Condenser Lens Alignment for Laser Fiber Coupling and Beam Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alignment methods for laser processing devices fail to simultaneously optimize laser beam power and quality, leading to inefficiencies and repeated adjustments, which decrease work efficiency and may compromise beam quality.
Innovation Solution
A method for alignment that simultaneously monitors and adjusts both the power and quality of the laser beam by dividing it into separate measurement paths for power and beam profile analysis, using displacement sensors and actuators to automate the lens positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the condenser lens position is adjusted to maximize laser beam power, then the power coupling efficiency is improved, but the beam quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process into two separate detection paths: one for measuring laser beam power and another for measuring beam quality (mode profile). This allows independent evaluation of both parameters without interference, enabling the alignment system to optimize for both power and beam quality simultaneously rather than forcing a compromise between the two competing objectives.
2Manufacturing precision
If alignment is performed by repeating the process multiple times, then both power and beam quality can be optimized, but work efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where both power and beam quality measurements are obtained simultaneously during a single alignment process. The alignment position is determined based on combined feedback from both measurement paths, eliminating the need for repeated iterative adjustments and significantly improving work efficiency while maintaining high alignment precision.
3Ease of operation
If manual operation is performed near the laser oscillator during alignment, then adjustment flexibility is maintained, but safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment operations with an automated alignment system that uses optical measurement and computational determination of the optimal alignment position. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to manually position components near the laser oscillator, thereby maintaining adjustment precision while removing safety risks associated with manual intervention in high-risk zones.
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
Ensures maximum laser beam power with desired beam quality, improving processing efficiency and safety by eliminating the need for manual operations near the laser oscillator.
Implementation Method 1
A laser beam from the laser oscillator strikes one end of the optical fiber through an optical member such as a condenser lens
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A condenser lens for collecting a laser beam (300) is disposed between the laser oscillator and the incident end surface of the optical fiber. The laser beam (300) is divided into a plurality of beams (303, 304). The power of the laser beam (304) is measured and maximized by adjusting the position of the condenser lens. The FFP of the laser beam (303) is measured and minimized by adjusting the position of the condenser lens. These adjusted positions are stored as the first and second lens positions. The FFP of the laser beam (303) is measured while the condenser lens is being moved between these positions so as to make the BPP not more than a predetermined value.