LASER WELDING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR COMPONENT MANUFACTURE

Abstract

A source (10) in a laser welding device (1) emits a beam (1a) to a main area and a secondary area on a welding surface. The secondary area is positioned either adjacent to or at a distance from the main area. A welding direction is a direction in which an irradiated area moves during laser welding. The secondary area comprises at least one zone positioned on the leading side of the main area in the welding direction. The source emits the beam in such a configuration that at least one peak is present in both the main area and the secondary area.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a laser welding device and a method for manufacturing a component by laser welding using the laser welding device.

[0002] A laser welding process is known in which several elements are welded together by emitting a beam. In a laser welding process described in the Japanese unexamined patent application, publication no. 2011-167709, the energy density distribution on an area irradiated by a welding beam corresponds to a Gaussian distribution, and the peak energy density on the irradiated area is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. This reduces the occurrence of voids. SUMMARY

[0003] Laser welding can also be performed with different types of lasers. The characteristic properties of lasers can, for example, lead to spatter formation or situations where a sufficiently deep weld pool does not form, thus preventing a weld with adequate strength. In this context, a weld pool is a zone in which a base material is melted by the irradiation of the welding beam.

[0004] Preferably, the formation of spatter is reduced while simultaneously achieving sufficient weld strength.

[0005] A laser welding device according to the present disclosure is configured such that, for the purpose of performing laser welding, a beam is emitted (a beam is emitted to the welding surface) in at least one part of a plurality of elements, and comprises an emitter. The emitter is configured to emit the beam to a main region and a secondary region on the welding surface. The secondary region is positioned on the welding surface such that it is adjacent to or separated from the main region. A welding direction is a direction in which an irradiation region moves along the welding surface during laser welding. The secondary region also includes at least one zone that is positioned on a leading side of the main region in the welding direction.The emitter is designed to radiate the beam in such a way that at least one peak occurs in both the main and secondary regions, and is designed such that the beam radiated towards the main region has an average intensity that is higher than the average intensity of the beam radiated towards the secondary region. A peak here means a state in which the beam intensity exhibits a local maximum.

[0006] In the weld pool formed in the base material during laser welding, a portion of the molten base material migrates outwards, generating spatter as it exits the weld pool. However, in the embodiment described in the present disclosure, a deep weld pool is formed on the weld surface in a zone encompassing the main area, and a shallow weld pool is formed adjacent to the deep weld pool to reduce spatter formation. In this case, the portion of the molten base material migrating outwards in the deep weld pool of the main area is absorbed by the shallow weld pool adjacent to the deep weld pool; this prevents this portion of the molten base material from spreading externally as spatter.

[0007] In the configuration described above, the secondary area includes at least one zone positioned on a leading side of the main area in the welding direction. During laser welding in the welding direction, each radiation target area first receives a low-intensity beam towards the secondary area and then a high-intensity beam towards the main area. This prevents a rapid increase in the intensity of the emitted beams and thus reduces the size and / or quantity of spatter.

[0008] The beam's projection to the adjacent area also allows for a greater width of the deep weld pool formed in the main area, leading to improved weld strength. Consequently, spatter formation can be reduced while simultaneously achieving sufficient weld strength.

[0009] The secondary area can be a zone surrounding the main area. Regardless of the direction in which the laser welding is performed, with this configuration each radiation target area first receives a low-intensity beam towards the secondary area and then a high-intensity beam towards the main area. Accordingly, spatter formation can be reduced regardless of the laser welding direction, and there are no strict limitations regarding the laser welding direction. Therefore, laser welding can be carried out more efficiently.

[0010] The emitter can also emit the beam in such a setting that at least one tip appears in a central area positioned in the main area and in an outer area positioned in the secondary area and surrounding the central area.

[0011] With such a design, the intensity of the beam in the adjacent area can be appropriately adjusted.

[0012] The emitter can also emit the beam in such a setting that at least one tip occurs in a first area positioned in the main area, in a third area positioned in the secondary area, and in a second area positioned between the first area and the third area.

[0013] With this design, the weld pool formed in the main area can be widened, as well as a deep channel ("keyhole") formed in the center of the weld pool in the main area, in order to obtain a stable keyhole. As a result, improved weld strength can be achieved for the multiple laser-welded elements.

