Optical path blocking mechanism and laser equipment

Abstract

This application provides an optical path blocking mechanism and a laser device. The optical path blocking mechanism includes an optical path sealing box and an optical path adjusting component. The optical path sealing box forms a communicating optical path channel cavity and a receiving cavity. The cavity wall of the optical path channel cavity has an entrance hole and an exit hole. The optical path channel cavity allows a light beam transmitted from the entrance hole toward the exit hole to pass through, while the receiving cavity avoids the light beam. The optical path adjusting component is movably connected to the optical path sealing box and can move between a blocking position and a avoiding position. When the optical path adjusting component is in the blocking position, it is at least partially located in the optical path channel cavity and can change the transmission direction of the light beam. When the optical path adjusting component is in the avoiding position, it is located inside the receiving cavity. This optical path blocking mechanism can flexibly switch the laser transmission path by moving the optical path adjusting component, thereby interrupting the laser processing process without shutting down the laser.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of optical device technology, and in particular relates to an optical path blocking mechanism and a laser device. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of modern laser processing, laser processing often needs to be briefly interrupted due to process adjustments, workpiece changes, and other requirements. Currently, the industry commonly uses the direct switching of the laser source. While this method is simple to operate, it has significant drawbacks. Firstly, frequent switching of the laser source causes optical components to experience drastic temperature changes in a very short time, resulting in uneven heat distribution within the components and greatly increasing the difficulty and energy cost of temperature control in the thermal management system. Secondly, the cyclic thermal shock generated by each switching repeatedly induces thermal stress on the surfaces of core components such as the laser crystal and optical lenses. Long-term accumulation of this stress leads to material fatigue, coating peeling, and other problems, significantly shortening the effective lifespan of the laser equipment. This, in turn, increases maintenance costs and downtime for repairs, negatively impacting processing efficiency and production stability. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide an optical path blocking mechanism and a laser device, which aims to solve the technical problem that frequent shutdowns interrupting laser processing increase the difficulty of temperature control and shorten the service life of laser devices.

[0004] The embodiments of this application are implemented as follows: According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, a light path blocking mechanism is provided, including a light path sealing box and a light path adjustment component;

[0005] The optical path sealing box forms a connected optical path channel cavity and a receiving cavity. The cavity wall of the optical path channel cavity is provided with an entrance hole and an exit hole. The optical path channel cavity is used to allow the light beam transmitted from the entrance hole toward the exit hole to pass through, and the receiving cavity avoids the light beam.

[0006] The optical path adjustment component is movably connected to the optical path sealing box and can move between a blocking position and a clearance position. When the optical path adjustment component is in the blocking position, it is at least partially located in the optical path channel cavity and can change the transmission direction of the light beam. When the optical path adjustment component is in the clearance position, it is located inside the receiving cavity.

[0007] One possible scenario is that the optical path adjustment component is provided with a first reflective surface, which is planar and forms a 45° angle with the transmission direction of the light beam. When the optical path adjustment component is in the blocking position, the first reflective surface is located on the transmission path of the light beam and is used to reflect the light beam.

[0008] One possible scenario is that the light path blocking mechanism further includes a light-absorbing component, which is located in the reflection direction of the light path adjusting member and is used to absorb the light after the light path adjusting member changes its transmission direction.

[0009] One possible scenario is that the optical path sealing box also has a connection hole that connects to the optical path channel cavity. The light-absorbing component includes a light-absorbing body and a light-absorbing box. The light-absorbing box is connected to the optical path sealing box and covers the connection hole. The light-absorbing body is housed in the light-absorbing box and is located on the transmission path of the light after the transmission path is changed. The light-absorbing body is used to absorb the light entering the light-absorbing box.

[0010] One possible scenario is that the light-absorbing box forms a light-absorbing space with an opening facing the light path adjustment component, the light-absorbing body is disposed within the light-absorbing space, and the inner wall of the light-absorbing space is capable of absorbing light.

[0011] One possible scenario is that the light absorber is provided with a second reflective surface, which can reflect part of the light beam onto the inner wall of the light absorption space.

[0012] One possible scenario is that the extension direction of the light-absorbing space is the same as the transmission direction of the light beam after being changed by the optical path adjustment component, and the second reflective surface forms a 45° angle with the transmission direction of the light beam after being changed by the optical path adjustment component.

[0013] One possible scenario is that the light-absorbing space is a cylindrical space with a bottom inner wall and a peripheral inner wall. The bottom inner wall is opposite to the opening, and the peripheral inner wall surrounds the bottom inner wall. The light absorber has a back side and a peripheral side side. The back side is opposite to the second reflective surface and is attached to the bottom inner wall. The peripheral side side surrounds the back side and the second reflective surface and is attached to the peripheral inner wall.

[0014] One possible scenario is that the optical path blocking mechanism further includes a driving component connected to the optical path sealing box and connected to the optical path adjusting component, the driving component being able to drive the optical path adjusting component to move between the blocking position and the avoidance position.

