Dross conveyance conveyor, laser processing device, and workpiece processing method

Abstract

This dross conveyance conveyor comprises: a group of conveyance plates that includes a first conveyance plate extending in a first direction and a second conveyance plate disposed adjacent to the first conveyance plate and extending in the first direction, the group of conveyance plates conveying dross generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser; a first protection member that covers at least a portion of a first conveyance surface of the first conveyance plate and restricts the laser from reaching the first conveyance plate; and a second protection member that covers at least a portion of a second conveyance surface of the second conveyance plate and restricts the laser from reaching the second conveyance plate.

Description

Dross transport conveyor, laser processing device, and workpiece processing method

[0001] The present invention relates to a dross transport conveyor, a laser processing device, and a workpiece processing method.

[0002] A laser processing machine equipped with a chip conveyor is known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a chip conveyor for a laser processing machine. The chip conveyor described in Patent Document 1 has multiple plates that form a conveyor belt. Each plate is connected to the other plates by a joint so that they can be bent freely.

[0004] Microfilm of Japanese Utility Model Application No. 3-19091 (Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 4-108984)

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a dross transport conveyor, a laser processing device, and a workpiece processing method that can suppress thermal deformation of the transport plate.

[0006] In some embodiments, the dross transport conveyor includes a group of transport plates including a first transport plate extending in a first direction and a second transport plate arranged adjacent to the first transport plate and extending in the first direction, transporting dross generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser; a first protective member covering at least a portion of the first transport surface of the first transport plate and preventing the laser from reaching the first transport plate; and a second protective member covering at least a portion of the second transport surface of the second transport plate and preventing the laser from reaching the second transport plate.

[0007] In some embodiments, the laser processing apparatus includes a laser irradiation device including a laser head that irradiates a laser beam toward a workpiece, a moving device that moves the laser head relative to a workpiece support member that supports the workpiece, a control device that controls the laser irradiation device and the moving device, and a dross transport conveyor. The dross transport conveyor includes a group of transport plates that includes a first transport plate extending in a first direction and a second transport plate disposed adjacent to the first transport plate and extending in the first direction, and transports dross generated by irradiating the workpiece with the laser, a first protective member that covers at least a portion of a first transport surface of the first transport plate and prevents the laser from reaching the first transport plate, and a second protective member that covers at least a portion of a second transport surface of the second transport plate and prevents the laser from reaching the second transport plate.

[0008] In some embodiments, a workpiece machining method includes the steps of machining the workpiece by irradiating the workpiece with a laser, and transporting dross generated by the laser irradiation of the workpiece using a group of transport plates including a first transport plate extending in a first direction and a second transport plate disposed adjacent to the first transport plate and extending in the first direction. The step of machining the workpiece is performed in a state in which the laser is prevented from reaching the first transport plate by a first protective member covering at least a portion of a first transport surface of the first transport plate. Furthermore, the step of machining the workpiece is performed in a state in which the laser is prevented from reaching the second transport plate by a second protective member covering at least a portion of a second transport surface of the second transport plate.

[0009] The present invention provides a dross transport conveyor, a laser processing device, and a workpiece processing method that can suppress thermal deformation of the transport plate.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a laser processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of a laser processing apparatus according to a comparative example. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing a laser processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing a group of transport plates including a first transport plate and a second transport plate that can move along a circular orbit. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a dross transport conveyor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of a group of transport plates. FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing a first transport plate attached to a first endless chain and a second endless chain. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of a turning portion of the dross transport conveyor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a first transport plate having a first protective member attached thereto, a second transport plate having a second protective member attached thereto, and a third transport plate having a third protective member attached thereto. FIG. 12 is a view for explaining a first example of the protective member. FIG. 13 is a view for explaining a first example of the protective member. FIG. 14 is a view for explaining a first example of the protective member. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a first transport plate having a first protective member attached thereto, a second transport plate having a second protective member attached thereto, and a third transport plate having a third protective member attached thereto. FIG. 16 is a view for explaining a second example of the protective member. FIG. 17 is a view for explaining a second example of the protective member. FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a first transport plate having a first protective member attached thereto, a second transport plate having a second protective member attached thereto, and a third transport plate having a third protective member attached thereto. FIG. 19 is a view for explaining a third example of the protective member. Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining a fourth example of the protective member, Fig. 21 is a diagram for explaining a fifth example of the protective member, and Fig. 22 is a diagram for explaining a sixth example of the protective member.FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a first transport plate having a first protective member attached thereto, a second transport plate having a second protective member attached thereto, and a third transport plate having a third protective member attached thereto. FIG. 24 is a view for explaining a sixth example of a protective member. FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a first transport plate having a first protective member attached thereto, a second transport plate having a second protective member attached thereto, and a third transport plate having a third protective member attached thereto. FIG. 26 is a view for explaining a seventh example of a protective member. FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a first transport plate having a first protective member attached thereto, a second transport plate having a second protective member attached thereto, and a third transport plate having a third protective member attached thereto. FIG. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a seventh example of a protective member before the protective member is deflected. FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a seventh example of a protective member after the protective member is deflected. FIG. 30 is a schematic plan view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which the orbit of one group of transport plates includes an upward slope. FIG. 32 is a schematic side view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 33 is a schematic plan view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 34 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a work support member. FIG. 35 is a schematic perspective view showing a laser processing apparatus according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 36 is a schematic plan view showing a state in which a machined workpiece is removed from the work support member. FIG. 37 is a schematic perspective view showing a laser processing apparatus according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 38 is a diagram showing a state in which a control device can control multiple control target devices. FIG. 39 is a schematic side view showing a laser processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 40 is a diagram for explaining a cooling device. Fig. 41 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a laser processing apparatus according to the second embodiment, and Fig. 42 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the laser processing apparatus according to the second embodiment.Fig. 43 is an exploded perspective view showing a first transport plate having a first protective member attached thereto, a second transport plate having a second protective member attached thereto, and a third transport plate having a third protective member attached thereto. Fig. 44 is a schematic perspective view showing a group of transport plates including the first transport plate and the second transport plate being movable along a circular orbit. Fig. 45 is a flowchart showing an example of a workpiece machining method according to the third embodiment.

[0011] Hereinafter, the dross transport conveyor 2, the laser processing device 1, and the workpiece processing method according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiment, parts and members having the same functions are given the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of parts and members given the same reference numerals will be omitted.

[0012] (Definition of Terms) As illustrated in FIG. 2 , each of the group of transporting plates 3 has a transporting surface 3u. In this specification, the term "transporting surface" refers to a surface that supports dross directly or indirectly via a protective member 4 or the like during dross transport. More specifically, the transporting surface 3u is a surface that faces generally upward during dross transport. For example, the first transporting surface 3u-1 of the first transporting plate 3-1 supports dross directly or indirectly via a first protective member 4-1 during dross transport by the first transporting plate 3-1. The first transporting surface 3u-1 of the first transporting plate 3-1 faces generally upward during dross transport by the first transporting plate 3-1. Furthermore, the second transporting surface 3u-2 of the second transporting plate 3-2 supports dross directly or indirectly via a second protective member 4-2 during dross transport by the second transporting plate 3-2. The second transport surface 3u-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 faces generally upward when the second transport plate 3-2 transports dross.

[0013] As illustrated in FIG. 2 , each of the group of transport plates 3 has a back surface 3n. In this specification, the back surface refers to the surface of each transport plate opposite the transport surface 3u. More specifically, the back surface 3n is a surface that faces generally downward when transporting dross. For example, the first back surface 3n-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is a surface that is located below the first transport surface 3u-1 when transporting dross by the first transport plate 3-1. The first back surface 3n-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 faces generally downward when transporting dross by the first transport plate 3-1. Furthermore, the second back surface 3n-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 is a surface that is located below the second transport surface 3u-2 when transporting dross by the second transport plate 3-2. More specifically, the second back surface 3n-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 faces generally downward when transporting dross by the second transport plate 3-2.

[0014] In this specification, the area that can be reached by the laser emitted from the laser irradiation device 60 is defined as a "processing area RG1" (see FIG. 1). The workpiece W placed in the processing area RG1 is processed by the laser (more specifically, cut or drilled). Dross generated by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser is received by a group of transport plates 3 in the processing area RG1.

[0015] (Definition of Directions) In this specification, the extension direction of the first transport plate 3-1 (or the extension direction of each transport plate 3) is defined as the first direction DR1. In this specification, the movement direction of the first group of transport plates 3 (or the movement direction of each transport plate 3) is defined as the second direction DR2. As illustrated in Figure 5, in this specification, the direction from the inside of the orbit OB of the first group of transport plates 3 (see the area hatched with dots in Figure 5) to the outside of the orbit OB is defined as the third direction DR3. The third direction DR3 coincides with the direction from the back surface 3n to the transport surface 3u of each transport plate 3.

[0016] First Embodiment A dross transport conveyor 2A and a laser processing apparatus 1A according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 40. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the laser processing apparatus 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of a laser processing apparatus according to a comparative example. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing the laser processing apparatus 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing a group of transport plates 3 including a first transport plate 3-1 and a second transport plate 3-2 that can move along a circular orbit OB. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing the dross transport conveyor 2A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of a group of transport plates 3. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the first conveying plate 3-1 attached to the first endless chain 21a and the second endless chain 22a. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an enlarged view of the turning portion of the dross conveying conveyor 2A according to the first embodiment. FIGS. 11, 15, 18, 23, 25, and 27 are each an exploded perspective view illustrating the first conveying plate 3-1 to which the first protective member 4-1 is attached, the second conveying plate 3-2 to which the second protective member 4-2 is attached, and the third conveying plate 3-3 to which the third protective member 4-3 is attached. FIGS. 12 to 14 are diagrams illustrating a first example of the protective member 4. FIGS. 16 and 17 are diagrams illustrating a second example of the protective member 4. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a third example of the protective member 4. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a fourth example of the protective member 4. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a fifth example of the protective member 4. 22 and 24 are diagrams illustrating a sixth example of the protective member 4. Fig. 26 is a diagram illustrating a seventh example of the protective member 4. Fig. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the seventh example of the protective member 4 in a state before the protective member 4 is bent. Fig. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the seventh example of the protective member 4 in a state after the protective member 4 is bent.FIG. 30 is a schematic plan view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which the orbit OB of one group of transport plates 3 includes an ascending slope CL. FIG. 32 is a schematic side view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 33 is a schematic plan view showing a portion of the laser processing apparatus 1A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 34 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a workpiece support member 90. FIG. 35 is a schematic perspective view showing a laser processing apparatus 1A according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 36 is a schematic plan view showing a state in which the machined workpiece Wb is removed from the workpiece support member 90. FIG. 37 is a schematic perspective view showing a laser processing apparatus 1A according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 38 is a diagram showing a state in which the control device 8 can control a plurality of control target devices. Fig. 39 is a schematic side view showing the laser processing apparatus 1A in the first embodiment. Fig. 40 is a diagram for explaining the cooling device 95.

