Laser crafting appartus, systems, and methods

Abstract

A laser crafting apparatus comprises a housing defining an internal volume, wherein the internal volume is configured to receive a workpiece. The laser crafting apparatus may further include a gantry assembly mounted to the housing and a laser head coupled to the gantry assembly. In various embodiments, the gantry assembly is configured to controllably move the laser head relative to the workpiece in the internal volume and the laser head is configured to direct electromagnetic radiation toward the workpiece.

Description

LASER CRAFTING APPARTUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODSFIELD

[0001] This disclosure relates to crafting apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods, and more particularly to assemblies, features, structures, configurations, and / or operations pertaining to laser crafting apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods.BACKGROUND

[0002] While conventional laser crafting devices have proven to be acceptable for various applications, such devices are nevertheless susceptible to improvements that may enhance their overall performance and cost. Therefore, a need exists to develop improved laser crafting devices that advance the art.SUMMARY

[0003] The subject matter of the present disclosure has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently crafting systems. Accordingly, the present disclosure has been developed to provide methods and processes that overcomes many or all of the above-discussed shortcomings in the art, in accordance with various embodiments.

[0004] Disclosed herein, according to various embodiments, is a laser crafting apparatus comprising a housing defining an internal volume, wherein the internal volume is configured to receive a workpiece. The laser crafting apparatus may further include a gantry assembly mounted to the housing and a laser head coupled to the gantry assembly. In various embodiments, the gantry assembly is configured to controllably move the laser head relative to the workpiece in the internal volume and the laser head is configured to direct electromagnetic radiation toward the workpiece.

[0005] In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus further comprise a lid hingedly coupled to the housing, wherein the lid and the housing collectively define the internal volume. In various embodiments, the lid is hingedly coupled to the housing via a hinge assembly, wherein laser crafting apparatus comprises a detent mechanism configured to engage the hinge assembly. In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus further includes a lid interlock configured to prevent operation of the laser crafting apparatus in response to the lid not being closed. The lid interlock may include a contact actuator and a pin, wherein the pin is configured to translate relative to the contact actuator. In variousembodiments, the contact actuator comprises a lever arm and the lever arm comprises a fixed end coupled to a chassis of the contact actuator and a free end cantilevered away from the chassis at an acute angle. The free end of the lever arm may be configured to move toward the chassis in a first direction and the pin may be configured to translate linearly in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0006] In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus further includes a laser tube mounted to the housing and configured to emit the electromagnetic radiation and a plurality of mirrors configured to direct the electromagnetic radiation from the laser tube to the laser head. The internal volume of the housing may be a first internal volume, and the housing may also define a second internal volume substantially separated from the first internal volume, wherein a water tank is disposed within the second internal volume.

[0007] The forgoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity, unless expressly indicated herein otherwise. These features and elements as well as the operation of the disclosed embodiments will become more apparent in light of the following description and accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] In order that the advantages of the disclosure will be readily understood, a more particular description of the disclosure briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Thus, although the subject matter of the present disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification, a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, may best be obtained by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the drawing figures. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the subject matter of the present application will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0009] FIGS. 1A, IB, and 1C are exterior views of a laser crafting apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0010] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F are various views of a hinge assembly that includes a detent mechanism, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0011] FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, and 3H are various views of an interlock assembly (e.g., a lid interlock) of a laser crafting apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0012] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D show various views of a water-cooling assembly of a laser crafting apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0013] FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D show various views of a laser tube assembly of a laser crafting apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0014] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C show various views of an optical assembly of a laser crafting apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0015] 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, and 7F show various views of a laser head, including a tool (e.g., a multi-tool) of a laser crafting apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments; and

[0016] FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8J show various views of a fan assembly of a laser crafting apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein refers to the accompanying drawings, which show exemplary embodiments by way of illustration. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, other embodiments may be realized and logical changes and adaptations in design and construction may be made in accordance with this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation.

[0018] Disclosed herein, according to various embodiments, are laser crafting apparatuses, systems, and methods. Although numerous details and examples are included herein pertaining to laser devices and associated systems and methods in the crafting industry, the present disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and thus aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be adapted for utility and / or operation in a variety of other non-crafting industries. For example, the present disclosure includes details about a lid and / or a hinge structure, and these details may be implemented in non-laser applications. As such, numerous applications of the various aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure may be realized.

[0019] The laser crafting apparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein provide various benefits over conventional laser cutting machines. Although many exemplary benefits are explicitly highlighted and identified herein, other benefits and / or technical effects may not be explicitly called out but are nevertheless contemplated by the present disclosure. For example, at least one aspect of the present disclosure provides a laser crafting apparatus having a lid and / or hinge structure that provides substantially unhindered user access to theinterior, working portion of the laser crafting apparatus. Even if such a benefit or technical effect had not been positively identified herein, such a benefit and / or technical effect would be readily apparent to the reader of this disclosure, and thus such a benefit and / or technical effect would have fallen within the scope of the disclosure.

[0020] Generally, the laser crafting apparatus disclosed herein is a computer- numerically-controlled machine (CNC laser machine or CNC laser engraver) configured to direct energy (e.g., electromagnetic radiation along a beam axis, also generally referred to as a laser beam) at a workpiece for the purpose of affecting a change in or otherwise altering the material, according to various embodiments. For example, the laser crafting apparatus may direct electromagnetic radiation toward the workpiece in order to cut, engrave, bum, raster, or otherwise impart a design effect upon the workpiece. The laser energy can be absorbed by the material to discolor, ablate, burn, melt, vaporize, etc., and / or the laser energy can be utilized to form holes, cuts, engravings, and the like. The laser energy can also cause the material of the workpiece to harden, cause a phase transition, or otherwise modify the physical characteristics of the workpiece. The laser beam may be focused so that a maximum power density is achieved at the material.