[0015] One possible scenario is that the cavity wall of the receiving cavity has a perforation, the driving member covers the perforation, the driving member has a driving rod that passes through the perforation, and the optical path adjustment member is disposed at the extension end of the driving rod.

[0016] One possible scenario is that the optical path blocking mechanism further includes a first optical path tube and a second optical path tube, both connected to the optical path sealing box. The inner hole of the first optical path tube is connected to the entrance hole, and the inner hole of the second optical path tube is connected to the exit hole.

[0017] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a laser device is provided, including a laser and a light path blocking mechanism as described above, wherein the entrance aperture and the exit aperture are both located on the transmission path of the laser beam emitted by the laser.

[0018] The technical advantages of this embodiment compared to the prior art are as follows: This optical path blocking mechanism, through the cooperation of an optical path sealing box and a movable optical path adjustment component, can achieve processing interruption without switching the laser source on or off. When the optical path adjustment component is in the blocking position, it can change the beam transmission direction to block its transmission to the exit hole; when it is in the avoidance position, it is housed in the receiving cavity, without affecting the normal emission of the beam from the exit hole. This avoids the severe temperature difference and cyclic thermal shock of the optical path components caused by frequent switching of the laser source, reduces the difficulty of thermal management and energy consumption, and reduces material fatigue and coating peeling problems of core components such as laser crystals and optical lenses, thereby extending the service life of the equipment, reducing maintenance costs and downtime frequency, and ensuring processing efficiency and production stability. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this application or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the optical path blocking mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the optical path blocking mechanism in the image.

[0022] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0023] 100. Optical path blocking mechanism; 10. Optical path sealing box; 101. Optical path channel cavity; 102. Receiving cavity; 103. Entrance hole; 104. Exit hole; 105. Connection hole; 106. Through hole; 20. Optical path adjustment component; 210. First reflective surface; 30. Light absorption assembly; 31. Light absorption box; 311. Light absorption space; 32. Light absorber; 320. Second reflective surface; 40. Driving component; 41. Driving rod; 50. First optical path tube; 60. Second optical path tube; 70. Mounting base; 701. Through hole. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0025] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0026] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0027] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0029] This application provides a laser device, including a laser generator responsible for generating a high-energy laser beam. This laser device includes, but is not limited to, laser processing equipment (such as laser drilling machines, laser cutting machines, laser marking machines, laser welding machines, etc.), laser surgical equipment (such as femtosecond laser surgical instruments, CO2 laser beauty instruments, etc.), laser measuring equipment (such as laser spectrometers, laser interferometers, laser velocimeters, etc.), and laser communication equipment (such as laser projectors, fiber optic communication lasers, etc.).

[0030] Taking laser processing equipment as an example, lasers can be of various types, such as solid-state lasers, fiber lasers, and ultraviolet lasers. Solid-state lasers can generate high peak power lasers, which are suitable for drilling metal materials; fiber lasers have good beam quality and high efficiency, and are often used for precision drilling; ultraviolet lasers have a small heat-affected zone, making them suitable for processing non-metallic materials or materials with extremely high precision requirements.

[0031] The laser device includes a housing, a laser, an acousto-optic modulator, a reflection mechanism, a focusing mechanism, and a controller. The housing forms an optical cavity and an electrical control cavity. The laser, acousto-optic modulator, reflection mechanism, and focusing mechanism are all located within the optical cavity, while the controller is located within the electrical control cavity. The laser is positioned close to the electrical control cavity, and the acousto-optic modulator, reflection mechanism, and focusing mechanism are sequentially positioned further away from the electrical control cavity. The controller is electrically connected to the laser, acousto-optic modulator, reflection mechanism, and focusing mechanism.

[0032] In the field of modern laser processing, laser processing often needs to be briefly interrupted due to process adjustments, workpiece changes, and other requirements. Currently, the industry commonly uses the direct switching of the laser source. While this method is simple to operate, it has significant drawbacks. Firstly, frequent switching of the laser source causes optical components to experience drastic temperature changes in a very short time, resulting in uneven heat distribution within the components and greatly increasing the difficulty and energy cost of temperature control in the thermal management system. Secondly, the cyclic thermal shock generated by each switching repeatedly induces thermal stress on the surfaces of core components such as the laser crystal and optical lenses. Long-term accumulation of this stress leads to material fatigue, coating peeling, and other problems, significantly shortening the effective lifespan of the laser equipment. This, in turn, increases maintenance costs and downtime for repairs, negatively impacting processing efficiency and production stability.

[0033] To address this issue, this application provides an optical path blocking mechanism disposed on the transmission path of the laser beam. This mechanism can block the transmission of the laser beam without shutting down the laser, thereby interrupting the laser processing process. In this embodiment, the optical path blocking mechanism can be disposed in a reflecting mechanism, for example, between two sets of reflecting mirrors.

