Folding Mirror Calibration for Precise Laser Beam Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser processing devices lack the capability to appropriately update correspondence relationship information between the state of laser light incident on an object and the inclination angle of the mirror's reflecting surface, which is crucial for precise control of laser light irradiation.

Innovation Solution

A laser device equipped with a folding mirror that adjusts its inclination angles in conjunction with a reference light system, a reference light receiver, and a controller for calibration processing, allowing for the updating of correspondence relationship information by observing the state of laser light and reference light outputs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If correspondence relationship information is prepared to control laser light state, then laser light control precision is improved, but the information becomes outdated when the relationship changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser light control precisionVSAvoidcorrespondence relationship information validity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the detection means detects the actual state of laser light incident on the object, and the control means updates the correspondence relationship information based on this detection. This closed-loop feedback ensures the information remains accurate and reliable even when conditions change, resolving the contradiction between initial precision and ongoing validity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary calibration by detecting the laser light state at multiple inclination angles beforehand to establish the correspondence relationship information. This preliminary action prepares accurate reference data that enables precise control during actual operation, addressing both the need for initial precision and providing a basis for future updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If mirror inclination angle is adjusted to control laser light state, then processing precision is improved, but the correspondence relationship information becomes invalid

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing precisionVSAvoidcorrespondence relationship information
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

After adjusting the mirror inclination angle for precise processing, the detection means detects the new laser light state, and the control means updates the correspondence relationship information to reflect this change. This feedback loop prevents information loss by continuously synchronizing the stored information with the actual system state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-updating of the correspondence relationship information through its own detection and control means, without requiring external intervention. The laser device automatically detects changes in laser light state and updates its internal calibration data, making the system self-maintaining and preventing information obsolescence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If detection means is added to detect laser light state, then control accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accuracyVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection means serves multiple functions: it detects laser light state for updating correspondence relationship information, monitors processing conditions, and provides feedback for control adjustments. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing comprehensive control capabilities from a single integrated system.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the detection means, control means, and correspondence relationship information storage into an integrated control system. By merging these components into a unified architecture rather than separate systems, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining high control accuracy through coordinated operation of the integrated components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 precise adjustment and updating of the correspondence relationship information, ensuring accurate control of the laser light's state and inclination angle, thereby improving the device's ability to maintain optimal processing conditions.

Implementation Method 1

a folding mirror 200 that includes a first reflecting surface 200a that reflects the laser light LB emitted from the laser light source 101 in a direction different from a traveling direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a condensing lens 400 that is disposed in an optical path of the laser light LB from the first reflecting surface 200a of the folding mirror 200 toward the end portion of the optical fiber 20 and condenses the laser light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentEP4074453B1Laser device
Publication Date: 2024.05.01 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • EP4074453B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4074453B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4074453B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In the calibration processing, controller (14) makes an observation of a state of laser light (LB) incident on an object to be irradiated and an output of reference light receiver (300) while sequentially changing an inclination angle of first reflecting surface (200a) of folding mirror (200) with respect to an optical path of laser light (LB) incident on first reflecting surface (200a) of folding mirror (200). Based on a result of the observation, controller (14) updates correspondence relationship information indicating a correspondence relationship between a target state of laser light (LB) incident on the object to be irradiated and a target output of reference light receiver (300).