Laser Plotter Extraction Bar for Horizontal Fume Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flatbed laser systems with extraction hoses attached to the focusing unit face mobility restrictions, contamination, and increased fire risk due to direct exposure of hot gases and particles, which hinder effective extraction performance.
Innovation Solution
A horizontal extraction system with an extraction bar positioned between the sledge and processing surface, featuring adjustable extraction openings aligned parallel to the surface, provides improved gas removal while protecting optical elements and allowing for a simpler, cost-effective design, reducing fire risks and facilitating easier maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an extraction hose is arranged directly on the focusing unit, then extraction of exhaust gases is achieved, but the mobility and travel speed of the focusing unit are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction system is segmented into a stationary extraction bar with multiple extraction openings positioned along the processing path, replacing the single moving extraction hose. This allows extraction functionality to be distributed along the sledge's path without restricting sledge mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction bar acts as an intermediary structure between the sledge and the extraction system. It provides extraction openings that align with the processing path while the sledge moves freely, mediating between the need for extraction and the need for mobility.
2Reliability
If an extraction hose is arranged directly on the focusing unit, then extraction of exhaust gases is achieved, but the extraction channel and processing head become heavily contaminated
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction function is taken out from the focusing unit and relocated to a separate extraction bar positioned below the sledge. This separates the extraction function from the optical elements, preventing contamination of the processing head while maintaining extraction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction bar serves as an intermediary extraction point positioned between the workpiece and the focusing unit. It intercepts exhaust gases before they can reach and contaminate the optical elements of the focusing unit.
3Reliability
If an extraction hose is arranged directly on the focusing unit, then extraction of exhaust gases is achieved, but hot gases and particles enter the extraction hose directly increasing fire risk
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction openings are arranged in a horizontal dimension parallel to the processing surface, creating a horizontal extraction flow. This dimensional change allows the system to intercept hot gases as they rise vertically, cooling them before extraction without requiring the extraction point to be in direct contact with the hottest zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The natural vertical rise of hot exhaust gases is converted into a benefit by positioning horizontal extraction openings to intercept this upward flow. The hot gases rise vertically and are then drawn into the exhaust duct via horizontal flow, achieving cooling and extraction simultaneously.
4Reliability
If extraction openings are arranged parallel to the processing surface, then a horizontal extraction flow is generated improving extraction performance, but the extraction bar structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction bar serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for positioning extraction openings, creates a splash protection barrier for optical elements, and generates the horizontal extraction flow. This multi-functionality justifies the additional structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction bar geometry is optimized by arranging openings parallel to the processing surface rather than perpendicular, changing the flow direction parameter from vertical to horizontal. This parameter change improves extraction effectiveness while keeping the structural addition minimal.
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
The horizontal extraction system enhances mobility and extraction efficiency, protects optical components, and reduces fire hazards by directing gases away from the operator and focusing unit, enabling effective and safe processing of various materials.
Implementation Method 1
one or more extraction openings of the extraction bar are arranged or aligned, respectively, parallel to the processing surface for generating a horizontal extraction flow
Implementation Method 2
at least one irradiation source in the form of a laser and a control unit for controlling the sledge
Implementation Method 3
processing a job for cutting, engraving, marking and/or lettering a possibly flat workpiece
Implementation Method 4
a focusing unit arranged movably thereon
Data Source
AI summary
Described are a method and laser plotter for processing a job for cutting, engraving, marking and/or lettering a flat workpiece having at least one housing with a processing chamber formed for positioning a workpiece. The chamber has at least one irradiation source in the form of a laser and a control unit for controlling the sledge, which may be operated via a belt drive and has a focusing unit arranged movably thereon. Between the sledge and a processing surface of the processing chamber, an extraction bar is arranged for extracting the exhaust gases or vapors, respectively, produced by a laser beam during the processing of the workpiece. One or more extraction openings of the extraction bar are arranged or aligned, respectively, parallel to the processing surface for generating a horizontal extraction flow.