[0034] Please see Figure 1 The optical path blocking mechanism 100 includes an optical path sealing box 10 and an optical path adjusting component 20. The optical path sealing box 10 is used to allow the laser beam to pass through, and the optical path adjusting component 20 is connected to the optical path sealing box 10 and is used to change the propagation direction of the laser beam when it is necessary to interrupt the laser processing.

[0035] Specifically, combined Figure 2The optical path sealing box 10 has an inner cavity, which includes a connected optical path channel cavity 101 and a receiving cavity 102. The cavity wall of the optical path channel cavity 101 has an entrance hole 103 and an exit hole 104. The optical path channel cavity 101 is used to allow the light beam transmitted from the entrance hole 103 to the exit hole 104 to pass through. The receiving cavity 102 avoids the laser beam, that is, the laser beam does not pass through the receiving cavity 102 during the transmission process in the inner cavity.

[0036] In this embodiment, the light beam can be a laser beam. Both the entrance aperture 103 and the exit aperture 104 are positioned along the transmission path of the laser beam. The transmission path of the laser beam can be a straight path, and the axial directions of both the entrance aperture 103 and the exit aperture 104 are the transmission directions of the laser beam. The entrance aperture 103, the optical path channel cavity 101, and the exit aperture 104 are arranged sequentially along the transmission direction of the laser beam. The optical path channel cavity 101 and the receiving cavity 102 can be arranged sequentially along the normal direction of the laser beam's transmission direction, i.e., side-by-side. The dimensions of the entrance aperture 103 and the exit aperture 104 can allow the laser beam to pass completely, or only a portion of the laser beam can pass through, with the remaining portion blocked by the optical path sealing box 10; no limitation is imposed here.

[0037] It should be noted that the optical path channel cavity 101 and the receiving cavity 102 can be divided according to their orientation. For example, the middle section of the optical path sealing box 10 can be used as the boundary, with one half being the optical path channel cavity 101 and the other half being the receiving cavity 102. When the laser beam passes through the optical path channel cavity 101, it may not completely occupy the space inside the optical path channel cavity 101. The boundaries between the optical path channel cavity 101 and the receiving cavity 102 can also be defined by whether the laser beam passes through it. For example, the optical path channel cavity 101 can be the part of the space occupied by the laser beam passing through the inner cavity, and the other parts in the inner cavity can be named the receiving cavity 102. In this case, the receiving cavity 102 can be arranged side by side with the optical path channel cavity 101 in the normal direction of the laser beam transmission direction, or it can extend along the circumference of the optical path channel cavity 101. In this case, the extension path of the receiving cavity 102 can be an arc-shaped path or a ring-shaped path, which is not limited here.

[0038] In other embodiments, the axis of the entrance aperture 103 and the axis of the exit aperture 104 may at least differ from the transmission direction of the laser beam. This is not a limitation and can be set according to the connection requirements, spatial arrangement requirements, or beam transmission path requirements in the laser device. The transmission path of the laser beam may also be a zigzag path, that is, the transmission direction of the laser beam changes due to reflection during transmission in the optical path sealing box 10. This is not a limitation, as long as the laser beam can enter the optical path channel cavity 101 through the entrance aperture 103 and exit through the exit aperture 104.

[0039] The optical path adjustment component 20 is movably connected to the optical path sealing box 10 to move within the inner cavity. The optical path adjustment component 20 and the optical path sealing box 10 can be directly connected or indirectly connected through other structural components. The movable connection methods between the optical path adjustment component 20 and the optical path sealing box 10 include, but are not limited to, sliding connection, rotational connection, transmission connection, flexible connection, and abutment. The optical path adjustment component 20 can move between a blocking position and a clearance position. When the optical path adjustment component 20 is in the blocking position, it is at least partially located within the optical path channel cavity 101 and along the propagation direction of the laser beam. At this time, the optical path adjustment component 20 can change the transmission direction of the laser beam. The method of changing the transmission direction of the laser beam can be reflection, refraction, diffraction, scattering, etc. The number of times the transmission direction of the laser beam is changed can be once, twice, or more; there is no limitation, as long as the transmission direction of the laser beam after the change is different from the transmission direction of the laser beam before the change. When the optical path adjustment component 20 is in the avoidance position, the optical path adjustment component 20 is located inside the receiving cavity 102, thereby avoiding the laser beam so that the laser beam can be smoothly emitted from the exit hole 104.

[0040] This optical path blocking mechanism 100, through the optical path sealing box 10 and the movable optical path adjustment component 20, can interrupt processing without switching the laser source on or off. When the optical path adjustment component 20 is in the blocking position, it can change the beam transmission direction to block its transmission to the exit hole 104; when it is in the avoidance position, it is housed in the receiving cavity 102, without affecting the normal emission of the beam from the exit hole 104. This avoids the severe temperature difference and cyclic thermal shock of the optical path components caused by frequent switching of the laser source, reduces the difficulty of thermal management and energy consumption, and reduces material fatigue and coating peeling problems of core components such as laser crystals and optical lenses, thereby extending the service life of the equipment, reducing maintenance costs and downtime frequency, and ensuring processing efficiency and production stability.

