LASER DEVICE AND ITS USE FOR PROCESSING A GLASS SHEET

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile laser device for processing glass panels installed in an object, preferably a vehicle, more preferably a train, or a structure, more preferably a building. The invention further relates to the use of the laser device for processing a glass panel.

[0002] Flat glass refers to any glass in the form of panes or sheets, regardless of the manufacturing process used.

[0003] Glass panels can consist of a single pane or sheet of glass (single-pane glass) or they can be laminated glass. Laminated glass is generally understood to be a glass panel made of two or more panes or sheets of glass with the same or different thicknesses, bonded together by an interlayer of plastic.

[0004] To equip flat glass sheets with filtering, mirroring, heating, or other functions, a wide variety of single- or multi-layered functional coatings are applied to the glass panes. These functions can include, for example, heat insulation, solar control, or heating. In the case of low-E glass (low-E = low emissivity), one or more metal layers reduce the emissivity of the glass panes and serve as a heat and / or solar control layer.

[0005] Typically, a functional coating is a single functional layer or a layer structure with multiple functional layers and a total thickness of < 2 µm. The layer structure is usually obtained through deposition processes, preferably sputtering.

[0006] The individual functional layers are therefore generally metallic and / or ceramic layers. For example, these might be low-emissivity metallic layers or electrical heating layers. Between the individual metallic functional layers of a functional coating, one or more dielectric (functional) layers, e.g., made of an oxide such as aluminum oxide, can be arranged. In addition, an adhesion promoter layer of tin oxide is usually present between the functional coating and the glass surface.

[0007] Special laminated glass panels have, for example, a first, in particular inner, glass pane made of a usually uncoated glass pane and a second, in particular outer, coated glass pane, in particular provided with a heat protection layer.

[0008] Train windows typically have a heat-insulating coating of this type. The problem is that while this coating saves energy, it impairs mobile phone reception. This is because the metallic coating creates a Faraday cage, shielding the train's interior from electromagnetic waves. To address this, ETH Zurich developed a new type of window glass with a modified coating that is more transparent to electromagnetic mobile phone waves and light (www.20min.ch_wissen_news_story_ETH-Superglas-macht-Handy.pdf). The Faraday cage effect is disrupted by laser-etching the metallic coating. The laser engraves a structure into the coating, removing approximately 2.5% of the surface area.

[0009] US patent 8,927,069 B1 also discloses such a method and device for processing a low-E layer of a glass panel by laser ablation. The mobile device can also be used to process glass panels already installed in insulating glass units.

[0010] Furthermore, laser marking methods and devices for marking glass sheets are known from the two publications DE 10 2005 026 038 A1 and DE 10 2005 025 982 A1.

[0011] According to DE 10 2005 026 038 A1, a glass-like layer containing metal nanoparticles is applied to the surface of the glass pane using a laser. For this purpose, a dispenser or carrier medium is brought into contact with the surface of the glass pane to be marked, and a marking is created on the glass pane surface by means of laser beam-induced processes.

[0012] According to DE 10 2011 085 714 A1, an electrical contact is made to the surface of an object using a similar process.

[0013] And according to DE 10 2005 025 982 A1, the low-E functional coating of a glass pane is colored by laser beam irradiation in such a way that a marking is created.

[0014] DE 10 2018 217 970 A1 discloses a method and a device for producing an electronic structure on a glass pane, which has a functional coating with at least one electrically conductive functional layer on at least one of its two glass pane surfaces, wherein the functional coating is structured by means of laser radiation in such a way that the electronic structure is generated. The laser structuring is carried out by modifying or ablating the functional coating.

[0015] From WO 2021 / 165064 A1, which discloses the basis for the preamble of claim 1, a device for removing part of a coating system from a multi-pane window is known. The device comprises a stripping device with a laser source, two motors for moving the stripping device along an X and Y axis, a device for detecting on which of the glass surfaces the coating system is located, and a device for determining the distance between the stripping device and the detected glass surface.

[0016] Furthermore, the device includes a third motor for moving the stripping device along a Z-axis.

[0017] US Patent 2021 / 205920 A1 discloses a processing device comprising a laser device for irradiating the surface of an object with processing beams, and a modification device for changing the relative positional relationship between the light concentration positions of the processing beams in a direction intersecting the surface of the object. The processing device changes the thickness of a part, e.g., a paint layer, of the object by irradiating the surface with the processing beams.

[0018] DE 20 2020 107 266 U1 discloses a laser processing system comprising at least one base and an industrial robot mounted on the base for positioning and aligning a processing laser of the laser processing system relative to one or more workpieces to be processed. The industrial robot is mounted on the base side of a plate-shaped adapter of the laser processing system, which can be precisely connected to a corresponding adapter located on the base of the laser processing system by means of detachable fasteners, wherein the base is optionally a stationary or a mobile base.

[0019] US Patent 6,486,435 B1 discloses a device for surface structuring of installed floor coverings with at least one laser beam that is intensity-controlled and movable at least one-dimensionally over the surface to be structured. At least the elements for guiding and shaping the laser beam are incorporated in a movable part of the device.

[0020] DE 20 2006 006 823 U1 discloses a laser protection device in the form of a flexible surface structure.

[0021] Furthermore, it is known in the field to provide glass plates with an internal marking located within the glass plate. This internal marking can be laser-induced, for example (Research Association for Precision Mechanics, Optics and Medical Technology eV, "Investigation of the material reaction inside optically transparent materials after ultrashort laser pulse excitation: Generation of low-stress internal markings (micro-dots)").

[0022] For example, it is known to create laser-induced microcracks in glass. The resulting structures scatter the light and are thus recognizable as markings and readable with code readers.

[0023] Furthermore, laser-induced generation of color centers (volume coloring) in glass for internal marking is known. Internal marking of glass sheets through the formation of color centers is based on the fact that defects are created in the SiO₂ network by the laser radiation. These defects lead to a change in the optical properties, in particular a decrease in optical transmission.

[0024] Furthermore, internal marking can be achieved by generating micro-dots, which are based on the local change in the complex refractive index (=optical density). This density change is generated by locally melting the material, i.e., a thermal process.

[0025] Furthermore, DE 10 2014 002 644 A1 discloses the creation of a bird protection structure on a glass panel surface using laser transfer printing.

[0026] The object of the present invention is to provide a mobile laser device for processing built-in glass panels, which is flexible for use in different processing methods and ensures high processing quality.

[0027] Another task is to provide a use for the laser device that also ensures high processing quality.

[0028] This problem is solved by a laser device having the features of claim 1 and a use having the features of claim 12.

[0029] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are characterized in the following dependent claims.

