Handheld Fiber Laser Cleaning with Modulated CW Passivation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber laser cleaning methods have not provided a high-quality, economical mode of cleaning using a fiber-based handheld laser device, and larger laser systems are impractical or too expensive for smaller-scale users.
Innovation Solution
A handheld laser system configured with a modulated continuous wave (CW) mode, pulse-repetition frequency of at least 10 kHz, and FWHM pulse duration of 1 microsecond to 10 milliseconds, along with a wobble amplitude greater than 5 mm, is used to deliver laser radiation through a cleaning nozzle for effective surface cleaning and passivation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional fiber laser cleaning methods are used, then cleaning capability is provided, but cleaning quality is insufficient and not high-quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the laser operating mode from conventional continuous wave to modulated continuous wave with specific parameters (duty cycle 1-30%, pulse repetition frequency 10-100 kHz, pulse duration 1 μs-10 ms). This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by achieving both high cleaning quality through controlled pulsed delivery and reliable cleaning effectiveness through optimized duty cycle and frequency settings
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through modulated continuous wave laser delivery with pulse repetition frequencies of 10-100 kHz. This periodic pulsed structure allows the laser energy to be delivered in controlled cycles, enabling high-quality cleaning by removing contaminants effectively while maintaining reliable performance through consistent periodic operation
2Productivity
If high power laser systems are used, then cleaning power and efficiency are improved, but system cost and complexity increase making them impractical for smaller-scale users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a movable mirror to dynamically adjust the laser beam path and create variable wobble patterns on the surface. This dynamic beam delivery system enables high cleaning efficiency through increased surface area treatment while keeping the overall system compact and manageable, avoiding the complexity of large stationary laser systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a handheld laser device that can perform multiple functions including cleaning, passivation, and material processing. This multi-functional approach allows a single compact system to replace multiple specialized systems, improving productivity while reducing device complexity and cost for smaller-scale users
3Power
If laser radiation is delivered in continuous wave mode, then power delivery is maximized, but cleaning quality and surface finish deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by delivering laser energy in pulsed cycles with duty cycles of 1-30% and pulse repetition frequencies of 10-100 kHz. This periodic delivery maintains high average power while allowing surface cooling between pulses, preventing excessive heat accumulation and maintaining excellent surface finish quality
4Productivity
If wobble amplitude is increased, then surface area coverage and cleaning speed are improved, but beam control precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a movable mirror to create controlled wobble patterns with adjustable amplitudes and frequencies. This dynamic beam control system enables high cleaning speed through large wobble amplitudes covering extensive surface areas while maintaining precise beam control through active mirror positioning and feedback mechanisms
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 system offers high-quality, efficient, and faster cleaning and passivation of surfaces, eliminating the need for harmful chemicals and abrasives, and is suitable for smaller-scale applications.
Implementation Method 1
Laser irradiation can be used to provide heat input onto the surface that vaporizes a top layer of the surface
Implementation Method 2
Laser irradiation can be used to provide heat input onto the surface that vaporizes a top layer of the surface
Implementation Method 3
an optical fiber coupling the handheld apparatus to the laser source
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for passivating a surface using laser radiation are provided. In one example, a system includes a housing configured as a handheld apparatus that directs laser radiation to the surface to be passivated, an optical fiber that couples the handheld apparatus to a laser source, and a laser source that is configured to emit laser radiation in either a continuous wave (CW) mode having a maximum power of 1500 watts (W) inclusive, or a modulated CW mode having a duty cycle less than 100%, a pulse repetition frequency in a range of 30-55 kilohertz (kHz) inclusive, and a FWHM pulse duration of nanosecond order or longer.