Laser Machining Head Multi-Connector Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing method for replacing machining heads in laser machining tools is cumbersome and time-consuming, requiring manual operation for mechanical, electrical, and fluid connections, necessitating additional staff for prolonged machining operations.
Innovation Solution
A machining head with a mechanical, light path, and fluid connector design that allows for simultaneous and automatic connection via relative movement, eliminating the need for separate operations and enabling automatic head changes by aligning connectors diametrically opposed on the machining tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual separate operations are used for mechanical, electrical, and fluid connections during machining head replacement, then connection reliability is ensured, but replacement time and labor requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate connectors (mechanical connector 14, electrical connector 16, fluid connector 17) into a single integrated machining head 10 that connects to the machine connector 5 through one unified relative movement. This merging of separate connection functions into a single automated operation resolves the contradiction by enabling reliable multi-type connections without increasing manual labor or time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic head replacement where the machining head 10 performs its own connection and disconnection operations through automated relative movements between the head 10 and machine connector 5. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual separate operations on mechanical, electrical, and fluid connectors, thereby reducing replacement time while maintaining connection reliability through precise automated alignment.
2Reliability
If manual separate operations are performed for establishing mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic connections, then proper alignment and connection quality are achieved, but additional staff are required for prolonged machining operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate connection operations (mechanical 14, electrical 16, fluid 17) into a single integrated connection process achieved through one relative movement between the machining head 10 and machine connector 5. This unified approach maintains proper alignment and connection quality while dramatically simplifying the operation from multiple manual steps to a single automated action.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine connector 5 and machining head 10 are designed with universal multi-functional capabilities, where a single connector interface simultaneously handles mechanical support, electrical power and signal transmission, and fluid supply. This multi-functionality allows one relative movement to establish all necessary connections, reducing operational complexity while ensuring proper alignment through the unified connector design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connectors are provided for mechanical, electrical, and fluid connections, then functional completeness is ensured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate connectors (mechanical connector 14, electrical connector 16, fluid connector 17) into a single integrated machining head 10 assembly that interfaces with the machine connector 5 through one unified relative movement. This merging maintains functional completeness by preserving all necessary connection types while reducing device complexity by eliminating separate mounting and alignment procedures for each connector type.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system is designed with universal multi-functionality, where the machine connector 5 and machining head 10 together provide mechanical support, electrical power and signals, and fluid supply through a single integrated interface. This multi-functional design ensures complete functionality while simplifying the overall device structure by consolidating multiple connector functions into one unified connection mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A machining head of a laser machining tool includes a mechanical connector for connecting the machining head to a component of the laser machining tool, and a light path connector (15) and/or an electrical connector (16) and/or a fluid connector (17). The provided connectors are designed such that connections can be realized via one or more common relative movements between the machining head (10) and the component (5) of the laser machining tool, including a mechanically rigid connection to corresponding connectors on the component of the laser machining tool.