Laser Scanner Lens Mount With Dual Adapters for Rigidity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Laser processing apparatuses face reduced rigidity due to the load concentration on the lens unit, which can lead to stress and potential mechanical instability during high-powered laser processing.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus incorporates a first and second adapter system with screw-thread coupling mechanisms between the lens unit, optical scanner, and frame, distributing the load and enhancing rigidity through a structured adapter configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the lens unit is directly coupled to the optical scanner, then the device complexity is reduced, but the rigidity of the laser processing apparatus deteriorates due to stress concentration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidrigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a first adapter and a second adapter as separate intermediate components between the lens unit and the optical scanner. The first adapter is coupled to the lens unit, and the second adapter is coupled to the optical scanner, dividing the direct connection into segmented sections. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and distributes the mechanical load across multiple coupling points, thereby improving rigidity without significantly increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The first adapter and second adapter serve as intermediary components that mediate the mechanical connection between the lens unit and the optical scanner. These adapters act as buffer elements that distribute stress and prevent direct stress concentration on the optical scanner or lens unit mounting points, thus improving the overall rigidity and stability of the laser processing apparatus.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If a single adapter is used between the lens unit and optical scanner, then the device complexity is minimized, but the stress distribution is insufficient leading to potential mechanical instability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of componentsVSAvoidmechanical stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into multiple adapters (first adapter coupled to lens unit, second adapter coupled to optical scanner) rather than using a single adapter. This segmentation creates multiple coupling interfaces that distribute mechanical stress more effectively, enhancing the reliability and mechanical stability of the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The first and second adapters are designed beforehand to cushion and absorb mechanical stresses before they can affect the optical scanner or lens unit. By providing this protective cushioning in advance through the adapter structure, the system prevents potential mechanical instability and extends the reliability of the laser processing apparatus.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS11819941B2Laser processing apparatus and method of manufacturing the same
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US11819941B2 patent drawing
  • US11819941B2 patent drawing
  • US11819941B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser processing apparatus includes: a laser light source configured to emit a laser beam; an optical scanner located along a path of the laser beam and configured to adjust the path of the laser beam; a lens unit located along the path of the laser beam, the lens unit being configured to condense the laser beam; a first adapter located between the lens unit and the optical scanner and coupled to the lens unit; and a second adapter located between the first adapter and the optical scanner, the second adapter being coupled to the first adapter and the optical scanner.