Adjustable Laser Field of View for Web Processing Precision
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser systems for processing web material have a fixed field of view, requiring time-consuming modifications to the web path and refocusing to accommodate different field of view settings, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable field of view laser system with a servo-driven mirror assembly and focusing mechanism, allowing on-the-fly adjustments without modifying the web path, ensuring a focused beam at the web material surface for various processing tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view of a conventional laser system is changed to process different web material patterns, then the laser can accommodate different processing requirements, but the web path must be modified which is time-consuming and requires part kits for each setting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by making the laser system's field of view adjustable through a servo-driven mirror assembly that can dynamically change the laser beam's angle of incidence on the web material. This allows the system to adapt to different processing requirements without physical modifications to the web path, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements Parameter changes by varying the field of view angle of the laser system through servo control of mirror assemblies. By changing the angular parameter of the laser beam delivery system, the same physical web path can accommodate different processing patterns and fields of view, eliminating the need for time-consuming web path modifications and part kits.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view is changed in a conventional laser system, then different processing patterns can be achieved, but the laser needs to be refocused to provide a focused beam at the new web path position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies Dynamics by implementing a servo-driven focusing mechanism that can dynamically adjust the laser beam's focal position. When the field of view angle changes, the focusing mechanism automatically repositions the focal point to maintain it at the correct distance from the web material surface, eliminating manual refocusing time and maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements Feedback through a control system that coordinates the servo-driven mirror assembly and servo-driven focusing mechanism. The system receives information about the desired field of view setting and automatically adjusts both the beam angle and focal position to maintain optimal processing conditions, eliminating manual intervention and refocusing delays.
3Device complexity
If a conventional laser system uses a fixed field of view, then the system structure is simple, but it requires web path modification and part kits for each different field of view setting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies Universality by designing a laser system with servo-driven mirror assemblies and focusing mechanisms that can perform multiple field of view configurations using the same physical hardware. Instead of requiring separate part kits for each field of view setting, the universal servo control system can dynamically configure the laser beam delivery to accommodate various processing patterns, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
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
Enables efficient and precise processing of web material with multiple field of view settings without altering the web path, reducing errors and improving productivity by maintaining a focused beam across different operations.
Implementation Method 1
a laser configured to generate a laser beam
Implementation Method 2
a gimble assembly configured to direct the laser beam along a cut path at a position of a web path
Implementation Method 3
a servo driven mirror assembly configured to provide an adjustable field of view for the laser stage
Implementation Method 4
ensuring a focused beam at the web material surface for various processing tasks
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for processing a web with a laser are provided. In an example, an apparatus for processing web material can include multiple processing stages and a laser assembly. Each of the multiple processing stages can be configured to process a moving web of material along a web path. The laser assembly can be configured to process the moving web of material with a laser at a first stage of the multiple stages. The laser assembly can include a laser configured to generate a laser beam, a gimble assembly configured to direct the laser beam along a cut path at a position of a web path of the moving web of material, and a servo driven mirror assembly configured to provide an adjustable field of view for the laser stage at the position of the web path.