[0041] In some embodiments, the optical path adjustment member 20 is provided with a first reflective surface 210, which is inclined toward the incident end of the laser beam and is capable of reflecting the incoming laser beam. When the optical path adjustment member 20 is in the blocking position, the first reflective surface 210 is at least partially located in the optical path channel cavity 101 and on the transmission path of the laser beam, so that the laser beam can hit the first reflective surface 210, and the first reflective surface 210 can reflect the laser beam to change the transmission direction of the laser beam.

[0042] To facilitate the distinction between the laser beam before and after reflection, the laser beam that is incident on the optical path channel cavity 101 and is emitted from the exit hole 104 without being reflected by the first reflecting surface 210 is called the initial laser beam, and the laser beam that is reflected by the first reflecting surface 210 is called the reflected laser beam.

[0043] Optionally, the movement direction of the optical path adjuster 20 can be perpendicular to the transmission direction of the initial laser beam, so as to enable the optical path adjuster 20 to quickly switch between the blocking position and the avoidance position.

[0044] For ease of description, in the following embodiments, the transmission direction of the initial laser beam can be defined as the X-axis direction, the movement direction of the optical path adjustment component 20 can be defined as the Y-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions can be defined as the Z-axis direction.

[0045] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is understandable that the first reflecting surface 210 is a plane so that the reflected laser beam can be reflected in the same direction, thereby reducing the radiation range of the reflected laser beam.

[0046] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is understandable that the first reflecting surface 210 forms a 45° angle with the transmission direction of the initial laser beam. Thus, the angle between the reflected laser beam and the initial laser beam is 90°, meaning the reflected laser beam is reflected perpendicularly. This tilt angle of the first reflecting surface 210 allows it to achieve a 90° deflection of the laser beam direction with minimal space occupation, efficiently reflecting the laser beam and simplifying the overall structural layout. Simultaneously, the 45° tilt angle ensures that the laser beam illuminates the first reflecting surface 210 at a symmetrical and uniform incident angle, avoiding beam distortion and uneven energy distribution caused by excessively large or small angles, thus guaranteeing laser reflection efficiency and beam quality. Furthermore, at this 45° tilt angle, the laser energy distribution borne by the optical path adjustment component 20 is relatively balanced, reducing localized overheating and lowering the risk of lens damage caused by thermal stress concentration, effectively improving the lifespan of the reflector and the stability of the system.

[0047] Optionally, the transmission direction of the reflected laser beam is the Y-axis direction, parallel to the moving direction of the optical path adjustment component 20, to reduce the space occupied by the optical path blocking mechanism 100 in the X-axis direction, which is beneficial for miniaturizing the laser device. Correspondingly, the light-absorbing component 30 is also disposed in the Y-axis direction of the optical path adjustment component 20 to facilitate receiving the reflected laser beam.

[0048] Optionally, the optical path adjustment component 20 can be a reflector, in which case the first reflecting surface 210 is a mirror. The reflector can achieve efficient reflection of laser light of a specific wavelength, ensuring the directional transmission of laser energy. The surface flatness of the mirror can reach nanometer-level precision, which can minimize the beam distortion and energy loss during laser reflection, ensuring beam quality. At the same time, the reflector material (such as quartz or silicon-based) has good thermal stability and mechanical strength, and can withstand long-term irradiation by high-power lasers without easily deforming. Combined with a cooling structure, it can further reduce the thermal lensing effect. In addition, the installation and adjustment methods of the reflector are mature, which facilitates integration with the optical path system, enabling flexible laser beam steering and path optimization, thereby effectively improving the stability, reliability, and working efficiency of the entire optical system.

[0049] As an alternative implementation, the optical path adjustment component 20 may not use a reflector, or a light-absorbing material may be provided on the mirror surface of the reflector. In this embodiment, the optical path adjustment component 20 can absorb light, that is, it can absorb part of the light and reflect the remaining part. During the process of the laser beam being guided to the light-absorbing component through the optical path adjustment component 20, the partial absorption of the laser by the optical path adjustment component 20 can play a pre-attenuation role, reducing the peak laser energy received by the light-absorbing component 30 in a single instance, preventing the light-absorbing component 30 from being damaged due to instantaneous overheating, and extending its service life. At the same time, the optical path adjustment component 20 can further optimize the energy distribution in the laser transmission path through its absorption characteristics. Even when the optical path adjustment component 20 is in an avoidance position, its slight absorption characteristics can eliminate stray light remaining in the optical path, reduce the potential damage of the laser to components in non-working areas, and enhance the stability and reliability of the entire optical system.

