Cover for protecting components in a laser machine

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a cover for protecting internal components of a laser machine from contaminants and debris during operation. In at least one embodiment, the cover comprises a body having an elongated shape and being adapted to couple to a gantry of a laser machine, and at least one flexible member coupled to the cover.

Description

Docket No. 47281-6COVER FOR PROTECTING COMPONENTS IN A LASER MACHINECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 63 / 642,804, filed May 5, 2024, and 63 / 678,550, filed August 2, 2024, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to laser machines and, more particularly, to laser cutting machines and components thereof.BACKGROUND

[0003] Laser machines have become indispensable tools in various industries, including manufacturing, engraving, cutting, and marking. These machines utilize high-intensity laser beams for precise material processing, often involving the cutting, engraving, or etching of different materials, such as metals, plastics, and composites.

[0004] During material processing, the laser head emits a powerful beam that interacts with the workpiece, leading to the desired results. However, the process generates smoke, debris, and contaminants, which can pose significant challenges to the functionality and longevity of the laser machine. These contaminants can accumulate on sensitive optical components, such as lenses and mirrors, leading to a degradation in laser beam quality, reduced processing efficiency, and increased maintenance needs.

[0005] Efforts to mitigate these challenges have led to the development of various protective measures, including air curtains. While these protective measures have shown some success in reducing contamination, there remains a need for improved solutions that provide comprehensive protection for the laser head and optical components while allowing for the efficient operation of the laser machine.SUMMARY

[0006] The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the disclosure, nor delineate any scope of the particular embodiments of the disclosure or any scope of the claims. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.Docket No. 47281-6

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a cover adapted for protecting components of a laser machine. In at least one embodiment, the cover comprises: a body having an elongated shape and being adapted to couple to a gantry of a laser machine; and at least one flexible member coupled to an edge of the body, the body, when coupled to the gantry, defining an internal cavity and a channel that spans opposing ends of the body, and the at least one flexible member being adapted to at least partially cover the channel.

[0008] A second aspect of the present disclosure relates to a laser cutting machine. In at least one embodiment, the laser cutting machine comprises: a frame comprising opposing sides coupled together by a plurality of rigid structural members; an external housing supported on the frame; a laser apparatus; and a cover coupled to the laser apparatus to define an internal cavity and a channel. In at least one embodiment, the laser apparatus comprises: a gantry moveably coupled to motorized transverse rails at opposing ends of the gantry, the motorized transverse rails being coupled to the opposing sides of the frame; a motorized longitudinal rail coupled to the gantry; a laser head moveably coupled to and constrained to move along the longitudinal rail. In at least one embodiment, the cover comprises: a body having an elongated shape; and at least one flexible member coupled to the body, wherein the at least one flexible member is adapted to at least partially cover the channel. In at least one embodiment, the motorized longitudinal rail is substantially contained within the internal cavity. In at least one embodiment, the laser head at least partially extends out of the internal cavity and past the at least one flexible member.

[0009] A third aspect relates to an apparatus comprising: a longitudinal rail; a laser head moveably coupled to and constrained to move along the longitudinal rail; and a cover as described above.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an apparatus comprising an exemplary cover, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0012] FIG. 2 shows an orthographic view of an apparatus that includes the assembled cover, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 3 shows the apparatus cover which includes flexible members that cover a channel, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus to show a laser head housed within the exemplary cover, in accordance with at least one embodiment;Docket No. 47281-6

[0015] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a variation of the apparatus for which an additional sealing mechanism is utilized, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 6 shows an orthographic view of an exemplary frame, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 7A shows the exemplary apparatus integrated into the exemplary frame, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 7B shows a first cutaway view of the coupling between the laser apparatus and the frame, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 7C shows a second cutaway view of the coupling between the laser apparatus and the frame, in accordance with at least one embodiment; and

[0020] FIG. 8 shows an orthographic view of an assembled exemplary laser cutting device, in accordance with at least one embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Described herein are embodiments related to a cover to protect the internal components (e.g., optics, rails, etc.) of a laser machine, as well as devices and apparatuses incorporating the same. The embodiments further relate to a cover having one or more of a modular design, integrated lighting, a double-sealing mechanism, and an exhaust systems, each of which contributing to the enhanced functionality and longevity of laser machines used for materials processing.