[0014] The intensity of the beam in the first area can be greater than the intensity of the beam in the third area, and the intensity of the beam in the third area can be greater than the intensity of the beam in the second area. Such a design can further reduce splashing.

[0015] The intensity of the beam in the first area can be greater than the intensity of the beam in the second area, and the intensity of the beam in the second area can be greater than the intensity of the beam in the third area. This design allows for improved weld strength of the multiple laser-welded elements.

[0016] The laser welding device can further include a beam generator designed to generate the beam by amplifying light emitted by a laser medium. The beam generator can adjust the intensity distribution of the beam generated by the beam generator using a change element to alter the direction of light propagation.

[0017] With this design, the beam intensity distribution can be flexibly adjusted. This enables the tip positions to be flexibly adjusted, for example, depending on the size or properties of the base material, and allows for the proper execution of laser welding of various base materials.

[0018] The emitter can be designed in such a way that it changes the intensity distribution of the beam produced by the emitter generator by adjusting the changing element. With such a configuration, the beam intensity distribution can be easily changed, for example depending on the base material. Accordingly, laser welding can be carried out correctly. The laser welding device can be designed as a fiber laser. With such a design, laser welding can be carried out properly.

[0019] Furthermore, a component can be manufactured by laser welding several elements using the laser welding device described above. This manufacturing process reduces spatter formation during laser welding while simultaneously achieving sufficient weld strength. List of characters

[0020] An embodiment of the present disclosure is described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the following applies: Fig. Figure 1 is an explanatory view illustrating one configuration of a laser welding device; Fig. 2A is a table showing an intensity distribution and the evaluation results for the welding effects for each beam in a first to fifth mode; Fig. 2B is an explanatory view for displaying a central area, a perimeter area, a main area and a sub-area in the first mode; Fig. 2C is a graph to represent a setting of the intensity distribution of the beam in the first mode; Fig. 3A is a graph for displaying measured values ​​of the intensity distribution of the beam in the first mode; Fig. 3B is an explanatory view for displaying a central area, a perimeter area, a main area and a secondary area in the second mode; Fig. 3C is a graph to represent a setting of the intensity distribution of the beam in the second mode; Fig. 4A is a graph for displaying measured values ​​of the intensity distribution of the beam in the second mode; Fig. Figure 4B is a graph illustrating a setting of the intensity distribution of the beam in the third mode; Fig. 4C is a graph for displaying measured values ​​of the intensity distribution of the beam in the third mode; Fig. 5A is an illustrative view of a melt pool formed by emitting the beam in each of the first to fifth modes; Fig. 5B is an explanatory view illustrating a main area and a sub-area in a modified example of the first mode; and Fig. 5C is a graph for displaying measured values ​​of the intensity distribution of the beam in the fifth mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0021] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment described below, but can be implemented in various forms within the technical scope of the present disclosure. [Description of the laser welding device]

[0022] A laser welding device of the present embodiment emits a beam to a welding surface in at least one part of several elements in order to weld the several elements together by laser welding. The several elements can, for example, be elements made of iron or an iron alloy, elements made of a non-ferrous metal, or elements made of a non-metallic material. The welding surface can also be provided on an outer surface of one of the elements or can be provided across the respective outer surfaces of the elements. The laser welding device can, for example, be designed as a fiber laser or can be designed as one of various types of lasers, such as a solid-state laser or a gas laser.

[0023] As in Fig. As shown in section 1, it includes a laser welding device. 1 a laser oscillator 30 , a light corridor 20 and a processing head 10 The laser oscillator30 It excites a laser medium and amplifies light emitted by the excited laser medium to create a beam. 1a to generate 1 If the device is designed as a fiber laser, a rare-earth doped fiber can be used as the laser medium.

[0024] The light path 20 conducts the signal from the laser oscillator 30 generated beam 1a to the processing head 10 . The processing head 10 The beam is emitted to perform laser welding. 1a to a plurality of elements 100 from, each of which is the base material. The processing head 10 includes a collimation device 11 , a mode setting device 12 , a converging lens 13 and a position corrector 14 The processing head 10 must use the position corrector 14 not included.