[0050] The optical path adjustment component 20 can absorb light in various ways. For example, a black coating (such as a carbon-based black coating, a metal oxide-based black coating, or a ceramic-based black coating) or a low-reflectivity coating (such as a magnesium fluoride single-layer anti-reflection film or a titanium dioxide / silicon dioxide multilayer film) can be applied to the first reflective surface 210. Alternatively, the first reflective surface 210 can be treated with a non-coating surface (such as a porous foam structure, a micro-nano texture structure, or a light trap structure). Or, the optical path adjustment component 20 can be made of a substrate material with a high absorption coefficient (such as silicon, silicon carbide, or molybdenum). In practical applications, efficient and stable laser absorption can be achieved by combining laser wavelength, power density, and heat dissipation conditions through synergistic optimization of material selection and structural design. The way the optical path adjustment component 20 absorbs light can be the same as or different from the way the light-absorbing component 30 absorbs light; no restrictions are placed here.

[0051] The movement of the optical path adjustment component 20 can be controlled by an electronic structure, a mechanical structure, an electromagnetic structure, or by manual control; no restrictions are imposed here.

[0052] Please see Figure 2In one embodiment, the optical path blocking mechanism 100 further includes a driving member 40, which is connected to the optical path sealing box 10 and to the optical path adjusting member 20. The driving member 40 can drive the optical path adjusting member 20 to move between the blocking position and the avoidance position. In this way, the movement of the optical path adjusting member 20 can be achieved automatically by driving it with the driving member 40, realizing high-precision, high-frequency automated control, accurately adjusting the position of the optical path adjusting member 20, and avoiding positional deviations and human errors from manual operation.

[0053] Optionally, the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 102 is provided with a through hole 106, and the driving member 40 covers the through hole 106 to prevent stray light from entering the inner cavity or stray laser light from escaping from the through hole 106. The driving member 40 can be a cylinder, which has a driving rod 41 that passes through the through hole 106, and an optical path adjustment member 20 is disposed at the extension end of the driving rod 41. The driving rod 41 of the cylinder can reciprocate along its extension direction, and the optical path adjustment member 20 can move between a clearance position and a blocking position as the driving rod 41 reciprocates. This configuration is easy to assemble, low in cost, and easy to maintain. The axial direction of the through hole 106 can be the Y-axis direction, the hole wall of the through hole 106 can be clearance-fitted with the driving rod 41, and the diameter of the through hole 106 can also be larger than the diameter of the driving rod 41; there are no restrictions here. In other embodiments, the drive element 40 may also be a hydraulic cylinder, a motor, a piezoelectric drive element 40, an electromagnetic drive element 40, etc., and there is no limitation here.

[0054] Please see Figure 2 It is understood that the optical path blocking mechanism 100 also includes a light-absorbing component 30, which is located in the reflection direction of the optical path adjusting component 20. This means that the laser beam, after its propagation direction is changed by the optical path adjusting component 20, can be directed towards the light-absorbing component 30. The light-absorbing component 30 absorbs the light beam after its propagation direction is changed by the optical path adjusting component 20, preventing the light beam directed towards the light-absorbing component 30 from scattering, secondary reflection, etc., and from exiting the optical path sealing box 10 again. This avoids excess laser light posing a safety hazard to operators or interfering with the normal operation of surrounding equipment (such as optical sensors, workpieces, etc.). Simultaneously, by absorbing laser energy, the light-absorbing component 30 converts light energy into heat energy and dissipates it stably, preventing reflected light from accumulating in the optical path sealing box 10 to form a high-energy spot. This prevents the optical path blocking mechanism 100 from being damaged due to localized overheating, further improving the safety and reliability of the mechanism. This allows the laser processing interruption process to proceed without shutting down the laser source, completely eliminating the risk of laser leakage, thus balancing equipment protection and operational safety.

[0055] The light-absorbing component 30 can be completely disposed within the inner cavity, or completely disposed outside the inner cavity and connected to the inner cavity, or it can be partially located within the inner cavity and partially located outside the inner cavity; there are no restrictions on this. The light that the light-absorbing component 30 can absorb can refer to laser light.

[0056] Please see Figure 2 It is understood that the optical path sealing box 10 also has a connection hole 105, which is spaced apart from both the entrance hole 103 and the exit hole 104, and can be located between the entrance hole 103 and the exit hole 104. In other embodiments, the connection hole 105 may also be connected to the entrance hole 103 and / or the exit hole 104, which is not limited here.

[0057] The light-absorbing assembly 30 includes a light-absorbing box 31 and a light-absorbing body 32. The light-absorbing box 31 is connected to the optical path sealing box 10 and covers the connection hole 105. The light-absorbing box 31 can be inserted into the connection hole 105 or connected to the outer surface of the optical path sealing box 10 and communicate with the connection hole 105. There is no limitation on this.