[0030] The invention will now be explained in more detail with the aid of an example drawing. The drawing shows: Figure 1: A perspective view of the laser device according to the invention without a laser safety device. Figure 2: A rear view of the laser device according to the invention without a laser safety device. Figure 3: A side view of the laser device according to the invention without a laser safety device. Figure 4: Another side view of the laser device according to the invention without a laser safety device with a tilted laser portal. Figure 5: A perspective view of the laser device according to the invention in disassembled form without a laser safety device. Figure 6: A side view of the laser device according to the invention in disassembled form without a laser safety device. Figure 7: A perspective view of the laser portal of the laser device according to the invention. Figure 8: Another perspective view of the laser portal of the laser device according to the invention. Figure 9: A perspective view of the laser device according to the invention attached to a cable. Figure 10: AnotherPerspective view of the laser device according to the invention attached to a train. Figure 11: Highly simplified and schematic representation of a laser head of the laser device according to the invention during laser ablation. Figure 12: Highly simplified and schematic representation of a laser head of the laser device according to the invention during laser modification. Figure 13: Highly simplified and schematic representation of a laser head of the laser device according to the invention during laser lasering of a plastic intermediate layer. Figure 14: Highly simplified and schematic representation of a laser head of the laser device according to the invention during laser transfer printing.

[0031] The mobile laser device 1 according to the invention ( Figs. 1-10 ) comprises a laser portal 2, preferably a transport and positioning frame 3, a control device 4 and preferably a laser safety device 5.

[0032] "Mobile" means that the laser device 1 is not fixed in one location or stationary. Therefore, it can be used at different locations.

[0033] The transport and positioning frame 3 serves to set up and preferably move the mobile laser device 1 on the surface. Consequently, the transport and positioning frame 3 also serves to position the laser device 1 and, in particular, the laser portal 2 attached to it, relative to a glass panel 6 to be processed.

[0034] The transport and positioning frame 3 preferably has a base frame 7, in particular a square one, a storage frame 8, in particular a cuboid one, and a portal mounting frame 9, in particular a square one, and two portal mounting arms 10.

[0035] The base frame 7 serves to support the laser device 1 on the surface. Preferably, it also has transport rollers 11 on its underside, so that the laser device 1 can be moved on the surface.

[0036] The bearing frame 8 serves to support the laser portal 2 and has a guide element 12 for this purpose. The portal mounting frame 9 is mounted on the guide element 12 so that it can be moved back and forth in a vertical direction 3a. The base frame 7 also preferably has drive means 13, for example a drive motor and a gear drive, with which the portal mounting frame 9 is connected so that it can be driven back and forth in the vertical direction 3a.

[0037] Thus, the laser portal 2 is mounted on the bearing frame 8 so that it can be moved back and forth in the, in particular vertical, frame height direction 3a.

[0038] However, the positioning of the laser portal 2 in the frame height direction 3a can also be done manually, e.g. by a pulley mechanism.

[0039] The portal mounting arms 10 are attached at one end to the portal mounting frame 9. The laser portal 2 is attached at the other end of each arm. Preferably, the laser portal 2 is rotatably mounted on the portal mounting arms 10 about a, preferably horizontal, laser portal rotation axis 2a. The laser portal 2 can be freely rotatable or driven, e.g., by an electric motor. In particular, if it is freely rotatable, locking means are preferably provided for locking the laser portal 2 in the desired position.

[0040] The laser portal 2 has a laser protection hood 14, a portal base frame 15 (in particular square), a guide rail 16 attached to it and a laser unit 50 mounted on the guide rail with a laser head 17 and a distance measuring device 49 for measuring the glass panel 6 to be processed in the z-direction.

[0041] The laser portal 2 also has an x-direction, a y-direction and a z-direction.

[0042] The laser portal rotation axis 2a is preferably parallel to the x-direction.

[0043] The laser safety hood 14 preferably has two hood side walls 18a;b opposite each other in the x-direction, a lower hood circumferential wall 18c and an upper hood circumferential wall 18d as well as a hood bottom wall 18e.

[0044] The laser safety hood 14 has a hood interior 14a and a hood opening 14b. The hood side walls 18a;b, the lower hood perimeter wall 18c and the upper hood perimeter wall 18d as well as the hood bottom wall 18e surround the hood interior 14a.

[0045] The laser safety hood 14 serves to protect the surroundings from laser radiation.

[0046] Furthermore, the laser safety hood 14 consists of a laser-resistant material, preferably sheet steel.

[0047] The portal base frame 15 has two guide beams 19a;b, parallel to each other and spaced apart, extending in the x-direction, as well as two crossbeams 19c;d, also parallel to each other and perpendicular to the guide beams 19a;b. The crossbeams 19c;d thus extend in the y-direction. Furthermore, the portal base frame 15 has an inner frame side facing the laser safety hood 14 and an outer frame side facing away from it.

[0048] The laser safety hood 14 is also attached to the portal base frame 15 and extends away from it, particularly from the inside of the frame. The portal base frame 15 is thus located at an open end of the laser safety hood 14. It surrounds a hood opening 14b of the laser safety hood 14.

[0049] Furthermore, the portal base frame 15 has fastening means for attaching the laser device 1 to the object or component to be processed. The fastening means serve for a fixed, i.e., non-displacing and non-rotating, but detachable attachment to the object or component to be processed. Preferably, the portal base frame 15 has several, preferably four, suction cups 20, preferably vacuum suction cups. The suction cups 20 are preferably attached to the outside of the frame and extend away from it. In addition, preferably one suction cup 20 is arranged in each corner region of the portal base frame 15.

[0050] The guide rail 16, extending in the y-direction, has an inner side 16a facing the laser safety hood 14 and an outer side 16b facing away from it. Furthermore, the guide rail 16 is mounted on the two guide beams 19a and 19b so as to be slidably back and forth in the x-direction. The guide rail 16 thus extends from one guide beam 19a to the opposite guide beam 19b. The laser portal 2 also has drive means for driving the guide rail 16 in the x-direction. The guide rail 16 is therefore connected to the drive means so as to be driven back and forth in the x-direction. Preferably, the drive means are a linear drive, preferably an electric motor.

[0051] The laser unit 50 is mounted on the guide rail 16 so that it can be moved back and forth in the y-direction. It is also arranged adjacent to the inner surface 16a of the rail. Thus, the laser unit 50 is located within the interior space 14a of the laser safety hood 14. Furthermore, the laser portal 2 has drive means for driving the laser unit 50 in the y-direction. The laser unit 50 is therefore connected to the drive means so that it can be moved back and forth relative to the guide rail 16 in the y-direction. Preferably, the drive means are a linear drive, preferably an electric motor, and more preferably a belt drive.

[0052] Furthermore, the laser unit 50 is preferably mounted on the guide rail 16 so that it can be moved back and forth in the z-direction. For this purpose, the laser portal 2 has drive means for driving the laser unit 50 in the z-direction. The laser unit 50 is thus connected to the drive means in a way that allows it to be moved back and forth relative to the guide rail 16 in the z-direction. Preferably, the drive means is a linear drive, preferably an electric motor, and in particular has a spindle axis.

[0053] The laser device 1 according to the invention is also configured to carry out different methods alternatively. At least the laser device 1 is configured to carry out at least one, preferably at least two, of the following methods: a) Laser ablation of a surface glass pane coating 23 of a glass pane 22 of glass sheets 6 b) Laser modification of a surface glass pane coating 23 of a glass pane 22 of glass sheets 6 c) Laser transfer printing d) Laser treatment of a plastic interlayer 24 of a laminated glass sheet 25 e) Laser engraving of a glass pane surface 22a;bf) Creating an internal modification in glass sheets 6 g) Creating an internal engraving in glass sheets 6 h) Erasing the internal modification i) Erasing the laser engraving of the glass pane surface 22a;b.

