Laser Machining Simulation Using Laser-Matter Interaction Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current laser machining methods require numerous preliminary experiments and material samples to define machining parameters, making them inefficient and costly, as they rely on empirical tests rather than predictive simulations.

Innovation Solution

A digital simulation method that considers laser-matter interaction parameters such as delta, threshold fluence, incubation coefficient, and complex refraction index to predict machining outcomes without physical experimentation, allowing for the determination of optimal machining parameters for various materials and processes like engraving, cutting, and drilling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If empirical testing methods are used to define laser machining parameters, then reliable machining results can be achieved, but the process requires numerous preliminary experiments and material samples, increasing time and cost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining result reliabilityVSAvoidtime for preliminary experiments
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing virtual experiments through simulation before actual machining. The simulation model predicts machining outcomes by calculating laser-matter interaction parameters, allowing operators to determine optimal machining parameters digitally before physical experimentation, thereby reducing the time and materials required for preliminary testing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by creating a digital replica of the machining process through simulation. The simulation model copies the physical laser-matter interaction phenomena and material response, allowing virtual testing of machining parameters without consuming physical material samples or machine time, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and time loss

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Measurement precision

If numerous material samples are used for characterization, then accurate machining parameters can be determined, but the cost and complexity of the process increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial characterization accuracyVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/physical system of material sampling and characterization with a computational simulation system. Instead of physically testing multiple material samples to determine machining parameters, the simulation model uses laser-matter interaction physics to predict material response, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing process complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by using simulation to vary machining parameters digitally rather than physically testing different material samples. The simulation allows systematic exploration of parameter space (laser power, pulse duration, scanning speed) and their effects on machining outcomes, achieving accurate parameter determination with simpler procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Speed

If analytical models are used for simulation, then calculation speed may be improved, but the ability to handle complex physical phenomena and oblique incidence simulations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalculation speedVSAvoidsimulation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an intermediary approach by implementing a simulation model that bridges the gap between simple analytical models and complex physical reality. The model incorporates laser-matter interaction physics, material properties, and geometric considerations as intermediary elements that enable accurate simulation of complex phenomena while maintaining computational efficiency through structured calculation approaches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 enables precise and realistic simulations of laser machining, reducing the need for extensive experimental testing and material usage, thereby improving machining quality and efficiency by predicting optimal parameters for target machining results.

Implementation Method 1

Laser beams are used in particular for machining parts. It is in fact possible to melt, evaporate or sublimate part of a material exposed to a laser beam.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser ablation: Laser Ablation

Implementation Method 2

the proper consideration of laser-matter interaction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption of electromagnetic radiation: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentEP3743237B1Laser machining simulation method, laser machining system with means for put in practice such method, and corresponding computer program
Publication Date: 2023.11.29 LASER ENG APPL
  • EP3743237B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3743237B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3743237B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c

AI summary

A method for simulating laser machining of a material by a laser machining system comprises the following steps: (a) providing a central unit with: - information relating to the material to be machined: delta δ, threshold fluence, incubation coefficient S, complex refractive index n + ik; - information relating to the laser machining system, including: information relating to the polarisation, the pulse energy Ep, the diameter of the machining laser beam at a focal point w, a Gaussian order p, the pulse repetition rate PRR of n pulses, the wavelength; (b) determining, by means of the central unit and on the basis of the information relating to the material to be machined and to the laser machining system, a two-dimensional machining profile corresponding to the simulation of a machining process of the material to be machined using the laser machining system.