[0022] In at least one embodiment, the cover features one or more flexible members (e.g., one or more rubber strips) that serve as a protective barrier, safeguarding the laser head, optics, and rails from contamination generated during laser material processing.

[0023] In addition to the flexible members, embodiments of the present invention introduce several features to enhance the functionality and convenience of the cover. These may include, but are not limited to, a modular design that facilitates easy maintenance and replacement, integrated lights, such as light-emitting diode (LED) lights, for workspace illumination and / or device status indication, a double-sealing mechanism for added protection against contaminants, and an exhaust system for efficient contaminant removal. In at least one embodiment, the cover allows the laser beam to travel outside the cover to provide uninterrupted material processing.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, the cover for laser cutting machines includes channel for laser beam transmission, which may be sealed or partially sealed by at least one flexible member such as an elastic strip, brush, way cover, or similar element, allowing movement of a laser head while preventing contamination into the cover. In at least one embodiment, the flexible memberDocket No. 47281-6 may be designed to maintain a barrier against contaminants while enabling the laser to interact with the processing material.

[0025] In at least one embodiment, the modular design for the cover includes two or more pieces, facilitating easy maintenance, manufacturing, and assembly. In at least one embodiment, the individual pieces can be disassembled and reassembled for convenient maintenance and replacement. In at least one embodiment, the integration of LED lights within the cover can provide for illumination of the work area and / or status indications.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, a double-sealing mechanism is incorporated into the axis cover, featuring two overlapping flexible members and / or a ring on the nozzle of the laser head to provide an additional layer of protection against contaminants. In at least one embodiment, an exhaust system is integrated with the cover or a portion thereof, designed to connect to an exhaust fan for efficient contaminant removal.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the protection of the laser head and optical components is further enhanced by a unique mechanism for deflecting the rubber strip when the axes of the laser machine are in motion. This mechanism serves to ensure that the flexible member does not impede the movement of the laser head or the overall operation of the machine. In at least one embodiment, this deflection is achieved by incorporating a protruding part that is connected to the rail or part of the laser head. This protruding part is strategically positioned to make contact with the flexible member(s) when the axes are in motion, gently pushing the flexible member(s) aside to create an unobstructed path for the laser. This feature allows for seamless and uninterrupted laser material processing, as the flexible members automatically yields to the moving parts, maintaining an effective barrier against contamination while facilitating the free movement of the laser head.

[0028] Additionally, in some embodiments, the deflection of one or more flexible members along the body can also be achieved by the laser head or nozzle itself. When the laser head moves, it may contact a portion of the flexible members and deflect them temporarily. This dynamic interaction ensures that the laser head can traverse the work area without hindrance while still benefiting from the protective barrier provided by the flexible members.

[0029] Thus, the embodiments described herein advantageously improve the efficiency, longevity, and reliability of laser machines used for material processing while minimizing downtime and maintenance requirements. Further, while described in the context of laser machines, such as laser cutting machines, the embodiments are versatile and can be applied to other types of laser devices, such as computer numerical control (CNC) milling machines and three-dimensional (3D) printer machines, as well as to other industries such as traditional printed technologies.Docket No. 47281-6

[0030] Further embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a frame for supporting components of a laser machine. Laser cutting machines, in particular, are essential in industrial and manufacturing settings for their precision, speed, and versatility. However, conventional frames, which are often comprised of multiple parts, can complicate assembly, introduce alignment errors, and reduce rigidity, ultimately impacting machine accuracy and reliability. The need to attach panels for enclosure further complicates assembly and may not provide optimal structural support. These challenges highlight the need for an improved frame structure that enhances accuracy, rigidity, ease of assembly, and overall reliability in laser cutting machines.

[0031] Embodiments of the present disclosure addresses these shortcomings by utilizing a cover comprising two sides, each manufactured as a single, monolithic part from a rigid and robust material. This streamlined construction eliminates complex component connections, significantly enhances rigidity, simplifies assembly, and reduces the potential for user errors. As a result, the machine achieves improved accuracy, speed, and precision. The two monolithic sides can be connected using various structural elements, such as profiles, beams, panels, or rods, further enhancing stability and allowing for easy disassembly and reassembly. The frame also accommodates the attachment of panels to create an enclosure, addressing environmental control and user safety. While described in the context of laser cutting machines, the frame can also be effectively applied to other machines, such as CNC milling machines and 3D printers.

