Fiber Laser Beam Combiner with Dynamic Mirror Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser connector systems are inflexible and unable to rapidly adapt to different beam selections or wavelength combinations, making it difficult to efficiently process materials with diverse natures that require specific wavelengths for cutting or treatment.
Innovation Solution
A system that combines and distributes fiber laser beams from multiple sources with a beam combiner and distributor, allowing for rapid selection and combination of wavelengths, either sequentially or simultaneously, using a mirror assembly and computerized process control unit for efficient beam management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional connectors are used to combine laser beams, then beam combination is achieved, but rapid adaptation to different beam selections or wavelength combinations is prohibited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic, movable mirrors (including rotating mirrors) that can be rapidly repositioned to select different wavelength combinations. This dynamic optical switching mechanism replaces static conventional connectors, enabling real-time adaptability without physical reconnection while maintaining system manageability through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single beam combiner unit: wavelength selection, beam combination, and rapid adaptation capabilities. By incorporating a library of mirrors that can be selectively activated, the system provides universal functionality for handling diverse wavelength combinations through one device rather than requiring separate connectors for each configuration.
2Productivity
If splicing connectors are used upstream of laser head, then beam combination is achieved, but rapid material changes and diverse material processing become detrimental
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mirror positioning systems that can rapidly switch between different wavelength configurations to match changing material requirements. This eliminates the need for physical re-splicing when materials change, maintaining high process speed while adapting to diverse material types through automated optical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes optical parameters (wavelength selection, beam combination ratios) dynamically based on material type detection or operator input. By adjusting these parameters through movable mirror positioning rather than physical connector changes, the system achieves both high productivity and versatility for diverse material processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fiber laser sources with different wavelengths are used, then diverse material processing capability is improved, but beam selection and combination flexibility is reduced with conventional systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates automated control systems that can detect material properties and automatically select appropriate wavelength combinations from the available laser sources. This feedback mechanism simplifies operation by eliminating manual beam selection complexity, allowing operators to process diverse materials easily while the system handles the complex wavelength selection automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary control system (computerized or automated) that mediates between the multiple laser sources and the processing head. This intermediary manages the complexity of beam selection and combination, presenting a simplified interface to the operator while coordinating the complex interactions among multiple wavelength sources and mirrors.
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
Enables rapid and efficient processing of materials by allowing selection and combination of desired wavelengths, improving process speed and efficiency, and providing safety features in case of component failure.
Implementation Method 1
combining and optionally distributing beams from multiple beam emitters
Implementation Method 2
combining or distributing fiber laser beams having different wavelengths
Implementation Method 3
a beam distributor allows light to propagate along a light path from a beam source (a single or combined beam) through one or more mirrors to a designated output
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a fiber laser system for processing materials involving a system of interconnected operational components for combining and optionally distributing beams from multiple beam emitters. More particularly, the present invention provides a system for combining and distributing fiber laser beams having different wavelengths and a method for operating the system thereof. Multiple beam combiners may be optionally linked with a beam distribution system. In exemplary use, multiple fiber laser sources generating different wavelength outputs are combined in a single beam incident of a work piece comprising multiple layers.