Laser Welding Head Ball-Joint Nozzle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser welding and cutting devices have bulky alignment systems that are difficult to adjust, as adjustments in one direction inevitably affect perpendicular adjustments, leading to potential misalignment and damage.
Innovation Solution
A compact alignment system using a ball joint linking the outlet nozzle to the optical system, with spherical bearing surfaces allowing independent adjustments in any direction, reducing bulk and preventing misalignment, and incorporating locking screws for secure alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional alignment system with multiple rings and adjustment lugs is used, then alignment adjustment capability is provided, but the device becomes bulky and difficult to adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is segmented into independent adjustment components: a first adjustment means for aligning the optical axis with the nozzle centerline, and a second adjustment means for aligning the laser beam with the output orifice. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each alignment parameter without affecting the other, resolving the contradiction between adjustability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A movable carriage acts as an intermediary component between the optical system and the nozzle. The carriage carries the nozzle and can be independently positioned along the optical axis, while the nozzle itself can be independently adjusted on the carriage. This intermediary structure enables complex alignment adjustments through simple, sequential operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If locking holes are oversized to allow fine adjustment, then alignment flexibility is improved, but the risk of misalignment and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary coarse alignment using the first adjustment means (moving the carriage along the optical axis) before final fine alignment using the second adjustment means (positioning the nozzle on the carriage). This preliminary action sequence ensures that components are roughly aligned before precise positioning, reducing the risk of misalignment damage while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system uses dynamic, multi-stage adjustment mechanisms rather than fixed positioning. The movable carriage provides dynamic positioning along the optical axis, while the nozzle mounting allows dynamic fine-tuning. This dynamic approach enables flexible alignment adjustments while maintaining stable, secure positioning through controlled movement and locking mechanisms.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a laser welding and/or cutting head (20) comprising: an optical system (21) arranged to provide laser radiation supplied at the output of the optical system (21) along an optical axis; an output nozzle (22) arranged at the output of the optical system (21) to combine the laser radiation with at least one additive at an output orifice (221); an alignment system (23) comprising a ball joint linking the output nozzle (22) to the optical system (21) with the center of the ball joint coinciding with the optical axis of the optical system (21). The invention further relates to a laser welding and/or cutting unit comprising such a welding and/or cutting head (10) according to and a method for supplying such a head, the invention.