Galvanometer Scanner Laser Beam Steering for Marking Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser marking systems with a single scan head are inefficient for rapid marking, and coordinating multiple scan heads is complex and costly, lacking the ability to modify laser beam characteristics for unique marking depths and profiles.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using multiple galvanometer scanners and mirrors to steer and converge multiple laser beams generated by a controller, allowing for simultaneous marking with adjustable beam characteristics to achieve deeper and faster marking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single scan head is used for laser marking, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but the marking time is excessively long and productivity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple laser beams (at least two) into a single marking system that operates simultaneously on different regions of the workpiece. By merging multiple marking operations into one coordinated system, the patent achieves faster overall marking speed without requiring multiple separate marking devices, thus improving productivity while avoiding the time loss of sequential marking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the marking task into multiple simultaneous operations by directing different laser beams to different regions or areas of the workpiece. This segmentation allows parallel processing of marking operations, significantly reducing the total marking cycle time compared to a single scan head that must complete the entire marking sequence sequentially.
2Productivity
If multiple laser marking devices are used to reduce marking time, then productivity improves, but the system becomes complex and difficult to coordinate
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple independent marking devices that require complex coordination, the patent merges multiple laser beams into a single integrated system controlled by one controller. This unified approach maintains high productivity through simultaneous marking while eliminating the coordination complexity that would arise from managing multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal marking system where a single controller manages multiple laser beams, making the system multi-functional capable of performing multiple marking operations simultaneously. This universal approach replaces the need for multiple specialized devices, reducing system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
3Productivity
If multiple scan heads are used for simultaneous marking, then marking time is reduced, but the system lacks the ability to modify individual laser beam characteristics for unique marking profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables different laser beams to have different characteristics (wavelengths, pulse durations, energies) tailored to specific marking requirements for different regions or materials. This local quality control allows each beam to be optimized for its specific task, providing versatility in creating unique marking profiles while maintaining simultaneous operation for high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows dynamic modification of laser beam parameters (wavelength, pulse duration, energy) for each individual beam independently. This parameter control capability enables the system to adapt to different marking requirements and material types while maintaining simultaneous marking operations, thus preserving both productivity and versatility.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple scan heads are used to converge beams for deeper marking, then marking depth improves, but the system complexity increases and error-prone coordination is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple laser beams under unified control to achieve convergence at the focal point for deeper marking. This unified merging approach maintains precision in beam convergence while eliminating the coordination complexity and errors that would arise from managing multiple independently controlled scan heads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal control system that manages multiple laser beams for both simultaneous marking and convergent focusing. This multi-functional system achieves deep marking through controlled beam convergence while maintaining simplicity through centralized control, avoiding the complexity of coordinating multiple independent scan heads.
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 efficient and accurate collective marking of surfaces with multiple laser beams, reducing marking time and cost compared to single-head systems, while allowing for unique marking profiles and depths.
Implementation Method 1
steer, through the first mirror and the second mirror, a first laser beam generated by the controller and transmitted to the marking head through a beam delivery vessel and steering, through the third mirror and the fourth mirror, a second laser beam generated by the controller and transmitted to the marking head through another beam delivery vessel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Disclosed are methods, systems, and/or apparatus for the collective marking of a surface by two or more laser beams generated by a laser controller. A method includes receiving one or more input signals from a controller of the laser system. The method also includes adjusting a first mirror through a first galvanometer scanner, a second mirror through a second galvanometer scanner, a third mirror through a third galvanometer scanner, and a fourth mirror through a fourth galvanometer scanner based on the one or more input signals. The method further includes steering, through the first mirror and the second mirror, a first laser beam generated by the controller and transmitted to a marking head through a beam delivery vessel; and steering, through the third mirror and the fourth mirror, a second laser beam generated by the controller and transmitted to the marking head through another beam delivery vessel.