Laser Marking Device With Slidable Mechanisms

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing photovoltaic module manufacturing processes face inefficiencies in marking objects due to the need for multiple laser marking devices, which increase fixed and operational costs, and result in bottlenecks and downtime for maintenance of laser marking devices.

Innovation Solution

A laser marking device with multiple slidable mechanisms allows for simultaneous and independent operation of multiple laser heads, enabling efficient marking of substrates or modules while allowing for quick maintenance and replacement of individual laser heads without halting the production line.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple laser marking devices are used to mark objects on a manufacturing line, then marking capacity and throughput are improved, but device complexity, fixed costs, and operational costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarking capacityVSAvoidnumber of laser marking devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the marking function into multiple independent laser heads (first laser head, second laser head, etc.) that can operate simultaneously on different objects or different areas of objects. Each laser head is a separate functional unit that can be independently controlled, maintained, and replaced without affecting the other laser heads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A single laser marking device housing accommodates multiple laser heads that perform the same marking function. The device structure is designed to support multiple identical or similar laser heads, allowing the system to handle multiple marking tasks simultaneously while using a unified platform for control and operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If multiple laser marking devices are used to increase marking capacity, then productivity is improved, but maintenance downtime increases because each device must be stopped for maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarking throughputVSAvoidmaintenance downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Each laser head is designed as an independent, modular component that can be accessed and maintained separately. The housing structure includes accessible openings or removable sections that allow individual laser heads to be reached for maintenance without requiring shutdown of the entire marking system or other laser heads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system maintains continuous marking operation by allowing maintenance activities on one laser head to proceed while other laser heads continue their marking functions. This ensures that the overall productivity of the marking system is not interrupted by routine maintenance of individual components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Productivity

If multiple laser marking devices are deployed, then marking capacity increases, but operational costs and fixed costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarking volumeVSAvoidoperational cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple laser heads are integrated into a single laser marking device housing, sharing common structural support, control systems, and operational infrastructure. This consolidation reduces the need for multiple separate devices, thereby lowering overall operational costs and fixed costs while maintaining high marking capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The unified device structure supports multiple laser heads that can be used for different marking tasks, object types, or production lines, maximizing the utilization of the investment and reducing the need for additional specialized equipment, thereby lowering operational costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 solution enhances manufacturing throughput by allowing continuous operation with minimal downtime for maintenance, reducing costs and improving operational efficiency by enabling simultaneous marking and independent maintenance of laser heads.

Implementation Method 1

A laser head is provided. The laser head is configured to mark an object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS9387691B2Method and apparatus for laser marking an object
Publication Date: 2016.07.12 JPMORGAN CHASE BANK NA
  • US9387691B2 patent drawing
  • US9387691B2 patent drawing
  • US9387691B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed embodiments provide laser object marking methods and devices in which multiple slidable mechanisms are used for holding respective laser heads.