[0032] FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an apparatus 100 comprising a gantry 105 and an exemplary cover 110, in accordance with at least one embodiment. In at least one embodiment, the gantry 105 is a component of a laser machine that defines a longitudinal axis (“x-axis”). As illustrated, the apparatus 100 is formed from the gantry 105 and the cover 110, which define openings 112A and 112B at the opposing of the apparatus 100 when coupled to each other (e.g., by a snap-fit coupling or other mechanical coupling mechanism), facilitating easy maintenance, manufacturing, and assembly. When assembled, the apparatus 100 will have an elongated shape that defines an internal cavity 120 and a channel 130 that spans opposing ends of the apparatus 100. In at least one embodiment, the cover 110 is formed from a single monolithic material rather than from separate pieces. In other embodiments, the cover 110 is formed from two or more pieces. In at least one embodiment, the material of the body or any pieces thereof are formed from a rigid material, such as a metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, etc.), a rigid plastic material (e.g., polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride), or a compositive material (e.g., a carbon fiber reinforced polymer). In at least one embodiment, the apparatus 100 can be disassembled and reassembled for convenient maintenance and replacement.Docket No. 47281-6

[0033] The dimensions of the cover 110, when coupled to the gantry 105, may be selected to match the dimensions of the gantry 105 as well as optical components and other components to be housed therein. For example, in at least one embodiment, the depth (along the longitudinal direction) of the apparatus 100 is about 50 cm, about 60 cm, about 70 cm, about 80 cm, about 90 cm, about 100 cm, about 110 cm, about 120 cm, about 130 cm, about 140 cm, about 150 cm, or in any range defined by and inclusive of these points (e.g., from about 80 cm to about 120 cm). In at least one embodiment, a length and height of the apparatus 100 may be independently selected from about 5 cm, about 6 cm, about 7 cm, about 8 cm, about 9 cm, about 10 cm, about 11 cm, about 12 cm, about 13 cm, about 14 cm, about 15 cm, about 16 cm, about 17 cm, about 18 cm, about 19 cm, about 20 cm, or in any range defined by and inclusive of these points (e.g., from about 6 cm to about 12 cm).

[0034] In at least one embodiment, the gantry 105 includes a panel 150 that may be used to couple to components of a laser apparatus. For example, the panel 150 is shown as a surface extending from an internal wall of the gantry 105, though other arrangements and orientations may be utilized depending on the structure of the laser apparatus to be enclosed, as would be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. In at least one embodiment, multiple panels may be present.

[0035] FIG. 2 shows an orthographic view of an apparatus 200 that includes the cover 110, in accordance with at least one embodiment. In at least one embodiment, a laser apparatus 210 comprises a motorized longitudinal rail 220 coupled to the gantry 105 via the panel 150, with the entire laser apparatus 210 being substantially enclosed within the internal cavity 120. The laser apparatus includes a laser head 230 coupled to a laser mount 235 that is moveably coupled to and constrained to move along the longitudinal rail 220. During operation of a laser device in which the apparatus 200 is integrated, the laser head 230 is moved along the longitudinal axis (“x- axis”) of the rail 220 while irradiating an underlying target or sample.

[0036] FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the apparatus 100 to illustrate flexible members 300A and 300B that cover the channel 130. As illustrated the flexible members 300A and 300B are coupled (e.g., by an adhesive material) to the gantry 105 and the cover 110, respectively, on opposing edges of the channel 130. As illustrated, the flexible members 300A and 300B are in contact effectively protecting the interior of the apparatus 100 from contaminants ejected toward the bottom of the cover 110. In at least one embodiment, flexible members 300A and 300B comprise a flexible rubber material, a way cover, a brush, or a combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the flexible members 300 A and 300B run from end to end of the apparatus 100. In at least one embodiment, a single flexible member may be used, and may be coupled toDocket No. 47281-6 one edge of the channel 130. In at least one embodiment, multiple flexible members may be coupled along the edges of the channel 130.

