Laser Insole Engraving Path Correction for Irregular Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser engraving apparatuses for insoles face challenges in precision due to manual loading requirements, irregular insole positioning, and variable insole quality, leading to imperfect channel creation and increased processing times.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a support structure, laser cutting head, and sensor system that automatically detects the insole's position and shape, adjusting the engraving path to ensure precise channel creation independent of insole irregularities, using a logic control unit to modify the operating path based on detected coordinates and shape signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual loading of insoles is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to positioning errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the insole's actual position and shape using optical sensors before the laser engraving process begins. This preliminary action allows the control unit to calculate and store corrected coordinates that compensate for positioning errors, ensuring precise channel creation without requiring complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where optical means detect the actual position and shape of the insole, and this information is fed back to the control unit. The control unit then modifies the operating path based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop system that automatically compensates for manual loading errors and maintains high manufacturing precision.
2Device complexity
If fixed operating path is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates due to irregular insole positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static operating path into a dynamic one by enabling real-time modification of the engraving path coordinates. The control unit calculates corrected coordinates based on the detected insole position and shape, allowing the system to adapt to various positioning scenarios without requiring physical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of the operating path (coordinates, positioning data) based on detected variations in insole position and shape. By modifying these parameters dynamically, the system maintains adaptability to irregular positioning while avoiding the complexity of mechanical adjustment devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning corrections are made, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to increased processing time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-correction by automatically detecting positioning errors and calculating compensation coordinates without requiring manual intervention. The control unit autonomously adjusts the operating path based on sensor data, eliminating the need for operators to manually correct positions while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning corrections with an automated optical-digital system. Optical sensors detect position, and a control unit calculates and applies corrections through software, substituting the manual mechanical adjustment process with an automated sensing-and-computation system that is both precise and rapid.
4Reliability
If laser engraving is performed on larger surface area, then reliability is improved by compensating for position errors, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection and calculation of the actual engraving area based on the detected insole position and shape. This preliminary action allows the laser to be activated only within the precise boundaries where material removal is needed, preventing energy waste on areas outside the insole or where no engraving is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating laser energy only on the specific areas where channels need to be created, rather than uniformly treating the entire work surface. The system adjusts the operating path to match the actual insole geometry, ensuring energy is delivered precisely where needed and nowhere else.
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 precise and reliable laser engraving of channels on insoles, ensuring accurate housing of the upper hem, reducing waste and processing time, and resulting in a smoother, more comfortable shoe insole.
Implementation Method 1
making engravings or cuts of shoe insoles by means of removal of material obtained with a laser beam
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for the laser engraving of insoles, which comprises a work surface (3) on which at least one insole (S) to be engraved is arranged; at least one laser cutting head (5) adapted to engrave the insole (S); a logic control unit (9) operatively connected to the laser cutting head (5) and programmed for driving the latter to engrave or to cut the insole (S) along a pre-established operating path (I); sensor means (10) directed towards the work surface (3) and adapted to detect at least the perimeter edge of the insole (S), generating a corresponding position signal (P) containing at least one information relative to the position of the perimeter edge of the insole (S). In addition, the logic control unit (9) is programmed for modifying the operating path (I) in accordance with the information relative to the position of the perimeter edge of the insole (S) contained in the position signal (P).