Laser Image Machining with Gradation Layers for Seamless Shading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser machining methods are limited in expressing depth and detail due to the inability to draw between adjacent dots, restricting the expression of depth feeling and other nuances in the drawing process.
Innovation Solution
A laser machining method that divides an image into multiple gradations and creates layers, allowing the laser beam to be scanned linearly in a single direction with varying angles for each layer, enabling seamless drawing and reducing the complexity of irradiation control by switching the laser beam on and off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If stippling is used to set light and shade for each dot, then dot size uniformity is improved, but drawing expression capability deteriorates due to inability to draw between adjacent dots
Solution Approach 1:
The image is divided into multiple layers based on gradation values, with each layer containing pixels of a specific gradation range. This segmentation allows different layers to be processed independently with different scanning directions, enabling both uniform dot size control and enhanced drawing expression capability between adjacent dots.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new dimension by creating multiple layers from a single image based on gradation segmentation. Each layer is then scanned in a different direction, adding directional diversity that enables drawing between adjacent dots while maintaining dot size uniformity through controlled laser irradiation parameters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple layers are created and scanned in different directions, then drawing expression is improved, but irradiation control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the image into layers based on gradation values, the complex task of controlling irradiation for the entire image is divided into simpler, independent layer-processing tasks. Each layer can be scanned with uniform parameters in its specific direction, reducing overall control complexity while maintaining drawing expression capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The image is pre-processed to divide it into multiple layers based on gradation values before the actual laser irradiation process. This preliminary segmentation organizes the data structure so that subsequent irradiation control becomes more systematic and manageable, with each layer having predetermined scanning parameters.
3Manufacturing precision
If the entire surface is exposed multiple times with overlapping laser beams, then light and shade gradation is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image is segmented into layers based on gradation ranges, allowing each layer to be processed once with appropriate laser parameters rather than requiring multiple overlapping exposures. This segmentation approach achieves light and shade differentiation through spatial separation of layers rather than temporal repetition of exposures.
Solution Approach 2:
The gradation-based layer division is performed in advance before the laser irradiation process begins. This preliminary organization of image data into distinct layers enables efficient single-pass processing for each layer, eliminating the need for repeated overlapping exposures and reducing overall processing time while maintaining gradation quality.
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 seamless drawing with enhanced expression of light and shade, reducing the data required for irradiation control and maintaining accurate drawing without clear boundaries, while maximizing smoothness and depth feeling in the final output.
Implementation Method 1
a laser machining method of executing image drawing by irradiating a surface of a machining object with a laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A laser machining apparatus includes a laser device, an image processing part, and an irradiation controller. The laser device irradiates a surface of a machining object with a laser beam. The image processing part divides an image for drawing with respect to the surface of the machining object into a plurality of gradations and creates a plurality of layer according to the plurality of gradations. The irradiation controller draws a layer on the surface of the machining object by scanning and linearly irradiating each of the plurality of layer with a laser beam in a single direction.