3D Ultrashort-Pulse Laser Focusing for Precise Complex Workpieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser systems are not optimal in terms of simplicity, flexibility, efficiency, robustness, compact design, and cost-effectiveness for industrial applications, particularly in generating sub-nanosecond laser pulses for marking and processing materials.
Innovation Solution
A laser device comprising a laser module for generating sub-nanosecond pulses, a focusing instrument for variable displacement of the focal point in the propagation direction, and a deviating instrument for variable deviation of the laser beam in two spatial directions, allowing for 3D-capable ultrashort-pulse marking systems with automatic positionability of the focal point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional laser systems are used for material processing, then basic processing capability is achieved, but processing speed and precision for complexly shaped workpieces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the focal point position in the propagation direction (z-axis) while simultaneously deviating the beam in two spatial directions (x-y plane). This dynamic 3D positioning capability allows the laser to rapidly adapt to complexly shaped workpieces, achieving both high processing speed and precision without mechanical movement of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical movement of the workpiece or entire laser device with optical beam deviation and focal point displacement. By using deviating and focusing instruments to control beam position and focus depth, the system achieves rapid positioning without mechanical inertia, thereby increasing processing speed while maintaining precision on complex geometries.
2Productivity
If the workpiece or laser device is moved to process different areas, then complete coverage is achieved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system substitutes mechanical movement of the workpiece or laser device with optical beam deviation. The deviating instrument rapidly redirects the laser beam to different areas of the workpiece in the x-y plane, while the focusing instrument adjusts the focal point in the z-axis direction. This optical positioning eliminates mechanical movement time, dramatically increasing processing efficiency for complexly shaped workpieces.
3Power
If high power laser pulses are used, then processing effectiveness is improved, but thermal influence on the material increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ultrashort laser pulses (sub-nanosecond duration) delivered in periodic sequences. The extremely short pulse duration concentrates energy delivery into brief intervals, allowing high peak power for effective processing while the long interval between pulses allows heat dissipation, thereby minimizing cumulative thermal influence on the material.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic control of focal point position and beam deviation allows precise targeting of specific material regions. By dynamically adjusting where and when energy is deposited, the system maximizes processing effectiveness at the focal point while minimizing thermal diffusion to surrounding areas, reducing overall thermal influence.
Data Source
AI summary
A laser device includes a laser module for generating a laser beam of sub-nanosecond laser pulses with a laser source, and arranged downstream of the laser module in a beam path of the laser beam, a deviating instrument for variable deviation of the laser beam in two spatial directions. The laser device further includes a focusing instrument for variable displacement of a focal point of the laser beam in a third spatial direction that corresponds to a propagation direction of the laser pulses.