[0017] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the dross transport conveyor 2A in the first embodiment includes a group of transport plates 3, a first protective member 4-1, and a second protective member 4-2.

[0018] The first group of transport plates 3 transports dross D generated by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB. In addition to the dross D, the first group of transport plates 3 may also transport cut-off pieces CF generated by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB.

[0019] In this specification, dross refers to an irregularly shaped mass (in other words, a randomly shaped mass) formed by solidification of a material (more specifically, a metal material) melted by laser irradiation.

[0020] The group of transport plates 3 includes a first transport plate 3-1 extending in the first direction DR1 and a second transport plate 3-2 extending in the first direction DR1. Each of the group of transport plates 3 is an elongated plate with the first direction DR1 as its longitudinal direction. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the second transport plate 3-2 is disposed adjacent to the first transport plate 3-1.

[0021] In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the laser beam LB passing through the workpiece W reaches the dross transport conveyor 2A. As shown in FIG. 3 , when the laser beam LB reaches the transport plate 3, the transport plate 3 is thermally deformed. The transport plate 3 is designed to prevent excessive bending and has sufficient resistance to thermal deformation. In particular, the transport plate 3 shaped as shown in FIG. 3 has high bending rigidity and is less likely to bend. However, if the output of the laser beam LB is increased or the energy density of the laser beam LB is increased, excessive thermal deformation may occur even with the transport plate 3 shaped as shown in FIG. 3 . Furthermore, excessive thermal deformation of the transport plate 3 may hinder the smooth movement of a group of transport plates 3.

[0022] As illustrated in FIG. 2 , the dross conveyor 2A in the first embodiment includes a first protective member 4-1 covering at least a portion of the first conveying surface 3u-1 of the first conveying plate 3-1 and a second protective member 4-2 covering at least a portion of the second conveying surface 3u-2 of the second conveying plate 3-2. The first protective member 4-1 prevents the laser beam LB from reaching the first conveying plate 3-1, and the second protective member 4-2 prevents the laser beam LB from reaching the second conveying plate 3-2. As an example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 2 , the first protective member 4-1 has a shape that is less susceptible to thermal deformation than the first conveying plate 3-1, making it more resistant to thermal deformation than the first conveying plate 3-1. Also, as an example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 2 , the second protective member 4-2 has a shape that is less susceptible to thermal deformation than the second conveying plate 3-2, making it more resistant to thermal deformation.

[0023] In the dross transport conveyor 2A of the first embodiment, the laser LB is prevented from reaching the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2, thereby suppressing thermal deformation of the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2. Furthermore, bending of the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2 due to thermal deformation is also suppressed. This allows the group of transport plates 3, including the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2, to move smoothly.

[0024] In addition, in the dross conveying conveyor 2A in the first embodiment, a first protective member 4-1 and a second protective member 4-2 are respectively arranged on the first conveying plate 3-1 and the second conveying plate 3-2, so that the addition of the protective member 4 does not hinder the relative movement of the first conveying plate 3-1 with respect to the second conveying plate 3-2 (for example, the relative movement when each conveying plate 3 is turned as illustrated in Figure 10).

[0025] 1 , the laser processing apparatus 1A in the first embodiment includes the above-mentioned dross transport conveyor 2A, a laser irradiation device 60 including a laser head 61 that irradiates a laser LB toward a workpiece W, a moving device 7 that moves the laser head 61 relative to a workpiece support member 90 that supports the workpiece W, and a control device 8 that controls the laser irradiation device 60 and the moving device 7. Note that one computer may function as the control device 8, or multiple computers may function in cooperation as the control device 8.

[0026] The laser processing device 1A in the first embodiment has the same effects as the dross transport conveyor 2A in the first embodiment.

[0027] (Optional additional configuration) Next, referring to Figures 1 to 40, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the dross transport conveyor 2A and laser processing apparatus 1A in the first embodiment (or the dross transport conveyor 2B and laser processing apparatus 1B in the second embodiment described below) will be described.

[0028] 1, a portion of the dross transport conveyor 2A is disposed directly below the laser irradiation device 60. In addition, one group of transport plates 3 of the dross transport conveyor 2A is configured to be movable across the processing region RG1 (more specifically, the region directly below the laser irradiation device 60).

[0029] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the first group of transport plates 3 transports dross from the processing region RG1 to the discharge region RG2. In the example shown in Fig. 1, each of the first group of transport plates 3 is reversed in the discharge region RG2 (more specifically, turned 180 degrees around the horizontal axis). As a result, the dross D transported by the first group of transport plates 3 is discharged from the first group of transport plates 3 in the discharge region RG2. Note that when cut-off pieces CF (see Fig. 2) are transported by the first group of transport plates 3, the cut-off pieces CF are also discharged from the first group of transport plates 3 in the discharge region RG2.

[0030] 4 , the dross transport conveyor 2A includes a first endless member 21, a second endless member 22, and a drive device 29. The first endless member 21 and the second endless member 22 support a group of transport plates 3. More specifically, the group of transport plates 3 is attached to the first endless member 21 and the second endless member 22.

[0031] The first endless member 21 and the second endless member 22 are driven directly or indirectly by a driving device 29. More specifically, the first endless member 21 is driven directly or indirectly by the driving device 29 to move along a first orbital orbit B1 (see FIG. 5 ), and the second endless member 22 is driven directly or indirectly by the driving device 29 to move along a second orbital orbit B2 (see FIG. 5 ) parallel to the first orbital orbit B1. A gap G1 between the first orbital orbit B1 and the second orbital orbit B2 (in other words, the distance between the first orbital orbit B1 and the second orbital orbit B2 in the direction along the first direction DR1) is, for example, not less than 1 m and not more than 3 m.

[0032] In the example shown in Fig. 6, the first endless member 21 is a first endless chain 21a, and the second endless member 22 is a second endless chain 22a. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the dross transport conveyor 2 has a plurality of sprockets 28 including a first sprocket 28a, a second sprocket 28b, a third sprocket 28c, and a fourth sprocket 28d. The first endless chain 21a is engaged with at least the first sprocket 28a and the second sprocket 28b (more specifically, the first endless chain 21a is looped around at least the first sprocket 28a and the second sprocket 28b). The second endless chain 22a is engaged with at least the third sprocket 28c and the fourth sprocket 28d (more specifically, the second endless chain 22a is looped around at least the third sprocket 28c and the fourth sprocket 28d).

[0033] In the example shown in Figure 6, the first endless chain 21a is driven by a drive device 29 via at least a first sprocket 28a, and the second endless chain 22a is driven by a drive device 29 via at least a third sprocket 28c.

[0034] The group of transport plates 3 moves along an orbital path OB. As illustrated in Fig. 5, the orbital path OB of the group of transport plates 3 is parallel to the first orbital path B1 of the first endless chain 21a and parallel to the second orbital path B2 of the second endless chain 22a.

[0035] (First group of transport plates 3) Each of the first group of transport plates 3 transports a portion of the multiple pieces of dross D generated by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB, and is heated by the laser LB. For example, each of the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2 transports a portion of the multiple pieces of dross D generated by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB, and is heated by the laser LB. Each of the first group of transport plates 3 may be composed of a single part, or may be composed of an assembly of multiple parts.

[0036] In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the dross transport conveyor 2A has a group of transport plates 3 including a first transport plate 3-1, a second transport plate 3-2, and a third transport plate 3-3. Each of the transport plates 3 in the group extends along the first direction DR1. The number of transport plates 3 included in one group of transport plates 3 is, for example, 20 or more, 50 or more, or 80 or more. In this specification, the number of transport plates 3 included in one group of transport plates 3 is defined as "N." "N" is, for example, a natural number greater than or equal to 20.

[0037] When "K" is defined as any natural number between 1 and "N-1," the K+1th transport plate is arranged adjacent to the Kth transport plate. Also, the first transport plate 3-1 is arranged adjacent to the Nth transport plate. In this way, the group of transport plates 3 is arranged in a ring shape as a whole. For example, the second transport plate 3-2 is arranged adjacent to the first transport plate 3-1 and also adjacent to the third transport plate 3-3.

[0038] Each of the group of transport plates 3 has a front end 3 f, a rear end 3 e, and an intermediate portion 3 m located between the front end 3 f and the rear end 3 e. Note that in the example shown in Fig. 7, the front end 3 f of each transport plate 3 is the end on the front side in the movement direction (in other words, the end on the side of the second direction DR2), and the rear end 3 e of each transport plate 3 is the end on the rear side in the movement direction (in other words, the end on the opposite side from the second direction DR2).

[0039] 8, each of the group of transport plates 3 has a left end 3a and a right end 3b. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the left end 3a of each transport plate 3 is the left end when viewing the transport surface 3u of the transport plate 3 in the direction from the rear end 3e to the front end 3f, and the right end 3b of each transport plate 3 is the right end when viewing the transport surface 3u of the transport plate 3 in the direction from the rear end 3e to the front end 3f.

[0040] The first conveying plate 3-1 has a front end (hereinafter referred to as the "first front end 3f-1"), a rear end (hereinafter referred to as the "first rear end 3e-1"), an intermediate portion (hereinafter referred to as the "first intermediate portion 3m-1") located between the first front end 3f-1 and the first rear end 3e-1, a left end 3a-1, and a right end 3b-1.

[0041] The second conveying plate 3-2 has a front end (hereinafter referred to as the "second front end 3f-2"), a rear end (hereinafter referred to as the "second rear end 3e-2"), an intermediate portion (hereinafter referred to as the "second intermediate portion 3m-2") located between the second front end 3f-2 and the second rear end 3e-2, a left end 3a-2, and a right end 3b-2.

[0042] The third conveying plate 3-3 has a front end (hereinafter referred to as the "third front end 3f-3"), a rear end (hereinafter referred to as the "third rear end 3e-3"), an intermediate portion (hereinafter referred to as the "third intermediate portion 3m-3") located between the third front end 3f-3 and the third rear end 3e-3, a left end 3a-3, and a right end 3b-3.

[0043] In the example shown in Figure 7, the front end 3f of each transport plate 3 is arranged so as to overlap with the rear end 3e of another adjacent transport plate when viewed in a plan view (in other words, when viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3), and the rear end 3e of each transport plate 3 is arranged so as to overlap with the front end 3f of another adjacent transport plate when viewed in a plan view (in other words, when viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3).

