Laser processing machine and laser processing method

Abstract

The invention relates to a laser processing head (1) for laser processing a workpiece, comprising a first bearing seat (3) in which a shaft (4) is pivotably received, wherein the shaft (4) and the laser processing head (1) are coupled in such a way that pivoting the shaft (4) causes the laser processing head (1) to pivot, and the shaft (4) has a first form-fitting means (5) which can be interlockingly coupled to a second form-fitting means (6) of a first fixing unit (7) in such a way that the shaft (4) is prevented from being pivoted with respect to the first bearing seat (3).

Description

[0001] Laser processing machine and laser processing process

[0002] The present invention relates to a laser processing machine for laser processing a workpiece, comprising a laser processing head and a first bearing seat in which a shaft is pivotably mounted. The shaft and the laser processing head are coupled such that pivoting of the processing head causes pivoting of the shaft, and vice versa. The invention further relates to a method for laser processing a workpiece using such a laser processing machine.

[0003] A laser processing machine is a device, generally known from the prior art, that uses a high-power laser beam to, for example, cut, weld, drill, modify the surface properties, or engrave various materials. Such laser processing machines usually have a laser processing head that is responsible for focusing the laser beam onto the workpiece to be processed. The laser processing head is movable relative to the workpiece, or vice versa. The laser processing head usually receives the laser beam from an external beam source and modifies it so that it is suitable for processing materials. For this purpose, for example, a laser beam emerging divergently from a transport fiber coupled to the laser processing head is collimated by one or more collimating lenses.A focusing optics system then focuses the laser beam onto the workpiece. The laser processing head typically also features one or more nozzles that direct a process gas or an auxiliary gas onto the processing location, for example, to remove molten or vaporized material from the cutting gap during laser cutting or to prevent oxidation of the workpiece during welding. On the exit side of the laser beam from the laser processing head facing the workpiece, there are usually one or more protective glasses that protect the internal components and optics of the laser processing head from contamination during the processing process. Cooling is also often present to ensure that the temperature of the components of the laser processing head remains within specified limits to prevent distortion of the laser beam or damage to the components.

[0004] So-called 2D laser cutting machines are known from the prior art as a form of laser processing machine with which both vertical and angled edges can be cut in a plate-shaped workpiece. To achieve this, it is necessary that the processing beam can be aligned not only vertically, but also at an angle to the (flat) workpiece surface. For this purpose, it is known, for example, to arrange a rotating or pivoting device for the laser processing head on the movement unit of the laser cutting machine, by means of which the laser processing head can be rotated about a first axis (A axis) and, if necessary, about a second axis (B axis) that is not aligned parallel to the first.

[0005] The basic problem with such a machine with one or two additional rotary axes for the machining head is that the rotary drives lead to an increase in mass in the vicinity of the machining head or the tool center point, which in the case of a straight cut in which the head is aligned perpendicular to the workpiece surface, may lead to a significant reduction in the dynamics and thus the productivity of the (cutting) machining, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0006] The precision and quality of laser cutting are significantly influenced by the stability and accuracy of the machine movements, as well as the interaction of the laser beam with the material. Increasing the dynamics of a laser cutting machine—that is, the acceleration and processing speed—can lead to various technical challenges that can lead to a reduction in cutting accuracy.

[0007] As speed and acceleration increase during the laser cutting process, vibrations in the machine's mechanical system can increase. These vibrations can subsequently be transmitted to the cutting head and lead to deviations in the laser beam position during the cutting process. The tendency toward vibration generally increases with increasing mass and the resulting inertia of the laser processing head.

[0008] Backlash in the axis bearing of a laser processing head is crucial for the precision of the cutting process. Backlash can lead to a number of problems during high-speed movement of the laser cutting head, affecting both processing speed and quality. When the cutting head is moving, especially during rapid changes of direction, a lack of rigidity resulting from backlash can cause the laser beam to move slowly relative to the programmed path, potentially resulting in an uneven cutting edge. Especially with fine contours or complex cuts, this can result in the actual cutting line not exactly following the programmed path. Furthermore, the presence of backlash can impair the dynamic positioning accuracy of the laser head.This necessitates a reduction in positioning and cutting speed to enable more precise cutting, which in turn reduces machine productivity. Similar problems can also occur in other highly dynamic machining processes, such as marking or welding.

