Laser Nozzle Changing Device Vertical Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing machines require long nozzle changing paths, leading to interference with the processing operation and increased risk of contamination and mechanical damage, as the nozzle changing device is typically positioned outside the operating region of the laser processing head.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle changing device is integrated at the lower side of the workpiece support plane, allowing for short relative movements between the laser processing head and the nozzle changing device, enabling permanent proximity without interfering with the processing operation and providing protection against contamination and mechanical loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the nozzle changing device is arranged outside the operating region of the laser processing head, then the processing operation is not impeded, but the nozzle changing path becomes long and the risk of contamination and mechanical damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle changing device is arranged in the vertical dimension below the workpiece support plane, while the laser processing head operates above the plane. This spatial separation in the vertical dimension allows the nozzle changing device to be in permanent proximity to the processing head without interfering with the horizontal operating region, thus shortening the nozzle changing path while maintaining protection from contamination.
2Length of moving object
If the nozzle changing device is arranged at the lower side of the workpiece support plane, then the nozzle changing path is shortened and protection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle changing device is integrated with the workpiece support structure, combining the functions of workpiece holding and nozzle changing into a single unified system. This merging reduces overall device complexity by eliminating separate support structures and simplifying the mechanical architecture, while still achieving the benefit of shortened nozzle changing paths.
3Ease of operation
If the laser processing head moves to the nozzle changing device, then the nozzle can be changed, but the processing operation is interrupted and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle changing device is equipped with automated handling means that can independently perform nozzle extraction, replacement, and securing operations without requiring the laser processing head to move. This self-service capability allows nozzle changes to be performed quickly while the processing head remains in position, minimizing operational interruptions and time loss.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for processing workpieces with a laser processing machine including a laser processing head having a nozzle receiving member configured to receive a laser nozzle. The method includes holding a workpiece on a workpiece support plane of a workpiece support, transferring a laser nozzle between a nozzle magazine of a nozzle changing device located at a first side of the workpiece support and a nozzle receiving member of the laser processing head located at a second side of the workpiece support such that the laser nozzle is assembled on or disassembled from the nozzle receiving member, and moving the laser nozzle through a through-opening defined in the workpiece support along a transverse direction to the workpiece support.