[0058] The light absorber 32 is housed within the light-absorbing box 31. The light absorber 32 is positioned on the transmission path of the light after its path has been altered, and it is used to absorb light. The light-absorbing assembly 30, through the cooperation of the light-absorbing box 31 and the light absorber 32, achieves stable positioning of the light absorber 32 with the help of the light-absorbing box 31, ensuring that the light absorber 32 is precisely on the transmission path of the reflected light, guaranteeing effective capture and absorption of light. Simultaneously, the light-absorbing box 31 provides physical protection for the light absorber 32, preventing external dust, collisions, and other factors from affecting its light absorption performance. At the same time, the light absorber 32 directly acts on the light after its path has been altered, efficiently absorbing laser energy. Combined with the encapsulation structure of the light-absorbing box 31, it further constrains the light propagation range, preventing light leakage or scattering during absorption, improving overall light absorption efficiency and safety. This makes the light path blocking mechanism 100 both stable and reliable when blocking laser transmission, and its modular design simplifies maintenance and replacement processes, balancing functionality and practicality.

[0059] Optionally, the light-absorbing box 31 forms a light-absorbing space 311, which has an opening facing the optical path adjustment member 20. Light rays whose transmission path has been changed by the optical path adjustment member can enter the light-absorbing space 311 through the opening. Taking the reflection of the laser beam by the optical path adjustment member as an example, the light rays entering the opening can be all the light rays reflected by the optical path adjustment member, or only a portion of the light rays; this is not limited here. The light absorber 32 is disposed within the light-absorbing space 311 and spaced apart from the opening, that is, the light absorber 32 does not block the opening. Light rays entering the light-absorbing space 311 through the opening can also strike the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311, and the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311 can absorb the light. The inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311 can absorb the light without reflecting it, or it can absorb part of the light and reflect the rest; this is not limited here.

[0060] The inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311 increases the number of reflections of the reflected laser beam, causing it to undergo multiple reflections and absorptions within the space. This significantly improves the energy absorption rate and avoids safety hazards and energy waste caused by laser escape. Simultaneously, the light-absorbing properties of the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311 evenly distribute the laser energy within the space, preventing localized overheating and material damage, and effectively improving the durability of the light-absorbing box 31. Furthermore, this structure reduces stray light generated during laser reflection, preventing interference from stray light to other optical components in the optical path, further enhancing system stability, and reducing thermal management complexity, thus providing strong support for the efficient and safe operation of laser equipment.

[0061] The light absorber 32 and the inner wall of the light absorption space 311 can absorb light in various ways. For example, they can be coated with a black coating (such as a carbon-based black coating, a metal oxide-based black coating, or a ceramic-based black coating), or have a low-reflectivity coating (such as a magnesium fluoride single-layer anti-reflection film, a titanium dioxide / silicon dioxide multilayer film, etc.), or use a substrate material with a high absorption coefficient (such as silicon, silicon carbide, molybdenum, etc.), or use non-coating surface treatments (such as porous foam structures, micro / nano texture structures, light trap structures, etc.). In practical applications, efficient and stable laser absorption can be achieved by combining laser wavelength, power density, and heat dissipation conditions through synergistic optimization of material selection and structural design. The light absorber 32 and the light absorption box 31 can absorb light in the same or different ways; no restrictions are placed here.

[0062] Please see Figure 2 It is understandable that while absorbing light, the light absorber 32 can also reflect some light, and the inner wall of the light absorption space 311 can also absorb light. That is, the light reflected by the light absorber 32 can be absorbed by the inner wall of the light absorption space 311. It should be noted that the light absorber 32 can absorb all the reflected laser beam, or it can absorb only part of the reflected laser beam, with the remaining reflected laser beam being reflected or absorbed by the inner wall of the light absorption space 311.

[0063] Optionally, the absorber 32 has a second reflective surface 320. This second reflective surface 320 can reflect a portion of the light beam incident into the absorption space 311 to the inner wall of the absorption space 311, while the remaining beam is absorbed. The second reflective surface 320 extends the transmission path of the reflected laser within the absorption space 311, forcing the light to repeatedly strike and be absorbed by the inner wall of the absorption space 311, thus increasing the energy absorption rate and reducing the risk of laser escape. The second reflective surface 320 can precisely guide the reflected laser, directing stray light to the absorption area and preventing it from reflecting back into the optical path system and interfering with other optical components, further improving the stability and reliability of the entire optical system.

[0064] Optionally, the second reflective surface 320 is planar to reduce the coverage area of ​​the reflected laser on the inner wall of the light absorption space 311, improve the accuracy of laser guidance, and facilitate processing.

[0065] Optionally, the extension direction of the light-absorbing space 311 is the same as the transmission direction of the light beam after being changed by the optical path adjustment component 20, that is, the light-absorbing space 311 extends in a straight line, and the extension direction of this straight extension path is the same as the propagation direction of the reflected laser beam. The angle between the second reflecting surface 320 and the groove depth direction of the light-absorbing space 311 is 45°. In this way, the laser beam reflected by the first reflecting surface 210 can be emitted from the opening along the extension direction of the light-absorbing space 311 towards the bottom of the light-absorbing space 311 away from the opening. The light absorber 32 can be disposed at the bottom of the light-absorbing space 311, so that the reflected laser beam can be deflected by 90° by the reflection of the second reflecting surface 320 and directed towards the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311. In this way, the reflected laser beam can enter in a straight line along the longitudinal direction of the light-absorbing space 311, reducing transmission loss, while the second reflecting surface 320, which is at a 45° angle to the emission direction of the reflected laser beam, can accurately reflect the laser to the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311, improving the energy absorption rate. The layout of the light-absorbing space 311, whose extension direction is consistent with the propagation direction of the reflected laser beam, allows the light-absorbing space 311 to make full use of the space in the Y-axis direction, extending the residence time and path length of the laser in the light-absorbing space 311, and further enhancing the absorption effect.

