Laser Machining Head Beam Profile Switching Without Optics Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser machining apparatuses require complex configurations to change laser beam profiles, making it difficult for users to easily select and switch between different beam profiles, which hinders efficiency and accuracy in machining processes.
Innovation Solution
A laser machining apparatus with a selector driving member that independently moves first and second optical elements between advanced and retracted positions, allowing for easy selection of beam profiles through a simple configuration, including an axicon lens and a facet lens, to achieve gaussian, flat, and ring modes, with a control device managing the optical elements' positions and laser beam output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complicated optical device configuration is used to change beam profile, then beam profile can be changed, but the configuration becomes complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is divided into multiple independent segments that can be selectively positioned. Each segment corresponds to a specific beam profile mode (Gaussian, flat, ring). By segmenting the optical element, the system achieves multiple beam profile capabilities without requiring multiple complete optical assemblies, thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element segments are made movable along the optical axis, transitioning between advanced and retracted positions. This dynamic positioning allows selective engagement of different segments with the laser beam to change beam profiles. The simplicity of moving segments along one axis reduces mechanical complexity compared to fixed multi-element configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are moved between advanced and retracted positions to change beam profile, then beam profile selection is enabled, but laser beam stability may be affected during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The system stops laser beam output before moving the optical element segments and resumes output only after the movement is complete. This preliminary action of stopping the laser prevents unstable or scattered beam emission during the transition period when segments are moving, ensuring beam stability and reliability is maintained throughout the profile switching operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical elements are used to achieve different beam profiles, then beam profile variety increases, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A single optical element is designed with multiple functional segments that can each independently modify the laser beam profile. This universal optical element replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate optical components. By integrating multiple functions into one element with selective positioning capability, the system achieves diverse beam profiles (Gaussian, flat, ring) while simplifying the overall optical arrangement and reducing device complexity.
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
Enables users to easily change and select beam profiles without replacing optical elements, improving machining efficiency, preventing defects from unstable laser emission, and maintaining product quality by automatically stopping laser output during profile changes, thus extending the life of the machining head and ensuring consistent machining results.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical element and a second optical element which change a beam profile of a luminous flux to a first beam profile and a second beam profile, respectively
Implementation Method 2
a first optical element and a second optical element which change a beam profile of a luminous flux to a first beam profile and a second beam profile, respectively
Data Source
AI summary
A laser machining apparatus includes a laser oscillator, a laser machining head including a housing, first and second optical elements configured to change a beam profile of a laser beam supplied into the housing to first and second beam profiles, a selector driving member configured to move each of the first and second optical elements between an advanced position and a retracted position relative to a luminous flux, and a control device configured to control the selector driving member to selectively shift to a first mode to maintain the first and second optical elements at the retracted position, a second mode to maintain only the first optical element at the advanced position, and a third mode to maintain only the second optical element at the advanced position, the control device being configured to stop the laser beam when the first and second optical elements move.