[0009] It is therefore the object of the invention to avoid or at least reduce the problems known from the prior art and to provide an improved laser processing machine so that, in particular, an increased processing speed can be achieved during the laser processing of a component.

[0010] This object is achieved by a laser processing machine for laser processing a workpiece comprising a laser processing head and a first bearing seat in which a shaft is pivotably received, wherein the shaft and the laser processing head are coupled in such a way that pivoting of the shaft causes pivoting of the laser processing head and vice versa, wherein the shaft has a first positive locking means which can be positively coupled to a second positive locking means of a locking unit in such a way that pivoting of the shaft relative to the first bearing seat is prevented.

[0011] This has the advantage that moments of inertia that arise during the acceleration of the laser processing head can be absorbed and dissipated via a positive locking mechanism.

[0012] For example, it is possible to use a 2D laser cutting machine with an inclined laser processing head to produce angled cutting edges or cutting edges with a bevel, while also cutting vertical cutting edges with a fixed processing head with higher machine dynamics. This means that a laser cutting system with an angled cutting device can be operated just as productively for straight cutting as a "traditional" 2D laser cutting system.

[0013] Preferably, the first positive locking means and the second positive locking means are designed such that the laser processing head can be locked at a 90° angle to the workpiece by the first locking unit. This alignment of the laser processing head and the workpiece then results in the aforementioned straight cut.

[0014] The design and programming of the motion control of the laser processing head and / or the laser cutting machine can also be simplified by the invention, since the corresponding control software does not have to be designed to compensate for rotation angle deviations of the laser processing head caused by a torsional angle play during operation of the laser cutting machine.

[0015] Preferably, the positive engagement between the first positive engagement means and the second positive engagement means has a torsional backlash of <0.5°, preferably <0.1°, particularly preferably <0.03°. This enables the absorption of high torques, which enables very good contour accuracy and thus high quality of the cutting edges during dynamic movement of the machining head.

[0016] It is further particularly preferable that the positive connection between the first positive connection means and the second positive connection means has no torsional play, i.e. is designed to be free of play.

[0017] The first form-locking means and the second form-locking means are designed in such a way that torques of >10 Nm can be transmitted via their form-locking.

[0018] The laser processing machine preferably has two mutually perpendicular axes of rotation for the laser processing head. The use of two mutually perpendicular axes of rotation, both of which are aligned horizontally, particularly in a basic position of the laser processing head, enables the laser beam to be tilted in two spatial directions.

[0019] Preferably, a rotation axis of the laser processing head is arranged perpendicular to the Y-travel direction and axially parallel to the X-travel direction of the laser processing head.

[0020] The laser processing head is a component of a laser processing machine that is responsible for focusing and aligning the laser beam onto the component to be processed.

[0021] The laser processing head is preferably coupled to a mechanical movement device, by means of which the laser processing head can be moved relative to a workpiece. The mechanical movement device of the laser cutting machine can enable movement of the laser processing head along an X-axis and a Y-axis perpendicular thereto, parallel to the workpiece support plane. It can also be further provided that the mechanical movement device enables a movement, in particular a linear movement, of the laser processing head along a Z-axis that runs perpendicular to the X-axis and / or Y-axis. For this purpose, the mechanical movement device can preferably have one or more linear guides, which are then each aligned in one of the axial directions (X-, Y-, Z-axis).

[0022] Advantageously, the mechanical movement device is operatively connected to at least one drive unit, by means of which a movement of the laser processing head can be effected through the kinematics predefined via the mechanical movement device. Each movement axis of the mechanical movement device can also have an individually assigned drive unit. Thus, it is preferred that a separate (X) drive unit is provided for moving the laser processing head along the X-axis and / or a separate (Y) drive unit is provided for moving the laser processing head along the Y-axis and / or a separate (Z) drive unit is provided for moving the laser processing head along the Z-axis, which enables a correspondingly precise and dynamic movement of the laser processing head relative to the workpiece.

[0023] The drive units and the mechanical movement device are configured, for example, so that the laser processing head can be moved at a maximum speed of 100 m / min along the X-axis, at a maximum speed of 100 m / min along the Y-axis and / or at a maximum speed of 80 m / min along the Z-axis.