[0054] A glass panel to be processed 6 ( Figs. 11-14) can consist of a single pane or glass plate 22 (single-pane glass). Or it can be a laminated glass panel 25. A laminated glass panel 25 is understood to be a glass panel 6 made of two or more panes or glass plates 22 of the same or different thicknesses, wherein the panes 22 are bonded together by an intermediate layer of plastic or a plastic film 24 ( Fig. 13 The glass panel 6 therefore has one or more glass panes 22.

[0055] The glass panel 6 also has two opposing, external glass panel surfaces 6a;b. The glass panel surfaces 6a;b are parallel to the plane of the glass panel and, during processing, preferably perpendicular to the z-direction. Furthermore, the glass panel 3 has a circumferential glass panel edge 6c, which in particular connects the two glass panel surfaces 6a;b.

[0056] Each glass pane 22 also has two opposing glass pane surfaces 22a;b. The glass pane surfaces 22a;b are also parallel to the plane of the glass pane and, during processing, preferably perpendicular to the z-direction.

[0057] If the glass panel 6 is designed as a single-pane glass panel, the two glass pane surfaces 22a;b of the single glass pane 22 simultaneously also form the glass panel surfaces 6a;b of the glass panel 6 ( Figure 11 , 12 , 14 ).

[0058] Is the glass panel 6 designed as a laminated glass panel 25 ( Fig. 13 The outer glass pane surfaces 22a;b form the glass panel surfaces 6a;b of the glass panel 6, and the other glass pane surfaces 22a;b are inner. The laminated glass panel 25 therefore has more than two, in particular four, glass pane surfaces 22a;b.

[0059] The glass panel 6 is preferably flat. However, it can also be curved or domed. For example, it can be cylindrical. The glass panel 6 is therefore a planar glass element.

[0060] Furthermore, the glass panel 6 can have a surface coating 23, preferably a functional coating, on at least one of its glass pane surfaces 22a;b. Functional coatings are known to give glass panels 6 certain functions, e.g. filtering, mirroring, or heating functions.

[0061] The glass pane coating 23, in particular the functional coating, can comprise one or more individual (functional) layers in a manner known per se. If there are multiple (functional) layers, this constitutes a (functional) layer laminate. The functional layers modify certain properties of the glass pane 6 or impart specific functions to it. These functions can include, for example, thermal insulation, solar control, or heating. Preferably, the functional coating is a wavelength-selective coating or a low-E coating.

[0062] The glass pane coating 23, in particular the functional coating, of the glass panel 6 preferably comprises at least one, preferably several, electrically conductive, metal-containing (functional) layers. Furthermore, the coating 23, in particular the functional coating, may comprise at least one electrically semiconducting (functional) layer.

[0063] Preferably the glass pane coating 23 has at least one metallic and / or at least one ceramic layer, preferably a metal oxide layer.

[0064] Preferably, the glass pane coating 23, in particular the functional coating, comprises a metal-containing, preferably a metallic (functional) layer, preferably made of silver, copper, or gold. A (functional) layer made of metal oxide preferably consists of tin oxide. Of course, the ceramic (functional) layer need not consist of oxide ceramic. It can, for example, also be a non-oxide ceramic (functional) layer.

[0065] The glass pane coating 23, in particular the functional coating, can also have at least one electrically insulating (functional) layer.

[0066] The glass pane coating 23, in particular the functional coating, of the glass panel 6 thus preferably has at least one electrically conductive, metallic and / or at least one electrically conductive, preferably metal-containing, ceramic (functional) layer.

[0067] The application of the (functional) layers to the glass plate 6 can be done by sputtering or wet chemicals.

[0068] According to a further preferred embodiment, the glass pane coating 23, preferably the functional coating, is a pyrolytic coating, preferably a single-layer coating. This consists of a metal oxide, preferably tin oxide.

[0069] The production of such a glass sheet coating 23 is known. The coating material is in vaporous, liquid, or solid form. The coating is formed during the manufacturing process of the glass sheet 6 by a reaction of the metal oxide coating material on the hot glass sheet surface 6a (hard coating process). Glass sheets 6 with such a functional coating transmit short-wave radiation and reflect long-wave infrared radiation.

[0070] Furthermore, the glass pane coating 23, preferably the functional coating, has a thickness of < 2 µm, preferably < 1 µm.

[0071] The glass panel 6 to be processed may also have a known external surface protective coating made of plastic, in particular in the form of a non-removable polymer coating or a removable plastic film. The protective coating covers the respective glass panel surface 6a;b or, if present, the glass pane coating 23.

[0072] Furthermore, the glass panel to be processed can be part of an insulating glazing unit 26 ( Fig. 11 , 12The insulating glass unit 26 comprises, in a manner known per se, at least two parallel and spaced-apart glass panes 6 and a spacer frame 27 arranged between the glass panes 6, which connects the two glass panes 6 at the edge of the glass pane, a primary seal (not shown) and an edge seal (secondary seal) 28. An interior space 29 is defined by the glass panes 6 and the spacer frame 27. The primary seal is located, in a manner known per se, between the spacer frame 27 and the respective glass pane 6 and bonds them together.

[0073] The glass panels 6 of the insulating glazing 26 can each be a single-pane glass panel 22 or a laminated glass panel 25.

[0074] The laser head 17 according to the invention ( Figs. 11-14) has a laser radiation source 30 for providing or generating a laser beam 31, preferably a beam shaping device 32 for geometric beam shaping, preferably an energy distribution device 33 for adjusting the energy distribution of the laser beam 31, according to the invention an optical z-focus adjustment device 34 and preferably a scanning device 35.

[0075] The laser radiation source 30 is preferably interchangeable, so that the optimal laser radiation source 30 can be used for each application. Preferably, a laser radiation source 30 suitable for the respective application with respect to wavelength and / or laser power and / or pulse duration is used.

[0076] Preferably, the laser radiation source 30 is a UV laser, an IR laser or a VIS laser, depending on the method to be carried out.

[0077] Furthermore, it can be a continuous-wave laser or a pulsed laser. Preferably, it is a pulsed laser in which the pulse duration and / or the repetition rate can be adjusted within certain limits.

[0078] Preferably, the laser radiation source 30 is also a fiber laser.

[0079] Preferably, the laser radiation source 30 is a laser in which the laser power is adjustable. Preferably, the laser power is adjustable in the range of 5 to 1000 W, more preferably 5 to 200 W, and most preferably 20 to 200 W.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, a pulsed ns fiber laser with a laser power of 100 W and a wavelength of 1 µm is used for laser modification, laser ablation and laser transfer printing.

[0081] As already explained, the laser head 17 also includes the beam shaping device 32. The beam shaping device 32 is located downstream of the laser radiation source 30 and serves to geometrically shape the laser beam 31. "Downstream" in the sense of the application is to be understood as being in the direction of the laser beam 31.

[0082] For example, the beam shaping device 32 serves to shape the laser beam 31 such that it has a rectangular, linear, or circular cross-section. For this purpose, the beam shaping device 32 comprises, in a manner known per se, a lens system, preferably a GRIN optic (gradient-index lens optic).

