Adjustable Laser Processing Head Coupling for Collision Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing machines lack an efficient and adjustable collision protection mechanism that can differentiate between laser processing and mechanical processing, leading to inadequate protection during collisions and limited versatility in using various processing heads and tools.
Innovation Solution
A head mounting system with an adjustable coupling strength and collision protection mechanism that allows for pneumatically or electrically adjustable force thresholds, enabling selective collision protection levels and quick release in case of collisions, while accommodating different processing heads and tools by transmitting power, coolant, and data communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed coupling strength is used in the head mounting system, then the structure is simple and reliable, but it cannot accommodate different processing operations and processing heads with varying collision protection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling strength of the head mounting system is made dynamically adjustable through pneumatic or electric coupling strength adjustment means. This allows the system to adapt to different processing operations and processing heads by varying the force threshold for decoupling, thereby resolving the contradiction between fixed simplicity and operational adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameter of coupling strength (force threshold) to accommodate different processing requirements. By adjusting this parameter, the same mounting system can serve multiple purposes - from laser processing with lower collision forces to mechanical processing with higher collision forces - without requiring multiple dedicated systems.
2Reliability
If a high force threshold is set for collision protection, then the mounting is secure for mechanical processing, but it may prevent timely release during actual collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The force threshold is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. Operators can set appropriate thresholds based on the specific processing operation - higher for secure mounting during mechanical processing, and lower for quicker release during laser processing or when using lighter processing heads. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between secure mounting and timely release.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the coupling strength is increased to prevent damage during mechanical processing, then protection is improved, but it may cause unnecessary release during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows adjustment of the coupling strength parameter to match the specific requirements of each processing operation. For mechanical processing, a higher force threshold provides protection against damage. For laser processing or lighter operations, a lower threshold prevents unnecessary releases. This parameter adjustment capability resolves the contradiction between protection and stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A material processing machine configured to process a workpiece with a processing head movable with respect to the workpiece, including a workpiece support, a processing head carrier movable with respect to the workpiece support, the carrier including a first half of a releasable head coupling, and a processing head carried by the head carrier and positioned to operably engage a workpiece supported by the support to process the workpiece, the processing head including a second half of the releasable head coupling. The releasable head coupling defines an adjustable head release force.