[0024] The drive units and the mechanical movement device are further preferably configured so that the laser processing head can be moved with a maximum acceleration of 7 m / s 2 along the X-axis, with a maximum acceleration of 7 m / s 2 along the Y-axis and / or with a maximum acceleration of 17 m / s 2 is movable along the Z-axis.

[0025] The laser processing head typically has a housing that primarily serves as a structural support and protective cover, within which the sensitive optical components, such as lenses and mirrors, required to shape the laser beam are housed. The housing structure preferably has high rigidity to ensure the positioning accuracy of the focused laser beam, while also being sufficiently thermally stable to prevent unwanted deformations due to heat generation.

[0026] Furthermore, the housing can have a mechanical coupling to the rotating or holding device for pivoting the laser processing head about the A-axis and / or B-axis.

[0027] The pivot axes run approximately centrally through the longitudinal extension of the laser processing head and, in particular, through the center of gravity of the laser processing head. Since, in this preferred embodiment, the center of gravity of the laser head is located on the rotation axis, the inertial forces that arise during movement of the laser processing head are minimized. This is particularly important for rapid changes in direction of the laser processing head or when high travel speeds of the laser processing head are to be achieved.

[0028] The bearing seat for a shaft coupled to the laser processing head is a component of the mechanical structure of a laser processing machine. The bearing seat is designed to accommodate a shaft that also rotates during the rotational movement of the laser processing head. In an advantageous embodiment, the laser processing head is mounted at one end of the shaft. The bearing seat can be designed, for example, as a cylindrical opening in the mechanical structure of the laser processing machine, through which the shaft extends at least in sections.

[0029] A rolling bearing or plain bearing can be placed in the bearing seat to accommodate the shaft.

[0030] The shaft coupled to the laser processing head rotates around an axis when the laser processing head pivots. Locking this shaft prevents the laser processing head from pivoting.

[0031] Preferably, the shaft has a circular cross-sectional contour in cross-section.

[0032] It may also be preferred for the shaft to be formed from a metallic material. To achieve weight optimization, it may be advantageous to construct the shaft from aluminum. In principle, it is also conceivable in this context to construct the shaft from a plastic, in particular a fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0033] The shaft can preferably be designed as a hollow shaft, which on the one hand allows components to be passed through the hollow shaft and on the other hand enables a reduction in weight, which also has a positive effect on the machine dynamics of the laser processing machine.

[0034] It is also possible to construct the shaft in one piece or in multiple parts. In this case, it is preferred that, in a multi-part shaft, the individual shaft parts are connected to each other in the circumferential direction with essentially no play.

[0035] The shaft can also have a surface profile, at least in sections. For example, it would be conceivable for the shaft to have a toothed profile.

[0036] The first form-locking means arranged on the shaft serves as a component of the locking mechanism for the shaft coupled to the laser processing head. The first form-locking means can be integrated directly into the shaft or firmly connected to it in order to ensure a high level of strength and precision of the connection. The first form-locking means can preferably be selected, for example, from a group comprising teeth, grooves, recesses and / or projections, each of which is dimensioned and positioned such that it allows a precise fit with the corresponding second form-locking means. According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the first form-locking means of the shaft is designed as a radially inwardly directed recess into which the second form-locking means engages when the first locking unit is in a locked operating state.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the inwardly directed recess can be designed as a blind hole. Furthermore, the blind hole can be provided with an internal thread. This makes it possible to form a detachable screw connection between the positive locking means using a correspondingly shaped second positive locking means with a corresponding external thread.

[0038] According to a further preferred development of the invention, the inwardly directed recess can also be designed as a conical or truncated cone bore. This makes it possible, in particular, to achieve a play-free positive connection between the first and second positive-locking means, even if the positive-locking means have manufacturing-related tolerances.

[0039] The recess can, for example, be designed as a hole.

[0040] As an alternative to a recess, it would also be possible, in principle, for the first positive locking element of the shaft to be designed as a radially outwardly directed elevation, which engages with the second positive locking element when the first locking unit is in a locked operating state. For example, the elevation could be designed as a pin, particularly a cylindrical one.

