Laser Scanning Velocity Measurement via Acoustic Doppler Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

In laser beam machining apparatuses where the irradiation head does not displace, measuring laser scanning velocity is challenging due to the lack of head movement, which complicates the detection of scanning velocity.

Innovation Solution

A method that measures the processing sound generated during laser irradiation using a microphone and calculates the laser scanning velocity by analyzing the frequency shift caused by the Doppler effect, allowing for accurate determination of scanning velocity even when the irradiation head does not move, by using the mirrors to scan the laser beam.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If laser scanning is performed by operating a mirror without displacing the irradiation head, then the laser beam can be scanned across the workpiece, but it becomes difficult to measure the laser scanning velocity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser scanning capabilityVSAvoidlaser scanning velocity measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces sound waves as an intermediary medium to measure laser scanning velocity. A microphone detects processing sounds generated during laser irradiation, and the frequency of these sounds is analyzed to calculate the scanning velocity. This intermediary approach allows velocity measurement without requiring direct measurement of the stationary irradiation head or mirror position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical measurement methods (such as measuring head displacement or mirror angle changes) with acoustic measurement. Instead of using mechanical sensors to detect position or velocity, the system uses acoustic sensors to detect processing sounds, whose frequency characteristics reveal the scanning velocity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the irradiation head is kept stationary, then the apparatus structure is simplified and stability is improved, but the method for measuring scanning velocity becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveirradiation head stabilityVSAvoidvelocity measurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses sound waves as an intermediary to bridge the gap between the stationary irradiation head and the need for velocity measurement. The processing sounds generated during laser-material interaction carry information about the scanning velocity, allowing the system to maintain a simple, stable structure while still achieving accurate velocity measurement through acoustic analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 method enables precise measurement of laser scanning velocity in laser beam machining apparatuses with non-displacing irradiation heads, ensuring accurate processing control and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

measuring processing sound of the work by the laser

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSound generation during laser processing: Acoustic Emission

Implementation Method 2

calculating the laser scanning velocity based on a frequency shift amount of the processing sound caused by a Doppler effect

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDoppler effect: Doppler Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10267905B2Measuring method for measuring laser scanning velocity
Publication Date: 2019.04.23 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US10267905B2 patent drawing
  • US10267905B2 patent drawing
  • US10267905B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a measuring method for measuring laser scanning velocity for a laser beam machining apparatus. The laser beam machining apparatus includes a mirror, and is configured to process a work by irradiating laser. The laser is irradiated by operating the mirror. The measuring method includes measuring processing sound of the work by the laser using the laser beam machining apparatus. Further, the measuring method includes calculating scanning velocity of the laser by analyzing a frequency of the measured processing sound using the laser beam machining apparatus.