Laser Engraving Gantry Layout for Rigidity and Vibration Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser engraving machines require heavy gauge steel for structural rigidity due to the wide spacing of Y-axis beams, limiting the use of lighter materials and increasing construction costs.

Innovation Solution

The Y-axis support beams are brought closer together, enhancing the structural rigidity of the laser housing, allowing the use of lighter materials like aluminum, and incorporating a counterweight mechanism to dampen vibrations during the engraving process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If the Y-axis beams are spaced far apart to provide maximum translation capability for the laser tool, then the translation scope is improved, but the structural rigidity deteriorates requiring heavier gauge steel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetranslation scopeVSAvoidstructural rigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent positions the Y-axis beams at the front and rear of the cabinet rather than spacing them laterally apart, utilizing the depth dimension of the cabinet to achieve both maximum translation scope and structural rigidity. This dimensional repositioning allows the beams to be close together (improving rigidity) while still providing adequate translation space for the laser tool.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Stability of the object's composition

If heavy gauge steel is used to ensure adequate rigidity and prevent flexing or vibration, then the structural stability is improved, but the weight and construction cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidcabinet weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By repositioning the Y-axis beams to the front and rear of the cabinet in the depth dimension rather than spacing them apart in the lateral dimension, the patent achieves structural stability with lighter materials. This configuration provides adequate rigidity to prevent flexing and vibration during rapid laser tool movement while allowing the use of lighter gauge metal or alternative materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the spatial parameters of the beam configuration (positioning at front and rear rather than lateral spacing) which allows for reduction in material gauge thickness while maintaining structural stability. This parameter change enables use of lighter materials without sacrificing rigidity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If heavy gauge steel is used to maintain rigidity during rapid laser tool movement, then the engraving precision is preserved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengraving resolutionVSAvoidconstruction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the depth dimension of the cabinet by positioning Y-axis beams at the front and rear, which provides structural rigidity sufficient for high-precision engraving during rapid tool movement. This configuration reduces material requirements and construction costs while maintaining the precision needed for quality engraving work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentEP3875209B1Laser engraving machine
Publication Date: 2022.11.16 LI TONG
  • EP3875209B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3875209B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3875209B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A laser engraving machine with a three-point suspension system and an inverted X- Y axis support system wherein the X-axis beam is to and mounted below the Y-axis beams and the Y-axis beams are mounted inwardly of the outer ends of the X-axis beam and are structurally integrated with the machine housing. In addition, a counterweight is added to the drive belt for the laser tool to eliminate vibration during rapid reciprocal movement of the tool during an engraving process.