Laser Marker Digital Positioning via Coaxial Camera Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser processing apparatuses face challenges in accurately specifying the processing position for laser processing, leading to inefficiencies and limited precision due to the need for trial and error and errors caused by distortion in visual and photographic methods.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing apparatus with a configuration that includes a setting display section, pattern arrangement specifying section, reference scan control, photographing section, and photographed image display, allowing users to specify processing patterns and positions accurately through a two-dimensional setting plane and real-time image feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a visible light beam is used to irradiate the work for specifying processing position, then the working efficiency in creating processed data is greatly improved, but the accuracy is still limited due to spot diameter error and visual checking error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual method of specifying processing positions with a digital image processing system. A camera captures the workpiece image, and a personal computer performs digital processing to determine precise coordinates, substituting the manual visual alignment method with automated optical-digital hybrid system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (photograph) of the workpiece and performs processing position specification on this copy rather than directly on the physical workpiece. This allows for more precise measurement and coordinate determination through digital image analysis compared to direct visual alignment.
2Productivity
If trial and error method is used to specify processing position by visually checking results, then the system remains simple, but the working efficiency is not satisfactory
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the operator to directly specify processing positions on the displayed photograph of the workpiece. The personal computer automatically calculates the corresponding scanning angles and generates processed data, eliminating the need for repeated trial-and-error adjustments and manual visual checking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces visual feedback by displaying a photograph of the workpiece on a monitor, allowing the operator to see the actual workpiece and specify processing positions based on visual information. This feedback mechanism enables direct and accurate position specification without trial and error.
3Ease of operation
If photographed image is used to specify processing position, then the usability is high, but the accuracy is reduced due to distortion in peripheral parts of the image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using different magnification levels for different regions of the photograph. The central region is displayed at one magnification while peripheral regions are displayed at different magnifications, allowing for accurate position specification across the entire image despite optical distortions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention aims to rapidly and easily create processed data for scan controlling a laser light beam, and to create the processed data for the laser processing apparatus at high precision. A setting plane corresponding to a scanning region of a laser marker is displayed on a processed data generating device. A user operates the processed data generating device to arrange the processing pattern on the setting plane. Here, a marker head coincides an optical axis of the laser light beam L on a position corresponding to the reference point of the processing pattern, and photographs a work W with a camera which light receiving axis is coaxial with the optical axis of the laser light beam L. A photographed image monitor displays the photographed image along with a symbol indicating the position of the light receiving axis of the camera.