[0037] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 200 where the laser head 230 extends through the channel 130. As illustrated, components of the laser apparatus 210 may include various mechanical and optical components to move the laser head along the longitudinal rail 220. For example, a mirror 240 may be present to reflect a laser beam into the laser head 230, which may include additional optical components (e.g., lenses) to focus the laser during operation. Further as illustrated, the laser head 230 deforms and separates the flexible members 300A and 300B in the vicinity of the laser head 230. Away from the laser head 230, the flexible members 300 A and 300B remain close or in contact along the length of the channel 130 to prevent or reduce dust and debris entering the internal cavity 120 during operation of the laser apparatus 210.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, the laser apparatus 210 further comprises an exhaust vent that may be fluidly coupled to an exhaust fan of a laser device in which the laser apparatus 210 is integrated. In at least one embodiment, the exhaust vent may include openings along the length of the laser apparatus 210 to permit airflow into the exhaust vent from the internal cavity 120. The exhaust vent may further facilitate removal of contaminants generated during laser material processing.

[0039] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a variation of the apparatus for which an additional sealing mechanism is utilized, in accordance with at least one embodiment. As illustrated, an apparatus 500 includes a gantry 505 and a cover 510 which are similar to those of the apparatus 200 except that an additional panel 540 located along an interior surface of the gantry 505, and a panel 550 extends further to adjust the location at which the gantry 505 is coupled to the laser apparatus 210. In at least one embodiment, flexible members 530A and 530B are included as shown, which are coupled, respectively, to the panel 540 and an interior surface of the cover 510. In at least one embodiment, the flexible members 530A and 530B extend from end to end of the apparatus 500. Together, flexible members 520A, 520B, 530A, and 530B provide a double barrier of protection to the components housed within the apparatus 500. In at least one embodiment, any of the flexible members 520A, 520B, 530A, and 530B may be similar to the flexible members 300 A and 300B described above. In at least one embodiment, the flexible members 530A and 530B may be replaced with, or supplemented with, a flexible ring that is coupled to the laser head 530 and is sized such that it contacts or nearly contacts the panel 540 and the cover 510. In at least one embodiment, the ring is formed from a flexible rubber material, a brush, or any other suitable flexible material.Docket No. 47281-6

[0040] FIG. 6 shows an orthographic view of an exemplary frame 600, in accordance with at least one embodiment. The frame 600 includes monolithic sides 610A and 610B that are coupled together via longitudinal structural panels 620 and 630. In at least one embodiment, other types of structural elements, such as profiles, beams, panels, and rods, may be utilized in lieu of or in addition to the longitudinal structural panels 620 and 630. The use of the monolithic sides 610A and 610B in a laser machine can reduce assembly complexity and minimize manufacturing errors. Moreover, the registration features of the sides 610A and 610B allow for ease of attachment, and improvement in the accuracy and reliability of operation for various applications in addition to laser machining. In at least one embodiment, the frame 600 and various components thereof may be constructed from materials such as metals, alloys, or composite materials, and can be tailored to meet specific performance and durability requirements. Additionally, different manufacturing processes, including but not limited to molding, forging, CNC milling, and additive manufacturing techniques, may be employed to create one or more components of the frame 600 with precision.

[0041] In at least one embodiment, the frame 600 comprises one or more sensors and / or feedback mechanisms to monitor the structural integrity and alignment of the frame 600. These sensors can provide real-time data to a control system of the machine in which the frame 600 is integrated, enabling automatic adjustments to maintain optimal performance.

[0042] Each side 610A and 610B may include a plurality of integrated registration components, such as mounting panels, struts, etc., for mounting components of a laser machine, such as rails, optical components, electronics, and any other relevant component that would be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, panels 640A and 640B are integrated into the sides 610A and 610B, respectively, which may be used for mounting a rail that allows movement of a laser apparatus along a single axis. The registration components may be strategically positioned to ensure accurate and repeatable registration of important elements, including components of multiple movement axes.

