Double Laser Nozzle Assembly for Self-Aligning Gas Flow
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser cutting systems face alignment issues during nozzle replacement, particularly with double nozzles, leading to complex installation, machine downtime, and the need for specialized tools and expertise, which affect the uniformity and efficiency of the cutting process.
Innovation Solution
A redesigned double nozzle configuration with minimized interface surfaces and improved alignment features, such as conical seating and multiple fluid flow paths, reduces misalignment opportunities and simplifies installation, ensuring better alignment and uniform gas flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional double nozzle design with multiple interface surfaces is used, then gas flow distribution is achieved, but alignment precision deteriorates due to cumulative misalignment at multiple interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the inner nozzle and outer nozzle into a single integrated body, eliminating the interface between two separate components. This single-piece construction removes the cumulative misalignment issue that occurs when multiple components are assembled together, directly improving alignment precision while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the gas flow paths into multiple distinct channels within the single nozzle body, allowing different gas flows to be delivered through separate paths while maintaining precise alignment of all flows with the laser beam. This achieves the functional benefits of multiple flows without the alignment problems of multiple components.
2Ease of repair
If conventional nozzle replacement procedure is used, then nozzle replacement is possible, but installation complexity increases due to alignment verification requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle incorporates self-aligning features such as tapered seating surfaces and alignment pins that automatically ensure proper alignment during installation. This eliminates the need for complex alignment verification procedures, making nozzle replacement easier while reducing installation complexity. The nozzle essentially aligns itself with the laser beam and mounting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle is pre-aligned and pre-assembled as a single unit during manufacturing, with all alignment features already in place. This preliminary alignment action eliminates the need for field alignment verification and adjustment during nozzle replacement, simplifying the repair process while maintaining high alignment precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent nozzle replacement is performed, then adaptability to different cutting requirements is achieved, but machine downtime increases due to complex installation and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The self-aligning features enable rapid nozzle replacement without requiring technicians to perform complex alignment procedures. The nozzle automatically positions itself correctly during installation, eliminating time-consuming verification steps and reducing machine downtime while maintaining adaptability for frequent replacements.
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified single-piece nozzle design allows for more economical nozzle replacements, enabling frequent changes to different cutting requirements. The reduced complexity and alignment requirements make rapid replacement feasible, minimizing machine downtime while maintaining versatility.
4Manufacturing precision
If specialized tools and expertise are used for nozzle installation, then alignment accuracy is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle's self-aligning features eliminate the need for specialized alignment tools and expert knowledge during installation. The built-in alignment mechanisms automatically ensure precise alignment, improving installation simplicity while maintaining high alignment accuracy that previously required specialized equipment and expertise.
Data Source
AI summary
A double nozzle for a laser processing head includes an inner body portion having an interior surface defining a bore for passing a laser beam, a first interface surface near a distal end of the inner body portion, the first interface surface including a plurality of channels, and an exterior surface near a proximal end of the inner body portion and shaped to engage the laser processing head. Each channel includes interior and exterior linear edges in a cross-section that passes though a central longitudinal axis of the double nozzle. The double nozzle also includes an outer body portion connected to the inner body portion. The outer body portion defines a jet surface, which together with the plurality of channels defines a corresponding plurality of auxiliary fluid flow paths about the bore and between the inner body portion and the outer body portion.