[0025] The collimation device 11 is designed to adjust the direction of the laser oscillator 30 guided beam 1a for example, with the help of a lens and / or a mirror. The mode setting device 12 is designed to set a beam mode 1a with the help of a change element 12a such as a lens and / or a diffractive optical element (DOE) for changing the direction of light travel. "Mode" here refers to a distribution pattern of the beam's intensity. 1a in a radiation region of the beam 1a The intensity of the beam 1a For example, the energy density of the beam can be determined. 1a Specifically, the beam mode will be... 1a adjusted when the beam 1a , whose direction is determined by the collimation device 11 was adjusted by the mode setting device 12The intended lens or similar mechanism runs. In one example, the mode is changed by adjusting the mode setting device. 12 proposed amendment element 12a is adjusted.

[0026] The converging lens 13 is designed to adjust the convergence degree of the beam. 1a , for which the mode is set by the mode setting device 12 was adjusted. During welding, the degree of convergence of the beam is adjusted. 1a so adjusted that the beam 1a It runs together immediately in front of the materials.

[0027] The position corrector 14 is designed to adjust a target position of the beam 1a after passing through the converging lens 13 . [Details about the modes]

[0028] As described above, the laser welding device 1The beam can be emitted in several modes. These modes can be adjusted as needed, for example, depending on the dimensions and properties of the base materials, or the movement speed of the beam receiving area (the beam receiving area or beam target area) during laser welding. In at least some modes, the beam is divided into a primary and secondary area of ​​the weld surface of the multiple elements. 100The laser beam is emitted from the base materials. The beam can be adjusted to emit light partially to the main and secondary areas, or it can be adjusted to emit light completely to both the main and secondary areas. The secondary area is positioned near the main area. Specifically, the secondary area can be adjacent to the main area or positioned at a predetermined or smaller distance from the main area. The secondary area also includes at least one zone on the leading side of the main area in the welding direction. Here, "welding direction" refers to the direction in which the laser beam moves along the weld surface during the welding process.

[0029] The intensity of the beam emitted towards the main area is higher than the intensity of the beam emitted towards the secondary area. In particular, the laser welding device emits 1The beam is directed in such a way that at least one peak occurs in both the main and secondary regions. The average intensity of the beam emitted towards the main region is also higher than the average intensity of the beam emitted towards the secondary region. Here, "peak" refers to a state with a local maximum beam intensity. Specifically, "peak" means a state in which the beam intensity represents a relative maximum, that is, in which the beam intensity reaches its highest value. Changes in beam intensity around the peak alternate between increases and decreases. The beam intensity at the peak is subsequently referred to as the "peak value."

[0030] The beam is directed towards the main area to form a deep melt pool and thus melt the multiple elements. 100to weld, as explained in more detail below. Here, weld pool refers to a zone formed by the penetration of the beam into the several elements. 100 The weld pool is melted. The jet, however, is directed towards the adjacent area to form a shallow weld pool and thus reduce spatter formation. The weld pool formed in the adjacent area is shallower than the weld pool formed in the area encompassing the main weld pool on the weld surface and borders this weld pool.

[0031] The present embodiment provides several modes, comprising modes one through five, each containing the main and secondary regions described above. Modes one through three are described below. A point-like region, as shown in Fig. The central area, shown in Figure 2B, is referred to as the "central area". Several circumferential areas surrounding the central area are designated as the "first intermediate area", "second intermediate area", "third intermediate area", and "circumference area". The size ratio between the respective radii of these areas is as follows: radius of the circumference area > radius of the third intermediate area > radius of the second intermediate area > radius of the first intermediate area.

[0032] In the first mode according to the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B, a beam is directed towards the welding surface in such a setting that peaks in a central area 200 and a scope 201 a beam intensity ratio between a peak value is also observed. 200a in the central area 200 and a peak value 201a within the scope 201 , as in Fig. Displayed in 2C, set to 7:3.

[0033] In one example, this means a circular area with a diameter of approximately several hundred micrometers around the central area. 200 around a main area 205 Furthermore, there is a ring-shaped area that is attached to the main area. 205 adjacent to and surrounding it, a secondary area 206 In other words, the main area 205 and the adjacent area 206 are arranged coaxially. The main area 205 and the adjacent area 206 can be arranged essentially coaxially. In the first mode, as in Fig. As shown in 2C, the beam is adjusted so that the radiation towards the surface occurs in a state in which the radiation towards the main area 205 The emitted beam has a higher intensity than the beam to the adjacent area. 206 emitted beam. As in Fig. As shown in 3A, the intensity of the area to the main area is accordingly 205The actual emitted beam is higher than the intensity of the beam in the adjacent area. 206 actual emitted beam.