[0041] Furthermore, according to a similarly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first form-locking means can be fixed to the shaft as a separate component in a rotationally fixed manner. This allows alignment of the form-locking means during assembly of the laser processing machine and thus compensation for manufacturing tolerances. In this context, it is preferable for the separate component to be fixed to the shaft without play, particularly in the circumferential direction.

[0042] According to a further particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the separate component can be designed as a ring, in particular as a clamping ring, wherein the ring has a radially inward-facing recess or a radially outward-facing elevation. Clamping rings in particular enable easy assembly and disassembly without additional mechanical machining of the shaft. They can be pushed directly onto the shaft and fastened using screws or other clamping elements. Clamping rings also offer an even distribution of the holding force around the circumference of the shaft. This avoids point loads that could lead to material fatigue or damage. Due to the frictional force acting along the entire contact surface of the clamping ring, high torques can be transmitted without any relative movement occurring between the shaft and the clamping ring.Furthermore, a clamping ring can be moved into the desired position along the shaft in the axial and / or circumferential direction and then fixed, which allows precise adjustment of the position of the clamping ring.

[0043] Thus, it is preferred that the ring is configured as a clamping ring that is arranged force-fittingly on the shaft.

[0044] In principle, it is also possible for the ring to be designed as a gear that is non-rotatably mounted on the shaft. In this case, a tooth of the gear can act as the first positive locking means, or the tooth gap between two circumferentially adjacent teeth can act as the first positive locking means.

[0045] In a further preferred embodiment of the subject matter of the invention, the first positive locking means is formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with the shaft. With a one-piece design of the first positive locking means with the shaft, there are no weak points between the positive locking means and the shaft, such as screw connections or keyways that could represent a potential source of play or breakage. Because it is a single component, the tolerances that would normally occur between two separate parts are eliminated. This can help enable more precise positioning, which is advantageous in applications where high precision is important. Without the need to assemble separate parts, assembly steps are also eliminated, which can reduce production time and costs.

[0046] Thus, according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it would be possible for the shaft to have a recess, such as a blind hole or a conical bore.

[0047] The second positive locking means is designed to engage with the first positive locking means to block or lock the shaft from rotating. This engagement can be triggered, for example, by various mechanisms such as springs, pneumatic or hydraulic systems, manual levers, or electric actuators. Once activated, the elements of the second positive locking means engage with those of the first, thus creating a fixed connection that prevents rotation of the shaft. This locking is provided, in particular, to secure the position of the laser processing head in a predefined position during operation.

[0048] To achieve the positive locking, it may be preferable for the second positive locking means to be displaced along a translational movement path. In principle, it would also be conceivable to displace the second positive locking means along a rotational movement path, for example, by means of a pivoting lever on which the second positive locking means is arranged.

[0049] Furthermore, the invention can also be further developed such that the second positive locking means has an engagement region that engages with the first positive locking means when the first locking unit is in the locked operating state, wherein the engagement region is conical or truncated cone-shaped. Conical or truncated cone-shaped engagement regions enable self-centering of the second positive locking means when engaging with the first positive locking means. This self-centering leads to an even distribution of the holding forces and to precise alignment of the locking elements, which is important for high accuracy and repeatability in positioning. The conical shape can also compensate for small manufacturing tolerances or wear, since the engagement region offers a certain flexibility in adapting to the corresponding counterpart.

[0050] In particular, if the first form-locking element is also conical or truncated cone-shaped, this shape can increase the contact area between the form-locking elements. A larger surface area distributes the loads better and reduces the specific pressure on the contact areas, resulting in a longer service life of the fasteners.

[0051] In a likewise preferred embodiment of the invention, the second positive locking means can be designed as a pin that is guided for linear displacement relative to the first positive locking means. The linear guidance of the pin enables very precise and controlled movement. The pin design also enables a slim and space-saving design of the locking mechanism, which is advantageous in confined spaces.

[0052] Alternatively, the pin can also have an external thread and be rotatable about its longitudinal axis. This allows a screw connection to be formed with a correspondingly designed first positive locking means with an internal thread.

