Laser Marking Head Layout With Remote Optical Isolator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser marking systems are bulky, inflexible, and difficult to install and maneuver in production lines due to their large and heavy components, as well as safety requirements, which deter production line owners from replacing existing marking systems with laser technology.
Innovation Solution
A compact electromagnetic radiation system with a separate optical isolator and a moveable assembly, allowing for a smaller marking head that can be easily integrated into production systems and configured for various applications, including laser marking, welding, and cutting, using a fiber laser and passive optical fibers for efficient beam transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional laser marking systems are used with multiple bulky housings and radiation shielding units, then radiation safety requirements are met, but the system becomes large, heavy, and difficult to install and maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a portable marking head containing only essential marking components, and a separate radiation shielding unit. This segmentation allows the marking head to be lightweight and easy to maneuver while the shielding provides necessary radiation protection. The umbilical assembly connects these separated components, enabling independent optimization of each module's weight and function.
Solution Approach 2:
The radiation shielding unit is extracted from the marking head and positioned separately, enveloping only the production line area rather than the entire system. This extraction removes the heavy shielding from the portable marking head, making it lightweight and easy to maneuver, while still providing necessary radiation protection for the production environment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional laser marking systems with multiple bulky housings are used, then complete laser system functionality is achieved, but the system becomes inflexible and difficult to integrate into production lines
Solution Approach 1:
The laser marking system is segmented into a portable marking head and separate support components (radiation shielding, cooling system, laser source). This segmentation makes the marking head simple and easy to integrate into various production lines, while the support components can be configured separately based on specific application requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable marking head is designed as a universal component that can be integrated into different production lines and applications. By separating the marking head from application-specific components like radiation shielding and cooling systems, the same marking head can serve multiple functions and be adapted to various production environments.
3Reliability
If optical isolator is integrated into the marking head, then complete laser system functionality is achieved, but the marking head dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical isolator is extracted from the marking head and positioned separately in the umbilical assembly or support components. This extraction reduces the marking head's dimensions and weight, making it more portable and easier to maneuver, while the optical isolator continues to provide necessary laser system stability and protect against back reflections.
4Reliability
If customised radiation shielding units are designed and built for unique production lines, then radiation safety requirements are met, but the installation process becomes expensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation shielding is segmented into a separate, modular unit that can be independently configured and installed around the production line area. This modular approach allows for easier installation and adaptation to different production lines without requiring custom-built integrated systems, reducing both cost and installation time while maintaining radiation safety.
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 easier integration and operation of laser systems in production environments, reducing installation complexity and cost, while providing a versatile and safe marking solution that can mark multiple faces and adapt to different products without the need for multiple systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical isolator positioned between the electromagnetic radiation source and the umbilical assembly
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnetic radiation source may comprise an optical fiber amplifier
Implementation Method 3
an umbilical assembly connecting the electromagnetic radiation source to the head and configured to transmit the electromagnetic radiation beam to the head
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic radiation system (100) for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam at a target (130). The electromagnetic radiation system comprises an electromagnetic radiation source (110) for providing the electromagnetic radiation beam, a head (120) for projecting the electromagnetic radiation beam on to the target (130); and an umbilical assembly (140) connecting the electromagnetic radiation source (110) to the head (120) and configured to transmit the electromagnetic radiation beam to the head. The electromagnetic radiation system further comprises an optical isolator (150) positioned between the electromagnetic radiation source (110) and the umbilical assembly (140).