Laser Chamber Exit Closure Using U-Folded Strip Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet metal strip movement equipment with slits in the belt housing frame can reflect laser light during machining, posing a risk to the surrounding environment.
Innovation Solution
A closure device is introduced at the rear exit of the frame, utilizing a pneumatic or aerodynamic cylinder with a U-folded steel plate and brushes to prevent laser beams from escaping through the exit opening by deforming and holding the sheet metal in place during machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If slits are provided in the belt housing frame for strip entry and exit, then the sheet metal strip can pass through the machining chamber, but laser light may be reflected through the slits endangering the surrounding environment
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is divided into multiple functional segments: a movable closure element that can open and close, a deformation element that shapes the sheet metal, and a holding element that secures it in place. This segmentation allows the system to switch between allowing strip passage and preventing laser light reflection through coordinated action of these segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device performs preliminary action by deforming the sheet metal strip before it exits through the slit. The deformation element creates a folded configuration that anticipates the need to block laser reflection, preparing the strip in advance to be held securely when the closure element activates.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a closure device is introduced to prevent laser light reflection, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated closure device: the closure element for blocking the slit, the deformation element for folding the sheet metal, and the holding element for securing it. This consolidation achieves safety without proportionally increasing complexity, as these functions work together in a coordinated mechanism rather than as separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device employs dynamic elements that can move and adapt: the closure element can open and close the slit, the deformation element can fold the sheet metal on demand, and the holding element can engage and disengage. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain simplicity by only activating components when needed, rather than requiring permanently complex structures.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the sheet metal strip is deformed and held at the exit, then laser beams are prevented from exiting, but the processing time may be extended
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device operates through periodic cycles: during the machining phase, the closure element remains open allowing rapid processing; at the exit moment, it quickly closes while the deformation and holding elements secure the strip. This periodic operation minimizes the time the closure is active, preventing laser beam exit only when necessary while maintaining high processing speed during the majority of the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation and holding action occurs rapidly in a brief moment just before the strip exits the machining chamber. The closure element snaps shut and the holding element engages in a quick motion, rushing through the safety-critical action before returning to the open state. This minimizes the time penalty while ensuring laser beams are prevented from exiting during the critical transition phase.
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
Effectively prevents laser beams from exiting the machining chamber, ensuring safety and reducing environmental risks by securely holding the sheet metal at the exit point.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator 16, such as a pneumatic or aerodynamic cylinder
Implementation Method 2
slotted portion 26 of plate 24 comes into contact with sheet 8, deforming internally
Implementation Method 3
Brushes 28 are applied at the ends of bar 20 and externally to plate 24
Data Source
AI summary
A closure device for a chamber housing a laser units for cutting a sheet metal strip includes, in proximity of an exit slit of the strip to be machined, a bar arranged transversely to the axis of advancement of the strip, and having, at the lower edges of the major side surfaces, longitudinal edges of a U-folded plate bound thereto. The plate has a plurality of transverse slots ending before its edges. An actuator provided for a vertical movement of the bar.