Laser Adapter Segmented Beam Paths for Reflection Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In laser processing, especially in high-precision applications like LASIK, the existing adapters compromise image quality due to unwanted reflections from illumination radiation, which interferes with the observation beam path, reducing the precision of the processing and observation of the object field.
Innovation Solution
The adapter separates the illumination and observation beam paths by guiding illumination radiation through the peripheral region, avoiding the central region involved in imaging, thus preventing back reflections and ensuring secure coupling between the laser processing device and the object with good optical quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If illumination radiation is guided through the central region of the adapter, then the object field can be illuminated for observation, but unwanted reflections from the illumination radiation interfere with the observation beam path and reduce image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is divided into two distinct functional regions: a central region for the observation beam path and a peripheral region for the illumination beam path. This spatial segmentation separates the illumination and observation functions, allowing illumination radiation to be guided through the peripheral region where it cannot reflect into the observation beam path, thereby eliminating unwanted reflections while maintaining effective illumination of the object field
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination function is extracted from the central observation beam path and relocated to the peripheral region of the adapter. By taking out the illumination radiation guidance from the central region and placing it in the peripheral region, the harmful reflections are eliminated while the beneficial illumination function is preserved
2Measurement precision
If the adapter uses a complex design with separate measurement devices for alignment, then positioning precision can be improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure: the central region serves as both the observation beam path and provides positioning reference (through its fixed geometric relationship with the laser processing device), while the peripheral region provides both mounting functionality and illumination guidance. This merging eliminates the need for separate measurement devices and alignment mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining positioning precision
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed as a multi-functional component where the central region simultaneously serves as the observation beam path and positioning reference, the peripheral region simultaneously serves as the mounting interface and illumination guidance structure. This universality allows a single adapter structure to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If the adapter ensures constant optical conditions in the beam path, then manufacturing precision of the processing can be improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination function is extracted from the central observation beam path and placed in the peripheral region. This extraction maintains constant optical conditions in the central beam path by eliminating illumination-related variables (such as illumination radiation reflections) that would otherwise interfere with the observation and processing, thereby improving manufacturing precision without adding complexity to the central optical system
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is segmented into two independent paths: the central observation beam path that maintains constant optical conditions for precise processing and observation, and the peripheral illumination beam path that handles illumination separately. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized independently, maintaining high precision in the central path without the complexity of integrating illumination control into the main beam path
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
This design allows for precise and high-quality optical observation and processing by preventing interference from illumination radiation, enhancing the precision and clarity of the object field, particularly suitable for surgical methods like LASIK.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination beam path through which the illumination radiation for illumination of an object field detectable by the central region can be guided
Implementation Method 2
separates the illumination and observation beam paths by guiding illumination radiation through the peripheral region, avoiding the central region involved in imaging, thus preventing back reflections
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for coupling a laser processing device to an object, said adapter having a central region which can be moved into the beam path of the laser processing device, an illumination beam path through which illumination radiation can be guided for illumination of an object field which can be covered by the central region, and a peripheral region located outside the central region and by which the adapter can be mounted on the object and/or on the laser processing device, wherein the illumination beam path extends in the peripheral region and guides illumination radiation, coupled into the peripheral region, to the object field direct and/or via the central region.