Multi-Container Laser Processing for Continuous Workpiece Handling

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The efficiency of laser processing is hindered by interruptions when workpieces are carried in or out of the processing device, particularly when liquid is used, leading to degraded work efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A laser processing device with multiple containers and independent liquid level adjustment mechanisms allows for continuous processing by maintaining optimal liquid levels in each container, enabling uninterrupted operation during workpiece handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single container is used for laser processing with liquid, then the device structure is simple, but processing is interrupted when workpieces are carried in or out, degrading work efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvework efficiencyVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The liquid tank is divided into multiple separate containers (first container, second container, etc.), each capable of independently holding liquid and supporting workpieces. This segmentation allows parallel processing operations while maintaining structural simplicity within each container unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

While laser processing is being performed in one container, workpieces can be simultaneously carried in or out of other containers without interrupting the processing operation. This ensures continuous productive action by eliminating idle time during workpiece handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Productivity

If liquid level is adjusted manually in a single container, then the control mechanism is simple, but processing must be interrupted for workpiece handling, reducing productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing continuityVSAvoidliquid level control system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The liquid level adjustment system is segmented into multiple independent mechanisms, with each container having its own liquid level adjustment mechanism. This allows autonomous control of liquid levels in each container without requiring centralized intervention, enabling continuous processing operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Liquid levels in each container can be pre-adjusted to optimal positions before processing begins. This preliminary action ensures that when processing starts, the liquid is already at the correct level, eliminating the need for interruptions during processing for level adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20240351145A1Laser processing device and laser processing method
Publication Date: 2024.10.24 KOMATSU SANKI
  • US20240351145A1 patent drawing
  • US20240351145A1 patent drawing
  • US20240351145A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser head emits a laser beam. A liquid tank includes containers separated from each other so as to be capable of individually storing a transmission inhibition liquid. Each of the containers is capable of supporting workpieces to be processed by the laser head. Each of the containers individually includes a liquid level adjustment mechanism, and the liquid level of the transmission inhibition liquid in each of the containers is independently adjusted.