Laser Beam Switching Between Fiber Heads for Precise Welding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing devices face challenges in quickly and accurately switching between laser light emitting heads due to the large size and limited responsiveness of optical components like reflectors and condenser lenses, affecting the efficiency and accuracy of laser processing.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing device with a beam control mechanism that includes a condenser lens, optical path changing mechanisms, and a controller to quickly and accurately direct laser light to selected optical fibers, allowing for easy switching between laser light emitting heads and optimizing beam profiles for improved welding quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If reflector and condenser lens are moved by actuator to change incident position of laser light, then optical path can be changed, but responsiveness is poor and switching between optical fibers is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical path control function into multiple small mirror units instead of moving one large optical component. Each mirror unit can be independently controlled to redirect laser light to different optical fibers, enabling faster and more precise switching without the inertia and complexity associated with moving large reflectors or condenser lenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical movement of large optical components (reflector and condenser lens) with a different mechanical approach using small, rapidly movable mirror units. This substitution eliminates the responsiveness problems caused by the mass and size of traditional optical components while achieving the same optical path switching function.
2Measurement precision
If condenser lens is moved on a straight line by actuator to change incident position, then positional accuracy can be achieved, but responsiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical path control into multiple small mirror units, each capable of precise angular adjustment. This segmentation allows for high positional accuracy through fine angular control of individual mirrors while maintaining fast responsiveness because each small mirror has minimal mass and can be rapidly repositioned compared to a single large condenser lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically controllable mirror units that can rapidly change their orientation angles in response to control signals. This dynamic control mechanism enables both high responsiveness (fast switching) and high positional accuracy (precise incident position control) by adjusting the angle and position of small mirrors rather than moving a large condenser lens along a straight line.
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
The solution enables rapid and precise switching between laser light emitting heads, reducing processing time and costs while enhancing welding quality by reliably forming molten pools and keyholes in workpieces.
Implementation Method 1
a condenser lens that receives the laser light, and condenses the laser light at a predetermined magnification
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of optical path changing mechanisms that are provided on an optical path of the laser light traveling between the condenser lens and an incident end face of the fiber bundle, and changes the optical path of the laser light
Data Source
AI summary
A laser processing device includes a laser oscillator, first to third optical fibers, a beam control mechanism, and first to third laser light emitting heads attached to the first to third optical fibers, respectively. The beam control mechanism includes a condenser lens, first to third optical path changing mechanisms provided on an optical path of laser light LB after being transmitted through the condenser lens, and a controller that controls operations of the first to third optical path changing mechanisms. The beam control mechanism causes the laser light to be emitted from the first laser light emitting head via the selected first optical fiber.