[0021] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 1 A, IB, and 1C, the laser crafting apparatus 10 includes a housing 110 and a lid 120 that collectively define an internal volume. The crafting apparatus 10 may include a bed 140 or tray, disposed within the internal volume, and configured to support a workpiece. The bed 140 may be removably mounted within the housing 110 of the laser crafting apparatus 10, thereby allowing the bed 140 to be removed in order to accommodate a user’s ability to arrange one or more workpieces on the bed 140.

[0022] The laser crafting apparatus 10 may also include rail / gantry assembly 120 configured to move a laser head 130 (also referred to herein as a carriage) relative to the bed 140. For example, the laser head 130 may be supported above the bed 140 by a first track or rail of the gantry assembly 120 and the laser head 130 may be movable along a length of the first rail. The gantry assembly 120 may also include respective second tracks or rails that extend along opposing sides of the bed and that extend perpendicular to the length of the first rail. The first rail may be movable along the lengths of the respective second rails. Thus, the gantry assembly 120 may be configured to move the laser head 130 at least along a plane above the bed 140 and workpiece via movement of the laser head 130 along the first rail(s) and movement of the first rail(s) along the second rail(s). In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus may include, or may be coupled in control communication with, one ormore controllers and / or processors that actuate movement of the laser head 130 along the gantry assembly relative to a workpiece disposed within the internal volume of the housing 110.

[0023] In some examples, a height of the laser head 130 relative to the bed 140 is adjustable such that the laser head 130 is movable within a three-dimensional space relative to the bed and the workpiece. For example, the laser crafting apparatus 10 may include a bed lifting mechanism that is configured to controllably raise and lower the bed to change the distance between the workpiece supported on the bed 140 and the laser head 1 0. The lift mechanism may include one or more lead screws or other vertical translation mechanisms, and the lift mechanism may be partially disposed behind sections or panels of the housing or the bed / tray. That is, the vertical lift mechanism may be coupled to a workspace bed and may be configured to raise and lower the bed 140 within the internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus 10. In various other embodiments, the laser head 130 itself may move up and down along the Z-direction via one or more motors and / or vertical rails.

[0024] Throughout the present disclosure, positional terms such as top, upper, bottom, lower, front, forward, back, rear, interior, exterior, and the like, are used to describe various components and / or various sections, segments, and / or portions of components and structures. These terms are not meant to describe absolute positions, but instead these terms are used to describe shapes and geometries of various components relative to a user’ s perspective and experience during standard engagement and utilization of the disclosed apparatuses, systems, and methods. For reference, FIG. 1 A shows a top, front, left perspective view of the laser crafting apparatus 10, FIG. IB shows a top, rear, left perspective view of the laser crafting apparatus 10, and FIG. 1C shows a top, front, right perspective view of the laser crafting apparatus 10 with the lid 115 in an open position.

[0025] The laser crafting apparatus includes a laser source that, when energized by a power source associated with the laser crafting apparatus, generates a laser beam that is directed from the laser head onto the workpiece. The laser source may include any suitable source of electromagnetic energy. In some examples, the laser source includes a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser tube. The laser source may be disposed remote from the laser head and, when energized, may generate the laser beam that is directed from the laser source to the laser head via an optical assembly (e.g., a series of mirrors or lenses or prisms). That is, an optical assembly may be disposed between (and may include) the laser source and the laser head. Additional details pertaining to the laser source 500 and the optical assembly 600 are included below with reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 6A, 6B, and 6C. Optionally, andaccordingly various embodiments, the laser source may be disposed at the laser head (e.g., a laser diode) and may be operable to direct the laser beam directly from the laser head onto the workpiece.

[0026] In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus 10 includes a housing 110 and a lid 115 pivotably coupled to the housing via a hinge assembly. The lid 115 can be rotated between a closed and an open position, thus allowing the laser crafting apparatus to toggle between the closed configuration of FIGS. 1 A and IB and the open configuration of FIG. 1C. The housing 1 10 and the lid 1 15 may collectively (and at least partially) define an internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus 10. Said differently, the housing 1140 may provide four walls and a floor of the internal volume and the lid 115 may provide the openable ceiling of the internal volume. In various embodiments, when the laser crafting apparatus 10 is in the closed position, harmful electromagnetic radiation from the laser module is prevented or at least substantially inhibited from inadvertently escaping the internal volume, as described in greater detail below.

[0027] The housing 110 may include a front panel, opposing lateral side panels, and a rear panel opposite the front panel. The housing may also include a bottom panel. The housing generally comprises the structural members, the cosmetic casings, and both the interior and / or exterior facing sections and paneling of the laser crafting apparatus. Accordingly, although various figures may appear to only indicate and label exterior panels with the reference numbers for the housing, the housing may generally comprise and provide the structural framework and support for the components described below, and thus the term “housing” may refer to more components and features than what is shown in the figures. For example, the front panel of the housing may include multiple layers and panels of ‘wall ‘material and / or may define multiple plenums, channels, or chambers.