[0083] Furthermore, the beam shaping device 32 is preferably capable of being moved into and removed from the beam path of the laser beam 31. Preferably, the beam shaping device 32 can be pivoted into and out of the beam path. For this purpose, the beam shaping device 32 is mounted accordingly in the laser head 17. Preferably, the laser head 17 also has corresponding drive means with which the beam shaping device 32 can be moved into and out of the beam path.

[0084] This allows the beam shaping device 32 to be arranged or positioned inside or outside the beam path of the laser beam 31, depending on the procedure to be carried out and the required cross-sectional profile of the laser beam 31.

[0085] The beam shaping device 32 is also preferably interchangeable, so that the beam geometry to be produced can be varied.

[0086] Furthermore, several beam shaping devices 32 can be provided, which can be selectively placed in and removed from the beam path. This can preferably be done by means of a turret, in particular one driven by an electric motor.

[0087] As already explained, the laser head 17 also includes the energy distribution device or beam profiling device 33. The energy distribution device 33 is preferably located downstream of the geometric beam profiling device 32 and serves to adjust the energy distribution or to shape the beam profile of the laser beam 31. The energy distribution device 33 preferably includes means for generating an annular beam profile (M-profile) or a top-hat profile, generally from a Gaussian beam profile.

[0088] Analogous to the beam shaping device 32, the energy distribution device 33 can also be arranged or positioned in or outside the beam path of the laser beam 31, depending on the procedure to be carried out and the required cross-sectional profile of the laser beam 31, for which appropriate positioning means are available.

[0089] The energy distribution device 33 is also preferably interchangeable, so that the energy distribution to be generated can be varied.

[0090] Furthermore, several energy distribution devices 33 can be present, which can be selectively placed in and removed from the beam path. This can preferably be done by means of a turret, in particular one driven by an electric motor.

[0091] The energy distribution device 33 and the beam shaping device 32 can also be combined in one device.

[0092] As already explained, the laser head 17 also includes, according to the invention, the optical z-focus adjustment device 34. The optical z-focus adjustment device 34 is preferably located downstream of the energy distribution device 33 and serves for the automated optical adjustment of the laser focus 31a along an optical z-axis 17a of the laser head 17 or for the optical displacement of the focus position of the laser focus 31a along the optical z-axis 17a. For this purpose, the z-focus adjustment device 34 includes optics, preferably a lens system.

[0093] The displacement of the laser focus 31a is also based on the measurement results of the distance measuring device 49. The distance measuring device 49 serves to measure the glass sheet 6 to be processed in the z-direction. For this purpose, the distance measuring device 49 preferably has a measuring device laser radiation source for generating a measuring laser beam and a laser beam detector, preferably a line sensor, for detecting laser beam reflections of the measuring laser beam.

[0094] By means of the distance measuring device 49, the glass panel 6 to be processed, or at least the area of ​​the glass panel 6 to be processed, is irradiated with the measuring laser beam, the measuring laser beam forming an angle with the surface normal to the glass panel surfaces 6a;b. The measuring laser beam is reflected by the glass panel surfaces 6a;b or the glass pane surfaces 22a;b, and the reflected laser beam reflections are detected by the laser beam detector.

[0095] Preferably, the measuring laser beam is also linear, for which the distance measuring device 49 has means known per se for shaping the measuring laser beam.

[0096] This measuring principle is known in particular from DE 10 2006 049 946 A1, the contents of which are hereby referred to.

[0097] In this measuring principle, a laser beam reflection is generated on each glass pane surface 22a;b, so that for each individual glass pane 22 two reflections of the incident laser beam occur, namely firstly on the glass pane surface 22a that is forward in the direction of incidence and, after passing through the glass pane 22, also on the rear glass pane surface 22b. Therefore, after the laser beam reflections strike the glass pane 22, two laser beam reflections are detected in the laser beam detector for each individual glass pane 22.

[0098] The number and type of reflections are used to determine the position of the respective reflective glass pane surfaces 22a;b; and thereby measure the glass panel 6 or the entire insulating glass unit in the z-direction. In particular, the distances between the glass pane surfaces 22a;b are determined, and their exact position in the z-direction is established. This is important for the precise positioning of the laser focus 31a in the z-direction.

[0099] It is important to focus the laser beam 31 on the correct plane, depending on the procedure to be performed. For example, the laser beam 31 must be focused on the inner or outer surface of the glass panel 6a;b, the glass coating 23, or the plastic interlayer 24, which will be discussed in more detail below. Furthermore, if necessary, the focus must be adjusted parallel to the optical z-axis 17 extending in the z-direction during the processing of the glass panel 6 due to irregularities on the glass panel surface 6a.

[0100] The number of glass panes 22 arranged one behind the other can also be determined from the number of reflections if this number is not known.

[0101] The distance measuring device 49 is connected to the control unit 4, which processes the measurement data.

[0102] As already explained, the laser head 17 also includes the scanning device 35. The scanning device 35 is preferably located downstream of the optical z-focus adjustment device 34 and serves to move the laser beam 31 within a scan field. The laser beam 31 can be moved in the y-direction and in the x-direction by means of the scanning device 35. For this purpose, the scanning device 35 includes scanning optics in a manner known per se. Preferably, the scanning optics consist of at least two adjustable mirrors. The scan field is, for example, 100 mm x 100 mm.

[0103] In a manner known per se, the laser beam 31 can be moved in the y-direction and in the x-direction such that it remains parallel to the optical z-axis 17a or is deflected in relation to it.

[0104] Furthermore, the scanning device 35 has a lens 47. The lens 47 is preferably a short focal length lens. It preferably has a focal length of 20 to 200 mm, more preferably of 80 to 160 mm. This results in a strong focus and a small extent of the laser focus 31a in depth or in the direction of the optical z-axis 17a. In particular, the laser focus 31a is constant in depth within the range of approximately + / - 1 mm. This ensures that, for example, in a laminated glass panel 25 or an insulating glass unit 26, only the layer 23;24 to be processed is modified or ablated by means of the laser energy, and the remaining areas of the glass panel 6 remain unchanged.

[0105] Preferably, the lens 47 is also interchangeable, so that, among other things, the working distance can be varied and adjusted. Preferably, the lens 47 is screwable.

[0106] As already explained, the laser device 1 according to the invention is also used to coat a glass panel surface 6a of the glass panel 6 by means of laser transfer printing ( Fig. 14 For this purpose, the laser head 17 has a laser transfer printing device 36.

[0107] The laser transfer printing device 36 has a, preferably ribbon-shaped, dispenser or carrier medium 37, in particular a ribbon-shaped carrier film, several guide rollers 38 and a pressure frame 39.

[0108] Furthermore, the laser transfer printing device 36 is preferably capable of being moved into and removed from the beam path of the laser beam 31. Preferably, the laser transfer printing device 36 can be pivoted into and out of the beam path. The laser transfer printing device 36 is mounted accordingly for this purpose. Preferably, the laser head 17 also has corresponding drive means with which the laser transfer printing device 36 is connected so that it can be moved into and out of the beam path.

[0109] The laser transfer printing device 36 can also be interchangeable or only inserted into the laser head 17 when required.

[0110] The dispenser or carrier medium 37 is preferably a coated plastic film, preferably made of PET. The carrier medium 37 is preferably in the form of a ribbon.