[0044] For example, the first front end 3f-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is arranged to overlap the rear end of the other transport plate 3-N in a plan view (in other words, when viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3). More specifically, the rear end of the other transport plate 3-N is covered by the first front end 3f-1 of the first transport plate 3-1. Furthermore, the first rear end 3e-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is arranged to overlap the second front end 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 in a plan view. More specifically, the first rear end 3e-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is covered by the second front end 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2. Furthermore, the second rear end 3e-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 is arranged to overlap the third front end 3f-3 of the third transport plate 3-3 in a plan view (in other words, when viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3). More specifically, the second rear end 3e-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 is covered by the third front end 3f-3 of the third transport plate 3-3.

[0045] The length of each of the group of transport plates 3 (more specifically, the length in the direction along the first direction DR1) is, for example, 1 m or more and 3 m or less. The length L1 (see FIG. 8) of the first transport plate 3-1 is, for example, 1 m or more and 3 m or less, and the length of the second transport plate 3-2 is, for example, 1 m or more and 3 m or less.

[0046] The width of each of the first group of transport plates 3 (more specifically, the width of each of the first group of transport plates 3 in the direction along the second direction DR2) is, for example, 4 cm or more and 20 cm or less. For example, the width W1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is, for example, 4 cm or more and 20 cm or less, and the width of the second transport plate 3-2 is, for example, 4 cm or more and 20 cm or less.

[0047] The thickness of each of the group of transport plates 3 is, for example, 10 mm or less or 5 mm or less.

[0048] Each of the group of transport plates 3 is made of metal, for example, steel, more specifically, hot-rolled mild steel plate, cold-rolled steel plate, or cold-rolled stainless steel plate.

[0049] The left end 3a of each of the first group of transport plates 3 is attached to a first endless member 21 (more specifically, a first endless chain 21a), and the right end 3b of each of the first group of transport plates 3 is attached to a second endless member 22 (more specifically, a second endless chain 22a).

[0050] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the left end 3a-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 has a hole h1 through which a bolt can be inserted, and the right end 3b-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 has a hole h2 through which a bolt can be inserted. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the left end 3a-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is attached to the first endless chain 21a via a bolt BT, and the right end 3b-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is attached to the second endless chain 22a via a bolt BT. As can be seen from FIGS. 7 and 8, the first transport plate 3-1 is not connected to any adjacent transport plates. Therefore, if the first transport plate 3-1 is damaged, it can be easily replaced with a new first transport plate.

[0051] 7, the front end 3f of each of the first group of transport plates 3 has a curved portion CP (more specifically, an arc-shaped portion) that is convex in the third direction DR3. Note that in the first embodiment, the shape of the front end 3f of each of the first group of transport plates 3 is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0052] In the example shown in Fig. 7, the rear end 3e of each of the first group of transport plates 3 has a standing portion TP protruding in the third direction DR3. As shown in Fig. 10, the standing portion TP scrapes out dross D below the curved portion CP of the following transport plate when the transport plate 3 turns. For example, the first standing portion TP1 of the first transport plate 3-1 scrapes out dross D below the second curved portion CP2 of the second transport plate 3-2 when the first transport plate 3-1 turns. Note that in the first embodiment, the shape of the rear end 3e of each of the first group of transport plates 3 is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 7.

[0053] 7, each of the group of transport plates 3 has an intermediate portion 3m connecting the curved portion CP and the standing portion TP. The curved portion CP and the intermediate portion 3m are connected via a bent portion BA, and the standing portion TP and the intermediate portion 3m are connected via a bent portion BB.

[0054] Of the group of transport plates 3, the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2 will be described as representatives.

[0055] In the example shown in Figure 8, the first transport plate 3-1 has a first front end 3f-1, a first rear end 3e-1, and a first intermediate portion 3m-1 arranged between the first front end 3f-1 and the first rear end 3e-1.

[0056] The first front end 3f-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 has a first curved portion CP1 (more specifically, a first arc-shaped portion) that is convex in the third direction DR3. The first curved portion CP1 extends in the first direction DR1.

[0057] The first rear end 3e-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 has a first upright portion TP1 that protrudes in the third direction DR3. The first upright portion TP1 extends in the first direction DR1.

[0058] The first intermediate portion 3m-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 has a first flat plate portion FP1 that extends in the first direction DR1.

[0059] The first curved portion CP1 and the first intermediate portion 3m-1 are connected via a bent portion BA1 extending in the first direction DR1, and the first upright portion TP1 and the first intermediate portion 3m-1 are connected via a bent portion BB1 extending in the first direction DR1.

[0060] In the example shown in Figure 8, the second transport plate 3-2 has a second front end 3f-2, a second rear end 3e-2, and a second intermediate portion 3m-2 arranged between the second front end 3f-2 and the second rear end 3e-2.

[0061] The second front end 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 has a second curved portion CP2 (more specifically, a second arc-shaped portion) that is convex in the third direction DR3. The second curved portion CP2 extends in the first direction DR1.

[0062] The second rear end 3e-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 has a second upright portion TP2 that protrudes in the third direction DR3 and extends in the first direction DR1.

[0063] The second intermediate portion 3m-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 has a second flat plate portion FP2 that extends in the first direction DR1.

[0064] The second curved portion CP2 and the second intermediate portion 3m-2 are connected via a bent portion BA2 extending in the first direction DR1, and the second upright portion TP2 and the second intermediate portion 3m-2 are connected via a bent portion BB2 extending in the first direction DR1.

[0065] 7 , the dross transport conveyor 2A includes multiple protective members 4. Each of the multiple protective members 4 covers at least a portion of the transport surface of the corresponding transport plate 3, preventing the laser LB from reaching the transport plate 3. Each of the multiple protective members 4 extends along the first direction DR1.

[0066] More specifically, the dross transport conveyor 2A includes multiple protective members 4, including a first protective member 4-1, a second protective member 4-2, and a third protective member 4-3. The first protective member 4-1 covers at least a portion of the transport surface (i.e., the first transport surface 3u-1) of the first transport plate 3-1, preventing the laser beam LB from reaching the first transport plate 3-1. The first protective member 4-1 extends along a first direction DR1. The first protective member 4-1 is attached directly or indirectly to the first transport plate 3-1.

[0067] The second protective member 4-2 covers at least a portion of the transport surface (i.e., the second transport surface 3u-2) of the second transport plate 3-2 and prevents the laser LB from reaching the second transport plate 3-2. The second protective member 4-2 extends along the first direction DR1. The second protective member 4-2 is attached directly or indirectly to the second transport plate 3-2.

[0068] The third protective member 4-3 covers at least a portion of the transport surface (i.e., the third transport surface 3u-3) of the third transport plate 3-3 and prevents the laser LB from reaching the third transport plate 3-3. The third protective member 4-3 extends along the first direction DR1. The third protective member 4-3 is attached directly or indirectly to the third transport plate 3-3.

[0069] Each of the multiple protective members 4 is made of metal. Each of the multiple protective members 4 is made of, for example, steel. Each of the multiple protective members 4 is made of, for example, a rolled steel plate (more specifically, a hot-rolled steel plate). The material of each of the multiple protective members 4 may be the same as the material of each of the group of transport plates 3, or may be different from the material of each of the group of transport plates 3. Each of the multiple protective members 4 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure.

[0070] Each of the multiple protective members 4 may be attached to the corresponding transport plate 3 via a mounting member such as a bolt BT (see FIG. 27 if necessary), a bracket, etc. Alternatively, each of the multiple protective members 4 may be attached to the corresponding transport plate 3 by welding.

[0071] 11, the first protective member 4-1 is attached to the first transport plate 3-1 by welding (more specifically, by spot welding). A weld J1 is shown in Fig. 11, welding the first protective member 4-1 to the first transport plate 3-1. The first protective member 4-1 may be welded to the first transport plate 3-1 at least in both longitudinal end regions and in the longitudinal center region of the first transport plate 3-1.

[0072] When the first protective member 4-1 is welded to the first transport plate 3-1, no problems arise even if the welded portion J1 is irradiated with a laser beam LB. Furthermore, there is a high degree of freedom in the joining area between the first transport plate 3-1 and the first protective member 4-1. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11 , when the first protective member 4-1 is welded to the first transport plate 3-1 in the longitudinal center region of the first transport plate 3-1, the first protective member 4-1 is less likely to lift up in a direction away from the first transport plate 3-1. Furthermore, when the first protective member 4-1 is welded to the first transport plate 3-1, an increase in the number of parts is suppressed, reducing installation costs.

[0073] 11, the first protective member 4-1 is spot-welded to the first transport plate 3-1, but the first protective member 4-1 may also be linearly welded to the first transport plate 3-1. For example, each of the leading edge and the trailing edge of the first protective member 4-1 may be linearly welded to the first transport plate 3-1 (see FIG. 22 if necessary).

[0074] Furthermore, spot welding reduces heat transfer from the first protective member 4-1 to the first transport plate 3-1 compared to linear welding, and the heat is dissipated by the first protective member 4-1, making the first transport plate 3-1 less likely to be thermally deformed. The first protective member 4-1 may be spot welded to the first transport plate 3-1 at three or more points. When spot welded at three or more points, the first protective member 4-1 is less likely to lift up in a direction away from the first transport plate 3-1.

[0075] Below, several examples of the protective member 4 will be described, but the protective member 4 is not limited to the several examples described below. Furthermore, among the multiple protective members 4, the first protective member 4-1 and the second protective member 4-2 will be described as representatives, but it goes without saying that a configuration similar to that of the first protective member 4-1 can be applied to other protective members.

[0076] (First example of protective member 4) In the example shown in Figure 11, the first protective member 4-1 has a first plate portion 41-1, a second plate portion 42-1, and a first bent portion 43-1 that is arranged between the first plate portion 41-1 and the second plate portion 42-1 and extends in the first direction DR1.

[0077] When the first protective member 4-1 has two plate portions and a bent portion disposed between the two plate portions, the second moment of area of ​​the first protective member 4-1 increases. Therefore, the first protective member 4-1 is less likely to bend. In addition, the plate thickness of the first protective member 4-1 can be made relatively thin.

[0078] 12, the first plate portion 41-1 is disposed in contact with the first transport plate 3-1. The first plate portion 41-1 may be in surface contact with the first intermediate portion 3m-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 (more specifically, the first flat plate portion FP1 of the first transport plate 3-1).