[0028] In various embodiments, the rail assemblies, lift mechanism(s), the drive components, and the laser head are disposed within the internal volume collectively defined by the housing 110 and the lid 115. The term “workspace region” used herein refers to a portion or sub-zone of the larger the internal volume and is specifically used to indicate the effective working area of the laser crafting apparatus 10. That is, the workspace region refers to the volume of space directly above a workpiece bed 140 or material support tray but below the laser head 130 and is defined as the space within which laser operations / work can be performed on a workpiece.

[0029] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F, details pertaining to the hinge assembly 200 are provided. The hinge assembly 200 isgenerally configured to pivotably couple the lid 115 to the housing 110. The lid 115 may be tinted, and the laser crafting apparatus 10 may include a lid interlock assembly configured to ensure the lid is sufficiently closed (e.g., properly seated against the housing) before allowing lasering. Additional details pertaining to the lid interlock assembly 300 may be included below with reference to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, and 3H. The hinge assembly 200, according to various embodiments, comprises one or more pivoting arms that extends from a hinge / pivot point to the lid. In various embodiments, the hinge assembly 200 includes a damping device 220 coupled to the pivoting arm. The damping device 220 may be configured to slow rotation of the lid as it rotates from the open position to the closed position. In various embodiments, the damping device 220 provides is a one-way damper in the sense that it provides damping in a first direction (closing the lid 115) but little or no rotation damping in a second direction (opening the lid 115), thus allowing the user to easily lift the lid 115 to the open position without having to fight against the effects of the damping device 220.

[0030] In various embodiments, and with continued reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F, the damping device 220 is an extension damper (e.g., a piston style damper). The extension damper may have a linear telescoping structure that is specifically configured to damp / inhibit extension of its structure while allowing substantially free contraction of its structure. In various embodiments, the extension damper may be a two-stage damper and is thus configured to slow rotation of the lid toward the closed position even when the lid has only been opened a few degrees. Said differently, the extension damper may be configured to provide extension damping substantially along its entire range of linear motion.

[0031] In various embodiments, the pivoting arm comprises a first portion 211 and a second portion 212 extending from the first portion 211 at an angle. That is, the pivoting arm may have an “L” shape. The first portion 211, forming one section of the “L” shape, may be coupled to the housing 110 and the second portion 212, forming the other section of the “L” shape, may be coupled to the lid 115. In various embodiments, the pivoting arm may have more of a “V” shape, with the first portion 211 being substantially straight and the second portion 212 having a curvature. In various embodiments, the damping device 220 is pivotably coupled to the pivoting arm at the joint / junction 213 between the first portion 211 and the second portion 212 (as shown in the figures). That is, a first end 221 of the damping device 220 may be pivotably coupled to the housing 110 (e.g., near a front corner of the housing of the laser crafting apparatus) and the second end 222 of the damping device 220 may be pivotably coupled to the pivoting arm (e.g., at or at least near the junction 213 between the first portion 21 1 and the second portion 212). In various embodiments, the hinge assemblymay include the elements, components, configuration, structure shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F.

[0032] In various embodiment, and with specific reference to FIG. 2D, the hinge assembly 200 includes a detent mechanism 230 that is configured to mechanically stabilize the lid 115 in the open position / configuration. FIG. 2D is a view from the front of the laser crafting apparatus looking rearwards along a side wall of the laser crafting apparatus. In FIG. 2D, the damping device 220 can be seen, with the second portion 212 of the pivoting arm visibly extending from behind the damping device 220. The detent mechanism 230 maybe include a detent protrusion that extends from a wall (e.g., a sidewall) of the housing 110 in toward the internal cavity of the apparatus. The detent protrusion may protrude sufficiently from the wall of the housing 110 that it intersects a standard / default rotational movement plane of the hinge assembly 200. Said differently, the detent mechanism 230 may be positioned and configured to contact one or more components of the hinge assembly (e.g., the portions of the pivoting arm and / or the damping device), and the interference / engagement caused by the detent mechanism 230 contacting the hinge assembly may help to hold the lid in the open position / configuration. For example, as the hinge assembly 200 guides rotation of the lid 115 from the closed position to the open position, the detent mechanism 230 may cause the elements / components of the hinge assembly to deflect inward (e.g., see FIG. 2B) as said elements / components contact and are forced to move around the protrusion of the detent mechanism. Once the lid has been sufficiently opened, the elements / components of the hinge assembly that were contacting (being deflected by) the detent mechanism 230 pass by the protrusion of the detent mechanism, and the detent mechanism 230 may be configured to secure / retain the hinge assembly in the open position in response to small / inadvertent closing forces exerted on the lid (FIG. 2C). This retention may be overcome by intentionally exerting a deliberate closing force on the lid 115 to overcome the stability / retention provided by the detent mechanism 230, and in response to this deliberate closing force, the hinge assembly 200 may again reversibly deflect around the detent mechanism 230 as the lid 115 moves toward the closed position.

[0033] In various embodiments, and with specific reference to FIGS. 2D, 2E, and 2F, the detent mechanism 230 may be configured to engage the damping device 220 (e.g., cylinder of the piston-type extension damper). The detent mechanism 230 may include a component like the one shown in FIG. 2F. That is, the detent mechanism 230 may include a ramp portion 231 that is configured to initiate deflection of the hinge assembly 200 as the elements / components of the hinge assembly move along the ramp portion 231. The rampportion may terminate at a peak / protrusion 232, and on the opposite side of the peak / protrusion the detent mechanism may include a trench portion 233 that is configured to receive / secure the element / component (e.g., the damping device 220) of the hinge assembly. In various embodiments, the ramp portion 231 of the detent mechanism 230 is an angled surface that faces downward and inward towards the cavity of the internal volume of the apparatus, and the trench portion 233 may be above / higher than the ramp portion.Accordingly, as the lid 115 transitions from the closed position to the open position, at least a portion of the hinge assembly may ride up and along the ramp surface 231 , thereby causing the hinge assembly to deflect inward, and then once the element of the hinge assembly passes the peak / protrusion 232, the element returns to a substantially non-deflected state by moving outward and settling into the trench region 233 of the detent mechanism 230.

