Laser Tool Holder Guiding and Locking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser machines face challenges in safe and easy handling of tool holders during assembly and disassembly, often resulting in complicated and potentially hazardous processes.
Innovation Solution
A laser machine with a guiding system that allows sideways movement of the tool holder into or out of a tool bay, combined with a locking system using operable locking magnets and an adjustment system with screw elements and contact elements for precise alignment, ensuring safe and easy handling and alignment of the tool holder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tool holder is removed from the laser machine using conventional methods, then the tool holder can be detached, but the process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into multiple independent locking elements (first locking element, second locking element) that can be individually actuated. This allows the tool holder to be released in a controlled sequence, simplifying the disassembly process while maintaining security during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be dynamically controllable through the control unit, which can selectively actuate each locking element based on operational requirements. This dynamic control enables quick release when needed while maintaining secure locking during operation, reducing both assembly and disassembly time.
2Ease of operation
If the tool holder is made easily removable, then assembly and disassembly become simple, but the tool holder may fall and break creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding system with guiding rails and guiding slots is designed to automatically guide the tool holder into the correct position during assembly before the locking elements are engaged. This preliminary alignment action ensures the tool holder is properly positioned and secured, preventing accidental drops while maintaining ease of assembly through automatic guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The guiding system provides self-aligning functionality where the guiding rails and slots automatically ensure proper positioning of the tool holder during insertion. This self-service alignment mechanism eliminates the need for manual positioning adjustments and prevents misalignment that could lead to safety issues.
3Reliability
If the tool holder is securely locked during operation, then safety is improved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with a more sophisticated system that uses controllable locking elements actuated by a control unit. This substitution allows for secure locking during operation through automated control while simplifying the assembly and disassembly process through electronic actuation rather than manual mechanical operations.
4Manufacturing precision
If the tool holder alignment is manually adjusted repeatedly, then precise positioning can be achieved, but time is lost during each adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding system with precisely engineered guiding rails and guiding slots performs the alignment action preliminarily during the assembly process. The tool holder is automatically guided into its correct position by these fixed precision guides, eliminating the need for repeated manual adjustments and saving time while maintaining high alignment precision.
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
Facilitates safe and easy assembly and disassembly of the tool holder, preventing it from falling and ensuring precise alignment, allowing for efficient interchange of tools without the need for repeated adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a locking system comprising at least one locking magnet (51)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a laser machine (1), in particular for drilling, cutting, welding or engraving, comprising at least one laser light source for generating a laser beam and an optical system to guide and/or manipulate the laser beam, whereby the optical system comprises at least one tool, in particular an optical lens or a nozzle, which is attached to an interchangeable tool holder (12). It is provided that a guiding system for the tool holder (12) is configured such that the tool holder (12) can only be slid sideways into or out of a tool bay (10) provided by the laser machine (1), the guiding system comprising an operable locking system (37) for restraining the movement of the tool holder (12) in the tool bay (10). The invention further relates to a laser machine system.