[0111] Furthermore, the carrier medium 37 has a surface carrier medium coating made of coating material. The carrier medium coating preferably has at least one metallic layer and / or at least one ceramic layer, preferably a metal oxide layer.

[0112] Preferably, the substrate coating is formed in a single layer. It is particularly preferably made of a metallic material, especially silver, copper, or gold.

[0113] The carrier medium coating can also be a low-E coating.

[0114] Furthermore, the carrier medium coating preferably has a thickness of < 5 µm.

[0115] Furthermore, the carrier medium 37 is preferably interchangeable. This allows different carrier media with different carrier medium coatings to be used depending on the application.

[0116] The pressure frame 39 serves to press the ribbon-shaped carrier medium 37 onto the glass plate 6 to be marked. The pressure frame 39 is preferably transparent to the laser radiation. Alternatively, the pressure frame 39 has an opening that exposes the area of ​​the glass plate 6 to be coated.

[0117] The ribbon-shaped carrier medium 37 is guided around the rotatably driven guide rollers 38 and, if desired, is moved by them relative to the laser beam 31 and the pressure frame 39. The laser head 17 has corresponding drive means for driving the guide rollers 38 about their roller axis.

[0118] The laser unit 50 also includes an xy-measuring device 46, preferably a camera, for measuring the outer dimensions of the glass panel 6 to be processed in the x and y directions, in particular for measuring the glass edge 6c in the x and y directions. For this purpose, the camera preferably includes image recognition software known per se.

[0119] Furthermore, the laser unit 50 preferably has an extraction device 21 for extracting material removed by means of the laser radiation.

[0120] All components of the laser unit 50 are preferably mounted on a base plate of the laser unit 50.

[0121] As already explained, the laser device 1 according to the invention also includes the control unit 4 for selecting and automatically controlling the different processing methods. For this purpose, the control unit 4 has a program for controlling each respective processing method.

[0122] Preferably, the control unit 4 is mounted on the transport and positioning frame 3. The control unit 4 also preferably has an operating or input panel 42 for operation by an operator 43.

[0123] The laser safety device 5 comprises a laser safety element 40, preferably a laser safety curtain 41, and a detection device for detecting the presence of the laser safety element 40. In particular, the detection device is configured to detect whether the laser safety element 40, preferably the laser safety curtain 41, is present and correctly positioned on the side of the glass panel 6 opposite the laser head 17. For this purpose, the detection device comprises several sensors, preferably magnetic sensors and / or radio sensors. Furthermore, the detection device is connected to the control unit 4. Preferably, the control unit 4 is configured such that the laser radiation source 30 can only be activated and / or operated if the detection device detects the correct positioning of the laser safety element 40, preferably the laser safety curtain 41.In particular, the control device 4 is designed so that the laser radiation source 30 is automatically switched off if the laser safety element 40 is no longer properly positioned.

[0124] The laser safety element 40, preferably the laser safety curtain 41, also has fastening means for attachment to the respective object, e.g., a train inner lining 44b, which will be discussed in more detail below. The fastening means are preferably suction cups, in particular vacuum suction cups, or magnetic fastening means.

[0125] The laser device 1 according to the invention is powered either by connection to a fixed power grid or by its own independent power supply unit (not shown). This independent power supply unit is preferably a generator or a battery. The generator is preferably mechanically decoupled from the transport and positioning frame 3 to prevent vibrations of the transport and positioning frame 3 during laser operation.

[0126] The compressed air supply to the laser device 1 according to the invention is also provided either via connection to a stationary compressed air source or the laser device 1 is self-contained and has its own compressed air source (not shown). The compressed air source preferably serves to operate the vacuum suction cups and / or to press down the pressure frame 39 during laser transfer printing.

[0127] Various processing methods can be carried out with the mobile laser device 1 according to the invention, as described above. According to the invention, the mobile laser device 1 is used for one of the methods described below.

[0128] For this purpose, the mobile laser device 1 according to the invention is first transported to the object to be processed or the place of use. This can be done, for example, in a small van 48 ( Fig. 6 ). For transport, the laser device 1 is preferably disassembled, preferably into three parts: the transport and positioning frame 3, the laser portal 2, and the laser safety device 5. At the place of use, the laser device 1 is then reassembled, in particular the laser portal 2 is mounted on the transport and positioning frame 3. If necessary, the mobile laser device 1 is also connected to the external power supply and / or the external compressed air source.

[0129] At the place of use, the assembled laser device 1 is then moved to the glass panel 6 to be processed by means of the transport and positioning frame 3.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the invention ( Fig. 9 , 10 ) it is a glass panel 6 of a train window 45 of a train 44.

[0131] However, it can preferably also be a built-in glass panel 6 of a building (=architectural glass), in particular of an office building, preferably a window, or a balustrade or balcony of the building or a facade panel of the building.

[0132] The laser device 1 is positioned relative to the object, for example by the operator 43, using the transport and positioning frame 3 and, if necessary, the laser portal 2 is pivoted around the laser portal rotation axis 2a.

[0133] The laser portal 2 is then detachably but immovably and imperviously attached to the object bearing the glass panel 6 to be processed by means of the suction cups 20. For example, the laser portal 2 is attached to an outer skin 44a of the train 44. However, it can of course also be attached directly to the glass panel 6.

[0134] The laser portal 2 is arranged in such a way that it surrounds the train window 45 or the glass panel 6.

[0135] Furthermore, the laser safety element 40 is positioned on the side of the glass panel 6 opposite the laser portal 2. For example, the laser safety element 40, preferably the laser safety curtain 41, is attached to the inner train skin 44b in such a way that it covers the train window 45 from the inside ( Fig. 10The detection device automatically detects the presence and correct positioning of the laser safety element 40 and sends corresponding information to the control unit 4.

[0136] The outer dimensions of the glass panel 6 to be processed are then measured in the x and y directions. For this purpose, the laser head 17 is moved across the glass panel 6 in the x and y directions, and a 2D image of the glass panel 6 is created using the xy measuring device 46, preferably the camera. In particular, the x and y coordinates of the outer dimensions of the glass panel 6 are determined. This information is particularly important for the precise x / y positioning of the laser beam 31 relative to the glass panel 6 during the laser process.

[0137] The xy measuring device 46, preferably the camera, is therefore in contact with the control device 4 and transmits the coordinates or the created 2D image to it.

[0138] As already explained, the laser focus 31a must be positioned differently in the z-direction depending on the processing method to be carried out. For example, the laser beam 31 must be focused on the glass pane coating 23, the plastic interlayer 24, the interior of the glass sheet 6, the glass sheet surface 6a;b, or an internal glass pane surface 22a;b. Furthermore, in the case of a curved or uneven glass sheet 6, glass sheet surface 6a;b, or glass pane surface 22a;b, the laser focus 31a must be readjusted accordingly during processing.

[0139] For this purpose, the glass panel 6 is measured in the z-direction using the distance measuring device 49 as described above. This can be done during, before, or after the measurement of the glass panel 6 in the x- / y-direction.

[0140] Alternatively, the measurement in the z-direction can also be performed online during the processing of the glass panel 6, by having the distance measuring device 49 advance in relation to the laser beam 31 and measure the area to be processed directly before it is processed with the laser beam 31. For this purpose, the distance measuring device 49 is movable and driveable in the x- and y-directions and is mounted on the laser unit 50.