[0053] In this context, it can also be advantageous if the pin has a stop section protruding from its outer surface, by means of which the linear displacement of the pin can be mechanically limited in at least one direction. The stop section thus serves as a mechanical limit, ensuring that the pin cannot be displaced beyond a certain point. The stop section also enables particularly precise control of the pin's displacement path.

[0054] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can also be provided that the second form-locking means of the locking unit is designed as an axially inwardly directed recess into which the first form-locking means designed as an elevation engages in a locked operating state of the locking unit.

[0055] It may also be advantageous to design the invention such that the second positive locking means is fixed in an axially extending opening of the piston. The integration of the second positive locking means, in particular the pin, into the piston can lead to a compact design, since no additional mechanisms are required for moving the pin. It can also be provided that the second positive locking means is formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with the piston. A one-piece or monolithic design means there are no separate parts that could become detached from one another due to wear or mechanical stress. With a one-piece construction, there are no manufacturing tolerances between different components, which can lead to a more precise fit and greater functional accuracy.Since the second form-locking element is already part of the piston, assembly steps that would be necessary for separate parts are eliminated, which simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces assembly time.

[0056] It may also be advantageous to further develop the invention such that the second positive locking means can be transferred via an actuator into a locked operating state, in which pivoting of the shaft is prevented, and into an unlocked operating state, in which pivoting of the shaft is permitted. Actuators can quickly change the switching states between locked and unlocked, thereby making it possible to quickly enable or prevent the rotational movement of the laser processing head. The integration of an actuator also makes it possible to control the change between the operating states of the laser processing head from a control unit.

[0057] An actuator can, in particular, be selected from a group comprising electric actuators, in particular electric motors, electric solenoids, hydraulic actuators, and / or pneumatic actuators. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the actuator to provide translational or rotational motion kinematics for actuating the second form-locking means.

[0058] The actuator can be part of a drive unit which, in addition to the actuator, comprises further components such as an actuator mechanism, a control system, a drive housing and / or a sensor unit.

[0059] The actuator can be connected to an actuator mechanism, by means of which kinematics and / or force are transmitted from the actuator to the second positive locking means. In particular, an actuator mechanism can have a gear unit. The gear unit can have one or more gears selected from a group comprising threaded spindle drives, spur gears, bevel gears, and / or planetary gears.

[0060] According to a further embodiment of the subject matter of the invention, the actuator can be designed as a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator in which a piston, which can be displaced by means of a fluid, is guided in a cylinder for linear displacement, and the second positive locking means is coupled to the piston of the actuator. This allows, in particular, a particularly compact design of the actuator to be achieved, which promotes a low weight of this structural unit.

[0061] The hydraulic or pneumatic actuator can be designed as a single-acting cylinder or a double-acting cylinder. In a single-acting cylinder, pressure is applied to only one side of the piston, causing it to move in only one direction. Return is then achieved, for example, via a spring. In a double-acting cylinder, hydraulic or pneumatic pressure can be applied to both sides of the piston, allowing hydraulically or pneumatically driven movement of the piston in both directions.

[0062] The piston of the actuator can be linearly displaceable perpendicular to a rotational axis of the shaft, or parallel to the rotational axis of the shaft, so that the actuator can be easily adapted to a given installation space situation.

[0063] It is particularly preferred that the second positive locking means and the actuator form a structural unit, referred to as a locking unit. The locking unit may further comprise a guide element through which and / or on which the second positive locking means is guided.

[0064] The invention can therefore also be advantageously implemented in such a way that the locking unit has a guide element in which the second form-locking means is guided for linear displacement. The guide element can be designed, for example, as an opening, bore, or groove in a structural component of the laser cutting machine, through which the second form-locking means passes or movably rests against it.

[0065] The guide element for the second positive locking means can preferably comprise a plain bearing. A corresponding plain bearing provides low-friction contact between the moving parts (second positive locking means and guide element), which can contribute to more dynamic operation of the locking mechanism.

[0066] In principle, it would also be conceivable to install a linear ball or roller bearing in the guide element. In this context, it is particularly preferable for the linear ball or roller bearing to be preloaded to ensure the bearing is as free from play as possible.

[0067] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the guide element can also be arranged in or on a frame, with the frame enclosing the shaft in a closed circumferential manner. The closed circumferential frame can contribute to a stable and rigid mounting of the guide element, thus improving the accuracy of the guide and the overall motion transmission.

