Laser Machining End Detection Using Transmitted Light Intensity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing techniques for pulse laser grinding lack an efficient method to detect the end of machining, leading to unnecessary repetitions and inefficiencies, especially in automated processes, as the required number of repetitions for zero cutting is unknown and relies on visual confirmation or image analysis.
Innovation Solution
A machining apparatus and method that utilize a feed mechanism to move a workpiece relative to a cylindrical machining region of laser light, incorporating a light receiver and intensity detector to monitor the light intensity of laser light not used for machining, allowing the controller to detect the end of machining based on changes in light intensity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If zero cutting is performed multiple times until visual confirmation or image analysis, then machining precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming manual inspection and unnecessary repetitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using a light receiver to detect transmitted laser light intensity and feeding this information back to the controller. The controller automatically determines machining completion based on the detected light intensity, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection and enabling automatic control of the machining process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection system with an optical detection system. Instead of using cameras or human visual confirmation, the system uses a light receiver to detect light intensity changes, substituting mechanical inspection methods with optical sensing for automated machining completion detection.
2Extent of automation
If zero cutting is performed based on estimated repetitions from experience, then automation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to unnecessary machining repetitions
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time feedback from light intensity detection to dynamically control the number of machining repetitions. The controller monitors transmitted light intensity during each zero cutting operation and automatically stops machining when the predetermined light intensity condition is met, preventing unnecessary repetitions while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from a fixed number of repetitions (estimated from experience) to a dynamic parameter based on light intensity detection. The machining process is controlled by monitoring the transmitted light intensity parameter, which changes as material is removed, allowing precise automatic control of the number of repetitions.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual visual confirmation or image analysis is used to detect machining end, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but device complexity increases due to additional inspection equipment and operations
Solution Approach 1:
The laser light serves multiple functions: it performs the machining operation and simultaneously acts as a probe for detecting machining completion through transmitted light intensity measurement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate inspection equipment, reducing device complexity while maintaining machining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The machining system performs self-inspection by using the transmitted laser light to detect its own machining completion status. The light receiver detects changes in transmitted light intensity caused by material removal, allowing the system to automatically determine when machining is complete without external inspection devices.
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 approach enables precise detection of the end of machining, reducing unnecessary repetitions and enhancing efficiency by monitoring light intensity changes, thus improving automation and reducing waste in pulse laser grinding processes.
Implementation Method 1
a light receiver structured to receive the laser light that has passed through without being used for machining the workpiece
Implementation Method 2
an intensity detector structured to detect light intensity of the laser light received
Data Source
AI summary
A feed mechanism moves a workpiece relative to a cylindrical machining region of laser light. A light receiver receives the laser light that has passed through without being used for machining the workpiece. An intensity detector detects light intensity of the laser light thus received. A controller detects the end of machining on the basis of the light intensity thus detected.