Laser Head Add-On Module for Real-Time Parameter Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current laser machining systems face challenges in efficient initial start-up, parameterization, and monitoring due to limited computing power and storage capacity in control devices, requiring manual adjustments and expert knowledge, and lack of integration for real-time data processing and sensor data analysis.

Innovation Solution

An add-on module interposed between the control device and the laser machining head, providing additional computing power, data storage, and interfaces for real-time data processing and analysis, enabling automated start-up, real-time parameter adjustments, and predictive maintenance through machine learning and AI, reducing the need for multiple devices and simplifying system integration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual beam centering and parameter adjustment are performed after each fiber insertion, then the system can be set up, but the initial start-up becomes time-consuming and requires expert knowledge

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebeam centering precisionVSAvoidinitial start-up time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic beam centering and parameter optimization without requiring manual intervention by operators. The control device automatically adjusts parameters and centers the beam based on sensor feedback, enabling the system to service itself during initial setup

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical adjustment of beam centering and parameters is replaced by an automated control system with sensors and actuators. The system uses optical sensors and motorized adjustment mechanisms to achieve precise beam centering without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If machining parameters are adjusted based on empirical values and expert knowledge, then the laser machining process can be optimized, but the parameterization becomes painstaking and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining qualityVSAvoidparameter adjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates sensors that monitor the laser machining process in real-time and provide feedback to the control device. Based on this feedback, the control device automatically adjusts machining parameters to optimize quality, replacing manual empirical adjustment with closed-loop control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control device automatically optimizes machining parameters based on sensor data and process conditions without requiring expert operators to manually adjust settings. The system self-adjusts parameters such as laser power, feed rate, and gas flow based on real-time process monitoring

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If multiple independent units are used for initial start-up, monitoring, and control functions, then the system can perform comprehensive operations, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem monitoring capabilityVSAvoidnumber of independent units
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple independent units for start-up, monitoring, and control functions are merged into a single integrated control device. The control device combines beam centering, parameter optimization, process monitoring, and adaptive control functions into one unified system, reducing the number of separate components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control device is designed as a multi-functional unit that performs diverse functions including automatic beam centering, parameter optimization, real-time process monitoring, and adaptive control. This universal device replaces multiple specialized units with a single versatile system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If sensor values are monitored with empirically determined threshold values, then the system can detect anomalies, but the interpretation requires expert knowledge and long experience

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor monitoring accuracyVSAvoidinterpretation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control device receives sensor data and automatically compares it with optimal parameter ranges, providing real-time feedback on process status. The system automatically interprets sensor values and adjusts parameters without requiring operators to have expert knowledge for interpretation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control device automatically monitors sensor values, interprets process status, and adjusts parameters without human intervention. The system services itself by autonomously analyzing sensor data and making control decisions based on predefined optimization criteria

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4081367B1Laser machining system with an add-on module interposed between a control device and a laser machining head of the laser machining system
Publication Date: 2024.02.28 PRECITEC GMBH
  • EP4081367B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4081367B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4081367B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An add-on module for intercoupling or interposing between a control device, in particular a system control, and a laser machining head of a laser machining system is provided, wherein said add-on module comprises: a first interface (401), wherein the add-on module (40) is connectable with the laser machining head (20) and/or with at least one sensor device (21) of the laser machining system (1) via the first interface (401) so as to exchange data; a second interface (402), wherein the add-on module (40) is connectable to the control device (10) via the second interface (402) so as to exchange data; and a processing unit (407) configured to process data and output the processed data via at least one of the first, second, and third interfaces (401, 402, 403). Furthermore, a laser machining device comprising such an add-on module is provided.