[0068] It is further advantageous if the shaft is pivotably mounted in the first bearing seat and in a second bearing seat spaced apart from the first bearing seat. By supporting the shaft at two points, greater stability is achieved. This makes the shaft less susceptible to bending and vibration, significantly improving the precision of movements, such as the pivoting of a laser processing head.

[0069] The laser processing head can be mounted on a receiving device which has a first receiving arm extending perpendicular to the shaft for receiving a drive unit for the rotational movement of the processing head and / or the first bearing seat and / or the locking unit.

[0070] Preferably, the mounting device has the locking unit on the first mounting arm and a drive unit for pivoting the laser processing head and the shaft on a second mounting arm extending perpendicular to the shaft. This arrangement has the advantage that the arrangement of the drive and locking units on opposite sides of the cutting head achieves a uniform weight distribution, which has a positive effect on the vibration behavior of the processing head during travel movements in the XY plane.

[0071] The laser processing head can be arranged on a substantially U-shaped receiving element of the receiving device, wherein the first free leg of the U-shaped receiving element is formed by the first receiving arm and the second free leg of the U-shaped receiving element is formed by the second receiving arm. If the first bearing seat is arranged on the first receiving arm of the receiving element and the drive unit for the rotary movement of the laser processing head is arranged on the second receiving arm of the receiving element, a more even weight distribution of the components that move during operation of the laser processing machine can be achieved, which contributes to a reduction in vibrations and thus to improved processing accuracy and speed.

[0072] If the drive unit has a drive shaft coupled to the processing head, it may further be preferred for the laser processing machine to have a second bearing seat for the drive shaft and a second locking unit that can be positively coupled to a third positive locking means in such a way that pivoting of the drive shaft relative to the second bearing seat is prevented. This can further improve the locking of the laser processing head in a predefined position, since a dual positive locking can be provided at different locations. In particular, increased reliability can also be provided, since the locking unit is designed redundantly.In a further alternative embodiment, the laser processing machine can have a locking unit and a corresponding positive locking means only on the drive shaft, which is coupled to the processing head and via which the drive unit causes the rotational movement of the processing head. Such an arrangement can make it possible to mount the processing head on only one side via the bearing seat of the drive shaft in order to reduce the overall size of the mounting device.

[0073] In order to reduce the costs of providing a redundant system, it may be preferred that the first locking unit and the second locking unit are designed substantially identically.

[0074] The object of the invention is further achieved by a laser processing method with a laser processing machine according to the invention, wherein in a first method step the laser processing head is aligned perpendicularly to a support plane for the workpiece and in a second method step at an angle of up to 50 degrees to the vertical and wherein a rotational movement of the laser processing head in the vertical alignment is prevented by the locking unit.

[0075] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to figures without limiting the general inventive concept.

[0076] It shows:

[0077] Figure 1 shows a laser processing head of a laser cutting machine in a sectional view,

[0078] Figure 2 shows a laser processing head in a perspective partial section,

[0079] Figure 3 is a cut-out perspective view of a locking unit,

[0080] Figure 4 shows a movement unit of a laser cutting machine in a perspective view.

[0081] Figures 1-2 show a receiving device for a laser processing head 1 for laser processing a workpiece as part of a laser processing machine, comprising a first bearing seat 3 in which a shaft 4 is pivotably received, wherein the shaft 4 and the laser processing head 1 are coupled such that pivoting of the processing head 1 causes pivoting of the shaft 4 about the B-axis 30 and vice versa.

[0082] The shaft 4 has a first positive locking means 5, which can be positively coupled to a second positive locking means 6 of a first locking unit 7 in such a way that pivoting of the shaft 4 relative to the first bearing seat 3 is prevented. Figures 1-2 show the locking unit 7 in an unlocked position in which the first positive locking means 5 and the second positive locking means 6 are not engaged.

[0083] The first positive locking means 5 of the shaft 4 is designed as a radially inwardly directed recess 8, into which the second positive locking means 6 engages when the first locking unit 7 is in a locked operating state. In the illustrated embodiment, the inwardly directed recess 8 is designed as a conical or truncated cone bore.

