Exchangeable Laser Optics Module for Fast Maintenance and Beam Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser machine tools face challenges in efficiently maintaining and adapting the intensity of the laser beam during the processing of workpieces or production of moldings, particularly due to wear and contamination of optical components, which can lead to reduced performance and increased downtime.
Innovation Solution
An optical module that can be quickly replaced and features automatically adjustable collimation and focusing optics, along with a detachable powder nozzle, to maintain optimal beam intensity and prevent contamination, allowing for continuous operation and efficient maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a laser machining machine is designed to process multiple different materials with different processing conditions, then the versatility and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity and preparation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a control unit, a parameter storage unit, and an execution unit. Each module has a specific function - the control unit receives material information, the storage unit holds pre-defined processing parameters, and the execution unit applies the parameters. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple materials without increasing overall complexity, as each module remains relatively simple and independent.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser machining machine is designed with a universal processing head that can handle different materials (metal, semi-metal, plastic) using the same basic hardware. The system stores multiple sets of processing parameters (power, speed, focus) for different material types, allowing one machine to perform multiple functions without requiring separate specialized equipment for each material type.
2Manufacturing precision
If processing parameters are manually adjusted for each material type, then the manufacturing precision can be optimized, but the productivity and processing speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Processing parameters for different material types are pre-defined and stored in the parameter storage unit before actual machining begins. When a material type is identified, the corresponding pre-optimized parameters are automatically retrieved and applied, eliminating the need for manual adjustment during production. This preliminary preparation maintains high processing quality while significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically identifies the material type and retrieves the corresponding processing parameters from storage, creating a feedback loop that ensures the correct parameters are applied for each material. This automated parameter selection based on material identification ensures consistent processing quality across different materials without manual intervention, thereby maintaining precision while increasing speed.
3Device complexity
If the laser processing head remains stationary, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to process different material types and conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The laser processing head is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than completely stationary. It can modify processing parameters (power, speed, focus) based on the identified material type, providing the necessary adaptability for different materials while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure. The dynamics are achieved through parameter control rather than complex mechanical movement.
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 efficient maintenance, reduces downtime, and ensures consistent beam intensity, thereby improving the overall performance and versatility of laser machine tools by allowing for automatic adjustments and easy replacement of optical components.
Implementation Method 1
a laser machining machine (200) for processing a workpiece (201) with a laser beam (211)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an optical module (2) for a machine (1) for machining workpieces and/or for producing moulded bodies by location-selective solidification of material powder to form connected regions by means of a focused laser beam. The optical module (2) comprises a housing (8) having means for releasably attaching the optical module (2) to the machine (1). According to the invention, a plurality of optical components (4, 14) are arranged in or on the housing (8) to collimate and focus the laser beam.