[0034] In the second mode according to the Fig. 3B and Fig. 3C emits a beam to the welding surface in such a setting that peaks in a central area 210 , a first intermediate area 211 and a scope 212 occur. A size ratio between an initial peak value 210a in the central area 210 , a second peak value 211a in the first intermediate area 211 and a third peak value 212a within the scope 212 , as in Fig. The 3C representation is as follows: first peak value 210a > second peak value 211a > third top value 212a In a more specific example, a ratio between the first peak value is shown. 210a , the second peak value211a and the third peak value 212a Set to 8:2:1. The ratio can be adjusted appropriately within a range that maintains the aforementioned size ratio.

[0035] In one example, this means a circular area with a diameter of approximately several hundred micrometers around the central area. 210 around a main area 215 Furthermore, there is a ring-shaped area that is attached to the main area. 215 adjacent to and surrounding it, a secondary area 216 In other words, the main area 215 and the adjacent area 216 are arranged coaxially. The main area 215 and the adjacent area 216 They can be arranged essentially coaxially. Furthermore, the central area 210 in the main area 215 arranged, and the perimeter 212 is in the side area 216 arranged. The first intermediate area 211is between the main area 215 and the scope 212 arranged. In the second mode, as in Fig. As shown in 3C, the beam is directed towards the welding surface in such a way that the beam towards the main area 215 The emitted beam has a higher intensity than the beam to the adjacent area. 216 emitted beam. As in Fig. As shown in 4A, the intensity of the area to the main area is accordingly 215 The actual emitted beam is higher than the intensity of the beam in the adjacent area. 216 actual emitted beam.

[0036] In the third mode, similar to the second mode, a beam is emitted at such an angle to the welding surface that peaks are formed in the central area. 210 , in the first intermediate area 211 and within the scope 212 occur. As in Fig. As can be seen in 4B, the third mode differs from the second mode in that the first to third peak values 210a until 212a exhibit the following size ratio: first peak value 210a > third top value 212a > second peak value 211a In particular, the third mode establishes a ratio between the first peak value 210a , the second peak value 211a and the third peak value 212a In one example, the ratio is set to 6:1.5:2.5. The ratio can be adjusted appropriately within a range that maintains the aforementioned size ratio.

[0037] In one example, this means a circular area with a diameter of approximately several hundred micrometers around the central area. 210 around the main area 215 , similar to the second mode. Additionally, there is a ring-shaped area that is attached to the main area. 215adjacent to and surrounding it, the secondary area 216 In the third mode, as in Fig. As shown in 4B, the beam is directed towards the welding surface in such a setting that the intensity of the main area 215 The emitted beam is higher than the intensity of the beam in the adjacent area. 216 emitted beam. Accordingly, as in Fig. 4C shown, the intensity of the area leading to the main area 215 The actual emitted beam is higher than the intensity of the beam in the adjacent area. 216 actual emitted beam. [Manufacturing process of a welded element]

[0038] In a method for producing a welded element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a mode is first selected according to, for example, the properties, dimensions, and so on of the several elements to be welded by laser. 100 selected, and the change element12a The selection depends on the chosen mode. Then the selected change element is applied. 12a in the laser welding device 1 The laser welding of the multiple elements is then stopped. 100 performed by using the laser welding device 1 A beam is emitted as described above. The total thickness of the multiple elements 100 The distance along one direction of radiation of the beam can be, for example, 4 mm or more. The beam can be emitted in one of the first to third modes, for example. Spot welding of multiple elements is also possible. 100 be carried out, or the welding of several elements 100 This can be achieved by moving an area of ​​radiation in the welding direction. The result of this welding process is a welded element that comprises several welded elements. 100This includes, for example, a welded element that can be a component for use in vehicles, such as automobiles.

[0039] When the beam is directed towards a weld surface, the base materials are melted, forming a weld pool in both a primary and a secondary area. As described above, the intensity of the beam directed towards the primary area is higher than the intensity of the beam directed towards the secondary area. This means that in the zone encompassing the primary area on the weld surface, a deep and sufficiently wide weld pool is formed to accommodate the various elements. 100 to weld with sufficient strength. The jet can form a keyhole in the weld pool of the main area. The jet emitted towards the secondary area forms a weld pool that is adjacent to the weld pool of the main area and is shallower than it.