[0141] The distance measuring device 49 is used in particular to determine one or more curvatures or unevenness of the glass panel 6 and / or the glass panel surface 6a;b or glass pane surface 22a;b and / or thickness differences.

[0142] Based on the measurement results of the xy-measuring device 46, preferably the camera, and the distance measuring device 49, the control unit 4 preferably creates a 3D image of the glass panel 6 to be processed. The x and y coordinates are calculated based on the x and y coordinates of the outer dimensions of the glass panel 6 and the travel distance of the distance measuring device 49.

[0143] Before the processing begins, the laser head 17 is first positioned accordingly in the x, y, and z directions. For this purpose, the laser head 17 is moved along the guide rail 16 in the y direction and / or moved with the guide rail along the guide beams 19a;b in the x direction and / or moved in the z direction relative to the guide rail 16 to the 0 position or starting position.

[0144] Preferably, the laser focus 31a is initially focused onto the glass panel surface 6a facing the laser head 17 by positioning the laser head in the z-direction. Further focusing of the laser beam 31 is then achieved via the optical z-focus adjustment device 34. The adjustment or displacement of the laser focus 31a along the optical z-axis 17a is carried out during processing via the optical z-focus adjustment device 34. This adjustment or displacement is automatically controlled based on the previously determined x, y, and z coordinates, in particular the 3D image of the glass panel 6 or glass panel surface(s) 6a;b or glass plate surface(s) 22a;b.

[0145] For processing, the laser head 17 is moved in the x and / or y direction relative to the glass plate 6 in a manner known per se, and / or the laser beam 31 is moved in the x and / or y direction relative to the laser head 17 by means of the scanning device 35. The additional movement of the laser beam 31 by means of the scanning device 35 allows, for example, the laser beam 31 to be split into several beams.

[0146] To move the laser head 17 in the y-direction, it is moved along the guide rail 16. To move the laser head 17 in the x-direction, it is moved together with the guide rail 16 along the guide beams 19a;b.

[0147] The laser head 17 can be moved stepwise in a known manner (tile mode) or continuously.

[0148] As already explained, the laser device according to the invention has means for carrying out various processing methods: Laser ablation of a glass coating:

[0149] According to the invention, the laser device 1 is used to at least partially remove the surface coating 23 of a glass panel 6 by means of the laser beam 31 (laser ablation) ( Fig. 11 ).

[0150] For this purpose, the laser beam 31 is focused onto the glass pane coating 23. For example, the laser beam 31 is focused onto the glass pane coating 23 of the inner glass panel surface 6b of a glass panel 6 of an insulating glass unit 26. Individual or all layers of the glass pane coating 23 are at least partially or completely removed by the laser beam 31, in particular by vaporization or burning.

[0151] If the glass panel 6 has an additional protective coating made of plastic, this can be removed beforehand, in particular mechanically or by means of laser radiation, or simultaneously or together with the glass panel coating 23.

[0152] If necessary, the material removed by laser ablation is also extracted using the extraction device 21. This is particularly relevant if the processed glass panel surface 6a;b is exposed or accessible from the outside.

[0153] For example, a mobile phone-transmitting structure can be created in a glass panel 6, preferably a glass panel 6 of a train window 45, by means of laser ablation of the glass panel coating 23 in the glass panel coating 23.

[0154] Furthermore, a radar-attenuating structure can be created in a glass panel 6, preferably a glass panel 6 of a train window 45, by means of laser ablation of the glass pane coating 23. In particular, a bird protection structure can also be created. This is an optical structure or pattern that birds perceive as a clear obstacle. Preferably, a bird protection structure is created according to DE 10 2014 002 644 A1.

[0155] An electronic structure, such as an alarm loop, a switch, or the electronic structure of a heated glass, can also be created. Preferably, an electronic structure is created in accordance with WO 2020 / 079252 A2.

[0156] Furthermore, edge stripping of a glass panel 6 can be carried out. Preferably, the edge stripping is carried out according to DE 10 2018 107 697 A1. In this process, the protective coating and / or the functional coating is removed using laser radiation. Alternatively, the edge stripping is carried out according to DE 10 2019 213 603 A1, whereby coating residues are removed using laser radiation.

[0157] Furthermore, a marking, preferably a machine-readable marking, preferably a machine-readable code, preferably a Data Matrix Code (DCM), a barcode, or a QR code can of course be generated.

[0158] Furthermore, a facade element can be produced in accordance with DE 10 2014 014 889 A1. Laser modification of a glass coating:

[0159] Furthermore, the laser device 1 according to the invention is used to modify the surface glass plate coating 23 of a glass panel 6 by means of the laser beam 31 (laser modification) ( Fig. 12 In laser modification, individual or all layers of the glass plate coating 23 are altered (=modified) at least partially by means of the laser beam 31 such that they are no longer electrically conductive, i.e., electrically insulating, and / or are discolored. Laser modification therefore means a change or modification of the electrical and / or optical and / or mechanical properties of individual or all layers of the glass plate coating 23.

[0160] Here too, the laser beam 31 is focused on the glass pane coating 23, for example on the glass pane coating 23 of the inner glass panel surface 6b of a glass panel 6 of an insulating glazing 26.

[0161] If the glass pane coating 23 is only to be modified, the irradiation takes place below the ablation threshold. Therefore, no material is removed during the modification. In particular, the composition of the glass pane coating 23 is chemically and / or physically altered during the modification. For example, the glass pane coating 23 can have layer(s) of atomic silver which are modified under the influence of the laser beam 31 such that the silver atoms agglomerate and form nanoparticles. As a result, the layer of atomic silver loses its electrical conductivity and becomes insulating. Preferably, the layer(s) of atomic silver are embedded in protective layers, preferably electrically insulating layers, e.g., of metal oxide, in particular tin oxide.

[0162] The laser power and / or the wavelength of the laser beam 31 is thus adjusted according to the desired result and according to the layer(s) to be processed.

[0163] The laser modification can preferably be carried out in accordance with DE 10 2005 025 982 A1.

[0164] If the glass panel 6 has a known protective coating made of plastic over the glass coating 23 before laser modification, the protective coating can be removed before laser modification, e.g., by means of laser radiation and / or mechanically. Alternatively, the protective coating can be removed during laser modification by the laser radiation, preferably by being ablated or burned away. In particular, the laser modification is carried out analogously to that described in DE 10 2018 207 181 A1.

[0165] For example, by means of laser modification of the glass pane coating 23 a mobile communication-permeable structure can also be created in the glass pane coating 23 in a glass panel 6, preferably a glass panel 6 of a train window 45.

[0166] Furthermore, a radar-damping structure can be created in a glass panel 6, preferably a glass panel 6 of a train window 45, by means of laser modification of the glass panel coating 23 in the glass panel coating 23.

[0167] In particular, a bird protection structure can also be created by means of laser modification. Preferably, a bird protection structure is created in accordance with DE 10 2014 002 644 A1.

[0168] Alternatively, an electronic structure, such as an alarm loop, a switch, or the electronic structure of a heated glass, can be created. Preferably, an electronic structure is created in accordance with WO 2020 / 079252 A2.

