Liquid-Jet Laser Focus Alignment for Nozzle and Window Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid-jet guided laser systems face challenges in reliably coupling high-power laser beams without damaging the nozzle and protection window, leading to short operational lifetimes and potential for immediate or rapid failure during manless 3-shift industrial operations.
Innovation Solution
Optimizing the liquid-jet guided laser system by setting parameters such as the focus point below the nozzle inlet plane, adjusting the focus cone angle, and configuring the laser beam profile to minimize exposure and power density on the nozzle and protection window, thereby extending their operational lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high-power laser beam is coupled into liquid-jet for material treatment, then the laser power exceeds the damage threshold of work piece material, but the nozzle and protection window will be destroyed immediately or after very short working hours
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the focus alignment of the laser beam, specifically setting the focus point at a precise distance below the nozzle inlet plane and controlling the focus cone angle. This changes the spatial distribution parameters of the laser energy, concentrating it deeper into the liquid jet where it can process high-power materials without exceeding the damage threshold of the nozzle and protection window, thereby resolving the contradiction between high laser power and component reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the laser focus from the traditional position at or near the nozzle inlet to a new dimension - specifically below the nozzle inlet plane at a controlled distance. This spatial repositioning in the depth dimension allows the laser beam to enter the liquid jet at an optimized angle and position, distributing energy more effectively and preventing concentration on the nozzle and protection window surfaces, thus enabling high-power operation without component damage
2Manufacturing precision
If exact focus alignment is required for high-power laser treatment, then material treatment effectiveness is improved, but the system complexity and alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-calculating and pre-setting the optimal focus alignment parameters, including the specific distance of the focus point below the nozzle inlet plane and the appropriate focus cone angle. These parameters are determined in advance based on the liquid jet diameter and laser wavelength, eliminating the need for complex real-time alignment adjustments during operation, thus achieving high manufacturing precision while reducing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes specific parameter relationships that simplify the alignment process by defining the focus point position as a function of the liquid jet diameter (e.g., at a distance of 0.5 to 2 times the jet diameter below the inlet). This parameterization transforms a complex alignment problem into a straightforward calculation, reducing device complexity while maintaining high material treatment precision
3Productivity
If continuous operation for manless 3-shift industrial operation is required, then productivity is improved, but the risk of nozzle and protection window damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by positioning the laser focus point at a safe distance below the nozzle inlet plane, creating a buffer zone where the laser energy is concentrated within the liquid jet rather than on the nozzle or protection window. This preventive spatial arrangement cushions the components from direct high-energy exposure, enabling continuous 3-shift industrial operation without increasing damage risk
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the liquid jet itself as an intermediary medium between the laser beam and the nozzle/protection window. By focusing the laser deep into the liquid jet, the liquid acts as a mediator that absorbs and confines the high-power laser energy, preventing it from reaching and damaging the nozzle and protection window, thus enabling continuous high-productivity operation
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 allows for reliable, long-term operation of liquid-jet guided laser systems with high-power laser beams, significantly increasing the lifetime of nozzles and protection windows, enabling true unattended 3-shift industrial operations by reducing damage and maintaining component integrity.
Implementation Method 1
exact focus alignment of the laser beam into the liquid-jet
Implementation Method 2
Light guiding inside a liquid-jet
Data Source
AI summary
Reliable coupling of a high-power laser beam into a liquid-jet in a liquid-jet guided laser system can be achieved with high lifetime performance of the nozzle and the protection window, through setting the parameters of the liquid-jet guided laser system according to an optimum relationship that links the focus point of the laser, the focus cone angle, the laser beam energy distribution profile and the nozzle geometry.