Laser Marking Unit Curved Path Transitions for Data Matrix Codes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for marking data matrix codes on workpieces using a laser processing unit are inefficient due to the need for deceleration and acceleration when changing between adjacent pixel lines, resulting in increased marking time.
Innovation Solution
Guiding the laser processing unit along loop-shaped or arc-shaped curves during line transitions, with a curve diameter at least twice the pixel line spacing, to maintain high speed and minimize line change time, and scanning pixel rows in pairs with a high curve speed, preferably at least 50% of the constant marking speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the laser processing unit scans adjacent pixel rows one after the other in opposite directions, then the DMC can be marked on the workpiece, but the deceleration and acceleration at each line change increases the overall marking time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curved transition paths (loop-shaped or arc-shaped curves) instead of sharp angular transitions between pixel rows. The curve diameter is specified to be at least twice the pixel line spacing, preferably at least 5 times, and particularly preferably at least 10 times the pixel line spacing. This curvature allows the laser processing unit to maintain high speeds during line transitions without jerky deceleration and acceleration, thereby reducing overall marking time while preserving marking precision.
2Ease of operation
If the laser processing unit is braked almost to a standstill to reverse direction at each line change, then direction change is achieved, but time is lost and marking speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces sharp directional reversals with smooth curved transitions. The loop-shaped or arc-shaped curves with diameters of at least twice (preferably 5 times, particularly preferably 10 times) the pixel line spacing enable the laser processing unit to change direction continuously without braking to a standstill, thereby minimizing line change time while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic motion control where the laser processing unit maintains high speed during transitions by using curved paths. The curve speed is specified to be at least 50%, preferably at least 90%, of the constant marking speed. This dynamic approach eliminates static braking and acceleration phases, reducing time loss during direction changes.
3Productivity
If loop-shaped curves with larger diameters are used for line transitions, then the transition can be traversed at higher speed without jerks, but the path length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the curve diameter to be at least twice the pixel line spacing, preferably at least 5 times, and particularly preferably at least 10 times the pixel line spacing. This specific range balances the increased path length with the ability to traverse at higher speeds without jerks, achieving net time savings despite the longer transition paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies that the curve speed should be at least 50%, preferably at least 90%, of the constant marking speed. This parameter change allows the system to compensate for the increased path length by maintaining high velocities throughout the curved transitions, thereby achieving higher overall productivity.
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 reduces the overall marking time by allowing the laser processing unit to transition between pixel rows at higher speeds without jerks, resulting in a shorter mark duration and improved process stability.
Implementation Method 1
marking the dark pixels on the lighter workpiece surface by temporarily switching on the laser beam
Implementation Method 2
marking the dark pixels on the lighter workpiece surface by temporarily switching on the laser beam
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3f
Figure 4a~5b
AI summary
In a method for marking a workpiece (6) with a data matrix code in the form of an n*m cell matrix (9) composed of bright and dark cells each consisting of a bright or dark s*t pixel matrix, by means of a laser beam (5), in which method a laser machining unit (3) which directs the laser beam (5) onto the workpiece (6) sweeps the region to be marked of the workpiece pixel line by pixel line, with constant marking speed (v) in alternating, opposite directions, and the workpiece (6) is marked with bright pixels (10a) and/or dark pixels (10b) in that the laser beam (5) is intermittently switched on during sweeping, the laser machining unit (3) is moved according to the invention from an already swept pixel line to the next pixel line to be swept, on a arc-shaped or loop-shaped curve (12, 14) with a diameter (d) which is equal to at least double the distance between pixel lines.