[0079] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the second plate portion 42-1 is arranged to rise in a direction away from the first transport plate 3-1. The second plate portion 42-1 rises from the first plate portion 41-1 in the third direction DR3. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the angle between the first plate portion 41-1 and the second plate portion 42-1 is 90 degrees. Alternatively, the angle between the first plate portion 41-1 and the second plate portion 42-1 may be an angle other than 90 degrees (for example, a predetermined angle greater than or equal to 60 degrees and less than or equal to 120 degrees). In the example shown in FIG. 12, the first protective member 4-1 has a substantially L-shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0080] In the example shown in Figure 12, when the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 is facing upward, the height of the upper end E1 of the first protective member 4-1 (more specifically, the height of the upper end E1 of the second plate portion 42-1) is higher than the height of the upper end E2 of the first upright portion TP1 of the first conveying plate 3-1.

[0081] 12, when the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 faces upward, the height of the upper end E1 of the first protective member 4-1 (more specifically, the height of the upper end E1 of the second plate portion 42-1) is higher than the height of the upper end E3 of the first curved portion CP1 of the first transport plate 3-1. Alternatively, when the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 faces upward, the height of the upper end E1 of the first protective member 4-1 may be lower than the height of the upper end E3 of the first curved portion CP1 of the first transport plate 3-1.

[0082] 12, when the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 faces upward, the rear end portion EP of the first protective member 4-1 does not overlap with the second curved portion CP2 of the second transport plate 3-2 in a plan view (in other words, when viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3). Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 2, when the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 faces upward, the rear end portion EP of the first protective member 4-1 may overlap with the second curved portion CP2 of the second transport plate 3-2 in a plan view (in other words, when viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3).

[0083] 12, the thickness of the first protective member 4-1 (for example, the thickness of the first plate portion 41-1) is smaller than the thickness of the first transport plate 3-1. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the thickness of the first protective member 4-1 may be equal to the thickness of the first transport plate 3-1.

[0084] In the example shown in Figure 11, the second protective member 4-2 has a third plate portion 41-2, a fourth plate portion 42-2, and a second bent portion 43-2 that is arranged between the third plate portion 41-2 and the fourth plate portion 42-2 and extends in the first direction DR1.

[0085] 12, the third plate portion 41-2 is disposed in contact with the second transport plate 3-2. The third plate portion 41-2 may be in surface contact with the second intermediate portion 3m-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 (more specifically, the second flat plate portion FP2 of the second transport plate 3-2).

[0086] 12, the fourth plate portion 42-2 is disposed so as to rise in a direction away from the second transport plate 3-2. The fourth plate portion 42-2 rises in the third direction DR3 from the third plate portion 41-2. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the second protective member 4-2 has a substantially L-shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1. The shape and size of the second protective member 4-2 are, for example, the same as the shape and size of the first protective member 4-1.

[0087] In the example shown in Fig. 12, a first receiving space SP1 for receiving dross D is formed between the second plate portion 42-1 of the first protective member 4-1 and the fourth plate portion 42-2 of the second protective member 4-2. To make it easier to understand the shape of the first receiving space SP1, the first receiving space SP1 is hatched with dots in Fig. 12.

[0088] 12, the second plate portion 42-1 is connected to the front end portion of the first plate portion 41-1 (in other words, the end portion on the second direction DR2 side). Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the second plate portion 42-1 may be connected to the rear end portion of the first plate portion 41-1 (in other words, the end portion on the opposite side from the second direction DR2).

[0089] Alternatively, the second plate portion 42-1 may be connected to the middle portion of the first plate portion 41-1. In other words, the second plate portion 42-1 and the first plate portion 41-1 may be connected in a T-shape.

[0090] 14, the first protective member 4-1 may have a rear plate portion 44-1 connected to the rear end of the first plate portion 41-1, in addition to a second plate portion 42-1 connected to the front end of the first plate portion 41-1. The rear plate portion 44-1 is arranged to rise in a direction away from the first transport plate 3-1. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the first protective member 4-1 has a substantially U-shape in cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0091] 12 , the protective member 4 covers at least a portion of the transport surface of the corresponding transport plate 3. This suppresses heat input to the transport plate 3 caused by laser irradiation, and suppresses thermal deformation and warping of the transport plate 3. The protective member 4 also has at least two plate portions and a bent portion disposed between the two plate portions. Therefore, the rigidity of the protective member 4 suppresses thermal deformation of the transport plate and thermal deformation of the protective member itself.

[0092] 15, the first protective member 4-1 has a first cover portion 45-1 in addition to a first plate portion 41-1, a second plate portion 42-1, and a first bent portion 43-1, which is different from the example shown in FIG. 11. In other respects, the second example of the protective member 4 is similar to the first example of the protective member 4.

[0093] 16, the first cover part 45-1 covers at least a part of the first front end part 3f-1 (more specifically, the first curved part CP1) of the first transport plate 3-1. In the example shown in FIG. 16, when the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 faces upward, the first cover part 45-1 is disposed directly above the first front end part 3f-1 (more specifically, the first curved part CP1) of the first transport plate 3-1.

[0094] 16, the first cover part 45-1 covers the entire first curved portion CP1 of the first transport plate 3-1. Alternatively, the first cover part 45-1 may cover only a portion of the first curved portion CP1 of the first transport plate 3-1.

[0095] In the example shown in FIG. 15, the first cover portion 45-1 is connected to the second plate portion 42-1 via a bent portion 47-1 extending in the first direction DR1.

[0096] In the example shown in Figure 16, the first cover part 45-1 has a linear shape when viewed in the first direction DR1. Alternatively, the first cover part 45-1 may have a curved shape when viewed in the first direction DR1. In the example shown in Figure 16, the angle formed between the first cover part 45-1 and the second plate part 42-1 is 90 degrees. Alternatively, the angle formed between the first cover part 45-1 and the second plate part 42-1 may be an angle other than 90 degrees (for example, a predetermined angle between 60 degrees and 120 degrees).

[0097] 15, the second protective member 4-2 has a second cover portion 45-2 in addition to the third plate portion 41-2, the fourth plate portion 42-2, and the second bent portion 43-2. ​​In the example shown in Fig. 16, the second cover portion 45-2 covers at least a portion of the second front end portion 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 (more specifically, at least a portion of the second curved portion CP2).

[0098] 16, the first cover portion 45-1 covers at least a portion of the first front end portion 3f-1 (more specifically, the first curved portion CP1) of the first transport plate 3-1. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the first cover portion 45-1 may cover at least a portion of the second front end portion 3f-2 (more specifically, the second curved portion CP2) of the second transport plate 3-2.

[0099] When the protective member 4 has a cover portion that covers at least a portion of the front end of the corresponding transport plate 3 or at least a portion of the front end of the subsequent transport plate 3, the heat input to the transport plate 3 due to laser irradiation is further suppressed, and thermal deformation and deflection of the transport plate 3 are further suppressed.

[0100] 18 and 19 , the bent portion extending in the first direction DR1 is omitted from each protective member 4, and the plate thickness of each protective member 4 is relatively large. In other respects, the third example of the protective member 4 is similar to the first example of the protective member 4.

[0101] 18, the first protective member 4-1 and the second protective member 4-2 are each a thick flat plate. The thickness of the first protective member 4-1 (more specifically, the thickness of the first plate portion 41-1) is 3.2 mm or more. The thickness of the second protective member 4-2 is also 3.2 mm or more.

[0102] The thickness of the first protective member 4-1 may be greater than or equal to the thickness of the first transport plate 3-1, and the thickness of the second protective member 4-2 may be greater than or equal to the thickness of the second transport plate 3-2.

[0103] In the example shown in FIG. 19, the shape of each protection member 4 in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1 is substantially rectangular.

[0104] When the thickness of each of the plurality of protective members 4 is sufficiently large, the moment of inertia of each of the plurality of protective members 4 increases. Therefore, each of the plurality of protective members 4 is less likely to bend.

[0105] 20, the laser reflectivity of the dross support surface of each protective member 4 is higher than the laser reflectivity of the transport surface 3u of each transport plate 3. In the first embodiment (or the second embodiment described later), the wavelength of the laser emitted from the laser irradiation device 60 is, for example, 1060 nm or more and 1080 nm or less.

[0106] 20, the laser reflectivity of the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 is higher than the laser reflectivity of the first conveying surface 3u-1 of the first conveying plate 3-1. The laser reflectivity of the dross support surface S1 of the first protective member 4-1 for a laser with a wavelength of 1060 nm or more and 1080 nm or less is, for example, 70% or more, 80% or more, or 90% or more.

[0107] The first protective member 4-1 may have a base material 48-1 and a laser reflecting layer 49-1 that covers at least a portion of the base material 48-1. In the example shown in FIG. 20 , the laser reflecting layer 49-1 covers the surface of the base material 48-1 on the third direction DR3 side. The laser reflecting layer 49-1 is, for example, a metal layer. The material of the laser reflecting layer 49-1 is, for example, copper.

[0108] 20, the first protective member 4-1 has a laser reflecting layer 49-1 made of a material (e.g., copper) with higher laser reflectivity than the material making up the first transport plate 3-1. Alternatively, the entire first protective member 4-1 may be made of a material with higher laser reflectivity than the material making up the first transport plate 3-1.

[0109] 20, the laser reflectivity of the dross support surface S2 of the second protective member 4-2 is higher than the laser reflectivity of the second conveying surface 3u-2 of the second conveying plate 3-2. The laser reflectivity of the dross support surface S2 of the second protective member 4-2 for a laser with a wavelength of 1060 nm or more and 1080 nm or less is, for example, 70% or more, 80% or more, or 90% or more.

[0110] The second protective member 4-2 may have a base material 48-2 and a laser reflective layer 49-2 (e.g., a copper layer) covering at least a portion of the base material 48-2. Alternatively, the entire second protective member 4-2 may be made of a material (e.g., copper) that has a higher laser reflectivity than the material that makes up the second transport plate 3-2.

[0111] 20 , the dross support surface of each of the multiple protective members 4 effectively reflects the laser beam LB emitted from the laser irradiation device 60. This reduces heat input to each transport plate 3, thereby reducing thermal deformation and warping of each transport plate 3. Furthermore, heat input to each protective member 4 is also reduced, thereby reducing thermal deformation and warping of each protective member 4.

[0112] The configuration in which the laser reflectivity of the dross support surface of each protective member 4 is higher than the laser reflectivity of the conveying surface 3u of the corresponding conveying plate 3 can also be adopted in the first, second, and third examples of the protective member 4, and the fifth, sixth, and seventh examples of the protective member 4 described below.

[0113] 21, a heat insulator 46 is interposed between each protective member 4 and the corresponding transport plate 3. For example, a heat insulator 46-1 is interposed between the first protective member 4-1 and the first transport plate 3-1, and a heat insulator 46-2 is interposed between the second protective member 4-2 and the second transport plate 3-2.