[0169] Furthermore, a marking, preferably a machine-readable marking, preferably a machine-readable code, preferably a Data Matrix Code (DCM), a barcode, or a QR code can of course be generated.

[0170] Decorative elements can also be created. Laser transfer printing:

[0171] Furthermore, the laser device 1 according to the invention is used to coat a glass panel surface 6a of the glass panel 6 by means of laser transfer printing ( Fig. 14 For example, an electronic structure or a colored structure, in particular a colored marking, is applied using laser transfer printing.

[0172] The structure is created by applying a coating material, preferably electrically conductive, to the glass panel surface 6a using the laser transfer printing device 36. The glass panel surface 6a is thus coated with the coating material.

[0173] For coating, the carrier medium 37 is pressed with its coated side against the glass panel surface 6a of the glass panel 6 to be coated by means of the pressure frame 39. This presses the carrier medium coating onto the glass panel 6. Then, by means of the laser beam 31 focused on the carrier medium coating, coating material is transferred from the carrier medium coating onto the glass panel 6 and fixed there. Because the laser radiation is absorbed by the coating material, it is detached from the carrier medium 37 and transferred to the glass panel surface 6a to be coated.

[0174] The carrier medium 37 can be moved relative to the laser beam 31 by means of the guide rollers 38 such that the laser beam 31 always strikes coated carrier medium 37 or the carrier medium coating and not areas where the carrier medium coating has already been (partially) removed. Alternatively or additionally, the laser beam 31 can be moved relative to the carrier medium 37 in the x and / or y direction. The movement of the laser beam 31 in the x and / or y direction relative to the carrier medium 37 is preferably carried out by means of the scanning device 35. This is known per se.

[0175] In the event that no protective plastic coating is present on the glass panel surface 6a, the structure is preferably applied according to the method according to DE 10 2005 026 038 A1 or DE 10 2011 085 714 A1.

[0176] If a protective coating is provided on the surface of the glass panel 6a, the structure is preferably applied using the method according to DE 10 2018 207 181 A1. This means that the protective coating is removed, preferably by burning or etching, using laser radiation, and in the same step, coating material from the dispenser or carrier medium 37 is applied, in particular printed, to an exposed surface of the glass panel 6, which was previously located beneath the protective coating of the glass panel 6, using the laser radiation. In this process, the carrier medium 37, which has the surface coating of the coating material, is brought into contact with the protective coating of the glass panel 6 in the area to be coated, with its coated side.Then, the protective coating is removed using laser radiation and, as described, the carrier medium coating material is transferred from the carrier medium coating to the glass panel surface 6a and fixed to it.

[0177] Furthermore, the structure can also be applied to a coated glass panel surface 6a;b using laser transfer printing. For example, the structure can be applied to the glass pane coating 23.

[0178] A bird protection structure can be created using laser transfer printing. Preferably, a bird protection structure is created according to DE 10 2014 002 644 A1.

[0179] It is also possible to create an electronic structure, such as an alarm loop, a switch, or the electronic structure of a heated glass. In particular, conductive traces can be applied.

[0180] Furthermore, a marking, preferably a machine-readable marking, preferably a machine-readable code, preferably a Data Matrix Code (DCM) or a barcode or a QR code, can of course also be applied.

[0181] Decorative elements and frames can also be applied.

[0182] In addition, a biocidal glass panel surface 6a;b can also be produced in accordance with DE 10 2016 125 544 A1. Combination of processing methods:

[0183] The aforementioned methods can also be combined in any way, and the structure can be created by combining one or more of the methods described above. For example, the glass pane coating 23 can be removed and / or modified, and another structure can be applied to it using laser transfer printing. Laser treatment of a plastic interlayer of a laminated glass panel:

[0184] Furthermore, the laser device 1 according to the invention is preferably used to modify or burn the plastic interlayer 24 of a laminated glass sheet 25 by means of the laser beam 31 ( Fig. 13 In particular, the optical and / or mechanical properties of the plastic intermediate layer 24 are modified during the modification process. Specifically, it is discolored. Preferably, however, the plastic intermediate layer 24 is burned.

[0185] For laser treatment, the laser beam 31 is focused onto the plastic intermediate layer 24, i.e., between the two glass panes 22.

[0186] A marking or decorative element can also be created by means of laser treatment of the plastic intermediate layer 24.

[0187] In addition, an emergency exit window can be created that can be removed. Creating and / or deleting an inside marker or area marker:

[0188] Furthermore, the laser device 1 according to the invention can also be used for laser-induced generation of an internal marking in the glass plate 6, preferably by forming color centers, preferably by means of ultrashort pulsed laser radiation. For this purpose, a different laser radiation source 30 must be used than in the previously described methods.

[0189] Furthermore, the laser device 1 according to the invention can also be used for laser-induced creation of a surface marking on a glass panel surface 6a or glass disc surface 22a;b by means of laser engraving, preferably by means of ultrashort pulsed laser radiation. In laser engraving, the glass panel 6 or the glass to be marked is ablated at the glass panel surface 6a;b or glass disc surface 22a;b by means of laser radiation.

[0190] Furthermore, the laser device 1 according to the invention can also be used to erase the marking by means of laser radiation.

[0191] Preferably, the marking and / or the removal of the marking can be carried out as described in DE 10 2020 215 234 A1 or DE 10 2020 215 235 A1.

[0192] The advantage of the mobile laser device 1 according to the invention is that it is flexible and can be used for different processing methods and at various locations. It is also easy to transport and therefore suitable for processing already installed glass panels 6. As already explained, glass panels 6 of a train window 45 or of a window in office buildings can be processed in their installed state.

[0193] Due to the distance measuring device 49 and the optical z-focus adjustment device 34, even pre-installed glass plates 6 can be processed precisely, and the various processing methods can be carried out with partially different focus positions. The mobile laser device 1 according to the invention is therefore very flexible in its application.

[0194] Thanks to the numerous interchangeable components, the laser device 1 can be quickly and easily reconfigured.

[0195] Within the scope of the invention, it is naturally also implied that the laser portal 2 is decoupled from the transport and positioning frame 3 during the processing of the glass panel 6. The transport and positioning frame 3 can also be omitted entirely, and the mobile laser device 1 can be transported to the glass panel 6 to be processed using other means of transport, e.g., by means of a drone. Furthermore, the transport and positioning frame 3 does not need to be wheeled, but can also be moved by means of an air track.

[0196] Furthermore, the control unit 4 does not need to be mounted on the transport and positioning frame 3. It is only important that the control unit 4 is connected to the respective components of the laser portal 2, in particular the laser head 17 and the drive means for driving the laser head 17 in the x, y, and z directions, in such a way as to control them. The connection can be wired or, if this is not possible, also wireless. For this purpose, the respective components have corresponding receivers.

[0197] It is also within the scope of the invention that the basic laser unit 50 has several laser heads 17, preferably two laser heads 17.

[0198] The laser base unit 50 can also have several, preferably two, distance measuring devices 49.

[0199] Furthermore, it is also within the scope of the invention that only the upper surface of the glass panel 6a facing the laser head 17 is measured in the z-direction if the structure of the glass panel 6 in the thickness direction, i.e., in particular the thickness of the glass panel 6 and / or the individual glass panes 22 and the plastic interlayer 24, is known. This allows their position in the z-direction to be calculated.

