Galvanometric Laser Calibration Plate With In-Machine Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current galvanometric scanning systems in fiber lasers require external imaging systems for calibration, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when calibrating dynamic focus modules, leading to potential miscalibration and poor processing performance.
Innovation Solution
An in-machine imaging system is used to calibrate the galvanometric scanning system by projecting a pattern onto a calibration test plate placed on the support platen, allowing for precise measurement of the laser beam axis without the need for external coordinate measuring machines, utilizing a calibration test plate with fiducials that can provide high-contrast imagery and be made from stable materials like glass or metal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external imaging systems (e.g., separate CMM) are used to measure marks on work piece for calibration, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to cumbersome external equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imaging system with the laser processing system by integrating a camera and imaging optics into the existing laser beam path. The camera is positioned to receive light through the same optical components (galvanometric mirrors, scan head, focus module) that the laser beam traverses, eliminating the need for separate external measurement equipment while providing calibration measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated imaging system serves multiple functions: it can capture images for calibration purposes, verify laser marking accuracy, and potentially perform quality inspection. The same optical path and camera system that enables laser processing also enables measurement and calibration, making the system multi-functional without requiring additional external devices.
2Measurement precision
If external imaging systems are used for calibration, then measurement function is achieved, but ease of operation worsens due to complex setup and coordination between external and internal systems
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the imaging system with the laser processing system, the patent eliminates the need for complex coordination between external and internal systems. The camera and laser share the same optical path and control system, allowing calibration to be performed using the same software and control interface that operates the laser processing, significantly simplifying the calibration process.
3Measurement precision
If marks are made on work piece for calibration measurement, then calibration data can be obtained, but productivity deteriorates due to additional processing steps and time required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a calibration target with pre-defined fiducial markers that are manufactured with high precision before use. These fiducials serve as known reference points that eliminate the need to create calibration marks during the calibration process itself, allowing for faster calibration by simply imaging the pre-prepared target rather than requiring the laser to mark test patterns.
4Measurement precision
If dynamic focus module is calibrated using external systems, then focus accuracy can be verified, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the imaging system into the laser beam path such that the camera views through the same optical components including the dynamic focus module. This allows the imaging system to directly measure the focus point position as it moves through the Z-range, providing focus accuracy verification without requiring external measurement equipment and simplifying the calibration process.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments may include a galvanometric laser system, comprising: a laser device to generate a laser beam; an X-Y scan head module to position the laser beam on a work piece, the X-Y scan head module including a laser ingress to receive the laser beam and a laser egress to output the laser beam; a support platen located below the laser egress; an in-machine imaging system integrated with the galvanometric laser, wherein a camera of the in-machine imaging system is arranged to view a surface of an object located on the support platen using one or more optical components of the X-Y scan head module to generate assessment data associated with a calibration of the X-Y scan head module by imaging the surface of the object, wherein a calibration fiducial is located on the surface of the object.