[0114] The heat insulating material 46-1 prevents heat from being transferred from the first protective member 4-1, which heats up when irradiated with the laser LB, to the first transport plate 3-1. This prevents thermal deformation of the first transport plate 3-1 and prevents bending of the first transport plate 3-1 due to thermal deformation. The thermal conductivity of the heat insulating material 46-1 is lower than that of the material that makes up the first protective member 4-1. The thermal conductivity of the heat insulating material 46-1 is also lower than that of the material that makes up the first transport plate 3-1.

[0115] The heat insulating material 46-2 prevents heat from being transferred from the second protective member 4-2, which heats up when irradiated with the laser LB, to the second transport plate 3-2. This prevents thermal deformation of the second transport plate 3-2 and prevents bending of the second transport plate 3-2 due to thermal deformation. The thermal conductivity of the heat insulating material 46-2 is lower than that of the material that makes up the second protective member 4-2. The thermal conductivity of the heat insulating material 46-2 is also lower than that of the material that makes up the second transport plate 3-2.

[0116] The configuration in which an insulating material 46 is interposed between each protective member 4 and the corresponding conveying plate 3 can also be adopted in the first, second, third, and fourth examples of the protective member 4 described above, and the sixth and seventh examples of the protective member 4 described below.

[0117] 22, an air layer AL is interposed between each protective member 4 and the corresponding transport plate 3. For example, an air layer AL1 is interposed between the first protective member 4-1 and the first transport plate 3-1, and an air layer AL2 is interposed between the second protective member 4-2 and the second transport plate 3-2.

[0118] The air layer AL1 prevents heat from being transferred from the first protective member 4-1, which heats up when irradiated with the laser beam LB, to the first transport plate 3-1, thereby preventing thermal deformation of the first transport plate 3-1 and bending of the first transport plate 3-1 due to thermal deformation.

[0119] The air layer AL2 prevents heat from being transferred from the second protective member 4-2, which heats up when irradiated with the laser beam LB, to the second transport plate 3-2, thereby preventing thermal deformation of the second transport plate 3-2 and bending of the second transport plate 3-2 due to thermal deformation.

[0120] 22, the first protective member 4-1 has a first plate portion 41-1, a second plate portion 42-1, and a first bent portion 43-1 that is disposed between the first plate portion 41-1 and the second plate portion 42-1 and extends in the first direction DR1. In the example shown in Fig. 23, the first plate portion 41-1 and the second plate portion 42-1 define a mountain shape, and the first bent portion 43-1 defines the ridge line of the mountain shape.

[0121] 22, the first plate portion 41-1 of the first protective member 4-1 is arranged in contact with the first transport plate 3-1, and the second plate portion 42-1 of the first protective member 4-1 is arranged in contact with the first transport plate 3-1.

[0122] 22, the first protective member 4-1 is attached to the first transport plate 3-1 by welding. More specifically, the first protective member 4-1 is attached to the first transport plate 3-1 via a linear weld J1 extending along the first direction DR1.

[0123] 22, the first protective member 4-1 has a substantially V-shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1. Note that an inverted V-shape becomes a V-shape when viewed from a different direction, and therefore, in this specification, the substantially inverted V-shape is considered to be included in the term substantially V-shape.

[0124] 23, a structure SR1 including a first transport plate 3-1 and a first protective member 4-1 is provided with a plurality of openings 4h that allow air to move between the outside of the structure SR1 and an air layer AL1 inside the structure SR1. In the example shown in Fig. 23, a first opening 4h-1 that connects the outside of the structure SR1 with the inside of the structure SR1 is provided at a first end (more specifically, the left end) of the structure SR1, and a second opening 4h-2 that connects the outside of the structure SR1 with the inside of the structure SR1 is provided at a second end (more specifically, the right end) of the structure SR1.

[0125] In the example shown in Fig. 22, the shape of the air layer AL1 in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1 is substantially triangular. Alternatively, the shape of the air layer AL1 in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1 may be a shape other than triangular. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 24, the shape of the air layer AL1 in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1 may be substantially rectangular.

[0126] 24, the first protective member 4-1 has a first plate portion 41-1, a second plate portion 42-1, a first bent portion 43-1 between the first plate portion 41-1 and the second plate portion 42-1, and a rear plate portion 44-1 disposed opposite the second plate portion 42-1. The first protective member 4-1 has a substantially C-shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0127] In the example shown in Figure 25, a structure SR1 including a first transport plate 3-1 and a first protective member 4-1 is provided with a plurality of openings 4h that allow air to move between the outside of the structure SR1 and an air layer AL1 inside the structure SR1.

[0128] The aspect of interposing an air layer AL between the protective member 4 and the corresponding transport plate 3 can also be adopted in the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth examples of the protective member 4 described above, and the seventh example of the protective member 4 described below.

[0129] (Seventh Example of Protective Member 4) In the example shown in FIG. 26, each of the multiple protective members 4 is configured to bend in a direction away from the corresponding transport plate 3 in response to irradiation of the laser LB onto the protective member 4.

[0130] For example, in response to irradiation of the first protective member 4-1 with the laser LB, the first protective member 4-1 (more specifically, the longitudinal central portion 4m-1 of the first protective member 4-1) is configured to bend in a direction away from the first transport plate 3-1 (more specifically, the third direction DR3). In addition, in response to irradiation of the second protective member 4-2 with the laser LB, the second protective member 4-2 (more specifically, the longitudinal central portion 4m-2 of the second protective member 4-2) is configured to bend in a direction away from the second transport plate 3-2 (more specifically, the third direction DR3).

[0131] 27, a first end 4a-1 (more specifically, the left end) of the first protective member 4-1 is fixed to the first transport plate 3-1, and a second end 4b-1 (more specifically, the right end) of the first protective member 4-1 is fixed to the first transport plate 3-1. Each of the first end 4a-1 and the second end 4b-1 may be fixed to the first transport plate 3-1 by a fixing member such as a bolt BT, or may be fixed to the first transport plate 3-1 by welding.

[0132] In the example shown in FIG. 26 , the thickness of the first protective member 4-1 is set to a thickness that allows it to bend easily. Therefore, when the first protective member 4-1 is irradiated with laser LB and thermally expands, the first protective member 4-1 (more specifically, the longitudinal center portion 4m-1 of the first protective member 4-1) bends in a direction away from the first transport plate 3-1. When the first protective member 4-1 bends in a direction away from the first transport plate 3-1, an air layer AL1 is formed between the first protective member 4-1 and the first transport plate 3-1. This air layer AL1 prevents heat from being transferred from the first protective member 4-1, whose temperature rises due to irradiation with laser LB, to the first transport plate 3-1. In this way, thermal deformation of the first transport plate 3-1 is suppressed, and bending of the first transport plate 3-1 caused by thermal deformation is also suppressed.

[0133] In the example shown in Figures 28 and 29, the distance between the longitudinal center portion 4m-1 of the first protective member 4-1 and the longitudinal center portion of the first transport plate 3-1 is increased in response to irradiation of the first protective member 4-1 with the laser LB. More specifically, in response to irradiation of the first protective member 4-1 with the laser LB, the longitudinal center portion 4m-1 of the first protective member 4-1 and the longitudinal center portion of the first transport plate 3-1 are changed from a state in which they are in contact to a state in which the longitudinal center portion 4m-1 of the first protective member 4-1 is separated from the longitudinal center portion of the first transport plate 3-1. This increase in the distance (or this change in state) introduces air between the first protective member 4-1 and the first transport plate 3-1. This suppresses heat transfer from the first protective member 4-1 to the first transport plate 3-1 and promotes heat dissipation from the first protective member 4-1 to the air.

[0134] 26, the first protective member 4-1 is made of a thin plate, and the second protective member 4-2 is also made of a thin plate.

[0135] (Length of Protective Members 4) The length of each of the multiple protective members 4 in the first direction DR1 is shorter than the length in the first direction DR1 of the corresponding transport plate 3. For example, the length of the first protective member 4-1 is shorter than the length of the first transport plate 3-1, and the length of the second protective member 4-2 is shorter than the length of the second transport plate 3-2.

[0136] In the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh examples of the protective member 4, the length L2 (see FIG. 11 ) of the first protective member 4-1 in the direction along the first direction DR1 is, for example, 80 cm or more and 200 cm or less. Also, the length L2 of the second protective member 4-2 in the direction along the first direction DR1 is, for example, 80 cm or more and 200 cm or less.

[0137] When the first protective member 4-1 has a first bent portion 43-1 arranged between the first plate portion 41-1 and the second plate portion 42-1, the length of the first bent portion 43-1 in the direction along the first direction DR1 is, for example, 80 cm or more and 200 cm or less.

[0138] It is sufficient that each of the plurality of protective members 4 can cover the axial movement width of the laser LB in the direction along the first direction DR1, and each of the plurality of protective members 4 does not need to be longer than necessary. That is, as illustrated in Fig. 30 , when the movable range of the axis AT of the laser LB in the direction along the first direction DR1 in a plan view is defined as a first range RA1, it is preferable that the length and arrangement of each of the plurality of protective members 4 be set so that at least the entire first range RA1 can be crossed in the second direction DR2.

[0139] Conversely, it is not necessary for each of the multiple protective members 4 to extend to a position outside the first range RA1 in a plan view. From this perspective, in the example shown in Figure 11, the length L2 of the first protective member 4-1 along the first direction DR1 is shorter than the length L1 of the first transport plate 3-1 along the first direction DR1. For example, the length L2 of the first protective member 4-1 along the first direction DR1 is equal to or greater than the length of the above-mentioned first range RA1 (see Figure 30) and is shorter than the length L1 of the first transport plate 3-1 along the first direction DR1.

[0140] However, the length L2 may be equal to the length L1. Furthermore, depending on circumstances, such as when the side end of the first transport plate 3-1 is reinforced for attachment to the endless members (21, 22), the length L2 may be shorter than the length of the first range RA1 (see FIG. 30).

[0141] (Width of Protective Members 4) The width of each of the multiple protective members 4 in the second direction DR2 is shorter than the width of the corresponding transport plate 3 in the second direction DR2. For example, the width of the first protective member 4-1 is shorter than the width of the first transport plate 3-1, and the width of the second protective member 4-2 is shorter than the width of the second transport plate 3-2.

[0142] In the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh examples of the protective member 4 described above, the width W2 (see Figure 11) of the first protective member 4-1 in the direction along the first direction DR1 is, for example, 2 cm or more and 6 cm or less.

[0143] 31, the orbit OB of the group of transport plates 3 may include an upward slope CL that increases in height from the processing region RG1 toward the discharge region RG2. When the orbit OB includes an upward slope CL, it is easy to arrange, in the discharge region RG2, a container 13 that receives the dross D from the dross transport conveyor 2, or a second transport conveyor 15 (see FIG. 37, if necessary) that receives the dross D from the dross transport conveyor 2.