[0066] Optionally, the light-absorbing space 311 is a cylindrical space; more specifically, the light-absorbing box 31 is a cylindrical box structure. The light absorber 32 fits against the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311, thereby improving the stability of the light absorber 32 within the light-absorbing space 311. The inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311 is a continuous, smooth, arc-shaped surface. Combined with the reflection effect of the internal light absorber 32, light reflected by the light absorber 32 will repeatedly strike the arc-shaped inner wall along the tangent or normal direction of the cylindrical inner wall, extending the propagation path and residence time of the light within the light-absorbing space 311, and significantly improving the absorption efficiency of the inner wall and the light absorber 32. Simultaneously, the cylindrical structure has no sharp edges or right-angle dead corners, preventing the formation of unabsorbable "blind zones" in corners, ensuring that all reflected light can be captured by the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311 or the light absorber 32, effectively preventing residual or leaked laser energy. In addition, the symmetrical structure of the cylindrical space allows light energy to be evenly distributed inside, reducing the problem of overheating of the light absorber 32 or the inner wall caused by excessive local energy concentration, further enhancing the stability and safety of the light absorption component, and providing an efficient and thorough light absorption solution for the light path blocking mechanism 100.

[0067] Specifically, the light-absorbing space 311 has a peripheral inner wall surface and a bottom inner wall surface. The bottom inner wall surface faces the opening, and the peripheral inner wall surface surrounds the bottom inner wall surface and the opening. The light-absorbing body 32 also has a back surface and a peripheral side surface. The back surface faces away from the second reflective surface 320, and the peripheral side surface surrounds the back surface and the second reflective surface 320. The peripheral side surface is annular and matches the light-absorbing space 311. The back surface of the light-absorbing body 32 is attached to the bottom inner wall surface of the light-absorbing space 311, and the peripheral side surface of the light-absorbing body 32 is attached to the peripheral inner wall surface of the light-absorbing space 311 to further improve the stability of the light-absorbing body 32 within the light-absorbing space 311. The light-absorbing body 32 can be fixedly connected to the light-absorbing box 31, slidably connected to the light-absorbing box 31, or integrally formed with the light-absorbing box 31; no limitation is made here.

[0068] Optionally, the light absorber 32 can be a reflector, in which case the second reflecting surface 320 is a mirror. The reflector can achieve efficient reflection of laser light of a specific wavelength, ensuring the directional transmission of laser energy. The reflector material (such as quartz or silicon-based) has good thermal stability and mechanical strength, and can withstand long-term irradiation by high-power lasers without easily deforming. Combined with a cooling structure, it can further reduce the thermal lensing effect. In addition, the installation and adjustment methods of the reflector are mature, making it easy to integrate with the optical path system, realizing flexible laser beam steering and path optimization, thereby effectively improving the stability, reliability, and working efficiency of the entire optical system.

[0069] As an alternative implementation, the light absorber 32 may not use a reflector, or a light-absorbing material may be provided on the mirror surface of the reflector. In this implementation, the light absorber 32 can absorb light, that is, the light absorber 32 can absorb part of the light and reflect the remaining part of the light. During the process of the laser beam being guided to the light-absorbing assembly 30 by the light absorber 32, the partial absorption of the laser by the light absorber 32 can play a pre-attenuation role, reducing the peak laser energy received by the inner wall of the light-absorbing space 311 in a single instance, preventing the light-absorbing box 31 from being damaged by instantaneous overheating, and extending its service life. Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2It is understood that, to facilitate the connection of the optical path blocking mechanism 100 with other structural components, the optical path blocking mechanism 100 also includes a first optical path tube 50 and a second optical path tube 60, both connected to the optical path sealing box 10. The inner hole of the first optical path tube 50 is connected to the entrance hole 103, and the inner hole of the second optical path tube 60 is connected to the exit hole 104. The axial direction of the inner hole of the first optical path tube 50 and the axial direction of the inner hole of the second optical path tube 60 are both in the X-axis direction, so that the initial laser beam can enter the optical path channel cavity 101 through the entrance hole 103 from the inner hole of the first optical path tube 50, and exit through the exit hole 104 and the inner hole of the second optical path tube 60. The first optical path tube 50, the optical path sealing box 10, and the second optical path tube 60 together form a relatively long optical path channel. This optical path channel can isolate external dust, moisture, and impurities, preventing contamination or corrosion of optical components during laser transmission, reducing the risk of laser leakage, improving equipment safety, and reducing air disturbances that interfere with the beam, ensuring beam quality and system stability. This relatively long optical path channel can also meet the requirements of long-distance laser transmission and reduce energy loss. The first optical path tube 50 and the second optical path tube 60 can respectively connect to the two mirror groups in the reflection mechanism or the two lens groups in the focusing mechanism, or other structural components, realizing modular construction and expansion of the optical path, facilitating system integration and subsequent maintenance.

