Laser Processing Optics for Beam Profile Switching and Focus Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser processing machines require complex configurations to select different beam profiles for processing sheet metal, making them costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing machine with a profile selector, collimating lens, focusing lens, and moving mechanism that allows for the simple and inexpensive selection of various beam profiles by positioning beam-forming lenses along the optical axis, adjusting the focal point to maintain processing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex configuration is used to select different beam profiles, then beam profile selection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal beam profile selection mechanism where a single optical system can handle multiple beam profiles (Gaussian, top-hat, ring) through the coordinated action of the collimating lens, focusing lens, and beam-forming lens. This multi-functional approach allows one configuration to serve multiple purposes, eliminating the need for separate systems for each beam profile type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes optical parameters (beam diameter, focal length, lens positioning) to achieve different beam profiles. By adjusting the distance between lenses and modifying beam diameter through the beam-forming lens, the system transitions between different beam profile modes without requiring fundamentally different optical configurations, thus reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If beam profile selection is implemented, then processing adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal processing head that can produce multiple beam profiles using a single set of core optical components. The collimating lens, focusing lens, and beam-forming lens work together in one configuration to generate Gaussian, top-hat, or ring beam profiles, eliminating the need for multiple separate processing heads and reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam-forming lens acts as an intermediary component between the laser source and the workpiece. This intermediate element transforms the basic laser beam into different beam profiles without requiring changes to the fundamental laser oscillator or main optical path, providing cost-effective adaptability.
3Device complexity
If focal point deviation is not corrected when changing beam profiles, then system simplicity is maintained, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit monitors the selected beam profile and automatically adjusts the positioning of the collimating lens and beam-forming lens to maintain the correct focal point. This closed-loop control ensures that focal point accuracy is preserved across different beam profile modes without requiring complex manual recalibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the lens positioning dynamic rather than fixed. The collimating lens and beam-forming lens can be moved along the optical axis based on the selected beam profile mode. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt lens positions automatically, maintaining focal point precision while keeping the overall system design relatively simple.
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
Enables the selection of one beam profile from multiple options with a simplified and cost-effective configuration, ensuring high-speed cutting and efficient processing of sheet metal.
Implementation Method 1
at least one beam-forming lens refracting a laser beam to be incident so as to convert a beam profile
Implementation Method 2
a collimating lens configured to convert an incident laser beam of a divergent beam into collimated light
Implementation Method 3
a focusing lens configured to focus the collimated light emitted from the collimating lens, and to irradiate the focused beam to a sheet metal
Data Source
AI summary
A profile selector includes at least one beam-forming lens refracting a laser beam to be incident so as to convert a beam profile and emits a laser beam having a beam profile selected from a plurality of beam profiles. A collimating lens converts a laser beam of a divergent beam to be incident into collimated light. A focusing lens focuses the collimated light emitted from the collimating lens and irradiates the focused beam to a sheet metal of a processing target. A moving mechanism moves the collimating lens along an optical axis such that a deviation of a focal point is reduced caused when the beam profile of the focused beam emitted from the focusing lens is selected by the profile selector.