[0043] FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate integration of the apparatus 200 into the frame 600, in accordance with at least one embodiment. The frame 600 is illustrated as having additional components mounted to its various registration components. FIGS. 7B and 7C show a cutaway view of the interface between the laser apparatus 210 and the side 610B. A transverse rail 720 is mounted to the side 610B that couples to the laser apparatus 210 and allows for transverse movement of the laser apparatus 210 during operation, while the longitudinal rail (not visible) allows for longitudinal movement of the laser head 230 (not visible). A similar coupling may exist between the laser apparatus 210 and the opposing side 610A.Docket No. 47281-6

[0044] FIG. 8 shows an orthographic view of an assembled exemplary laser cutting device 800, in accordance with at least one embodiment, which includes the components described above. One or more additional panels may form an external housing to enclose the components of the laser cutting device 800 to provide protection from outside contaminants and for aesthetic purposes.

[0045] The following exemplary embodiments are now described.

[0046] Embodiment 1 : A cover adapted for protecting components of a laser machine, the cover comprising: a body having an elongated shape and being adapted to couple to a gantry of a laser machine; and at least one flexible member coupled to an edge of the body, wherein the body, when coupled to the gantry, defines an internal cavity and a channel that spans opposing ends of the body, and wherein the at least one flexible member is adapted to at least partially cover the channel.

[0047] Embodiment 2: The cover of Embodiment 1, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a rubber material, a way cover, a brush, or a combination thereof.

[0048] Embodiment 3 : The cover of either Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises: a first flexible member coupled to the body along an edge of the channel, wherein the first flexible member is in contact with a second flexible member coupled to the gantry, and wherein the first flexible member and the second flexible member collectively cover the channel.

[0049] Embodiment 4: The cover of Embodiment 3, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a third flexible member coupled to a first internal surface of the body within the internal cavity, wherein the third flexible member is oriented parallel to the channel and is positioned to avoid contact with each of the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

[0050] Embodiment 5: The cover of Embodiment 4, wherein an additional flexible member is coupled to an interior surface of the gantry and is oriented parallel to the channel and positioned to avoid contact with each of the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

[0051] Embodiment 6: The cover of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the body is formed from two separate monolithic pieces.

[0052] Embodiment 7: The cover of any one of the preceding Embodiments, integrated into a laser machine, wherein the laser machine is a laser cutting machine, a computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine, or a three-dimensional (3D) printer machine.

[0053] Embodiment 8: A laser cutting machine comprising: a frame comprising opposing sides coupled together by a plurality of rigid structural members; an external housing supportedDocket No. 47281-6 on the frame; a laser apparatus comprising: a gantry moveably coupled to motorized transverse rails at opposing ends of the gantry, the motorized transverse rails being coupled to the opposing sides of the frame; a motorized longitudinal rail coupled to the gantry; a laser head moveably coupled to and constrained to move along the longitudinal rail; and a cover coupled to the laser apparatus to define an internal cavity and a channel, the cover comprising: a body having an elongated shape; and at least one flexible member coupled to the body, wherein the at least one flexible member is adapted to at least partially cover the channel, wherein the motorized longitudinal rail is substantially contained within the internal cavity, and wherein the laser head at least partially extends out of the internal cavity and past the at least one flexible member.

[0054] Embodiment 9: The laser cutting machine of Embodiment 8, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a first flexible member coupled to the body along an edge of the channel, wherein the gantry comprises a second flexible member coupled to the gantry along an opposing edge of the channel, wherein the first flexible member and the second flexible member are in contact, and wherein laser head deforms and separates the first and second flexible members in the immediate vicinity of the laser head while remaining portions of the first and second flexible members collectively cover the channel.

[0055] Embodiment 10: The laser cutting machine of Embodiment 9, wherein during operation, the first flexible member and the second flexible member prevent or reduce smoke, debris, and / or other particulates from contacting components of the laser apparatus housed within the cover.

[0056] Embodiment 11 : The laser cutting machine of any one of Embodiments 8-10, wherein the gantry further comprises a panel within the internal cavity that is coupled to the longitudinal rail.

[0057] Embodiment 12: The laser cutting machine of any one of Embodiments 8-10, wherein the laser head comprises a flexible ring member.

[0058] Embodiment 13: The laser cutting machine any one of Embodiments 8-10, further comprising at least one lighting element disposed on the body of the cover.

[0059] Embodiment 14: The laser cutting machine any one of Embodiments 8-10, further comprising an exhaust fan adapted for drawing air current through the internal cavity of the cover.

