Laser Texture Engraving with Pixel-Grouped Ablation Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current laser ablation methods for engraving textures on physical objects are inefficient due to the need for numerous layers and fixed machining parameters, leading to long processing times and limited flexibility in achieving desired optical appearances.

Innovation Solution

A 5-axis laser machine tool method that divides image pixels into groups based on characteristics, allowing for tailored machining parameters for each group, enabling flexible and adaptive laser ablation with varying parameters for different pixel characteristics, reducing the number of layers required and enhancing machining efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed machining parameters are used for all pixels, then the machining process is simple to control, but the flexibility and variety of achievable optical effects are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in achieving optical effectsVSAvoidcomplexity of machining parameter management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The image is divided into multiple groups of pixels based on characteristics such as gray level values. Each group is assigned a specific set of machining parameters, allowing different optical effects to be achieved for different regions while maintaining systematic control through group-based management rather than individual pixel control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different machining parameters (such as laser power, pulse frequency, scanning speed) are applied to different pixel groups based on their characteristics. This enables local optimization of optical effects in different regions of the image, creating diverse visual appearances through localized parameter adaptation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Manufacturing precision

If numerous layers are used for engraving to achieve desired depth and quality, then the machining precision is improved, but the processing time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepth and quality of machined textureVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the approach from increasing the number of layers to optimizing machining parameters within fewer layers. By adjusting parameters such as laser power, pulse duration, and scanning speed based on pixel group characteristics, the desired depth and quality are achieved more efficiently in reduced number of passes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The machining process transitions from static fixed parameters to dynamic adaptive parameters that change based on the characteristics of different pixel groups. This allows the system to optimize material removal rate and quality in real-time, reducing the total number of layers needed while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If the laser beam moves within a limited range at each position, then the machining precision for each patch is improved, but the number of positions and overall processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of texture engravingVSAvoidtotal machining time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By optimizing laser parameters such as power density and pulse duration, the invention achieves effective material removal with fewer positioning steps. The enhanced parameter control allows for more efficient material ablation rates, reducing the need for multiple small patches and positions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach significantly reduces the number of layers needed for engraving, shortens processing time, and increases the variety of achievable optical effects, while maintaining the depth and quality of the machined texture, thus enhancing machining flexibility and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

Laser ablation methods are widely used for engraving a texture on the surface of a physical object by sublimating the material on the surface of the object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser ablation: Laser Ablation

Implementation Method 2

by sublimating the material on the surface of the object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSublimation: Sublimation

Data Source

PatentUS20230191535A1Laser Ablation Method For Engraving A Texture On A Physical Object
Publication Date: 2023.06.22 GF MACHINING SOLUTIONS SA
  • US20230191535A1 patent drawing
  • US20230191535A1 patent drawing
  • US20230191535A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for engraving a texture on a physical object by a laser beam emitted by a laser head through a galvanometer integrated in a machine tool, in particular a 5-axis laser machine tool comprises:providing an image representing the texture, wherein the image includes a plurality of pixels;defining a plurality of groups of the pixels in accordance with at least one characteristic of the pixels,assigning to each group of the pixels a set of machining parameters; andemitting the laser beam on the physical object to engrave the texture on the surface of the object, wherein the set of machining parameter is applied to engrave the corresponding group of pixels on the physical object.