Laser Head Positioning for 3D Surface Texturing Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser texturing machines face inefficiencies in machining time and surface quality due to limited focusing capacity and the need for numerous repositionings of the laser head when dealing with non-planar surfaces, leading to increased computation time and visible defects at patch boundaries.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to define a sequence of relative positionings of the laser head by computing closed patches with specific machining directions, validating their feasibility, and merging them to minimize repositioning, using criteria such as angle thresholds and collision tests to optimize machining paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the laser head is repositioned frequently to machine non-planar surfaces with limited focusing capacity, then the marking precision is maintained, but the machining time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The non-planar surface is divided into multiple planar patches, each of which can be machined with a single laser head positioning. The method identifies and processes patches independently, allowing the laser to machine each patch without repositioning for the entire surface, thus reducing the number of repositioning operations while maintaining marking precision within each patch.
Solution Approach 2:
The method transitions from processing the entire non-planar surface as a single entity to processing it in terms of two-dimensional planar patches. By representing the 3D surface as a collection of 2D patches with specific orientations, the system can optimize machining paths within each patch plane, reducing the need for frequent laser head repositioning while maintaining precision.
2Productivity
If the number of laser head repositionings is reduced to increase productivity, then the machining time decreases, but the computation time for path planning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The method performs preliminary identification and classification of planar patches on the non-planar surface before generating the machining path. By pre-processing the surface geometry to identify patches with their respective normal vectors and orientations, the system prepares the data structure in advance, which accelerates the subsequent path planning process and reduces overall computation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The method changes the representation parameters of the surface from a continuous 3D model to a discrete set of planar patches characterized by specific parameters (normal vectors, patch centers, boundary definitions). This parameter transformation simplifies the path planning computation by converting a complex continuous optimization problem into a more manageable discrete problem with defined parameters.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional machining paths are used on non-planar surfaces, then the laser head can cover the entire surface, but visible defects appear at patch boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The method applies different machining strategies to different local regions (patches) of the surface based on their specific orientations and geometries. Each patch is processed with machining parameters optimized for its local characteristics, including the angle between the laser beam and the patch normal. This localized approach ensures high surface quality within each patch while maintaining overall surface coverage.
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
This approach significantly reduces the number of laser head repositionings, enhances surface quality by minimizing machining angles, and reduces machining time while maintaining high precision.
Implementation Method 1
machining a surface of a part by a laser ray from a laser head
Implementation Method 2
machining parts by laser texturing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for defining a sequence of relative positionings of a laser head 1 in relation to a part for the machining of a texture etched on the two-dimensional or three-dimensional surface 7 of the part modelled by a 3D meshing, comprising: - A step 100 of definition of N machining layers intended to be performed in succession, - A step 200 of definition, for each machining layer, of patches intended to be each machined from a single position of the laser head 1, comprising closed patches 15, the boundary of which is not affected by the laser ray 2, - A step 300 of validation of the closed patches 15, successively from the machining layer 1 to the machining layer N. Open patches whose boundary is affected by the laser ray 2 being defined for any areas which could not be machined from validated closed patches 15. Optionally, the method also comprises a step 400 of merging of the validated closed patches 15 into groups 50 of patches. Thus, the invention proposes a method which makes it possible to define a machining path which is particularly rapid to execute, and which provides excellent surface quality. The invention also proposes a computer program product and a computer-readable storage medium for implementing the method for defining a sequence of relative positionings of a laser head 1 in relation to a part.