[0060] Embodiment 15: An apparatus comprising: a gantry; a longitudinal rail coupled to the gantry; a laser head moveably coupled to and constrained to move along the longitudinal rail; and a cover coupled to the gantry to define an internal cavity and a channel, the cover comprising: a body having an elongated shape; and at least one flexible member coupled to theDocket No. 47281-6 body, wherein the at least one flexible member is adapted to at least partially cover the channel, wherein the longitudinal rail is housed within the internal cavity.

[0061] Embodiment 16: The apparatus of Embodiment 15, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a first flexible member coupled to the body along an edge of the channel, and wherein the gantry comprises a second flexible member coupled to the gantry along an opposing edge of the channel.

[0062] Embodiment 17: The apparatus of Embodiment 16, wherein the first flexible member and the second flexible member are in contact, and wherein laser head deforms and separates the first and second flexible members in the immediate vicinity of the laser head while remaining portions of the first and second flexible members collectively cover the channel.

[0063] Embodiment 18: The apparatus of any one of Embodiments 15-17, wherein the laser head comprises a flexible ring member.

[0064] Embodiment 19: The apparatus of any one of Embodiments 15-18, further comprising at least lighting element disposed on the body of the cover.

[0065] Embodiment 20: The apparatus of any one of Embodiments 15-19, wherein the apparatus is configured for use in a laser cutting machine, a computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine, or a three-dimensional (3D) printer machine.

[0066] Embodiment 21 : A laser cutter frame comprising two sides configured for mounting machine components, the frame providing precise registration features to improve accuracy in component placement.

[0067] Embodiment 22: The laser cutter frame of Embodiment 21, wherein each side is formed as a single unitary part from a rigid material, the single-part construction being achieved by manufacturing processes comprising molding, forging, or CNC milling.

[0068] Embodiment 23: The laser cutter frame of either Embodiment 21 or Embodiment 22, wherein the single-part construction of each side increases the rigidity of the frame to reduce the number of required.

[0069] Embodiment 24: The laser cutter frame of any one of Embodiments 21-23, wherein each side of the frame includes integral features for supporting the Y and Z axes of a laser cutter.

[0070] Embodiment 25: The laser cutter frame of any one of Embodiments 21-24, wherein the two sides of the frame are connected by structural elements selected from the group consisting of profiles, beams, panels, rods, or similar components.

[0071] Embodiment 26: A laser cutter frame comprising two sides, each side having integrated registration features configured to ensure precise alignment of machine components.Docket No. 47281-6

[0072] Embodiment 27: A laser cutter frame comprising two sides, each side having a monolithic construction to eliminate the need for additional connecting components and reduce assembly complexity.

[0073] Embodiment 28: The laser cutter frame of Embodiment 27, wherein the monolithic construction of each side comprises a single unitary piece of robust material to improve overall frame rigidity.

[0074] Embodiment 29: A laser cutter frame with two sides, designed to reduce manufacturing and assembly errors by providing a simplified, single-part construction for each side.

[0075] Embodiment 30: A laser cutter frame comprising two sides, each side configured to accommodate components of the X, Y, and Z axes, thereby streamlining machine assembly.

[0076] Embodiment 31 : A frame for CNC machines, comprising two sides configured for mounting machine components and providing precise registration for high accuracy in component placement, wherein the CNC machine is selected from a laser cutter machine, CNC milling machines, and a 3D printer.

[0077] In the foregoing description, numerous details are set forth. It will be apparent, however, to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.

[0078] The words “example” or “exemplary” are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “example” or “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the words “example” or “exemplary” is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X includes A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X includes A; X includes B; or X includes both A and B, then “X includes A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Reference throughout this specification to “certain embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” or the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phraseDocket No. 47281-6“certain embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” or the like in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0079] The present disclosure is not to be limited in scope by the specific embodiments described herein. Indeed, other various embodiments of and modifications to the present disclosure, in addition to those described herein, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the description and accompanying drawings. Thus, such other embodiments and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, while the present disclosure has been described in the context of a particular embodiment in a particular environment for a particular purpose, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that its usefulness is not limited thereto and that the present disclosure may be beneficially implemented in any number of environments for any number of purposes. Accordingly, the claims set forth below should be construed in view of the full breadth and spirit of the present disclosure as described herein, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

Docket No. 47281-6What is claimed is:

1. A cover adapted for protecting components of a laser machine, the cover comprising: a body having an elongated shape and being adapted to couple to a gantry of a laser machine; and at least one flexible member coupled to an edge of the body, wherein the body, when coupled to the gantry, defines an internal cavity and a channel that spans opposing ends of the body, and wherein the at least one flexible member is adapted to at least partially cover the channel.

2. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a rubber material, a way cover, a brush, or a combination thereof.

3. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises: a first flexible member coupled to the body along an edge of the channel, wherein the first flexible member is in contact with a second flexible member coupled to the gantry, and wherein the first flexible member and the second flexible member collectively cover the channel.

4. The cover of claim 3, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a third flexible member coupled to a first internal surface of the body within the internal cavity, wherein the third flexible member is oriented parallel to the channel and is positioned to avoid contact with each of the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

5. The cover of claim 4, wherein an additional flexible member is coupled to an interior surface of the gantry and is oriented parallel to the channel and positioned to avoid contact with each of the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

6. The cover of claim 1, wherein the body is formed from two separate monolithic pieces.

7. The cover of claim 1, integrated into a laser machine, wherein the laser machine is a laser cutting machine, a computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine, or a three-dimensional (3D) printer machine.

8. A laser cutting machine comprising:Docket No. 47281-6 a frame comprising opposing sides coupled together by a plurality of rigid structural members; an external housing supported on the frame; a laser apparatus comprising: a gantry moveably coupled to motorized transverse rails at opposing ends of the gantry, the motorized transverse rails being coupled to the opposing sides of the frame; a motorized longitudinal rail coupled to the gantry; a laser head moveably coupled to and constrained to move along the longitudinal rail; and a cover coupled to the laser apparatus to define an internal cavity and a channel, the cover comprising: a body having an elongated shape; and at least one flexible member coupled to the body, wherein the at least one flexible member is adapted to at least partially cover the channel, wherein the motorized longitudinal rail is substantially contained within the internal cavity, and wherein the laser head at least partially extends out of the internal cavity and past the at least one flexible member.

9. The laser cutting machine of claim 8, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a first flexible member coupled to the body along an edge of the channel, wherein the gantry comprises a second flexible member coupled to the gantry along an opposing edge of the channel, wherein the first flexible member and the second flexible member are in contact, and wherein the laser head deforms and separates the first and second flexible members in the immediate vicinity of the laser head while remaining portions of the first and second flexible members collectively cover the channel.

10. The laser cutting machine of claim 9, wherein during operation, the first flexible member and the second flexible member prevent or reduce smoke, debris, and / or other particulates from contacting components of the laser apparatus housed within the cover.

11. The laser cutting machine of claim 8, wherein the gantry further comprises a panel within the internal cavity that is coupled to the longitudinal rail.Docket No. 47281-612. The laser cutting machine of claim 8, wherein the laser head comprises a flexible ring member.

13. The laser cutting machine of claim 8, further comprising at least one lighting element disposed on the body of the cover.

14. The laser cutting machine of claim 8, further comprising an exhaust fan adapted for drawing air current through the internal cavity of the cover.

15. An apparatus comprising: a gantry; a longitudinal rail coupled to the gantry; a laser head moveably coupled to and constrained to move along the longitudinal rail; and a cover coupled to the gantry to define an internal cavity and a channel, the cover comprising: a body having an elongated shape; and at least one flexible member coupled to the body, wherein the at least one flexible member is adapted to at least partially cover the channel, wherein the longitudinal rail is housed within the internal cavity.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the at least one flexible member comprises a first flexible member coupled to the body along an edge of the channel, and wherein the gantry comprises a second flexible member coupled to the gantry along an opposing edge of the channel.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the first flexible member and the second flexible member are in contact, and wherein laser head deforms and separates the first and second flexible members in the immediate vicinity of the laser head while remaining portions of the first and second flexible members collectively cover the channel.

18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the laser head comprises a flexible ring member.

19. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising at least one lighting element disposed on the body of the cover.Docket No. 47281-620. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the apparatus is configured for use in a laser cutting machine, a computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine, or a three-dimensional (3D) printer machine.

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