[0084] As shown in Figures 1-2, the first positive locking means 5 is arranged as a separate component 20 in a rotationally fixed manner on the shaft 4 and is designed as a clamping ring 21 in which the radially inwardly directed recess 8 is formed. The clamping ring 21 can be fixed to the shaft 4 without play by means of a screw connection.

[0085] The second positive locking means 6 has an engagement region 9 that engages with the first positive locking means 5 when the first locking unit 7 is in the locked operating state. The engagement region 9 is conical or frustoconical in shape. The second positive locking means 6 is designed as a pin 12 that is guided for linear displacement relative to the first positive locking means 5. Figures 1-2 clearly show how these conical or frustoconical contours of the positive locking means 5 and 6 lead to play-free locking and locking of the shaft 4.

[0086] The second positive locking means 6 can be transferred via an actuator 13 into a locked operating state, in which pivoting of the shaft 4 is prevented, and into an unlocked operating state, in which pivoting of the shaft 4 is enabled. In the example shown, the actuator 13 is designed as a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator in which a piston 15, which can be displaced by means of a fluid, is guided for linear displacement in a cylinder 16. The second positive locking means 6 is coupled to the piston 15 of the actuator 13. For this purpose, the second positive locking means 6 is fixed in an axially extending opening 17 of the piston 15. The locking unit 7 further has a guide element 22, in which the second positive locking means 6 is guided for linear displacement. The guide element 22 comprises a plain bearing 23.

[0087] As can be clearly seen from the combination of Figures 1-2 with Figure 3, the guide element 22 is arranged in a frame 29, wherein the frame 29 encompasses the shaft 4 in a closed manner.

[0088] The receiving device has a first receiving arm 25 extending perpendicular to the shaft 4 for receiving the first bearing seat 3 and a second receiving arm 26 extending perpendicular to the shaft 4. A drive unit 28 is mounted on the second receiving arm 26. The laser processing head 1 is thus arranged on a substantially U-shaped receiving element 27 of the receiving device, wherein the first free leg of the U-shaped receiving element 27 is formed by the first receiving arm 25 and the second free leg of the U-shaped receiving element 27 is formed by the second receiving arm 26.

[0089] The second support arm 26 can have a second bearing seat for supporting the shaft of the drive unit 28. In such an embodiment, the shaft of the drive unit 28 can also be fixed via a second locking unit, which further reduces the tendency of the laser processing head to vibrate during a travel movement.

[0090] It can also be clearly seen from Figure 2 that the first bearing seat 3 is arranged on a first receiving arm 25 of a receiving element 27 for the laser processing head 1, said receiving arm extending perpendicular to the shaft 4, while a drive unit 28 for the rotary movement of the laser processing head 1 is arranged on a second receiving arm 26 extending perpendicular to the shaft 4 and is coupled to the laser processing head 1. The arrangement shown makes it possible for the laser processing head 1 to be aligned perpendicularly with respect to a bearing plane for the workpiece in a first method step of a laser processing method and to be inclined at an angle of up to 50 degrees with respect to the vertical in a second method step, and for a rotary movement of the laser processing head 1 to be prevented by the locking unit 7 when aligned perpendicularly.

[0091] Figure 4 shows a laser processing machine configured as a 2D laser cutting machine for laser processing a workpiece 2 comprising the laser processing head 1, which is designed here as a laser cutting head, and which is pivotally mounted in the receiving element 27 about the first axis of rotation 30 of the first shaft 4 and about the second axis of rotation 31 of a second shaft, wherein a first drive unit 28 for externally force-induced pivoting of the laser processing head 1 about the first axis of rotation 30 is coupled to the first shaft 4 and a second actuator for externally force-induced pivoting of the laser processing head 1 about the second axis of rotation 31 is coupled to the second shaft.As can also be seen in Figure 4, the laser processing head 1 of the laser processing machine is arranged on a mechanical movement device having two rails running in the X direction and a carrier running in the Y direction, which is guided on the rails so as to be linearly displaceable in the X direction. The laser processing head 1 can be displaced in the Y direction on the carrier. In addition, it is possible for the laser processing head 1 to be mounted relative to the carrier in the Z direction, i.e., height-adjustable. The laser processing head 1 is connected to a light guide, via which the laser radiation is guided from a stationary laser to the laser processing head 1. The light guide is arranged together with other supply lines in a tubular energy guide chain 36.

