Beam Steering for Fast Switching Between Laser Emitting Heads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing devices face challenges in quickly and accurately switching between multiple laser light emitting heads due to the large size and limited responsiveness of optical components like reflectors and condenser lenses.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing device with a beam control mechanism that includes a condenser lens, optical path changing mechanisms, and a controller to quickly and accurately direct laser light to selected optical fibers and laser light emitting heads, allowing for rapid switching between them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If reflector and condenser lens are moved by actuator to change optical path, then laser light can be directed to different optical fibers, but responsiveness is poor and switching is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical actuator system with an optical path changing mechanism that uses mirrors or beam steerers to redirect laser light. This substitution eliminates the need to physically move large optical components, achieving faster switching speeds while maintaining the ability to direct laser light to different optical fibers in the bundle.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical path changing mechanism divides the single optical path into multiple segmented paths, each leading to different optical fibers. By using multiple mirrors or beam steerers positioned at different angles, the system can selectively direct laser light to specific segments (optical fibers) without moving the entire optical assembly, thereby improving responsiveness.
2Measurement precision
If condenser lens is moved on straight line by actuator to change incident position, then laser light incident position changes, but both positional accuracy and responsiveness cannot be achieved simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the linear actuator mechanism with an optical path changing mechanism that uses angular adjustment of mirrors or beam steerers. This allows rapid repositioning of the laser beam with high precision by changing the angle of reflection rather than physically moving the condenser lens, achieving both positional accuracy and responsiveness simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the condenser lens in one dimension (linear translation), the patent uses angular adjustment in a different dimension (rotation or tilting of mirrors). This dimensional change enables rapid positioning with high accuracy by exploiting rotational degrees of freedom, which can be controlled more quickly and precisely than linear actuation.
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
The solution enables rapid and accurate switching between laser light emitting heads, reducing man-hours and processing time, and improving the overall efficiency and quality of laser processing.
Implementation Method 1
a condenser lens that receives the laser light, and condenses the laser light at a predetermined magnification
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A laser processing device includes a laser oscillator, first to third optical fibers, a beam control mechanism, and first to third laser light emitting heads attached to the first to third optical fibers, respectively. The beam control mechanism includes a condenser lens, first to third optical path changing mechanisms provided on an optical path of laser light LB after being transmitted through the condenser lens, and a controller that controls operations of the first to third optical path changing mechanisms. The beam control mechanism causes the laser light to be emitted from the first laser light emitting head via the selected first optical fiber.