Laser Plotter Lid Camera Calibration for Open-Lid Workpiece Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser plotters require users to first insert a workpiece and then close the lid for camera systems to detect and correct the workpiece position, which is inconvenient and limits user-friendliness.

Innovation Solution

Integrating a camera system in the lid of the laser plotter that can detect the workpiece position both with the lid open and closed, allowing for automatic camera correction based on the lid position, enabling continuous workpiece detection and correction without the need to close the lid.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the lid is closed for camera detection, then the workpiece position can be detected and corrected, but the operation becomes inconvenient and user-friendliness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece position detectionVSAvoiduser-friendliness
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The camera system is integrated into the movable lid structure, allowing it to adapt its position and viewing angle dynamically. The camera can capture images with the lid in different positions (open or closed), and the system automatically adjusts the field of view and image processing parameters based on the lid position, enabling flexible operation without compromising detection accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The camera system serves multiple functions: it can detect workpiece position with the lid open for easy setup and positioning, and also detect with the lid closed for safety during processing. The same camera hardware performs both functions by adjusting its operational parameters, eliminating the need for separate detection systems

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

2Measurement precision

If the camera system requires lid closure for detection, then accurate workpiece positioning is achieved, but workflow efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece positioning accuracyVSAvoidworkflow efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The camera system is pre-configured to recognize and adapt to different lid positions. Calibration patterns and workpiece detection algorithms are designed to work in both open and closed lid configurations, allowing users to perform positioning and correction operations without repeatedly closing and opening the lid, thus streamlining the workflow while maintaining positioning accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 user-friendliness by allowing workpiece detection and correction with the lid open, enabling easier positioning and rapid correction of the workpiece, and improving overall workflow efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

Integrating a camera system in the lid of the laser plotter that can detect the workpiece position both with the lid open and closed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical transmission: Light

Data Source

PatentUS20250114859A1Method for determining a position of a workpiece in a processing chamber of a laser plotter for cutting, engraving, marking and/or lettering the workpiece, and method for calibrating and laser plotter therefor
Publication Date: 2025.04.10 TROTEC LASER LTD
  • US20250114859A1 patent drawing
  • US20250114859A1 patent drawing
  • US20250114859A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a laser plotter and a method for calibrating as well as a method for determining a position of a workpiece in a processing chamber of a laser plotter for cutting, engraving, marking and/or lettering the workpiece. At least one beam source in the form of a laser is used in a housing of the laser plotter, whereby the workpiece is placed on a processing table and the position of at least one inserted workpiece on the processing table or in the processing chamber is detected via at least one camera. At least one camera for the processing chamber is integrated into a lid of the laser plotter, whereby detection of the position of the inserted workpiece or the processing chamber, such as the ruler, is performed both when the lid is open and when it is closed.