Dual-Robot Laser Beam Transfer for Flexible Tool Positioning

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser processing systems are limited in their ability to efficiently and flexibly direct a laser beam to multiple processing positions without the restriction of optical fibers, which hampers the movement and positioning of processing tools.

Innovation Solution

A laser processing system comprising a laser oscillator, a laser beam emitting tool supported by a first robot, and a laser processing tool supported by a second robot, where the laser beam emitting tool emits a laser beam to the processing tool, allowing for independent movement and positioning without optical fiber constraints, and a robot control unit that manages the emission timing and positioning of the laser beam.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single laser oscillator with light duct and guide means is used to supply laser beam to two processing tools, then the system structure is simplified and cost is reduced, but the movement and positioning flexibility of processing tools is restricted due to optical fiber constraints

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem structureVSAvoidmovement flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the laser beam supply system into two independent paths: one from the laser oscillator to the first processing tool, and another from the first processing tool to the second processing tool. This segmentation allows each tool to move independently without being constrained by a single optical fiber connection, resolving the contradiction between simplified structure and movement flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The first processing tool acts as an intermediary that receives the laser beam and then emits it toward the second processing tool. This intermediary approach enables the second tool to receive laser energy without a direct optical fiber connection to the oscillator, thereby achieving movement flexibility while maintaining system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If optical fibers are used to connect laser oscillator to processing tools, then laser beam transmission is stable, but the positioning and repositioning of processing tools becomes restricted and slow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser beam transmission stabilityVSAvoidrepositioning speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the laser transmission path so that the first tool maintains a stable optical fiber connection to the oscillator, while the second tool receives beams through the first tool without direct fiber constraints. This enables rapid repositioning of the second tool without compromising transmission stability for the first tool.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adapts the laser beam path: the first tool can receive beams directly when positioned, and then emit beams to the second tool which can move freely. This dynamic configuration allows stable transmission when needed and rapid repositioning when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple laser oscillators are used to supply laser beams to multiple processing tools independently, then each tool can be positioned and moved freely, but the system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning freedomVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first processing tool serves multiple functions: it acts as a processing tool for its own tasks and simultaneously functions as a laser beam emitter for the second tool. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate laser oscillators for each tool, thereby maintaining positioning freedom while reducing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using a separate laser oscillator for the second tool, the system uses the first tool as a 'copy' or intermediary emitter. The laser beam characteristics are copied from the first tool's emission to provide the second tool with independent positioning capability without adding a complete second oscillator system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 enhances the flexibility and efficiency of laser processing by allowing rapid repositioning of processing tools and maintaining laser beam quality, reducing cycle time and improving operational safety through controlled emission and cleaning of the processing system.

Implementation Method 1

a laser beam emitting tool connected to the laser oscillator and supported by a first robot, the laser beam emitting tool emitting a laser beam supplied by the laser oscillator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

a laser processing tool which is supported by a second robot and which receives the laser beam emitted by the laser beam emitting tool and emits the laser beam toward a processing position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS10987756B2Laser processing system
Publication Date: 2021.04.27 FANUC LTD
  • US10987756B2 patent drawing
  • US10987756B2 patent drawing
  • US10987756B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser processing system includes a laser oscillator, a laser beam emitting tool connected to the laser oscillator and supported by a first robot, the laser beam emitting tool emitting a laser beam supplied by the laser oscillator, and a laser processing tool which is supported by a second robot and which receives the laser beam emitted by the laser beam emitting tool and emits the laser beam toward a predetermined processing position.