[0040] Fig. 5A shows a melting bath 120, which is achieved by a beam in one of the first to third modes in the multiple elements 100 is trained. The several elements 100 For example, two stacked plate elements, and a beam becomes a melting surface. 100 radiated, which on an outer surface of one of the upper plate elements of Fig. 5A is arranged. Then it forms a main area. 111 The emitted beam created a deep melting bath. 121 , which reaches a lower of the plate elements. Fig. 5A shows an example in which a keyhole 123 in the center of the meltwater pool 121 of the main area. The one who goes to a secondary area 112 The emitted beam forms a shallow melt pool. 122 , the melting bath 121 of the main area 111 surrounds and borders it. One circumferential area is located in a zone where the shallow melt pool 122 in the weld surface110 is being trained.

[0041] In the melting bath 121 of the main area 111 A portion of the molten base material migrates upwards towards the weld surface and creates spatter when this portion of the molten base material emerges from a molten surface. In the present embodiment, however, the flat weld pool 122 in the side area 112 formed so that it reaches the deep melting bath 121 of the main area 111 adjacent. Accordingly, the portion of the molten base material that is in the melt bath 121 of the main area 111 migrates towards the weld surface, from the melt pool 122 of the ancillary area 112 It is absorbed; this prevents this portion of the molten base material from spreading externally as splashes. Consequently, splash formation is reduced. [Modified examples]

[0042] In modes one through three, the jet is set so that peaks appear in the circumferential area or in the circumferential area and the first intermediate area. However, the jet can also be set so that peaks appear not in the aforementioned areas, but in one or more point-like or linear areas located on a leading side of the central area in the welding direction.

[0043] Specifically, as in Fig. 5B illustrates the adjustment of the beam, for example, so that a tip is in an arc-shaped section. 221 , which is part of the scope 201 is instead of within the scope 201 of the first mode occurs. The section 221 is located on a side in the welding direction 230 front side of a central area 220 In this case, a main area will be used. 225formed in a circular shape, and adjacent to one in the welding direction 230 front of the main area 225 A secondary area will also be created. 226 Formed in strip form.

[0044] Furthermore, in the second or third mode, the beam can be adjusted, for example, so that peaks are in an arc-shaped section, which is part of the first intermediate range. 211 is, and in another arc-shaped section, the part of the circumferential area 212 is instead of in the intermediate area 211 and scope 212 These sections occur on the front side of the central area in the welding direction. In this case, too, a circular main area is formed, and a strip-shaped secondary area is formed adjacent to the front side of the main area in the welding direction.

[0045] Even when using these modified examples, a deep weld pool similar to the weld pool of modes one through three is formed on the weld surface in a zone encompassing the main area. Furthermore, a shallow weld pool is formed by the jet radiated towards the secondary area, adjacent to the leading edge of the main area's weld pool (in the welding direction). Similar to modes one through three, this causes a portion of the molten base material migrating upwards in the main area's weld pool to be absorbed by the weld pool of the adjacent area; this prevents this portion of the molten base material from spreading externally as spatter. [Comparison of the different modes]

[0046] Next, a description of the effects on welding will follow when laser welding is performed in each of the first three modes described above, and in a fourth mode, each of which serves as an example of the present disclosure. A description of the effects on welding will also follow when laser welding is performed in a fifth mode as a comparative example to the first four modes.

[0047] In the fourth mode, a beam is directed towards the welding surface in such a way that peaks occur in a central and a peripheral area, similar to the first mode, and a beam intensity ratio between the central and peripheral areas is set to 7:3. This ensures that the beam is projected onto a circular area in the fourth mode as well. However, in the fourth mode, the beam's convergence is insufficient, and therefore the beam is not sufficiently focused immediately in front of the base material. Consequently, the area of ​​incidence is broadened in the fourth mode, as shown in Fig. 5C can be seen.

[0048] In the fifth mode according to Fig. In mode 2A, a beam is directed towards a welding surface in such a way that a peak occurs only in a central area. In mode 5, the beam is therefore directed in a circular area around the central region. This means that in mode 5, the beam is directed only towards the main area, similar to modes 1 through 3, and is not directed towards the surrounding area.