[0092] The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the figures. The above description is therefore not to be considered restrictive, but rather explanatory. The following claims are to be understood in such a way that a stated feature is present in at least one embodiment of the invention. This does not exclude the presence of further features. Where the claims and the above description define 'first' and 'second' features, this designation serves to distinguish between two similar features without establishing a priority.

[0093] List of reference symbols

[0094] 1 laser processing head

[0095] 3 bearing seat

[0096] 4th wave

[0097] 5 Form-locking agents

[0098] 6 Form-locking devices

[0099] 7 Locking unit

[0100] 8 Deepening

[0101] 9 Intervention area

[0102] 12 pins

[0103] 13 Actuator

[0104] 15 pistons

[0105] 16 cylinders

[0106] 17 Opening

[0107] 20 components

[0108] 21 clamping ring

[0109] 22 Guide element

[0110] 23 plain bearings

[0111] 25 Recording arm

[0112] 26 Recording arm

[0113] 27 Recording element

[0114] 28 Drive unit

[0115] 29 frames

[0116] 30 B-axis

[0117] 31 A-axis

[0118] 36 Energy chain

Claims

Claims 1 . Laser processing machine for laser processing a workpiece, comprising a laser processing head (1) and a first bearing seat (3) in which a shaft (4) is pivotally received, wherein the shaft (4) and the laser processing head (1) are coupled in such a way that pivoting of the laser processing head (1) causes pivoting of the shaft (4) and vice versa, characterized in that the shaft (4) has a first positive locking means (5) which can be positively coupled to a second positive locking means (6) of a locking unit (7) in such a way that pivoting of the shaft (4) relative to the first bearing seat (3) is prevented.

2. Laser processing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the first form-locking means (5) of the shaft (4) is designed as a radially inwardly directed recess (8) into which the second form-locking means (6) engages in a locked operating state of the locking unit (7).

3. Laser processing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the inwardly directed recess (8) is designed as a conical or truncated cone bore.

4. Laser processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first form-locking means (5) is arranged as a separate component (20) on the shaft (4).

5. Laser processing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that the separate component (20) is designed as a ring, in particular as a clamping ring (21).

6. Laser processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second form-locking means (6) has an engagement region (9) which engages in the first form-locking means (5) in the locked operating state of the locking unit (7), wherein the engagement region (9) is conical or frustoconical in shape.

7. Laser processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second form-locking means (6) is designed as a pin (12) which is guided in a linearly displaceable manner relative to the first form-locking means (5).

8. Laser processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second form-locking means (6) can be transferred via an actuator (13) into a locked operating state in which pivoting of the shaft (4) is prevented, and can be transferred into an unlocked operating state in which pivoting of the shaft (4) is enabled.

9. Laser processing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that the actuator (13) is designed as a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator in which a piston (15) which can be displaced by means of a fluid (14) is guided in a cylinder (16) in a linearly displaceable manner and the second form-locking means (6) is coupled to the piston (15) of the actuator (13).

10. Laser processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking unit (7) has a guide element (22) in which the second form-locking means (6) is guided in a linearly displaceable manner. 11 . Laser processing machine according to claim 10, characterized in that the guide element (22) comprises a plain bearing (23).

12. Laser processing machine according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the guide element (22) is arranged in or on a frame (29), wherein the frame (29) encompasses the shaft (4) in a closed circumferential manner.

13. Laser processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first bearing seat (3) is arranged on a first receiving arm (25) of a receiving element (27) for the laser processing head (1), which receiving arm extends perpendicularly to the shaft (4), and in that a drive unit (28) for the rotary movement of the laser processing head (1) is arranged on a second receiving arm (26) of the receiving element (27), which second receiving arm extends perpendicularly to the shaft (4), and which is coupled to the laser processing head (1).

14. Laser processing method with a laser processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in a first method step the laser processing head (1) is aligned perpendicular to a support plane for the workpiece and in a second method step at an angle of up to 50 degrees to the workpiece perpendicular, and that a rotational movement of the laser processing head (1) in the vertical alignment is prevented by the locking unit (7). TI

Images