[0144] 1 , the laser processing apparatus 1A includes a dross transport conveyor 2A, a laser irradiation device 60, a moving device 7, and a control device 8. Additionally, the laser processing apparatus 1A may include a workpiece support member 90.

[0145] The dross transport conveyor 2A has already been explained, so a repeated explanation of the dross transport conveyor 2A will be omitted.

[0146] 32 , the laser irradiation device 60 has a laser head 61, and the laser head 61 has an emission port OP for emitting a laser. The laser irradiation device 60 may include a laser light source 63 and an optical component 65 (e.g., an optical fiber) that transmits a laser from the laser light source 63 to the laser head 61.

[0147] The moving device 7 moves the laser head 61 relative to the workpiece support member 90. The moving device 7 also moves the laser head 61 relative to the workpiece W supported by the workpiece support member 90. The workpiece W supported by the workpiece support member 90 is, for example, a plate material.

[0148] In the example shown in FIG. 32, the moving device 7 has a moving body (71a; 73a) that supports the laser head 61, and a driving device (71b; 73b) that moves the moving body (71a; 73a).

[0149] 32, the moving device 7 includes a first moving device 71. The first moving device 71 includes a first moving body 71a that supports the laser head 61, and a first driving device 71b (e.g., a first motor) that moves the first moving body 71a.

[0150] 32 , the first moving body 71a functions as a Z saddle, and the first driving device 71b functions as a Z-axis driving unit. The first driving device 71b moves the first moving body 71a in a direction parallel to the vertical direction (in other words, the Z-axis direction). More specifically, the first driving device 71b can move the first moving body 71a downward so that the first moving body 71a approaches the workpiece support member 90. The first driving device 71b can also move the first moving body 71a upward so that the first moving body 71a moves away from the workpiece support member 90.

[0151] 32 , the moving device 7 includes a second moving device 73. The second moving device 73 includes a second moving body 73 a and a second driving device 73 b (e.g., a second motor) that moves the second moving body 73 a. The second moving body 73 a supports the first moving body 71 a so that the first moving body 71 a can move in a direction parallel to the vertical direction.

[0152] 32, the second moving body 73a functions as a Y saddle, and the second driving device 73b functions as a Y-axis driving unit. The second driving device 73b moves the second moving body 73a in a direction parallel to the horizontal plane (more specifically, in the Y-axis direction).

[0153] 33 , the moving device 7 includes a third moving device 75. The third moving device 75 includes a third moving body 75a and a third driving device 75b (e.g., a third motor) that moves the third moving body 75a. The third moving body 75a supports the second moving body 73a so that the second moving body 73a can move in a direction parallel to the Y-axis direction.

[0154] 33, the third movable body 75a functions as an X saddle, and the third driving device 75b functions as an X-axis driving unit. The third driving device 75b moves the third movable body 75a in a direction parallel to the horizontal plane (more specifically, in the X-axis direction perpendicular to the Z-axis and Y-axis).

[0155] As illustrated in Fig. 32, the third movable body 75a may be configured as a gate-shaped structure. In the example illustrated in Fig. 33, the third movable body 75a is movable across the processing region RG1 in a plan view (in other words, when viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The third movable body 75a is supported by the base 70 so as to be movable in a direction parallel to the X-axis direction.

[0156] 34, the workpiece support member 90 includes a pin holder for supporting a workpiece W, which is a plate material. The pin holder has a plurality of tops 92 for supporting the workpiece W, which is a plate material.

[0157] 34, the workpiece support member 90 has a plurality of plate members 91 arranged in an upright position relative to a horizontal plane (for example, the XY plane in FIG. 34). Each of the plurality of plate members 91 has a sawtooth edge portion EG.

[0158] The workpiece support member 90 may have 10 or more plate members 91 arranged to stand on a horizontal plane, or may have 20 or more plate members 91 arranged to stand on a horizontal plane. Each plate member 91 is made of, for example, metal.

[0159] 34, the workpiece support member 90 is a movable pallet PT. The pallet PT has a plurality of plate members 91 and a frame 93 to which the plate members 91 are attached. The bottom of the frame 93 defines a bottom opening. Dross D generated by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB falls toward the dross transport conveyor 2A through the space between two adjacent plate members 91 and the bottom opening defined by the frame 93.

[0160] As illustrated in FIG. 35 , the laser processing apparatus 1A may include a transfer device 11 that transfers the workpiece support member 90. The transfer device 11 transfers the workpiece support member 90 from the processing region RG1 to the removal region RG3. Thereafter, the machined workpiece Wb (more specifically, the machined plate material) is removed from the workpiece support member 90 arranged in the removal region RG3. As illustrated in FIG. 36 , the removal may be performed using a suction cup 121 that can suction the machined workpiece Wb, or may be performed using a fork that can scoop up the machined workpiece Wb. Alternatively, the removal may be performed by a robot or an operator.

[0161] 36, the laser processing apparatus 1A has a workpiece transfer device 12 (e.g., a robot hand) that transfers the workpiece Wb before processing and the processed workpiece Wb. The workpiece transfer device 12 may be a plate material transfer device 12a that transfers the workpiece Wb, which is a plate material. The plate material transfer device 12a may have a plurality of suction cups 121 that adsorb the workpiece Wb, which is a plate material, or forks that support the workpiece Wb from below. Alternatively, the workpiece Wb before processing and the processed workpiece Wb may be transferred manually by an operator.

[0162] 1, the laser processing apparatus 1A has a container 13 that receives the dross D from the dross transport conveyor 2A. The container 13 is disposed directly below the dross transport conveyor 2A in the discharge region RG2.

[0163] The laser processing apparatus 1A may have a second transfer conveyor 15 that receives the dross D from the dross transport conveyor 2A. In the example shown in Fig. 37, the dross transport surface of the second transfer conveyor 15 is disposed directly below the dross transport conveyor 2A in the discharge area RG2. In the example shown in Fig. 37, the second transfer conveyor 15 transports the dross received from the dross transport conveyor 2A to the container 13.

[0164] 38, the control device 8 controls the laser irradiation device 60 and the moving device 7 (e.g., the first driving device 71b, the second driving device 73b, and the third driving device 75b). The control device 8 may also control the transfer device 11 (see FIG. 35) that transfers the work support member 90 and / or the work transfer device 12 (see FIG. 36) that transfers the work W. The control device 8 may also control the drive device 29 of the dross transport conveyor 2A.

[0165] 39 , the control device 8 transmits an emission command R1 to the laser irradiation device 60 (e.g., the laser light source 63), thereby causing the laser head 61 to emit the laser beam LB. More specifically, the control device 8 transmits the emission command R1 to the laser irradiation device 60 (e.g., the laser light source 63), and the laser irradiation device 60 that receives the emission command R1 emits the laser beam LB from the laser head 61 (more specifically, from the emission port of the laser head 61).

[0166] 39 , the control device 8 moves the laser head 61 by transmitting a movement command S to the moving device 7. More specifically, the control device 8 transmits the movement command S to the moving device 7, and the moving device 7 that receives the movement command S moves the laser head 61.

[0167] As illustrated in FIG. 39 , the control device 8 includes a hardware processor 80 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "processor 80"), a memory 82, a communication circuit 84, and an input device 86 (e.g., a touch-panel display 862). The processor 80, the memory 82, the communication circuit 84, and the input device 86 are connected to one another via a bus 88. Data necessary for machining the workpiece W (e.g., workpiece data 826 including shape data of the workpiece W and machining position data of the workpiece W) may be input to the control device 8 via the input device 86, or may be input to the control device 8 from another computer via the communication circuit 84. Note that the input device 86 is not limited to the touch-panel display 862. For example, the control device 8 may include an input device 86 such as a button, a switch, a lever, a pointing device, or a keyboard, and a display that displays the data input to the input device 86 or other information.

[0168] The memory 82 stores data such as workpiece data 826 and programs such as a machining program 822. The memory 82 is a storage medium readable by the processor 80 of the control device 8. The memory 82 may be, for example, a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as a RAM, a ROM, or a flash memory, a magnetic disk, or any other type of memory.

[0169] The processor 80 of the control device 8 executes the machining program 822 stored in the memory 82, causing the control device 8 to generate control commands. Furthermore, the communication circuit 84 transmits the control commands to the devices to be controlled (more specifically, the laser irradiation device 60, the moving device 7, the transport device 11, the workpiece transport device 12, the driving device 29, etc.). In this way, the processor 80 executes the machining program 822, allowing the control device 8 to control the laser irradiation device 60, the moving device 7, the transport device 11, the workpiece transport device 12, the driving device 29, etc.

[0170] The control device 8 may control the moving speed of the first group of transport plates 3 in conjunction with the control of at least one of the laser irradiation device 60 and the moving device 7 .

[0171] For example, the control device 8 may control the drive device 29 so that the first group of transport plates 3 moves at a first speed (a speed other than zero) when the laser irradiation device 60 stops emitting the laser LB, and may control the drive device 29 so that the first group of transport plates 3 moves at a second speed faster than the first speed when the laser irradiation device 60 emits the laser LB.

[0172] For example, the control device 8 may control the drive device 29 so that the movement speed of the first group of conveying plates 3 is changed depending on the magnitude of the output of the laser LB emitted by the laser irradiation device 60 or the type of processing performed by the laser irradiation device 60 (for example, whether it is drilling, cutting, etc.).

[0173] (Cooling Device 95) As illustrated in FIG. 40, the laser processing apparatus 1A may have a cooling device 95 that forcibly cools the group of transport plates 3.

[0174] For example, the laser processing apparatus 1A may include an air-cooling type cooling device 95a that blows air onto the group of transport plates 3. In the example shown in Fig. 40, the cooling device 95a has an air injection device 96 that blows air onto the back surface 3n of each of the group of transport plates 3. Alternatively, or additionally, the cooling device 95a may have an air injection device that blows air onto the transport surface 3u of each of the group of transport plates 3.

[0175] Alternatively, or additionally, the laser processing apparatus 1A may include a liquid-cooling type cooling device 95b that cools the group of transport plates 3 with liquid (e.g., water). In the example shown in Fig. 40, the cooling device 95b has a liquid tank 97 (e.g., a water tank) that is arranged so that the orbit of the group of transport plates 3 crosses it. The group of transport plates 3 is cooled by passing through the liquid (e.g., water) in the liquid tank 97. Furthermore, the liquid adhering to the surfaces of the group of transport plates 3 is vaporized by laser irradiation (heat of vaporization), thereby suppressing a rise in temperature of the transport plates 3.