[0049] Fig. Figure 2A shows the respective beam intensity ratios (hereinafter referred to as measurement ratios) of the first to third intermediate ranges and the circumferential range in relation to the central range, for each of the first to fifth modes. Specifically, the measurement ratio is the ratio of a measurement of the beam intensity in the respective range to a measurement of the beam intensity in the central range, and for the calculation, the beam intensity in the central range is assumed to be 100. Fig. 2A also shows a degree of spatter reduction using three levels A to C and an evaluation result for the respective weld strength when using the first to fifth mode.

[0050] The rating is graded from low to high in the order C, B, and A. If the weld strength rating is "A," the weld pool in the main area is wide, and a keyhole forms in a stable state within the weld pool. The spatter reduction rating indicates the degree of reduction in the quantity and / or size of spatter.

[0051] The in Fig. The evaluation results shown in section 2A are to be read as follows: (1) If the jet intensity is set so that the measurement ratio of the third intermediate range is 1.2 or more, the degree of splash reduction is improved. If the jet intensity is set so that the measurement ratio of the third intermediate range is 1.5 or more, the degree of splash reduction is further improved. (2) If the jet intensity is set so that the measurement ratio of the second intermediate range is 3.8 or more, the degree of spatter reduction is improved. In this case as well, the deep weld pool formed in the main range has a large width, and a stable keyhole is formed in the weld pool, thereby achieving sufficient weld strength. The jet intensity can also be set so that the measurement ratio of the second intermediate range is 3.8 or more and 4.6 or less. (3) If the beam intensity is set such that the measurement ratio of the first intermediate range 7 If the value is greater than or greater, similar effects to those in (2) can be achieved. Furthermore, the beam intensity can be adjusted such that the measurement ratio of the first intermediate range is 7 or more and 8 or less. (4) In the case of a setting with peaks in the central area, first intermediate area, and perimeter area, the ratio between a setting value of a peak value in the central area, a setting value of a peak value in the first intermediate area, and a setting value of a peak value in the perimeter area is specified as X0:Y0:Z0. If the value ranges of X0 , Y0 and Z0 on 6 ≤ X0 If the values ​​are set to ≤ 8, 1.5 ≤ Y0 ≤ 2 or 1 ≤ Z0 ≤ 2.5, then similar effects to those in (2) can be achieved. (5) The ratio of the setting value of the peak value of the central area to the setting value of the peak value of the peripheral area is determined by X1 :Z1 specified. If the value ranges of X1 and Z1 By setting the values ​​to 6 ≤ X1 ≤ 8 or 1 ≤ Z1 ≤ 3, spatter formation can be reduced while simultaneously achieving sufficient weld strength. (6) The beam intensity can be adjusted so that the measurement ratio of the first intermediate range 2 or more. The beam intensity can also be adjusted so that the measured value ratio of the first intermediate range 2 or more, while X1 and Z1 within the value ranges specified in (5) above. Under this condition, spatter formation can be reduced while simultaneously achieving sufficient weld strength. (7) If the value ranges of X1 andZ1 By setting the values ​​to 6 ≤ X1 ≤ 8 or 1.5 ≤ Y1 ≤ 2.5, similar effects to those in (2) can be achieved. The beam intensity can also be set such that the measurement ratio of the first intermediate range 7 or more and / or the measurement ratio of the third intermediate range is 1.2 or more. Under this condition, similar effects to those in ( 2 ) to reach. (8) The jet intensity can also be set so that the circumferential measurement ratio is 0.6 or more. This improves the degree of spatter reduction. The jet intensity can also be set so that the circumferential measurement ratio is 3.0 or more. This results in a further improvement in the degree of spatter reduction. The jet intensity can also be set so that the circumferential measurement ratio is 0.6 or more and 3.0 or less. Under these conditions, a more suitable weld strength can be achieved. [Effects]

[0052] (1) A fiber laser has good light focusing properties and delivers high output power. Therefore, using a fiber laser for laser welding results in the formation of a narrow, deep weld pool in the base material compared to using, for example, a CO2 laser. This weld pool is unstable and produces a lot of spatter. This necessitates a spatter guard, and the installation of such a guard can hinder the laser welding process. Furthermore, using a fiber laser for laser welding results in a narrow weld area, and the keyhole formed in the weld pool is narrow and unstable, leading to low weld strength.

