Integrated Beam Dump for Stable Scan Lens Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laser processing apparatuses face precision issues due to temperature fluctuations in the scan lens, causing errors in beam spot placement during idle periods, as computed corrections become invalid due to temperature changes in the index of refraction.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing apparatus with a beam dump system that includes an absorber selectively positioned by an actuator assembly, allowing the beam to pass through the scan lens under all conditions, and an integrated debris removal system with a vacuum nozzle and exhaust assist system to manage debris and maintain stable temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the beam is blocked before reaching the scan lens during idle periods, then the scan lens temperature drops, but the computed corrections become invalid due to temperature changes in the index of refraction, resulting in beam spot placement errors
Solution Approach 1:
A beam dump is introduced as an intermediary component positioned between the laser source and scan lens. The beam dump selectively intercepts the laser beam during idle periods when debris removal is not needed, allowing the scan lens to maintain stable temperature and valid correction parameters while still enabling debris removal functionality when activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts beam path configuration based on operational state. During debris removal operations, the beam passes through the scan lens to process workpieces. During idle periods, the beam dump is positioned to intercept the beam, preventing temperature drift in the scan lens. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction between energy management and precision maintenance.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the beam dump is positioned upstream of the scan lens, then the scan lens temperature can be stabilized, but the system complexity increases with additional components and positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The beam dump system is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a beam interception device for temperature stabilization and a debris removal component. By integrating these functions into a single system, the patent reduces overall device complexity while achieving temperature stability. The same mechanical positioning mechanism that moves the beam dump for debris removal also positions it for beam interception.
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
Ensures high-precision operation by maintaining stable temperature of the scan lens and preventing errors in beam spot placement, even during idle periods, by continuously absorbing and managing the laser beam.
Implementation Method 1
a beam dump system operative to absorb a portion of the beam of laser energy
Implementation Method 2
a vacuum source configured to remove at least a portion of debris generated by the beam of laser energy impinging a workpiece from the vacuum nozzle
Implementation Method 3
an exhaust assist system operative to direct a fluid from an inlet port across the vacuum nozzle into the exhaust passage, thereby forcing at least a portion of the debris into the exhaust passage
Data Source
AI summary
A laser-processing apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the laser-processing apparatus includes a debris removal system with an integrated beam dump system, the beam dump system operative to selectively position an absorber within the beam path of a beam of laser energy. The beam dump system may allow the beam of laser energy to propagate through the scan lens of the laser-processing apparatus, but prevent the beam of laser energy from processing a workpiece. The beam dump system may include an actuator assembly operative to retract the absorber from the beam path, thereby allowing the beam to propagate to the workpiece and for debris from laser processing to be drawn into a vacuum nozzle, thereby preventing damage to the scan lens. The beam dump system may further include a heat transfer system operative to control the rate of heat transferred away from the absorber.