[0034] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, and 3H, the laser crafting apparatus may include a lid interlock assembly 300 (e.g., a lid interlock). The lid interlock assembly 300 may be generally configured to prevent operation of the laser crafting apparatus (i.e., prevent lasering) in response to the lid not being closed (i.e. , in response to the lid being open or at least partially open). The lid interlock assembly 300 may include a contact actuator 312 and a pin 314, wherein the pin 314 is configured to translate relative to the contact actuator 312 in response to the lid 115 contacting and pushing down on the pin 314. The lid interlock assembly 300 may be specifically configured so the pin 314 (also referred to herein as a triggering pin) has a longer extent of travel than conventional contact-type actuators. For example, the lid interlock assembly may be configured with a contact actuator 312 that has a movement / actuation direction that is substantially perpendicular to a direction of travel of the pin 314. As used in this context, the term “substantially perpendicular” means the minor angle between the direction of movement / actuation of a lever arm of the contact actuator 312 and the direction of movement of a translating triggering pin 314 that engages the lever arm is greater than 70 degrees.

[0035] In various embodiments, and with continued reference to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, and 3H, the contact actuator 312 comprises a lever arm 313, the lever arm comprises a fixed end 313 A coupled to a chassis 311 of the contact actuator 312 and a free end 313B cantilevered away from the chassis 311 at an acute angle, and the free end 313B of the lever arm 313 is configured to move toward the chassis 311 in a first direction. The pin 314 is configured to translate linearly in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The aforementioned components of the lid interlock assembly 300 may be generally disposed within an interlock housing 305 (with the exception of the pin thatprotrudes therefrom), and the interlock housing 305 may include a linear track 306 to guide the pin 314. The pin 314 may be spring-loaded to bias the pin towards the extended / upward state (in which the interlock circuit is open, thereby preventing operation of the laser). In various embodiments, the pin 314 may include a base 315, and the base may be the portion of the pin 314 that slides within the interlock housing 305, and the base 315 may be the portion of the pin 314 that engages the lever arm 313 of the contact actuator 312. The base 315 may include a shoulder protrusion that is configured to engage and slide along the lever arm 313.

[0036] In various embodiments, the length of the pin 314 is adjustable. For example, the protruding / stem portion 316 of the pin 314 may be threadably coupled to the base 315 of the pin 314, and the threaded engagement may adjust how much of the stem portion 316 of the pin 314 protrudes from the interlock housing 305 (e.g., and thus how far the pin extends from a top surface of the housing of the laser crafting apparats). In various embodiments, and with specific reference to FIGS. 3F, 3G, and 3H, the pin 314 is shown in various positions relative to the interlock housing 305. For example, FIG. 3F shows the pin 314 fully extended with the interlock circuit open (preventing lasering), FIG. 3G shows the pin 314 partially retracted with the interlock circuit closed (allowing lasering), and FIG. 3H shows the pin 314 fully retracted with the interlock circuit closed (allowing lasering). Accordingly, the interlock assembly 300 may be configured to enable a wide range of actuation for the contact actuator 312, thus allowing the machine to be operable without having to fully depress the pin 314. This may be especially advantageous, as conventional laser machines often require the user to place weight on the lid in the area of an interlock component to ensure the lid has sufficiently engaged with an actuator before the machine will be operable.

[0037] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, the laser crafting apparatus may be water-cooled, and thus the laser crafting apparatus may include a water-cooling assembly 400. A top surface of the housing (e.g., a section of the housing that extends underneath and yet substantially parallel to the lid in the closed position) includes at least one of a pivoting and removable panel 410 to provide access to one or more components of the water-cooling assembly 400. That is, the housing of the laser crafting assembly may define a water-cooling chamber 415 that is substantially separate from the main cavity of the internal volume (where the workpiece is configured to be supported), and access to this water-cooling chamber may be via the removable / detachable panel 410 (FIG. 4A shows this panel removed a distance from the housing of the laser crafting apparatus).

[0038] In various embodiments, disposed within the water-cooling chamber is a water tank 420. The water tank 420 may include a removable cap 422. In various embodiments, thewater tank 420 includes an integrated funnel / tube 424 to facilitate filling / refilling the water tank (FIG. 4D). The water tank 420 and integrated funnel / tube 424 may be shaped as shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D. The funnel 424 may include a tube that is configured to extend toward a lower / back corner of the water tank 420. The funnel may 424 include a flange 425 that is configured to be retained between an upper opening of the water tank 420 and the cap 422.

[0039] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 4B, the water-cooling assembly may include a water pump, a flow sensor, a pump operation sensor, and / or a water temperature sensor. The water pump may be configured to pump water from the tank 420 to the laser tube (described in more detail below) and then re-circulate the water back to the water tank. In various embodiments, the water pump pulls water from the water tank through an outlet 432. The water temperature sensor may be disposed at or near this outlet. The water then flows to the pump, which may be located at or near the rear of the apparatus, and then up to the laser tube, then from the laser tube through a flow sensor and then back to the water tank inlet 434. In various embodiments, the water-cooling assembly 400 may further include a radiator and fans to facilitate heat rejection. In various embodiments, the tubing of the water-cooling assembly is made from antistatic material.