[0053] If, on the other hand, the laser welding device 1In the embodiment described above, which is configured as a fiber laser, the flat melt pool adjacent to the melt pool of the main area is formed as described above. This reduces the formation of splashes; thus, a splash guard can be avoided or a smaller splash guard can be used.

[0054] The secondary area comprises at least one zone positioned on the leading edge of the main area in the welding direction. During laser welding in the welding direction, each radiation target area first receives a low-intensity beam towards the secondary area and then a high-intensity beam towards the main area. This prevents a rapid increase in the intensity of the emitted beams and thus reduces the quantity and / or size of spatter.

[0055] The beam's extension to the secondary area also allows for a greater width of the deep melt pool in the main area and reduces lateral variation. This leads to improved weld strength and shortens the time required for laser welding.

[0056] Accordingly, spatter formation can be reduced while simultaneously achieving sufficient weld strength. In particular, this is possible according to the laser welding device. 1 The embodiment described above reduces spatter formation while simultaneously achieving sufficient weld strength, even if the base material has a thickness of, for example, 4 mm or more.

[0057] (2) According to the embodiment described above, the main area and the secondary area are arranged coaxially or substantially coaxially. Thus, regardless of the laser welding direction, each radiation target area first receives a low-intensity beam towards the secondary area and then a high-intensity beam towards the main area. Accordingly, spatter formation can be reduced regardless of the laser welding direction, and there is no mandatory restriction on the laser welding direction. This means that it is possible to reduce a cause of directionality in laser welding, decrease spatter formation, and perform laser welding in all directions while simultaneously reducing variations in weld quality. Consequently, laser welding can be carried out more efficiently.

[0058] (3) In the second and third modes, a further peak is added in the first intermediate range. 211in addition to the central area and perimeter area 212 The setting is adjusted. Compared to the first mode, the beam intensity is thus high around a boundary of the main area. Accordingly, the weld pool of the main area has a large width, and the keyhole formed in the center of the weld pool of the main area is widened, making the keyhole more stable. As a result, improved weld strength of the multiple elements can be achieved. 100 to reach.

[0059] (4) In the first mode, the peak value of the first intermediate range 211 smaller than the peak value of the circumference range 212 This allows for a further reduction in splashing.

[0060] (5) In the second mode, the peak value of the first intermediate range 211 higher than the peak value of the circumference range 212With such a design, improved weld strength of the multiple elements is possible. 100 achieve.

[0061] (6) According to the laser welding device 1 In the embodiment described above, a beam is generated by using, for example, a laser oscillator to generate light emitted by the laser medium. 30 is amplified. Then the mode setting device is used. 12 of the processing head 10 The mode of the generated beam is set. This allows for flexible mode setting compared, for example, to a case where the mode is set in a single step of beam generation by the laser oscillator. 30 or similar settings. Accordingly, the mode setting can be flexibly adjusted depending on the size or properties of the base material, and the laser welding of various base materials can be carried out properly.

[0062] (7) By changing the element of change 12a the mode setting device 12 The mode can be changed. Accordingly, the mode setting can be flexibly adjusted depending on, for example, the size or properties of the base material, and the laser welding of various base materials can be carried out correctly. [Other embodiments] (1) The modes of the laser welding device 1The embodiment described above is not limited to the first to third modes, which are given as examples. Specifically, while in the first to third modes the main region is circular and the secondary region is annular, the shape of the main region or secondary region can be modified, for example, by changing the shape of the central region or the circumferential region in which a tip of the beam occurs. In the second and third modes, tips are set in two concentrically arranged circumferential regions. However, tips can be set, for example, in three or more concentrically arranged circumferential regions. That is, tips can be set in three or more regions in the secondary region. Tips can also be set, for example, in two or more regions in the main region. (2) In the laser welding device 1In the embodiment described above, the beam mode is set by passing the beam through a device attached to the mode setting device. 12 a lens or the like. However, a mode-setting method is not limited to this. Specifically, the beam mode can be set, for example, by superimposing beams generated by multiple laser oscillators. (3) It may be possible to distribute a function performed by a single element in the embodiment described above across several elements, or to integrate the functions of several elements into a single element. Some of the features in the embodiments described above may also be omitted, but only if the problems to be solved can be resolved. Any realization that falls within the scope of the technical concept defined by the language of the appended claims may be an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Compliance with claims]

[0063] The following explains how the terminology used to describe the above embodiment corresponds to the terminology mentioned in the attached claims.