[0176] Second Embodiment A dross transport conveyor 2B and a laser processing apparatus 1B according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 41 to 44. FIG. 41 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the laser processing apparatus 1B according to the second embodiment. FIG. 42 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the laser processing apparatus 1B according to the second embodiment. FIG. 43 is an exploded perspective view of a first transport plate 3-1 having a first protective member 4-1 attached thereto, a second transport plate 3-2 having a second protective member 4-2 attached thereto, and a third transport plate 3-3 having a third protective member 4-3 attached thereto. FIG. 44 is a schematic perspective view of a group of transport plates 3 including the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2 that can move along the orbit OB.

[0177] The dross transport conveyor 2B of the second embodiment differs from the dross transport conveyor 2A of the first embodiment in that each of the group of transport plates 3 is hingedly connected to the other transport plates.

[0178] In the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, repeated descriptions of matters already described in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that matters already described in the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment even if they are not explicitly described in the second embodiment. Conversely, all matters described in the second embodiment can be applied to the first embodiment.

[0179] In the example shown in Figures 41 and 42, the dross transport conveyor 2B in the second embodiment comprises: (1) a group of transport plates 3 including a first transport plate 3-1 extending in a first direction DR1 and a second transport plate 3-2 arranged adjacent to the first transport plate 3-1 and extending in the first direction DR1, and transporting dross generated by irradiating a laser onto a workpiece W; (2) a first protective member 4-1 covering at least a portion of the first transport surface 3u-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 and preventing the laser from reaching the first transport plate 3-1; and (3) a second protective member 4-2 covering at least a portion of the second transport surface 3u-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 and preventing the laser from reaching the second transport plate 3-2.

[0180] In the example shown in Figure 41, the laser processing apparatus 1B in the second embodiment includes the above-mentioned dross transport conveyor 2B, a laser irradiation device 60 including a laser head 61 that irradiates a laser toward the workpiece W, a moving device 7 that moves the laser head 61 relative to a workpiece support member 90 that supports the workpiece W, and a control device 8 that controls the laser irradiation device 60 and the moving device 7.

[0181] Therefore, the dross transport conveyor 2B and the laser processing device 1B in the second embodiment have the same effects as the dross transport conveyor 2A and the laser processing device 1A in the first embodiment.

[0182] As illustrated in Figure 43, the first rear end 3e-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 and the second front end 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 are hingedly connected. In the example shown in Figure 43, a rod (hereinafter referred to as the "second rod RD2") is arranged so that it passes through both the first rear end 3e-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 and the second front end 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2, thereby hinge-connecting the first rear end 3e-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 and the second front end 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2. Furthermore, a rod (hereinafter referred to as the "third rod RD3") is arranged so that it passes through both the second rear end 3e-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 and the third front end 3f-3 of the third transport plate 3-3, thereby hinge-connecting the second rear end 3e-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 and the third front end 3f-3 of the third transport plate 3-3.

[0183] (Optional Additional Configuration) Next, optional additional configurations that can be employed in the dross transport conveyor 2B and the laser processing apparatus 1B in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0184] In the example shown in Fig. 41, the first group of transport plates 3 transports dross from the processing region RG1 to the discharge region RG2. In the example shown in Fig. 41, each of the first group of transport plates 3 is reversed in the discharge region RG2 (more specifically, turned 180 degrees around the horizontal axis). As a result, the dross D transported by the first group of transport plates 3 is discharged from the first group of transport plates 3 in the discharge region RG2. Note that when the first group of transport plates 3 transports cut-off pieces CF (see Fig. 42), the cut-off pieces CF are also discharged from the first group of transport plates 3 in the discharge region RG2.

[0185] 44 , the dross transport conveyor 2B includes a first endless member 21 (more specifically, a first endless chain 21a), a second endless member 22 (more specifically, a second endless chain 22a), and a drive device 29. The first endless member 21 and the second endless member 22 support a group of transport plates 3. More specifically, the group of transport plates 3 is attached to the first endless member 21 and the second endless member 22.

[0186] The first endless member 21 and the second endless member 22 are driven directly or indirectly by a driving device 29. The first endless member 21, the second endless member 22, and the driving device 29 have already been described in the first embodiment, so a repeated description of these configurations will be omitted.

[0187] (First group of transport plates 3) The first group of transport plates 3 moves along an orbital path OB. As illustrated in Fig. 44, the orbital path OB of the first group of transport plates 3 is parallel to the first orbital path B1 of the first endless chain 21a and parallel to the second orbital path B2 of the second endless chain 22a. In the example shown in Fig. 41, the first group of transport plates 3 are arranged in a connected manner to form a circular transport body.

[0188] The length of each of the group of transport plates 3 is, for example, 1 m or more and 3 m or less. The width of each of the group of transport plates 3 is, for example, 4 cm or more and 20 cm or less. The plate thickness of each of the group of transport plates 3 (more specifically, the plate thickness of the middle portion 3 m of each of the group of transport plates 3) is, for example, 10 mm or less or 5 mm or less. Each of the group of transport plates 3 is made of metal. Each of the group of transport plates 3 is made of, for example, steel, more specifically, hot-rolled mild steel plate, cold-rolled steel plate, or cold-rolled stainless steel plate.

[0189] Of the group of transport plates 3, the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2 will be described as representatives.

[0190] In the example shown in Figure 43, the first transport plate 3-1 has a first front end 3f-1, a first rear end 3e-1, and a first intermediate portion 3m-1 disposed between the first front end 3f-1 and the first rear end 3e-1. The first front end 3f-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is formed with a plurality of front receiving portions 30f-1 (more specifically, a plurality of through-holes into which the first rod RD1 is inserted) for receiving a rod (hereinafter referred to as the "first rod RD1"). The first rear end 3e-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 is formed with a plurality of rear receiving portions 30e-1 (more specifically, a plurality of through-holes into which the second rod RD2 is inserted) for receiving a second rod RD2. In the example shown in Figure 43, the first intermediate portion 3m-1 of the first transport plate 3-1 has a first flat portion FP1 extending in the first direction DR1.

[0191] In the example shown in Figure 43, the second transport plate 3-2 has a second front end 3f-2, a second rear end 3e-2, and a second intermediate portion 3m-2 disposed between the second front end 3f-2 and the second rear end 3e-2. The second front end 3f-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 is formed with a plurality of front receiving portions 30f-2 (more specifically, a plurality of through-holes into which the second rod RD2 is inserted) for receiving the second rod RD2. The second rear end 3e-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 is formed with a plurality of rear receiving portions 30e-2 (more specifically, a plurality of through-holes into which the third rod RD3 is inserted) for receiving the third rod RD3. In the example shown in Figure 43, the second intermediate portion 3m-2 of the second transport plate 3-2 has a second flat portion FP2 extending in the first direction DR1.

[0192] (Multiple Protective Members 4) As illustrated in Figure 42, the dross transport conveyor 2B is equipped with multiple protective members 4, including a first protective member 4-1, a second protective member 4-2, and a third protective member 4-3. Each of the multiple protective members 4 covers at least a portion of the transport surface of the corresponding transport plate 3, preventing the laser LB from reaching the transport plate 3. Each of the multiple protective members 4 extends along the first direction DR1. Each of the multiple protective members 4 is attached directly or indirectly to the corresponding transport plate 3. It is preferable that a protective member 4 be attached to each of all of the transport plates 3 in a group.

[0193] The multiple protective members 4 of the dross transport conveyor 2B in the second embodiment can be the multiple protective members 4 described in the first embodiment. More specifically, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh examples of the protective members 4 described in the first embodiment can be used in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the description of the multiple protective members 4 will be referenced, and repeated description of the multiple protective members 4 will be omitted.

[0194] 41 , the laser processing apparatus 1B includes a dross transport conveyor 2B, a laser irradiation device 60, a moving device 7, and a control device 8. Additionally, the laser processing apparatus 1B may include a workpiece support member 90. The laser irradiation device 60, the moving device 7, the control device 8, and the workpiece support member 90 have already been described in the first embodiment, and therefore, repeated description of these configurations will be omitted.

[0195] (Third embodiment) A workpiece machining method according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 45. Figure 45 is a flowchart showing an example of the workpiece machining method according to the third embodiment.

[0196] The workpiece processing method in the third embodiment may be performed using the laser processing apparatus 1A in the first embodiment, the laser processing apparatus 1B in the second embodiment, or any other laser processing apparatus.

[0197] In the first step ST1, the workpiece W is machined. The first step ST1 is a workpiece machining process. In the workpiece machining process, the workpiece W is machined by irradiating the workpiece W with a laser LB. More specifically, the workpiece W is machined by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB from the laser head 61 of the laser irradiation device 60. The wavelength of the laser LB emitted from the laser head 61 of the laser irradiation device 60 is, for example, not less than 1060 nm and not more than 1080 nm.

[0198] The workpiece W to be machined in the workpiece machining process (first step ST1) is, for example, a plate material. The workpiece machining process may include laser cutting the workpiece W by moving a laser head 61 that emits a laser beam LB. The workpiece machining process may also include laser perforating the workpiece W by emitting a laser beam LB from a laser head 61 that is temporarily stationary. A product (for example, a plate product) is formed from the workpiece W by machining the workpiece W with the laser beam LB.

[0199] In the workpiece machining process (first step ST1), dross D is generated from the workpiece W by irradiating the workpiece W with a laser LB. Additionally, cutting pieces CF may be generated from the workpiece W by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB. The generated dross D and / or cutting pieces CF fall downward in the machining region RG1. The dross D and / or cutting pieces CF that fall downward are received by the dross transport conveyor 2.

[0200] In the workpiece machining process (first step ST1), the laser LB passing through the workpiece W reaches the dross transport conveyor 2. The laser LB reaching the dross transport conveyor 2 raises the temperature of a group of transport plates 3 including the first transport plate 3-1 and the second transport plate 3-2. The first transport plate 3-1, the second transport plate 3-2, etc. are deformed due to thermal expansion.

[0201] In the second step ST2, the dross D is transported. The second step ST2 is a dross transport process. In the dross transport process, the dross D generated by irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB is transported using a group of transport plates 3 including a first transport plate 3-1 extending in the first direction DR1 and a second transport plate 3-2 arranged adjacent to the first transport plate 3-1 and extending in the first direction DR1. More specifically, the group of transport plates 3 transports the dross D from the processing region RG1 to the discharge region RG2.

[0202] The second step ST2 (dross transport step) is performed in parallel with the first step ST1 (workpiece machining step). More specifically, while the dross transport conveyor 2 is being driven (in other words, while a group of transport plates 3 is moving along the circular orbit OB), the laser irradiator 60 irradiates the workpiece W with a laser LB. By irradiating the workpiece W with the laser LB, dross D and / or cut-off pieces CF are intermittently or continuously generated, and the generated dross D and / or cut-off pieces CF are sequentially transported by the dross transport conveyor 2.

