Laser Processing Head Angle Control via Output Fluctuation Feedback

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser processing technologies require manual effort and time to incline the laser processing head to prevent reflection and stabilize laser output, which is inefficient and operator-dependent.

Innovation Solution

A laser processing apparatus with an output detection unit, fluctuation calculation unit, and angle command unit automatically determines the optimal inclination angle of the laser processing head based on detected output fluctuations, and a machine learning device learns to optimize this angle using reinforcement learning for stable laser output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the laser processing head is inclined to prevent reflection and stabilize laser output, then laser output stability is improved, but operator time and effort increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaser output stabilityVSAvoidoperator time and effort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The laser processing head automatically adjusts its own inclination angle based on real-time detection of laser output fluctuations. The system uses a sensor to detect output variations caused by reflection, and the head autonomously modifies its angle to minimize these fluctuations, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention and achieving self-stabilization of laser output.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where a sensor continuously monitors laser output fluctuations, and this information is fed back to the inclination adjustment mechanism. The feedback signal triggers automatic angle adjustments to maintain optimal laser output stability, creating a self-regulating system that responds dynamically to changing conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If a skilled operator manually inclines the laser processing head based on experience, then laser output stability is improved, but training time and operator dependency increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaser output stabilityVSAvoidoperator skill requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated control system. Instead of relying on operator skill to physically adjust the laser head angle, the system uses sensors and automated actuators to detect and correct inclination issues, substituting human expertise with an automated detection-and-adjustment mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The laser processing head becomes self-regulating by automatically detecting its own inclination problems through output fluctuation monitoring and autonomously adjusting its angle. This eliminates dependency on skilled operators and transforms a skill-based process into an automated self-correcting system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If the laser processing head is gradually inclined with feedback during laser output, then laser output stability is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaser output stabilityVSAvoidprocessing speed

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of laser output fluctuations and makes proactive angle adjustments before significant instability occurs. By continuously monitoring and anticipating problems, the system prevents deterioration rather than reacting to it, maintaining stable output without requiring time-consuming corrective actions during processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Real-time feedback from sensors enables instantaneous detection of output fluctuations and immediate automated angle correction. This rapid feedback loop maintains laser output stability continuously throughout processing, eliminating the need for gradual manual adjustments and maintaining high processing speed while ensuring stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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

The solution enables stable laser output without operator intervention, improving processing efficiency and reducing the need for skilled operators by automatically determining the appropriate angle for the laser processing head.

Implementation Method 1

an output detection unit for detecting an output of the laser light for a predetermined time period

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

the laser light may be reflected from the work surface, and the reflected light may return to the laser oscillator

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS10796226B2Laser processing apparatus and machine learning device

Publication Date: 2020.10.06 FANUC LTD

AI summary

A laser processing apparatus that processes a workpiece using laser light outputted from a laser processing head includes an output detection unit for detecting an output of the laser light for a predetermined time period; a fluctuation calculation unit for calculating a fluctuation in the output of the laser light detected by the output detection unit; and an angle command unit for commanding an angle by which the laser processing head is to be inclined with respect to the normal of the workpiece, based on the fluctuation calculated by the fluctuation calculation unit.