[0064] The processing head 10 This corresponds to an example of a beamer and the laser oscillator. 30This corresponds to an example of a radiation source. The central area 210 This corresponds to an example of a first area, the first intermediate area. 211 This corresponds to an example of a second area and the scope area 212 This corresponds to an example of a third area. The first intermediate area 211 , the scope 201 and the scope 212 Each corresponds to an example of an outdoor area.

Claims

[1] Laser welding device (1) designed to emit a beam (1a) to a welding surface (110) in at least one part of several elements (100) for carrying out laser welding, wherein the laser welding device (1) comprises: a emitter (10) designed to emit the beam to a main area (111, 205, 215, 225) and a secondary area (112, 206, 216, 226) on the welding surface, wherein the secondary area is positioned adjacent to or at a distance from the main area, where a welding direction (230) is a direction in which an irradiation area moves along the welding surface during laser welding, wherein the secondary area comprises at least one zone positioned on a front side of the main area in the welding direction, and wherein the emitter is designed to emit the beam in such a setting that at least one peak occurs in the main region and in the secondary region, and is designed such that the beam emitted towards the main region has an average intensity that is higher than the average intensity of the beam emitted towards the secondary region, wherein the at least one peak is a state in which an intensity of the beam has a local maximum. [2] Laser welding device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the secondary area (112, 206, 216, 226) is an area surrounding the main area (111, 205, 215, 225). [3] Laser welding device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the emitter (10) emits the beam (1a) in such a setting that the at least one tip occurs in a central area (200, 210, 220) which is positioned in the main area (111, 205, 215, 225) and in an outer area (201, 211, 212) which is positioned in the secondary area (112, 206, 216, 226) and surrounds the central area. [4] Laser welding device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the emitter (10) emits the beam (1a) in such a setting that the at least one tip occurs in a first area (210) which is positioned in the main area (111, 205, 215, 225), in a third area (212) which is positioned in the secondary area (112, 206, 216, 226), and in a second area (211) which is positioned between the first area and the third area. [5] Laser welding device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the intensity of the beam (1a) in the first region (210) is higher than the intensity of the beam in the third region (212) and the intensity of the beam in the third region is higher than the intensity of the beam in the second region (211). [6] Laser welding device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the intensity of the beam (1a) in the first region (210) is higher than the intensity of the beam in the second region (211) and the intensity of the beam in the second region is higher than the intensity of the beam in the third region (212). [7] Laser welding device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: a beam generator (30) designed to generate the beam (1a) by amplifying light emitted by a laser medium, wherein the emitter (10) adjusts an intensity distribution of the beam generated by the emitter generator by means of a changing element (12a) to change a direction of travel of a light. [8] Laser welding device (1) according to claim 7, wherein the emitter (10) is designed to change the intensity distribution of the beam (1a) generated by the emitter generator (30) by changing the changing element (12a). [9] Laser welding device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the laser welding device is designed as a fiber laser. [10] Manufacturing process of a component by welding several elements (100) by laser welding, wherein the manufacturing process comprises: Using a laser welding device (1) for performing laser welding, wherein the laser welding device (1) is designed to emit a beam (1a) to a welding surface (110) in at least one part of the multiple elements, wherein the laser welding device (1) comprises: a emitter (10) designed to emit the beam to a main area (111, 205, 215, 225) and a secondary area (112, 206, 216, 226) on the welding surface, wherein the secondary area is positioned so that it is adjacent to or separated from the main area, where a welding direction (230) is a direction in which an irradiation area moves along the welding surface during laser welding, wherein the secondary area comprises at least one zone positioned on a front side of the main area in the welding direction, and wherein the emitter is designed to emit the beam in such a setting that at least one peak occurs in the main region and in the secondary region, and is designed such that the beam emitted towards the main region has a mean intensity higher than a mean intensity of the beam emitted towards the secondary region, wherein the at least one peak is a state in which an intensity of the beam has a local maximum.