Dichroic Lens Optical Device for Laser Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In laser processing apparatuses, the combination of optical systems for processing and measurement often results in reduced measurement accuracy due to variations in the distance from the lens to the workpiece, making on-line inspection challenging.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising a convex lens, a concave lens, and a mirror member is used to align the optical paths of both the laser beam and visible light on the same axis, with the concave lens positioned to deflect visible light and maintain measurement accuracy despite variations in distance, allowing for on-line inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the optical paths of laser beam and visible light are arranged on the same axis to combine processing and measurement systems, then on-line inspection capability is achieved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to distance variation from lens to workpiece
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into separate functional components: a laser processing optical system and a measurement optical system. Each system has its own optical path and lens, allowing independent optimization. The laser processing lens focuses the laser beam for processing, while the measurement lens captures images for inspection, eliminating the trade-off that would exist in a combined system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the measurement optical system in a different spatial dimension relative to the laser processing optical system. The measurement optical axis is arranged parallel to but separate from the laser optical axis, allowing both systems to operate simultaneously without interfering with each other's focal distances or measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If a separate measuring instrument is used for off-line inspection, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but productivity decreases due to extraction from processing line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the laser processing system and the measurement system into a single integrated apparatus. Both systems share the same workpiece stage and control system, allowing simultaneous processing and inspection without removing the workpiece from the production line, thus maintaining high measurement accuracy while achieving on-line inspection capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distance from lens to workpiece varies during processing, then adaptability to different work positions is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the measurement system continuously captures images of the workpiece during laser processing. The captured images are processed to detect the actual workpiece shape and position, and this information is fed back to adjust the processing parameters, maintaining high measurement accuracy despite variations in workpiece position or lens-to-workpiece distance.
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 configuration enables precise on-line detection of processed shapes without being affected by distance variations, ensuring high measurement accuracy and compatibility with processing operations.
Implementation Method 1
The convex lens reflects the first wavelength light and transmits the second wavelength light
Implementation Method 2
The concave lens is arranged on the axis and at the other side in a direction of the axis and having a concave surface
Implementation Method 3
The mirror member has a reflective surface opposing the convex surface and is arranged apart from an outer circumference of the convex lens
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an optical device having a convex lens, a concave lens and a mirror member is provided. The convex lens is arranged on an axis and has a convex surface at one side in a direction of the axis. The convex lens reflects a first wavelength light and transmits a second wavelength light. The concave lens is arranged on the axis and at the other side in a direction of the axis and having a concave surface. The mirror member has a reflective surface opposing the convex surface and is arranged apart from an outer circumference of the convex lens.