3D Laser Tap Processing Head for Long Pipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional laser processing apparatuses for long size members, such as pipes and angle members, cannot perform mechanical processes like tapped hole processing in addition to free curved surface laser cutting.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional processing apparatus with a base, processing unit, and chuck devices that integrates a laser processing unit and a tap unit with a turret mechanism and drivers for both laser cutting and tap hole formation, allowing simultaneous processing of pilot holes and subsequent tap processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If only laser processing is used for long size members, then free curved surfaces can be processed, but mechanical processes such as tapped holes cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines laser processing unit and mechanical tap processing unit into a single integrated processing head that can perform both functions on long size members. The processing head includes a laser unit for creating pilot holes and a tap unit with turret mechanism for threading, allowing both processes to be performed in one setup without requiring separate operations or repositioning of the workpiece.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing head is designed as a universal device that can perform multiple functions: laser cutting of free curved surfaces, laser drilling of pilot holes, and mechanical tap processing. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment and enables versatile processing capabilities in a single apparatus.
2Manufacturing precision
If tap processing is performed as a post-process, then tapped holes can be formed, but the number of steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges laser processing and tap processing into a single integrated processing head mounted on the same moving carriage. The processing head contains both the laser unit for drilling pilot holes and the tap unit with turret mechanism for threading, allowing sequential execution of both operations without removing or repositioning the workpiece, thereby reducing the number of processing steps while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser unit creates precise pilot holes as a preliminary action before the tap unit performs the threading operation. This preliminary laser drilling ensures accurate hole positioning and proper hole formation, which facilitates subsequent tap processing and ensures high manufacturing precision for the final threaded holes.
3Reliability
If laser processing and tap processing are performed separately, then each process can be optimized, but overall processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous processing by integrating both laser and tap operations in a single processing head that moves along with the workpiece on the same carriage. The laser unit drills pilot holes and the tap unit immediately follows to create threads, eliminating idle time between operations and maintaining continuous useful action throughout the processing cycle, thereby significantly reducing total processing time while preserving process quality.
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 continuous three-dimensional laser processing and tap processing of long size works, reducing the number of steps and overall processing time by allowing simultaneous laser processing of tap pilot holes and subsequent tap processing.
Implementation Method 1
laser processing unit capable of processing a long size work
Implementation Method 2
tap unit comprising a turret mechanism, a plurality of drivers allocated by the turret mechanism, and tap tools supported by the drivers
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides an apparatus for subjecting a long size work to three-dimensional laser processing and tap processing. A processing unit 200 disposed on an apparatus for subjecting a long size work such as a pipe to three-dimensional processing via laser comprises a laser processing unit 210 and a tap unit 250. A torch 220 of the laser processing unit 210 subjects the work to laser processing and also forms tap pilot holes thereto. The tap unit 250 has plural drivers 260 allocated by a turret mechanism, wherein the allocated driver 260 is sent in the direction of axis Z2 to subject the work to tap processing via a tap tool 261.