[0040] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D, the laser crafting apparatus includes a laser tube 510. The laser tube may be disposed within a tube compartment 505 defined by the housing 110 of the laser crafting apparatus. The tube compartment 505 may be along the rear of the laser crafting apparatus 10. The housing 110 may include a panel 105 that pivots rearwards to expose the tube compartment 505. The panel 105 that pivots rearward may include a top panel section and a rear panel section (i.e., may form a rear edge of the machine). The tube compartment may include an interlock (e.g., similar to the aforementioned lid interlock) configured to prevent lasering if the tube compartment 505 is not closed (i.e., if panel 105 is open).

[0041] The tube compartment 505 may include at least one tube clamp 520 (FIGS. 5C and 5D). For example, the tube compartment 505 may include dual tube clamps. The at least one tube clamp 520 may include a lower clamp portion 522 and an upper clamp portion 524. The lower clamp portion 522 may include a pad material 523, such as rubber, silicone, or other cushioning material to provide a resiliently deformable support for the laser tube. The upper clamp portion 524 may be pivotably coupled with the lower clamp portion 522. With the laser tube 510 positioned on the pad material 523 of the lower clamp portion 522, the upper clamp portion 524 may be lowered to extend over the laser tube 510 and be connected to the lower clamp portion 522. In various embodiments, the tube clamp 520 comprises aspring or other biasing element to bias the clamp to the open position, thereby keeping the upper clamp portion 524 open / separated from the lower clamp portion 522 in response to a fastener or other securement component 525 being loosened / detached / removed. The tube clamps 520 may facilitate easy removal / install of a laser tube 510, thereby enable the user to easily remove and replace the laser tube 510.

[0042] In various embodiments, the laser tube includes quick-couplers 530 for the water-cooling circuit. For example, a first quick-coupler may be disposed at a first end of the laser tube and water tubing (see water-cooling assembly described above) may be coupled to the first quick-coupler to deliver water to the laser tube. A second quick-coupler may be disposed at a second end of the laser tube and water tubing (see water-cooling assembly described above) may be coupled to the second quick-coupler to take water from the laser tube and return it to the water tank. In various embodiments, the quick-couplers are permanently connected to the tube and facilitate secure and detachable connection to the water tubing, thus facilitating easy removal / install of laser tubes. The laser tube may also include quick-electrical connections 540 that may include high-voltage twist-type connectors.

[0043] The laser tube 510, which is the laser source for the laser crafting apparatus, may include alignment markings 550 configured to guide the user when replacing the laser tube. For example, the laser tube 510 may include bands, colors, marked regions, and / or text that indicates where the tube should be aligned with the tube clamps 520.

[0044] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 6 A, 6B, and 6C, the optical assembly 600 is provided. The optical assembly is generally configured to direct the electromagnetic radiation from the laser source (e.g., the laser tube 510) to the laser head 130 to be directed to the workpiece for crafting / lasering. The optical assembly 600 generally includes a plurality of mirrors 610 that are configured to reflect the electromagnetic radiation (i.e., the laser beam) from the laser tube 510 disposed at the rear of the apparatus to the laser head 130. In various embodiments, the optical assembly 600 includes a first mirror 611 configured to redirect the laser beam emitted from the laser tube 510 forward. The optical assembly 600 may further include a second mirror 612 configured to redirect the laser beam from the first mirror 611 laterally toward the laser head 130. In various embodiments, the second mirror 612 is coupled to the gantry assembly 120 such that it moves with the first rail(s) in a Y direction (forward / backward), with the laser head moving along the first rail(s) in an X direction (left / right, lateral direction). The laser head 130, as described in greater detail below, may include a third mirror 613 of the optical assembly configured to redirect the laser beam from the second mirror 612 downward toward the bed / workpiece 140.

[0045] In various embodiments, and with specific reference to FIGS. 6B and 6C, the optical assembly 600 includes a beam combiner 620 configured to produce and align a visible light beam coincident (or at least substantially coincident) with the working laser beam from the laser source. In various embodiments, the beam combiner 620 is disposed between the first mirror 611 and the outlet of the laser tube 510. For example, the first mirror 611 and the components of the beam combiner 620 may constitute a first mirror assembly 621. The beam combiner 620 may include a visible light source 625 and an optic / lens 626 that is configured to allow the laser beam to pass therethrough while reflecting the visible light in-line with the laser beam (FIG. 6B).

[0046] In various embodiments, the mirrors of the optical assembly have a simple structure that includes a flange 632 that forms a cantilevered extension. In various embodiments, the mirrors 636 are adjustably mounted to the flange 632 to allow for calibration, alignment, and / or focusing of the laser beam. To facilitate calibration / alignment / focusing, the optical assembly 600 may include one or more targets 637 that are configured to be detachably coupled to the mirrors 636 (e.g., to the flange 632 of the mirrors). These targets 637 may allow the user to visualize the otherwise invisible laser beam, and may thereby facilitate adjustment of the mirrors 636. For example, the target 637 may include a consumable material 639 (e.g., a paper material) that is affected by the laser to allow the user to see where the laser is passing through the target 637. The consumable material 639 may be replaceable. In various embodiments, the target includes a body 638 that provides structure to the target and to which the consumable material 639 is attached. In various embodiments, the body 638 includes a magnetic member 640 that facilitates reversible / detachable coupling of the target 637 to the flange 632 of the mirror 636 (see FIG. 6C, with a target coupled / attached to the mirror). In various embodiments, the body 638 of the target 637 also includes a tab 641 to facilitate the user’s ability to grasp and manipulate (e.g., move, remove, replace, etc.) the target 637.