[0200] Finally, it should be noted that all the features of the laser device, the processing methods, and the uses mentioned, and in particular those claimed, are particularly advantageous individually and in any combination and are the subject of the present invention within the scope of the present claims. Furthermore, the upper and lower limits specified for each range are all combinable according to the invention.

Claims

1. Mobile laser device (1) for processing glass sheets (6) installed in an object, preferably a vehicle, more preferably a train, or a structure work, preferably a building, and comprising at least one glass pane (22), by means of laser radiation at different places of use, having a laser gantry (2) with a) a gantry base frame (15), b) a laser unit (5) movable back and forth on the gantry base frame (15) in an x, y and z direction of the laser gantry (2) relative to the gantry base frame (15), having a laser head (17) with a, preferably interchangeable, laser radiation source (30) for providing a laser beam (31), c) preferably a laser protection bonnet (14) covering the laser unit (50) to protect the environment from laser radiation, and d) Fastening means for fixed but detachable attachment of the laser gantry (2) to the object, wherein the laser unit (50) comprises a distance measuring device (49) for measuring the glass sheet (6) to be processed in the z-direction, characterized in that the laser unit (50) comprises an x-y measuring device (46), preferably a camera, for measuring the outer dimensions of the glass sheet (6) to be processed, in particular for measuring a glass sheet edge (6c), in the x and y directions of the laser gantry (2), wherein the laser head (17) comprises an optical z-focus adjustment device (34) for the automated displacement of a laser focus (31a) of the laser beam (31) along an optical z-axis (17a) of the laser head (17) during the processing of the glass sheet (6), wherein the optical z-focus adjustment device (34) comprises an optics, preferably a lens system, and the laser device (1) comprises a control device (4) for the automated control of the respective processing method to be carried out and for processing of the measurement data of the distance measuring device (49) and of the x-y measuring device (46), wherein the control device (4) is configured to control the optical z-focus adjustment device (34) on the basis of the measurement results of the distance measuring device (49) and of the x-y measuring device (46).

2. Mobile laser device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance measuring device (49) comprises a measuring device laser beam source for generating a measuring laser beam and a laser beam detector, preferably a line sensor, for detecting laser beam reflections of the measuring laser beam.

3. Mobile laser device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the laser device (1) comprises at least one, preferably at least two, of the following means: a) Means for laser modification of a glass pane coating (23) of a glass pane (22) of glass sheets (6), b) a laser transfer printing device (36) for coating glass sheets (6), in particular a glass sheet surface (6a), by means of laser transfer printing, c) Means for laser ablation of the glass pane coating (23) of a glass pane (22) of glass sheets (6), d) Means for laser treatment of a plastic interlayer (24) of laminated glass sheets (25), e) Means for laser engraving of a glass pane surface (22a;b) of a glass pane (22) of glass sheets (6), f) Means for producing an internal modification in glass sheets (6), g) Means for producing an internal engraving in glass sheets (6) h) Means for deleting the internal modification, i) Means for deleting the laser engraving of the glass pane surface (22a;b).

4. Mobile laser device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the laser device (1) comprises means for selectively positioning the laser transfer printing device (36) in the beam path or outside the beam path of the laser beam (31).

5. Mobile laser device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the laser head (17) comprises a scanning device (35) for moving the laser beam (31) in a scanning field in the x and y directions, the scanning device (35) preferably having a scanning optics for moving the laser beam (31) in the scanning field, wherein preferably the scanning device (35) is arranged downstream of the optical z-focus adjustment device (34).

6. Mobile laser device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the laser head (17), preferably the scanning device (35), comprises a, preferably interchangeable, objective (47) for focusing the laser beam (31), wherein the objective (47) is preferably short focal length and more preferably comprises a focal length of 20 to 200 mm, particularly preferably of 80 to 160 mm.

7. Mobile laser device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a) the laser head (17) comprises a beam shaping device (32) for geometric beam shaping of the laser beam (31), wherein the laser head (17) preferably comprises means for selective positioning of the beam shaping device (32) in the beam path or outside the beam path of the laser beam (31), and / or b) the laser head (17) comprises an energy distribution device (33) for adapting the energy distribution of the laser beam (31), the laser head (17) preferably comprising means for selectively positioning the energy distribution device (33) in the beam path or outside the beam path of the laser beam (31).

8. Mobile laser device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the laser device (1) comprises a laser safety device (5) for arrangement on the side of the glass sheet (6) opposite the laser gantry (2) to protect the surroundings from laser radiation, wherein the laser safety device (5) preferably comprises a laser protection element (40), preferably a laser protection curtain (41), and a detection device for detecting the correct positioning of the laser protection element (40), the detection device preferably being connected to the control device (4) and the control device (4) preferably being configured in such a way that the laser radiation source (30) can only be started up and / or operated if correct positioning of the laser protection element (40), preferably of the laser protection curtain (41), is detected by means of the detection device.

9. Mobile laser device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the laser device (1) comprises a transport and positioning rack (3) for setting up and preferably moving the mobile laser device (1) on an underground and the laser gantry (2) is connected to the transport and positioning rack (3) so as to be movable back and forth in a, in particular vertical, rack height direction (3a), the laser device (1) preferably having drive means with which the laser gantry (2) is connected so as to be drivable back and forth in the rack height direction (3a), wherein preferably the laser gantry (2) is connected to the transport and positioning rack (3) so as to be rotatable about a, preferably horizontal, laser gantry axis of rotation (2a), wherein the laser device (1) preferably comprises drive means with which the laser gantry (2) is driveable connected so as to rotate back and forth about the laser gantry axis of rotation (2a).

10. Mobile laser device (1) according to one of the claims 3 to 9, characterized in that the laser transfer printing device (36) comprises a, preferably tape-shaped carrier medium (37), in particular a tape-shaped carrier film, with a carrier medium coating and a pressure frame (39) for pressing the carrier medium (37) onto the glass sheet (6) to be marked, wherein preferably the laser transfer printing device (36) comprises means, in particular a plurality of drivable guide rollers (38), for driving the carrier medium (37) relative to the laser beam (31) and / or to the pressure frame (39).

11. Mobile laser device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the laser unit (50) comprises a suction device (21) for sucking material removed by means of the laser radiation.

12. Use of a mobile laser device (1) according to one of the preceding claims for processing a glass sheet (6) having at least one glass pane (22) and installed in an object, preferably in a structure work, more preferably in a building, or in a vehicle, preferably in a train, by means of laser radiation.

13. Use according to claim 12, characterized in that the laser device (1) is used for one of the following methods: a) for laser modification of a glass pane coating (23) of a glass pane (22) of the glass sheet (6), b) for coating the glass sheet (6), in particular a glass sheet surface (6a;b), by means of laser transfer printing, c) for laser ablation of a glass pane coating (23) of a glass pane (22) of the glass sheet (6), d) for laser treatment of a plastic interlayer (24) of a laminated glass sheet (25), e) for laser engraving of a glass pane surface (22a;b) of a glass pane (22) of the glass sheet (6), f) for producing an internal modification in the glass sheet (6). g) for producing an internal engraving in the glass sheet (6), h) for deleting the internal modification, i) for deleting the laser engraving of the glass pane surface (22a;b).