Laser Beam Profile Selection With Focal Point Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser processing machines require complex configurations to select beam profiles for sheet metal processing, necessitating a simpler and more cost-effective solution for selecting among multiple beam profiles.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing machine equipped with a profile selector, collimating lens, focusing lens, and moving mechanism that allows for the selection of beam profiles by positioning beam-forming lenses along the optical axis, enabling the conversion of laser beams between Gaussian, top-hat, and ring profiles with minimal configuration changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a beam profile selection system is implemented using conventional methods (as in WO 2011/124671 A1), then multiple beam profiles can be selected for processing, but the configuration becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The beam profile selection function is segmented into separate beam-forming lenses, each responsible for generating a specific beam profile. These lenses are positioned at different locations along the optical axis, allowing independent selection of beam profiles without requiring a complex integrated system. This segmentation simplifies the overall configuration while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the spatial dimension (optical axis position) as an additional degree of freedom for beam profile selection. Instead of using complex optical elements or mechanisms within a fixed plane, the solution positions beam-forming lenses at different distances from the laser source along the optical axis. This dimensional approach enables simple selection of different beam profiles by adjusting the lens position, thereby reducing system complexity.
2Device complexity
If beam-forming lenses are positioned at different locations to select beam profiles, then beam profile selection is simplified, but focal point deviation occurs when switching profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and determines the optimal positions of beam-forming lenses along the optical axis for each desired beam profile. By establishing these positions in advance during system design, the patent ensures that when a specific beam profile is selected by positioning the appropriate lens, the focal point automatically returns to a consistent, predetermined location. This preliminary action eliminates focal point deviation issues during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in the spatial parameter (lens position along the optical axis) to achieve both beam profile selection and focal point control. By carefully selecting specific positions for beam-forming lenses, the system transforms the position parameter into a dual-function control mechanism that simultaneously determines the beam profile type and ensures proper focal point alignment, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while keeping the configuration simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple beam profiles are used for different processing conditions, then processing versatility is improved, but the system requires complex profile selecting mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic beam profile selection mechanism where beam-forming lenses can be positioned at different locations along the optical axis based on processing requirements. This dynamic positioning allows the system to adapt to different processing conditions (cutting, welding, marking) by selecting appropriate beam profiles without requiring complex mechanical switching mechanisms. The simplicity of moving lenses along a linear axis provides versatile processing capability with minimal complexity.
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 various beam profiles for sheet metal processing with a simpler and less expensive setup, maintaining optimal focal points for efficient cutting, welding, or marking operations.
Implementation Method 1
a profile selector that includes 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
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A profile selector (31) 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 (33) converts a laser beam of a divergent beam to be incident into collimated light. A focusing lens (36) focuses the collimated light emitted from the collimating lens 33 and irradiates the focused beam to a sheet metal (W) of a processing target. A moving mechanism (34) moves the collimating lens (33) 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 (36) is selected by the profile selector (31).