Obtain data representing the first deflection of the model plate caused by irradiating a first portion of the model plate with the first laser; and The determination at least reflects the underlying deflection amount represented by the data indicating the first deflection. The process of designing the conveyor plate based on the model plate includes: Data is obtained representing the third deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating the third portion of the conveyor plate, which corresponds in position to the first portion of the model plate, with the first laser. The decision at least reflects the first deflection amount of the data representing the third deflection; and It is confirmed that the condition that the first deflection is less than the basic deflection is met.

5. The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Irradiating the model plate with the first laser includes: The first laser is irradiated onto a first portion of the model plate; and The first laser is irradiated onto the second part of the model plate.

6. The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The process of obtaining the basic deflection includes: Data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate generated by irradiating the first laser onto the first part of the model plate is obtained as first data; Obtain data corresponding to the compressive plastic strain of the model plate caused by irradiating the second portion of the model plate with the first laser, as second data; and The decision reflects at least the underlying deflection amount of the first and second data.

7. The design method of the conveying plate for conveying scum according to claim 5, wherein, The second part is the front end of the model plate. The first part is the middle part of the model plate.

8. The design method of the conveying plate for conveying scum according to claim 5, wherein, The process of designing the conveyor plate based on the model plate includes: Data representing a third deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating a third portion of the conveyor plate corresponding to the first portion of the model plate in position with the first laser is obtained as third data; Data representing a fourth deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating a fourth portion of the conveyor plate corresponding to the second portion of the model plate in position with the first laser is obtained as fourth data; The determination at least reflects the first deflection amount of the third and fourth data; and It is confirmed that the condition that the first deflection is less than the basic deflection is met.

9. The design method of the conveying plate for conveying scum according to claim 1, wherein, The process of obtaining the basic deflection includes: Data corresponding to the thermal expansion of the model plate caused by irradiating the first laser onto the first part of the model plate is obtained and used as first data; Obtain data corresponding to the thermal expansion of the model plate caused by irradiating the second portion of the model plate with the first laser, as second data; and The decision reflects at least the underlying deflection amount of the first and second data.

10. The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The process of designing the conveyor plate based on the model plate includes designing the conveyor plate by attaching a protective component to the model plate that covers at least a portion of the conveyor surface of the model plate.

11. The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The process of designing the conveyor plate based on the model plate includes designing the conveyor plate by changing the shape of the model plate itself.

12. The design method of the conveyor plate for conveying scum according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The process of designing the conveyor plate based on the model plate includes designing the conveyor plate by covering at least a portion of the surface of the model plate with a heat-inhibiting surface.

13. A design method for a conveyor plate for conveying scum, wherein, include: The process of obtaining the basic deflection amount when defining a basic model of a conveyor plate that transports slag generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser from a laser processing device as a model plate, and defining the deflection amount of the model plate caused by irradiating the model plate with a first laser as the basic deflection amount; and The conveyor plate is designed based on the model plate, such that when the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating the conveyor plate with the first laser under substantially the same conditions as irradiating the model plate with the first laser is defined as the first deflection, the first deflection is less than the base deflection. The basic deflection is the deflection of the model plate caused by its thermal expansion. The first deflection is the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by the thermal expansion of the conveyor plate.

14. A method for manufacturing a scum conveyor, wherein, include: The process of obtaining the basic deflection amount is as follows: a basic model of a conveyor plate that conveys slag generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser from a laser processing device is defined as a model plate, and the deflection amount of the model plate caused by irradiating the model plate with a first laser is defined as the basic deflection amount. The conveyor plate is designed based on the model plate, such that when the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating the conveyor plate with the first laser under substantially the same conditions as irradiating the model plate with the first laser is defined as the first deflection, the first deflection is less than the base deflection. The process of manufacturing the designed conveyor plate; and The process of manufacturing a conveying device, the conveying device having a conveyor body comprising a set of conveyor plates including the conveyor plate, The basic deflection is the deflection of the model plate caused by the compressive plastic strain of the model plate. The first deflection is the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by the compressive plastic strain of the conveyor plate.

15. A method for manufacturing a scum conveyor, wherein, include: The process of obtaining the basic deflection amount is as follows: a basic model of a conveyor plate that conveys slag generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser from a laser processing device is defined as a model plate, and the deflection amount of the model plate caused by irradiating the model plate with a first laser is defined as the basic deflection amount. The conveyor plate is designed based on the model plate, such that when the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by irradiating the conveyor plate with the first laser under substantially the same conditions as irradiating the model plate with the first laser is defined as the first deflection, the first deflection is less than the base deflection. The process of manufacturing the designed conveyor plate; and The process of manufacturing a conveying device, the conveying device having a conveyor body comprising a set of conveyor plates including the conveyor plate, The basic deflection is the deflection of the model plate caused by its thermal expansion. The first deflection is the deflection of the conveyor plate caused by the thermal expansion of the conveyor plate.