Laser Marking Measuring Cups with Oblique Optical Axis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for laser marking measuring cups are inefficient, particularly when trying to mark interior surfaces or multiple locations, due to the need to position each cup individually in front of a lens, leading to idle laser time and reduced production rates.
Innovation Solution
A process for laser marking measuring cups that involves positioning the cup within the field of view of a lasing apparatus with the optical axis oblique or askew of the cup's longitudinal axis, allowing for the marking of dosing indicia on both interior and exterior surfaces, and enabling the simultaneous marking of multiple cups with a single laser.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional laser marking methods are used with the optical axis aligned to the object, then flat exterior surfaces can be marked effectively, but interior surfaces and multiple locations cannot be marked efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of aligning the optical axis perpendicular to the work surface (conventional approach), the patent inverts the approach by positioning the optical axis oblique or askew relative to the measuring cup's longitudinal axis. This allows the laser to access interior surfaces and multiple locations that are inaccessible with conventional perpendicular alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional marking (flat exterior surfaces only) to three-dimensional marking by tilting the optical axis at an angle. This dimensional change enables the laser to reach interior surfaces and multiple locations on the measuring cup that were previously inaccessible
2Productivity
If one object is marked at a time with sequential positioning, then marking precision is maintained, but production rate is limited by idle laser time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates idle laser time by continuously marking multiple measuring cups in sequence without requiring the laser to be repositioned or turned off between objects. The tilted optical axis allows multiple cups to be positioned within the field of view, enabling continuous marking operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple marking operations into a single continuous process by positioning multiple measuring cups within the laser's field of view simultaneously. This allows the laser to mark multiple objects in sequence without interruption, merging what would otherwise be separate, interrupted operations
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 enhances productivity by allowing for efficient marking of interior surfaces and multiple locations on measuring cups, reducing idle time for the laser and increasing the production rate of marked cups.
Implementation Method 1
lasing a dosing indicium into the sidewall
Implementation Method 2
The lens focuses the laser energy onto the object
Data Source
AI summary
A process for laser marking a measuring cup including the steps of: providing a measuring cup; and providing a lasing apparatus having a lens having an optical axis, a field of view, and a working distance; positioning the measuring cup at least partially within the field of view such that a first worked portion of the sidewall is oriented towards the lens, is spaced apart from the optical axis, and the optical axis is oblique or askew of the longitudinal axis; and lasing a dosing indicium into the sidewall.