[0203] In the examples shown in Figures 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, or 42, the workpiece machining process (the process of machining the workpiece W) is performed in a state in which the laser LB is prevented from reaching the first transport plate 3-1 by the first protective member 4-1, which covers at least a portion of the first transport surface 3u-1 of the first transport plate 3-1. In other words, the workpiece machining process (the process of machining the workpiece W) is performed in a state in which the heat input to the first transport plate 3-1 caused by laser irradiation is prevented by the first protective member 4-1. Therefore, although the first transport plate 3-1 is thermally deformed due to the laser reaching at least the first protective member 4-1, significant thermal deformation that would result in thermoplastic deformation is prevented.

[0204] In the examples shown in Figures 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, or 42, the workpiece machining process (the process of machining the workpiece W) is performed in a state in which the laser beam LB is prevented from reaching the second transport plate 3-2 by the second protective member 4-2, which covers at least a portion of the second transport surface 3u-2 of the second transport plate 3-2. In other words, the workpiece machining process (the process of machining the workpiece W) is performed in a state in which the heat input to the second transport plate 3-2 caused by the laser irradiation is prevented by the second protective member 4-2. Therefore, although the second transport plate 3-2 is thermally deformed due to the laser beam reaching at least the second protective member 4-2, significant thermal deformation that would result in thermoplastic deformation is prevented.

[0205] In the third step ST3, the first group of transport plates 3 is cooled. The third step ST3 is a cooling step. The cooling step (third step ST3) is performed by, for example, natural cooling. More specifically, the cooling step is performed by leaving the first group of transport plates 3 at room temperature after the processing of the workpieces W is completed.

[0206] Additionally, the cooling step may include forcibly cooling the group of transport plates 3 using at least one of an air-cooling type cooling device 95a and a liquid-cooling type cooling device 95b. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 40, the cooling step may include an air-cooling type cooling device 95a blowing air onto the group of transport plates 3. Alternatively, or additionally, the cooling step may include passing the group of transport plates 3 through a liquid (e.g., water) in a liquid bath 97. Furthermore, the cooling step may include a liquid-cooling type cooling device 95b spraying liquid (e.g., water) onto the group of transport plates 3.

[0207] Forced cooling of a group of transport plates 3 using at least one of an air-cooled cooling device 95a and a liquid-cooled cooling device 95b may be carried out in parallel with the workpiece processing process (first step ST1) and the dross transport process (second step ST2).

[0208] In the workpiece processing method of the third embodiment, the thermoplastic deformation of the first transport plate 3-1 is suppressed, so that the first transport plate 3-1 returns to its original shape before thermal deformation after being cooled in the cooling process. Furthermore, in the workpiece processing method of the third embodiment, the thermoplastic deformation of the second transport plate 3-2 is suppressed, so that the second transport plate 3-2 returns to its original shape before thermal deformation after being cooled in the cooling process. By repeatedly performing the first step ST1 to the third step ST3 described above, some plastic deformation may occur in each of the group of transport plates 3, but plastic deformation to the extent that it would interfere with the operation of the dross transport conveyor 2 is avoided.

[0209] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments or modifications, and it is clear that each embodiment or modification can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, various techniques used in each embodiment or modification can be applied to other embodiments or modifications as long as no technical contradiction occurs. Furthermore, optional additional configurations in each embodiment or modification can be omitted as appropriate.

[0210] 1, 1A, 1B... laser processing device, 2, 2A, 2B... dross transport conveyor, 3... transport plate, 3-1... first transport plate, 3-2... second transport plate, 3-3... third transport plate, 3-N... transport plate, 3a, 3a-1, 3a-2, 3a-3... left end, 3b, 3b-1, 3b-2, 3b-3... right end, 3e... rear end, 3e-1... first rear end, 3e-2... second rear end, 3e-3... third rear end, 3f... front end, 3f-1... first front end, 3f-2... second front end, 3f-3... third front end, 3m... intermediate portion, 3m-1... first intermediate portion, 3m-2... second intermediate portion, 3 m-3...third intermediate portion, 3n...rear surface, 3n-1...first rear surface, 3n-2...second rear surface, 3u...transport surface, 3u-1...first transport surface, 3u-2...second transport surface, 3u-3...third transport surface, 4...protective member, 4-1...first protective member, 4-2...second protective member, 4-3...third protective member, 4a-1...first end portion, 4b-1...second end portion, 4h...opening, 4h-1...first opening, 4h-2...second opening, 4m-1...longitudinal center portion, 4m-2...longitudinal center portion, 7...moving device, 8...control device, 11...transport device, 12...workpiece transport device, 12a...plate material transport device, 13...container, 15...second transport container Bearing, 21...first endless member, 21a...first endless chain, 22...second endless member, 22a...second endless chain, 28...sprocket, 28a...first sprocket, 28b...second sprocket, 28c...third sprocket, 28d...fourth sprocket, 29...driving device, 30e-1, 30e-2...rear receiving portion, 30f-1, 30f-2...front receiving portion, 41-1...first plate portion, 41-2...third plate portion, 42-1...second plate portion, 42-2...fourth plate portion, 43-1...first bent portion, 43-2...second bent portion, 44-1...rear plate portion, 45-1...first cover portion, 45-2...second cover portion , 46, 46-1, 46-2...heat insulating material, 47-1...bending portion, 48-1, 48-2...base material, 49-1, 49-2...laser reflective layer, 60...laser irradiation device, 61...laser head, 63...laser light source, 65...optical component, 70...base, 71...first moving device, 71a...first moving body, 71b...first driving device, 73...second moving device, 73a...second moving body, 73b...second driving device, 75...third moving device, 75a...third moving body, 75b...third driving device, 80...hardware processor, 82...memory, 84...communication circuit, 86...input device, 88...bus, 90...work support member,91...plate member, 92...top portion, 93...frame body, 95, 95a, 95b...cooling device, 96...air injection device, 97...liquid tank, 121...suction cup, 822...machining program, 826...workpiece data, 862...touch panel display, AL, AL1, AL2...air layer, B1...first orbit, B2...second orbit, BA, BA1, BA2, BB, BB1, BB2...bent portion, BT...bolt, CF...cut-off piece, CP...curved portion, CP1...first curved portion, CP2...second curved portion, D...dross, EG...edge portion, EP...rear End, FP1...first flat plate portion, FP2...second flat plate portion, J1...welded portion, LB...laser, OB...circulating orbit, OP...injection port, PT...pallet, R1...injection command, RD1...first rod, RD2...second rod, RD3...third rod, RG1...processing area, RG2...discharge area, RG3...removal area, S...movement command, S1...dross support surface, S2...dross support surface, SP1...first receiving space, SR1...structure, TP...standing portion, TP1...first standing portion, TP2...second standing portion, W...work, Wb...machined work, h1, h2...hole portion,

Claims

1. A dross conveyor comprising a first conveying plate extending in a first direction and a second conveying plate disposed adjacent to the first conveying plate and extending in the first direction, the first group of conveying plates for conveying dross generated by irradiating a workpiece with a laser; a first protection member covering at least a part of a first conveying surface of the first conveying plate to suppress the laser from reaching the first conveying plate; and a second protection member covering at least a part of a second conveying surface of the second conveying plate to suppress the laser from reaching the second conveying plate.

2. The dross conveyor according to claim 1, wherein a rear end portion of the first conveying plate is arranged to overlap a front end portion of the second conveying plate.

3. The dross conveyor according to claim 1, wherein a rear end portion of the first conveying plate and a front end portion of the second conveying plate are hinged.

4. The dross conveyor according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first protection member has a first cover portion covering at least a part of a front end portion of the first conveying plate or at least a part of the front end portion of the second conveying plate.

5. The dross conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first protection member has a first plate portion, a second plate portion, and a first bending portion disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and extending in the first direction; and the second protection member has a third plate portion, a fourth plate portion, and a second bending portion disposed between the third plate portion and the fourth plate portion and extending in the first direction.

6. The dross conveyor according to claim 5, wherein the first plate portion is disposed in contact with the first conveying plate, the second plate portion rises in a direction away from the first conveying plate, the third plate portion is disposed in contact with the second conveying plate, and the fourth plate portion rises in a direction away from the second conveying plate.

7. The dross conveyor according to claim 6, wherein a first receiving space for receiving the dross is formed between the second plate portion of the first protection member and the fourth plate portion of the second protection member.

8. The dross conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a laser reflectivity of a dross support surface of the first protection member is higher than a laser reflectivity of the first conveying surface of the first conveying plate.

9. The dross conveying conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein an air layer or a heat insulating material is interposed between the first conveying plate and the first protective member.

10. The dross conveying conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first protective member is configured to bend in a direction away from the first conveying plate in response to irradiation of the laser on the first protective member.

11. The dross conveying conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first protective member is welded to the first conveying plate.

12. One group of the conveying plates is configured to convey the dross from a processing area to a discharge area by moving along a circumferential orbit, and the circumferential orbit includes an ascending slope with an increasing height from the processing area toward the discharge area. The dross conveying conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A laser processing apparatus comprising: a laser irradiation device including a laser head that irradiates a laser toward a workpiece; a moving device that relatively moves the laser head with respect to a workpiece support member that supports the workpiece; a control device that controls the laser irradiation device and the moving device; and a dross conveying conveyor. The dross conveying conveyor includes a first conveying plate extending in a first direction, and a second conveying plate disposed adjacent to the first conveying plate and extending in the first direction, and is a group of conveying plates that convey dross generated by irradiating the laser on the workpiece. A first protective member that covers at least a part of the first conveying surface of the first conveying plate and suppresses the laser from reaching the first conveying plate; and a second protective member that covers at least a part of the second conveying surface of the second conveying plate and suppresses the laser from reaching the second conveying plate.

14. The laser processing apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising a cooling device that forcibly cools one group of the conveying plates.

15. A step of processing the workpiece by irradiating the workpiece with a laser, and a step of conveying dross generated by irradiating the workpiece with the laser using a group of conveying plates including a first conveying plate extending in a first direction and a second conveying plate extending in the first direction and disposed adjacent to the first conveying plate. The step of processing the workpiece is performed in a state where the laser is suppressed from reaching the first conveying plate by a first protection member that covers at least a part of a first conveying surface of the first conveying plate, and in a state where the laser is suppressed from reaching the second conveying plate by a second protection member that covers at least a part of a second conveying surface of the second conveying plate. Workpiece processing method.

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