[0047] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, and 7F, the laser crafting apparatus 10 includes a laser head 130. The laser head, which may be referred to as the carriage, is generally configured to receive the laser beam from the optical assembly and direct it to the workpiece. In various embodiments, the third mirror 613 of the optical assembly 600 is a component of the laser head 130. Said differently, the laser head 130 may include a body 650 that houses the third mirror 613. The body 650 of the leaser head 130 may include an adjustable chassis 651 to which the third mirror 613 is mounted. The laser crafting apparatus 10 may include a multi-tool 700, as described in greater detail below,that is configured to engage with the adjustable chassis 651 in order to adjust the orientation of the third mirror 613 (similar adjustment mechanism may be present on the first and second mirrors).

[0048] In various embodiments, the third mirror 613 may be detachable from the laser head 130, thereby facilitating access to the internals of the laser head 130 (FIG. 7C). In various embodiments, the reverse side of the third mirror 613 includes a handle 652 to facilitate the user’s ability to grasp the mirror 613. In various embodiments, the third mirror 613 is configured such that a quarter turn of the third mirror (by a user grasping the handle 652) allows the third mirror to be detached from the body 650 of the laser head 130.

[0049] In various embodiments, the laser head 130 includes a lens tray 132 and a lower laser outlet / aperture 136. Said differently, the lens tray 132 may be disposed between the third mirror 613 and the laser outlet / aperture 136. In various embodiments, the lens tray 132 includes an optic 134 configured to focus and / or otherwise condition the laser beam to perform work on the workpiece. The lens tray 132 may be removable, and thus the laser head 130 may include retention features configured to detachably secure the lens tray 132 to the body of the laser head 130. For example, the laser head 130 may define a lens tray slot 131, and the lens tray 132 may be reversibly slid into the slot 131. In various embodiments, the lens tray 132 comprises a body 133 configured to hold the lens tray optic 134. The body 133 of the lens tray may include one or more magnetic members 135 that facilitate proper positioning, keying, alignment, and / or securement of the lens tray to the laser head. In various embodiments, the laser head may include air-assist inlets 137 and / or other features to facilitate safe lasering.

[0050] In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus also includes a tool 700 configured to facilitate ejection of the lens tray. Said differently, a first side of the laser head 130 may define a slit 701, and the tool 700 may include a flange or protrusion 710 that is configured to be inserted into the slit 701 to initiate ejection of the lens tray 132 from the opposing side of the laser head (FIGS. 7A and 7B). In various embodiments, this tool 700 for ejecting the lens tray 132 is a multi-tool that is configured to facilitate multiple different utilities in the laser crafting apparatus 10. For example, the multi-tool 700 (FIG. 7A) may include a second protrusion 720 that has a non-circular cross-section to enable the second protrusion to function as a driver to adjust the adjustment fasteners / screws of the mirrors. That is, each mirror may include, for example, three adjustment screws disposed in three different corners of the body member that holds each mirror, and each of these adjustment screws may include a head that has a receptacle configured to receive the second protrusion720 of the multi-tool 700, thereby allowing the user to manipulate the multi-tool to drive rotation of the adjustment screws to calibrate and / or otherwise adjust the optical assembly.

[0051] In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8J, the laser crafting apparatus includes a fan assembly (e.g., an exhaust fan assembly). The laser crafting apparatus may be configured to generate flow of ventilation air across and through at least the workspace region of the internal volume to facilitate removal of debris, dust, smoke, liberated particles of workpiece, and / or other contaminants from the working space. With proper ventilation, contaminant build-up is limited and thus users are enabled to operate longer between maintenance / cleaning. Indeed, if debris particles are not removed sufficiently from inside the laser crafting apparatus during and / or after operation of the laser, contaminants can build up on, and damage, components of the apparatus over time. For example, laser lenses may get clouded over time, gears, motors, and drive belts may become gummed up, and other crucial components may deteriorate over time if these byproduct particles in the air are not sufficiently removed or cleaned.

[0052] The laser crafting apparatus may define a ventilation pathway through which ventilation air is configured to flow during operation of the laser crafting apparatus. The ventilation pathway may comprise the workspace region of the internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus. The laser crafting apparatus may be specifically configured to control and / or optimize the fluid dynamics of the ventilation air in the ventilation pathway to maximize removal of contaminants and / or to promote the safe performance of laser work on a workpiece. Further benefits from proper ventilation are fire suppression and heat removal. In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus comprises an exhaust fan configured to pull the ventilation air through the ventilation pathway and ultimately force the ventilation air out of the internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus. That is, the ventilation system of the laser crafting apparatus may not push air through the ventilation pathway with a forced air mechanism, but instead may draw air across the working region using an extractor fan with its intake coupled in fluid receiving communication with the internal volume. By having air pulled across the workpiece and pulled through the workspace region, the workspace region is in negative pressure, which means the machine does not need to be fully sealed to contain the effluent. If a fan were included to force the air from the intake into the working volume of the machine, any leaks in the machine housing would cause the effluent to leak out of the machine housing.

