Integrated 3D Scanning for Precise Laser Marking Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser processing technologies require a 3D model of the object for precise marking or engraving, necessitating external high-precision 3D scanning and specialized personnel, leading to uncertainties and errors in alignment and positioning, and relying on external hardware and software systems.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a built-in scanning system and control unit that generates a digital representation of the object, allowing for automated alignment and processing without the need for external systems, using a movable laser emitter and rotating-tilting mandrel with three-axis movement, enabling flexible and accurate processing on complex geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external high-precision 3D scanning systems are used to create a 3D model of the object, then the accuracy of the digital representation is improved, but the device complexity and requirement for specialized personnel increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the 3D scanning system and laser processing apparatus into a single integrated device. The scanning system includes a scanner and controller that work together with the laser emitter to first capture the object's geometry and then perform processing based on the captured data, eliminating the need for separate external scanning equipment and specialized operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated apparatus performs multiple functions: 3D scanning to capture object geometry, digital representation generation, and laser processing. This multi-functional system replaces the need for separate specialized scanning equipment and skilled operators, simplifying the overall process while maintaining precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual positioning and alignment procedures are used to position the object inside the work area, then the flexibility in handling different objects is improved, but the positioning accuracy and time consumption worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning system captures the actual position and geometry of the object, and the controller uses this feedback information to automatically calculate and adjust the laser processing parameters and positioning. This closed-loop system eliminates manual alignment errors while maintaining adaptability to different object shapes and sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated optical scanning and digital control system. The scanner captures object geometry, and the controller automatically determines positioning and processing parameters, substituting human-operated mechanical alignment with automated optical-mechanical systems that provide higher precision and consistency.
3Measurement precision
If external hardware and software systems are used for creating 3D models, then the quality of the digital model is improved, but the loss of time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning system performs preliminary capture of the object's 3D geometry before the laser processing begins. The controller then uses this pre-captured data to automatically generate the digital representation and determine processing parameters, eliminating the time-consuming manual model creation and alignment steps that would otherwise be required.
Solution Approach 2:
By integrating the scanning system and processing apparatus, the patent combines what were previously separate time-consuming steps (scanning, modeling, alignment, processing) into a single automated workflow. The scanner and controller work together with the laser system to complete all operations in one continuous process, significantly reducing total operation time.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a movable laser emitter with three-axis movement is used, then the adaptability to process complex geometries is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable laser emitter system with three-axis movement capability serves multiple functions: it can position the laser at various locations to process complex 3D geometries, work in coordination with the scanning system to maintain proper positioning, and adapt to different object shapes. This multi-functional capability justifies the increased mechanical complexity by providing universal processing ability.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser emitter system is designed to be dynamically movable along three axes, allowing real-time adjustment of processing position and angle. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to complex geometries that would be impossible to process with fixed-position lasers, transforming a static system into a flexible, adaptable processing platform.
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
Simplifies and accelerates the processing procedure by automating alignment and eliminating the need for specialized operators and external equipment, ensuring high precision and flexibility in handling objects with unknown or irregular geometries.
Implementation Method 1
a laser emitter (2) configured to emit a laser beam towards the work area (A)
Implementation Method 2
laser processing technology is among the most widespread and used processing technologies... precision processing (for example marking, engraving, welding...)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus (1) for laser processing of an object comprising: a workstation defining a work area (A) adapted to at least partially contain one object to be processed (O); a laser emitter (2) configured to perform processing on the object to be processed (O); a holding means (3) configured to hold the object to be processed (O) in a plurality of operating positions inside the work area (A); a scanning system (6) integrated into the apparatus (1) and configured to scan at least one portion of the object to be processed (O) and to generate a scanning signal (SC) comprising data related to the digital representation of the object to be processed (O); and a control unit (7) configured to generate a work signal (SL) representative of a succession of operating instructions for laser processing of the object to be processed (O) on the basis of the data contained in the scanning signal (SC) and to send the work signal (SL) to the laser emitter (2) and/or to the holding means (3) in order to perform the processing on the object to be processed (O) at least on the basis of the content of the work signal (SL).