Laser Processing Device Pulse Train Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser processing devices face challenges in generating a pulse train with adjustable parameters such as time interval, pulse width, and power ratio, leading to limited control over the processing output, increased device size, and complexity due to the need for multiple light paths and precise optical axis alignment.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing device comprising a seed light source, an excitation light source, and a light-amplifying fiber, where the seed light source generates pulse trains with variable parameters like pulse width, interval, and amplitude, and a drive circuit controls the semiconductor laser using digital data to produce a pulse train with adjustable characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If light paths of different lengths are provided to generate a pulse train, then a multi-pulse output is achieved, but the device size becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single optical path with dynamically controllable delay elements (such as variable optical delay lines or acousto-optic modulators) to create multiple pulses with adjustable time intervals. This dynamic approach replaces the static multiple fixed-length light paths, allowing the device to generate pulse trains with flexible timing while maintaining a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
A single optical path is designed to perform multiple functions: generating the original pulse, creating delayed copies, and combining them into a pulse train. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated paths for each pulse, thereby reducing the overall device size while maintaining pulse train generation capability.
2Productivity
If multiple optical components are used to combine light pulses, then a pulse train is generated, but the adjustment becomes labor-intensive and the structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pulse generation and combination operations into a single integrated optical path using fewer optical components. By merging the functions of delay, modulation, and combination into one streamlined path with minimal components, the system reduces alignment complexity and eliminates the need for labor-intensive adjustment of multiple separate optical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a single variable optical delay element as an intermediary component that controls the timing of pulse generation. This single mediator replaces the need for multiple fixed delay lines and their associated alignment mechanisms, significantly simplifying the system while maintaining full pulse train generation capability with adjustable parameters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light path lengths are changed to adjust time intervals, then pulse timing is controlled, but the mechanism becomes very complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls pulse timing by changing the delay parameter of a single variable optical delay element rather than physically reconfiguring multiple light paths. This parameter-based control approach allows continuous adjustment of time intervals through electronic or optical control signals, providing high adaptability without mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms (such as movable mirrors or adjustable delay lines) with non-mechanical or minimally mechanical solutions like acousto-optic modulators, electro-optic modulators, or programmable delay elements. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical structures while maintaining precise control over pulse timing intervals.
4Productivity
If a single light pulse is divided into multiple light paths, then the number of pulses is fixed, but the control flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control elements within a single optical path that allow the number of pulses, their timing intervals, and their relative amplitudes to be adjusted in real-time. This dynamic configuration capability replaces the fixed structure of divided light paths, enabling flexible adaptation to different processing requirements without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent generates pulse trains by applying periodic modulation signals to a single optical path, where the modulation frequency and duty cycle determine the number and timing of pulses. This periodic action approach provides continuous adjustability of pulse train parameters through signal processing rather than fixed structural division, greatly enhancing control flexibility.
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 output of laser light with desired processing parameters while maintaining a compact device configuration, allowing for flexible control of pulse trains and improved processing efficiency without the need for complex optical path adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a light-amplifying fiber arranged such that the seed light is amplified by coupling the seed light and the excitation light into it
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3
AI summary
A laser processing device (100) is provided with a seed LD (2) that emits a seed beam, an excitation LD (3) that emits an excitation beam, and optical fibers (1, 8) configured such that the seed beam is amplified by injecting the seed beam and the excitation beam. As the seed beam, the seed LD (2) repeatedly generates a pulse train containing multiple beam pulses. The time interval between the multiple optical pulses is shorter than the interval between the pulse trains. Further, at least one of the following can be varied: the number of beam pulses, the pulse width, the amplitude and the interval.