[0053] The exhaust fan may be disposed at a rear of the housing, and thus the ventilation air may be configured to flow from the front of the housing toward the rear of themachine. In various embodiments, it may be advantageous to position the exhaust fan near the back of machine for improved acoustics, form factor, and the utilization of available space. In various embodiments, the housing of the laser crafting apparatus at least partially defines an intake pathway. The intake pathway, which may be a portion of the overall ventilation pathway, may generally be defined in the housing forward of the workspace region. For example, the intake pathway may be defined, at least partially, by a front panel of the housing 210 of the laser crafting apparatus. The intake pathway, as described below, is configured to redirect the ventilation air from one or more intake ports defined by a bottom panel of the housing of the laser crafting apparatus to one or more delivery ports facing the workspace region of the internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus.

[0054] In various embodiments, the intake pathway comprises an L-shaped intake channel at least partially defined by the front panel of the laser crafting apparatus. The IPshaped intake channel of the intake pathway may include a vertical plenum and an upper horizontal plenum. The L-shaped intake channel of the intake pathway may be disposed forward of the workspace region. In various embodiments, the upper horizontal plenum fluidly connects the vertical plenum to the one or more delivery ports. The upper horizontal plenum may be configured to horizontally straighten the ventilation air before the ventilation air passes through the one or more delivery ports to the workspace region of the internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus. The L-shaped intake channel may also include a lower horizontal plenum that fluidly connects the one or more intake ports to the vertical plenum.

[0055] In various embodiments, the ventilation air in the lower horizontal plenum flows generally toward a front surface of the laser crafting apparatus and the ventilation air in the upper horizontal plenum flows generally toward a rear surface of the laser crafting apparatus. In various embodiments, the one or more delivery ports are configured to deliver laminar air to the workspace region of the internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus. The one or more delivery ports are configured such that ventilation air exiting the one or more delivery ports forms a curtain of air, wherein the curtain of air has a width that may be equal to or greater than a width of the material support tray (bed) disposed within the workspace region of the internal volume of the laser crafting apparatus. In various embodiments, the upper horizontal plenum and / or the delivery ports are configured such that the emitted curtain of air always ‘covers’ the focal point of the laser.

[0056] In various embodiments, and with continued reference to FIGS. 8 A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, 8J, the fan assembly 800 includes a removable exhaust fan 810. The rear wall of the housing of the laser crafting apparatus may include a fan access panel 805 that isconfigured to pivot outward / rearward. The pivoting rotational motion of the fan access panel may be limited to 45 degrees or less. In various embodiments, the rotational motion of the fan access panel 805 may not be strictly limited, but the fan assembly may be configured such that the fan access panel does not need to be opened more than 45 degrees for the exhaust fan to be removed (FIGS. 8B and 8C). In various embodiments, the fan access panel 805 is a component of a fan chassis 804 that swings / pivots away from the rear wall of the housing 110. Once the fan chassis 804 has swung open sufficiently, fan module 810 may be slid out of the pivoting chassis 804 and removed for cleaning / replacement. This pivoting / swinging motion and slidable removable of the fan module 810 allows for maintenance and cleaning of the fan.

[0057] In various embodiments, the fan access panel 805 is configured to be lockable in a closed position, thereby preventing inadvertent pivoting open of the fan chassis 804. In various embodiments, the rear housing of the laser crafting apparatus may include a manual switch 820 or button or other such interface that allows the user to lock / unlock the fan access panel 805. In various embodiments, the aforementioned multi-tool 700 may be used to perform the locking / unlocking of the fan access panel 805. That is, the first protrusion 710 or the second protrusion 700 of the multi-tool 700 may be inserted into a hole or aperture for the manual switch 820 to unlock / lock the access panel 805. In various embodiments, an interface / junction between a side of the fan access panel and the surrounding rear wall of the housing comprises a grasping cavity 830. Said differently, a grasping cavity may be defined adjacent the swinging / free end of the fan access panel, thereby allowing the user to insert one or more fingers in the grasping cavity to gain purchase on the panel to pull and swing the panel open.

[0058] In various embodiments, and with specific reference to FIGS. 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8J, the fan assembly may include one or more retention features and / or electrical connection interfaces configured to facilitate the removable engagement of the fan. For example, the fan assembly may include one or more magnets, clips, cam mechanisms, etc.

[0059] In various embodiments, the multi-tool 700 described above may be utilized for other assemblies of the laser crafting apparatus. In various embodiments, the multi-tool 700 may be utilized to open (lock / unlock) the laser tube compartment. For example, disposed on an internal wall (e.g., a rear wall) of the housing, a keyed slot may be configured to receive the first protrusion or the second protrusion of the multi-tool to enable locking / unlocking of the tube access panel. In various embodiments, the first protrusion of the multi-tool (the element that is used to eject the lens tray from the laser head) can beinserted into this slot to lock / unlock the tube access panel. In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus may include one or more removable material support trays. The material support tray may include a border frame and a sheet of honeycomb material (comprised of hexagonal cells) configured to support the workpiece(s). The honeycomb material may comprise powder-coating. The power-coated material support tray provides various unexpected benefits, such as increased rigidity to the tray. The laser crafting apparatus may further include one or more workpiece retainers configured to be detachably engaged with the material support tray to hold / secure pieces of workpiece to the tray. In various embodiments, the workpiece retainer includes a threaded stem that is configured to be threadably inserted into the hexagonal cells.

