Adjustable Laser Field of View for Web Processing Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser systems for processing web material have a fixed field of view, requiring time-consuming modifications to the web path and refocusing to accommodate different field of view settings, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable field of view laser system with a servo-driven mirror assembly and focusing mechanism, allowing for on-the-fly adjustments without modifying the web path, enabling precise processing of various web materials with different field of view settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view of a conventional laser system is changed to process different web material patterns, then the laser can accommodate different processing requirements, but the web path must be modified which is time-consuming and requires part kits for each setting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the laser system's field of view adjustable through a movable mirror assembly that can be repositioned to change the angle of the laser beam. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to different processing requirements without physically modifying the web path, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the laser beam's angle of incidence by using a movable mirror assembly that can be positioned at different angles. This parameter change enables the laser to process different web material patterns without requiring physical modifications to the web path, thus eliminating the need for time-consuming reconfiguration and part kits.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view is changed in a conventional laser system, then different processing patterns can be achieved, but the laser needs to be refocused which adds complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the field of view adjustment and focusing functions into a single integrated system. The movable mirror assembly is designed to maintain proper focus automatically when changing angles, eliminating the need for separate refocusing mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the web path is modified to accommodate different field of view settings, then the laser can process different materials, but errors can occur and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical web path modification system with an optical system using a movable mirror assembly. This substitution eliminates the need for physical reconfiguration of the web path, thereby maintaining processing accuracy and reliability while still enabling different field of view settings for various material processing needs.
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
Enables efficient and precise processing of web materials with different field of view settings without altering the web path, reducing errors and improving production efficiency by maintaining a focused beam at the web material surface.
Implementation Method 1
a laser configured to generate a laser beam
Implementation Method 2
a gimble assembly configured to direct the laser beam along a cut path at a position of a web path of the moving web of material
Implementation Method 3
a servo driven mirror assembly configured to provide an adjustable field of view for the laser stage
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for processing a web with a laser are provided. In an example, an apparatus for processing web material can include multiple processing stages and a laser assembly. Each of the multiple processing stages can be configured to process a moving web of material along a web path. The laser assembly can be configured to process the moving web of material with a laser at a first stage of the multiple stages. The laser assembly can include a laser configured to generate a laser beam, a gimble assembly configured to direct the laser beam along a cut path at a position of a web path of the moving web of material, and a servo driven mirror assembly configured to provide an adjustable field of view for the laser stage at the position of the web path.