[0070] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is understood that the optical path blocking mechanism 100 may also include a mounting base 70 connected to the optical path sealing box 10, which facilitates fixing the position of the optical path sealing box 10. The mounting base 70 can be mounted to an external structural component of the laser device, such as a housing, to improve the stability of the optical path blocking mechanism 100 within the laser device. A through hole 701 may be provided on the mounting base 70 to allow fasteners to pass through and to mount the mounting base 70 to the external structural component.

[0071] It should be noted that the light path blocking mechanism 100 can also be applied to other optical devices besides laser devices, such as projection display devices, photolithography devices, optical inspection devices, etc. The light beam reflected by the light path adjustment component 20 can be a visible light beam, an infrared light beam, etc., in addition to a laser beam. Correspondingly, the light absorbed by the light absorption component 30 can also be visible light, infrared light, etc., without any limitation.

[0072] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application, and only specifically describe the technical principles of this application. These descriptions are only for explaining the principles of this application and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application in any way. Based on this explanation, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application, as well as other specific embodiments of this application that can be conceived by those skilled in the art without creative effort, should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. An optical path blocking mechanism, characterized by, include: An optical path sealing box is formed with an interconnected optical path channel cavity and a receiving cavity. The cavity wall of the optical path channel cavity is provided with an entrance hole and an exit hole. The optical path channel cavity is used to allow a light beam transmitted from the entrance hole toward the exit hole to pass through, and the receiving cavity avoids the light beam. An optical path adjustment component is movably connected to the optical path sealing box and can move between a blocking position and a retraction position. When the optical path adjustment component is in the blocking position, it is at least partially located in the optical path channel cavity and can change the transmission direction of the light beam. When the optical path adjustment component is in the retraction position, it is located within the receiving cavity.

2. The optical path blocking mechanism of claim 1, wherein, The optical path adjustment component is provided with a first reflective surface, which is a plane and forms a 45° angle with the transmission direction of the light beam. When the optical path adjustment component is in the blocking position, the first reflective surface is located on the transmission path of the light beam and is used to reflect the light beam.

3. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 1, wherein, The light path blocking mechanism further includes a light-absorbing component, which is located in the reflection direction of the light path adjusting member and is used to absorb the light after the light path adjusting member changes the transmission direction.

4. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 3, wherein, The optical path sealing box is also provided with a connection hole that connects to the optical path channel cavity. The light-absorbing component includes a light-absorbing body and a light-absorbing box. The light-absorbing box is connected to the optical path sealing box and covers the connection hole. The light-absorbing body is housed in the light-absorbing box and is located on the light transmission path after the transmission path is changed. The light-absorbing body is used to absorb light.

5. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 4, wherein, The light-absorbing box forms a light-absorbing space, the light-absorbing space has an opening facing the light path adjustment component, the light-absorbing body is disposed in the light-absorbing space and spaced apart from the opening, and the inner wall of the light-absorbing space can absorb light.

6. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 5, wherein, The light absorber is provided with a second reflective surface, which can reflect part of the light beam onto the inner wall of the light absorption space.

7. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 6, wherein, The light-absorbing space extends in the same direction as the light beam after it has been changed by the light path adjustment component, and the second reflective surface forms a 45° angle with the light beam after it has been changed by the light path adjustment component.

8. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 6, wherein, The light-absorbing space is a cylindrical space with a bottom inner wall and a peripheral inner wall. The bottom inner wall is opposite to the opening, and the peripheral inner wall surrounds the bottom inner wall. The light absorber has a back side and a peripheral side side. The back side is opposite to the second reflective surface and is attached to the bottom inner wall. The peripheral side side surrounds the back side and the second reflective surface and is attached to the peripheral inner wall.

9. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 1, wherein, The optical path blocking mechanism also includes a driving component, which is connected to the optical path sealing box and to the optical path adjusting component. The driving component can drive the optical path adjusting component to move between the blocking position and the avoidance position.

10. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 9, wherein, The cavity wall of the receiving cavity has a perforation, the driving member covers the perforation, the driving member has a driving rod that passes through the perforation, and the optical path adjustment member is disposed at the extension end of the driving rod.

11. The light path blocking mechanism of claim 1, wherein, The light path blocking mechanism also includes a first light path tube and a second light path tube, both connected to the light path sealing box. The inner hole of the first light path tube is connected to the entrance hole, and the inner hole of the second light path tube is connected to the exit hole.

12. A laser device, characterized by comprising: It includes a laser and a light path blocking mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the entrance aperture and the exit aperture are both located on the transmission path of the laser beam emitted by the laser.

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