[0060] In various embodiments, the laser crafting apparatus includes one or more hardware interlock features configured to prevent or at least limit operation of the laser crafting apparatus. The interlocks may include the aforementioned lid interlock, a fan tachometer, a fan electrical connection interlock, a water temperature interlock (ensuring water temperature is within a desired threshold), a water flow interlock, a water pump interlock, and one or more access panel interlocks (e.g., rear tube compartment).

[0061] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the disclosure.

[0062] Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all the features and advantages that may be realized with the present disclosure should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0063] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the subject matter of the present application may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized incertain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the disclosure. Further, in some instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure. No claim element is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.”

[0064] As used herein, the terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. Accordingly, the terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and / or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0065] Further, in the detailed description herein, references to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “various embodiments,” “one example,” “an example,” “some examples,” “various examples,” “one implementation,” “an implementation,” “some implementations,” “various implementations,” “one aspect,” “an aspect,” “some aspects,” “various aspects,” etc., indicate that the embodiment, example, implementation, and / or aspect described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment, example, implementation, and / or aspect may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment, example, implementation, or aspect. Thus, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, example, implementation, and / or aspect, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, examples, implementations, and / or aspects, whether or not explicitly described. Absent an express correlation to indicate otherwise, features, structure, components, characteristics, and / or functionality may be associated with one or more embodiments, examples, implementations, and / or aspects of the present disclosure. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art how to implement the disclosure in alternative configurations.

[0066] The scope of the disclosure is to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” It is to be understood that unlessspecifically stated otherwise, references to “a,” “an,” and / or “the” may include one or more than one and that reference to an item in the singular may also include the item in the plural. Further, the term “plurality” can be defined as “at least two.” As used herein, the phrase “at least one of’, when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of the items in the list may be needed. The item may be a particular object, thing, or category. Moreover, where a phrase similar to “at least one of A, B, and C” is used in the claims, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in an embodiment, or that any combination of the elements A, B and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B, and C. In some cases, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may mean, for example, without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or some other suitable combination.

[0067] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first," "second," etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and / or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

[0068] All ranges and ratio limits disclosed herein may be combined. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values stated herein are intended to include that value, and also other values that are “about” or “approximately” the stated value, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art encompassed by embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise defined herein. A stated value should therefore be interpreted broadly enough to encompass values that are at least close enough to the stated value to perform a desired function or achieve a desired result. The stated values include at least the variation to be expected in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values that are within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or within 0.01% of a stated value.

[0069] Different cross-hatching may be used throughout the figures to denote different parts but not necessarily to denote the same or different materials. Surface shading lines may be used throughout the figures to denote different parts or areas but not necessarily to denote the same or different materials. In some cases, reference coordinates may be specific to each figure. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative oradditional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical system.

[0070] Any reference to attached, fixed, connected or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full and / or any other possible attachment option. Additionally, any reference to without contact (or similar phrases) may also include reduced contact or minimal contact. In the above description, certain terms may be used such as "up," "down," "upper," "lower," "horizontal," "vertical," "left," "right," and the like. These terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. But, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and / or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an "upper" surface can become a "lower" surface simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same object.

[0071] Additionally, instances in this specification where one element is “coupled” to another element can include direct and indirect coupling. Direct coupling can be defined as one element coupled to and in some contact with another element. Indirect coupling can be defined as coupling between two elements not in direct contact with each other, but having one or more additional elements between the coupled elements. Further, one element being “coupled” to another may refer to two separate components that are connected or joined together, or may refer to different sections, segments, or portions of an integrated / monolithic structure that extend relative to each other or that have some other contrasting features, shapes, properties, or the like. Also, as used herein, securing one element to another element can include direct securing and indirect securing. Additionally, as used herein, “adjacent” does not necessarily denote contact. For example, one element can be adjacent another element without being in contact with that element.

[0072] The subject matter of the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the disclosure is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A laser crafting apparatus comprising: a housing defining an internal volume, wherein the internal volume is configured to receive a workpiece; a gantry assembly mounted to the housing; and a laser head coupled to the gantry assembly; wherein: the gantry assembly is configured to controllably move the laser head relative to the workpiece in the internal volume; and the laser head is configured to direct electromagnetic radiation toward the workpiece.

2. The laser crafting apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a lid hingedly coupled to the housing, wherein the lid and the housing collectively define the internal volume.

3. The laser crafting apparatus of claim 2, wherein the lid is hingedly coupled to the housing via a hinge assembly, wherein laser crafting apparatus comprises a detent mechanism configured to engage the hinge assembly.

4. The laser crafting apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a lid interlock configured to prevent operation of the laser crafting apparatus in response to the lid not being closed.

5. The laser crafting apparatus of claim 4, wherein the lid interlock comprises a contact actuator and a pin, wherein the pin is configured to translate relative to the contact actuator.

6. The laser crafting apparatus of claim 5, wherein: the contact actuator comprises a lever arm; the lever arm comprises a fixed end coupled to a chassis of the contact actuator and a free end cantilevered away from the chassis at an acute angle; the free end of the lever arm is configured to move toward the chassis in a first direction; and the pin is configured to translate linearly in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

7. The laser crafting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the laser crafting apparatus further comprises: a laser tube mounted to the housing and configured to emit the electromagnetic radiation; and a plurality of mirrors configured to direct the electromagnetic radiation from the laser tube to the laser head.

8. The laser crafting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the internal volume of the housing is a first internal volume, wherein the housing also defines a second internal volume substantially separated from the first internal volume, wherein a water tank is disposed within the second internal volume.

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