Laser Machine Bridge Assembly With Inclined Modular Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing machine bridges lack an efficient and modular design that simplifies manufacturing, aligns components precisely, and optimizes weight distribution.
Innovation Solution
A modular bridge design comprising a carrier and separate support components with inclined support surfaces, allowing detachable connections and improved weight distribution, facilitating assembly and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional integrated bridge design is used, then structural strength is maintained, but manufacturing complexity and alignment precision are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge is divided into multiple modular components including a carrier component, support components, and guide means that can be manufactured separately and assembled together. This segmentation enables each component to be precision-manufactured independently using standard machining processes, improving overall alignment precision while reducing manufacturing complexity through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The support surface is designed with an inclined orientation at a specific angle relative to the second axis, creating a three-dimensional geometric relationship that naturally aligns the carrier with the guide means. This angular dimension provides self-aligning features that simplify assembly and improve precision without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms
2Ease of operation
If the laser processing unit is positioned far from the bridge, then accessibility is improved, but weight distribution and compactness are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge and carrier are designed with asymmetric geometric features including inclined surfaces and offset mounting positions that create an optimized weight distribution. The carrier is positioned at an angle and distance that balances accessibility requirements with compact overall dimensions, preventing excessive overhang while maintaining operational access
3Reliability
If multiple guide means are provided on the bridge, then guidance reliability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple guide means are implemented as separate, standardized modular components rather than integrated features. Each guide means can be independently manufactured, installed, and maintained, improving guidance reliability through redundancy while managing complexity through standardization and modularity
Solution Approach 2:
The guide means are designed with universal mounting interfaces and standardized geometries that allow the same component design to be replicated at multiple locations. This universality enables reliable multi-point guidance while reducing overall system complexity through component standardization
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a bridge for a laser processing machine (1), in particular a laser cutting machine, wherein the bridge (5) comprises a support (6) which extends along a first axis (y) and has a receiving side (7) for movably guiding a laser processing unit (9) along the first axis (y), and wherein one or more guide means (17) are provided on the bridge (5) for movably guiding the bridge (5) along a second axis (x), which runs essentially perpendicular to the first axis (y). In the bridge according to the invention, each guide means (17) is provided in a separate support component (13), which is detachably connected to the carrier (6) and has a support surface (22), on which the carrier (6) rests with a contact surface (29), wherein the support surface (22) runs perpendicular to the receiving side (7) and is inclined at an angle of inclination (α) relative to the second axis (x), so that the support surface (22), with increasing distance from the receiving side (7) of the bridge (5), approaches a base (19) of the support component (13), which faces away from the support surface (22).