Acousto-Optic Laser Processing for Spot Shape Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser processing apparatuses using wavelength beam combining (WBC) type DDL oscillators suffer from distorted spot shapes due to differential deflection angles of laser beams, leading to reduced processing accuracy and inefficiencies in controlling pulse laser waveforms.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing apparatus that employs a light source with a WBC type DDL oscillator, a deflection unit using acousto-optic elements to separate higher-order and zero-order light, and a signal synchronization unit to control current supply timing, thereby utilizing zero-order light for processing and optimizing pulse output control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If higher-order light is deflected by the optical element to provide multiple beams, then beam distribution capability is improved, but spot shape distortion occurs due to differential deflection angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the harmful higher-order diffracted light from the optical path using an optical separator. By blocking only the higher-order light while allowing zero-order light to pass through, the system eliminates spot shape distortion caused by differential deflection angles while preserving the ability to control laser beam timing and intensity through the acousto-optic modulator.
2Manufacturing precision
If pulse laser processing is used to suppress thermal effects and improve accuracy, then processing precision is improved, but control of pulse waveform timing becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by synchronizing the drive signal to the acousto-optic modulator with the laser oscillation signal. The signal synchronization unit monitors the laser oscillation timing and adjusts the modulator drive signal accordingly, enabling precise control of pulse waveform timing and improving both processing accuracy and control efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If acousto-optic modulators are used to generate temporal intra-pulse slices, then pulse timing control is improved, but current loss and efficiency drops occur during rising and falling edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-synchronizing the acousto-optic modulator drive signal with the laser oscillation timing using the signal synchronization unit. By preparing and timing the modulator activation in advance based on the laser oscillation signal, the system achieves precise pulse timing control while minimizing energy loss during transitions through optimized signal coordination.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances processing accuracy, reduces current loss and efficiency drops during rising and falling optical outputs, and allows for precise control of pulse output waveforms, improving overall processing precision.
Implementation Method 1
a deflection unit that is provided on an optical path of the laser light emitted from the light source and includes an optical element that changes an amount of transmission of the laser light to deflect at least a part of the laser light
Implementation Method 2
an optical separation unit that is provided on the optical path of the laser light passing through the deflection unit, shields higher-order light that is included in the laser light and deflected by the optical element in the deflection unit, and transmits zero-order light that is included in the laser light and passes through the deflection unit
Data Source
AI summary
A laser processing apparatus includes a light source configured to emit laser light; a power supply configured to supply a current to the light source; a deflection unit on an optical path of the laser light and including an optical element configured to change an amount of transmission of the laser light to deflect at least a part of the laser light; an optical separation unit on the optical path of the laser light and being configured to shield higher-order light included in the laser light and deflected by the optical element in the deflection unit, and transmit zero-order light that is included in the laser light and passes through the deflection unit; and a signal synchronization unit configured to control the power supply to selectively turn the current on or off in synchronization with a timing at which the higher-order light is deflected by the optical element.