Laser Machining Head Sealing for Dust-Free Optical Path Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser working machines face challenges in preventing dust from entering the optical paths during maintenance and replacement of components, which can affect the performance and longevity of the machine.
Innovation Solution
The laser working machine incorporates a design where the machining head can be divided into two bodies with interchangeable shielding and light transmissive plates in sealed slots, allowing for maintenance while maintaining a dust-free environment through gas ventilation and sealed shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the machining head is designed as a single integrated unit, then the structure is simple, but maintenance requires disassembling the entire head and dust can enter the optical path
Solution Approach 1:
The machining head is divided into two separable bodies: a first body containing the light concentration lens and a second body containing the shielding plate. This segmentation allows the second body to be detached for maintenance while the first body remains in place, providing easy access to the light concentration lens without exposing the entire optical path to dust.
Solution Approach 2:
A slot is provided in the first body that can accommodate either a light transmissive plate or a shielding plate. This intermediary structure allows the optical path to remain covered during maintenance operations, preventing dust ingress while enabling access to internal components through the detachable second body.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If shielding plates are used to block the optical path during maintenance, then dust ingress is prevented, but the optical path is blocked and no work can be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The plate in the slot can be dynamically changed between a light transmissive plate (allowing laser operation) and a shielding plate (preventing dust ingress during maintenance). This dynamic switching capability allows the system to adapt its state based on operational requirements, maintaining productivity when possible and protecting against dust when maintenance is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system alternates between operational mode (with light transmissive plate) and maintenance mode (with shielding plate). This periodic switching between functional states allows the machine to perform productive work during operational periods and receive maintenance during scheduled intervals, maximizing overall productivity while preventing dust damage.
3Ease of repair
If the entire machining head is disassembled for maintenance, then all components can be accessed, but dust can enter the optical path and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the machining head into separable bodies with a standardized interface, the invention allows maintenance personnel to access the light concentration lens by detaching only the second body, rather than disassembling the entire head. This reduces maintenance time while the slot with shielding plate prevents dust ingress during the partial disassembly process.
4Productivity
If light transmissive plates are used during operation, then the optical path is clear, but dust can enter through the slot during plate replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The slot design with sealed edges acts as an intermediary structure that maintains a barrier between the internal optical path and the external environment. When the shielding plate is in place, it seals the slot to prevent dust entry. The standardized slot interface ensures that plate replacement can be performed quickly, minimizing the time the optical path is exposed to dust.
Data Source
AI summary
A laser working machine includes a first slot provided at another end portion of a first body. In the first slot, either one of a first shielding plate and a first light transmissive plate is selectively insertable in a sealed manner. The first shielding plate is configured to block a first optical path. The first light transmissive plate has a first optical path hole through which the first optical path and a second optical path are connectable. The laser working machine includes a second slot provided at a second body end portion of a second body. In the second slot, either one of a second shielding plate and a second light transmissive plate is selectively insertable in a sealed manner. The second shielding plate is configured to block the second optical path. The second light transmissive plate has a second optical path hole.