AM Machine Shutter Reflector for Laser Window Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Additive manufacturing apparatuses face issues with window damage due to reflected laser beams from highly reflective workpieces, leading to decreased operating rates and productivity.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a shutter mechanism with a reflector on the machining area side to redirect laser beams away from the window, along with a control unit to manage shutter opening and closing, and the use of cameras to monitor the machining area even when the shutter is closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a window is provided in the cover body for monitoring the machining area, then the operator can monitor the machining process, but the window may be damaged by reflected laser beams from highly reflective workpieces
Solution Approach 1:
A shutter is introduced as an intermediary component between the machining area and the window. The shutter can be opened to allow monitoring when the laser is not operating, and closed to block reflected laser beams when the laser is active, thus protecting the window while maintaining monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter is controlled to close before the laser beam is activated and open after the laser beam is turned off. This preliminary action prevents the window from being exposed to harmful reflected laser beams before they can cause damage
2Reliability
If the shutter is closed to protect the window from laser damage, then the window is protected, but the operator cannot visually monitor the machining area
Solution Approach 1:
A camera is installed to capture images of the machining area when the shutter is closed. The camera creates a visual copy of the machining process that can be displayed to the operator, allowing monitoring without direct visual access through the closed shutter
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system acts as an intermediary between the machining area and the operator. When the shutter is closed, the camera captures and transmits visual information to the operator, enabling indirect monitoring while the shutter remains closed for protection
3Reliability
If the reflector redirects the laser beam away from the window, then the window is protected from damage, but the laser beam path must be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector converts the potentially harmful reflected laser beam into a beneficial protective measure. By strategically positioning the reflector, the harmful reflected beam is redirected away from the window, transforming a threat into a protection mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The reflector is positioned at a specific location and angle within the machining area to selectively redirect laser beams only when they pose a threat to the window. This localized intervention protects the window without requiring complex global control of the entire laser beam path
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
Prevents window damage by reflecting laser beams, allowing continuous operation and improved productivity by enabling safe monitoring of the machining process.
Implementation Method 1
A reflector configured to reflect the laser beam is provided on a surface on the machining area side of the shutter
Data Source
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AI summary
An additive manufacturing apparatus (100) capable of performing additive manufacturing by supplying a powder material to a workpiece and irradiating the workpiece with a laser beam includes a cover body (130) defining a machining area (AR) in which additive manufacturing is performed on the workpiece, a window (WD) provided in the cover body (130), and a shutter (150) provided on the machining area (AR) side of the window (WD) and configured to be openable and closable with respect to the window (WD). A reflector (RF) for reflecting the laser beam is provided on a surface on the machining area (AR) side of the shutter (150).