Movable Collimator Laser Head for Variable Beam Diameter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing heads lack the flexibility to dynamically adjust the laser beam diameter and power during processing, limiting their ability to adapt to varying workpiece geometries and processing requirements.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing head equipped with a movable collimator that changes the laser beam diameter along its propagation direction, combined with a scanning device for two-dimensional diversion of the laser beam, allowing for adjustable beam diameter and power to suit different processing needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed laser beam diameter is used in conventional laser processing heads, then the processing setup is simple, but the ability to adapt to varying workpiece geometries and processing requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator is made movable along the laser beam propagation direction, transforming it from a static component to a dynamic one. This movement capability allows real-time adjustment of the laser beam diameter to adapt to different workpiece geometries and processing requirements, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity by introducing controlled dynamics to the system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the laser beam diameter by moving the collimator to different positions. This parameter adjustment enables the same laser processing head to handle various workpiece geometries and processing needs, achieving versatility through dynamic parameter modification rather than requiring multiple fixed configurations
2Manufacturing precision
If the laser beam diameter is fixed, then the processing head structure is simple, but the precision for complex geometries and weld seams is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The movable collimator introduces dynamic adjustment capability to the processing head structure, allowing the laser beam diameter to be precisely controlled for complex geometries. This dynamic element enables high precision processing without requiring multiple specialized fixed components, thus improving manufacturing precision while maintaining relatively simple device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The movable collimator allows a single laser processing head to perform multiple functions by adjusting the beam diameter for different geometry types and processing requirements. This multi-functionality achieves high precision for various complex geometries without needing separate specialized processing heads for each application
3Adaptability or versatility
If the laser beam parameters are fixed, then the processing system is easier to operate, but the flexibility for real-time adjustments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that record the machined geometries and provide feedback to the control unit. The control unit then automatically adjusts the collimator position and scanning device parameters in real-time based on this feedback, enabling flexible adaptation to different workpieces while maintaining ease of operation through automated control rather than manual adjustment
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 configuration enables more flexible and efficient laser processing by allowing for real-time adjustments of the laser beam diameter and power, enhancing the ability to create complex geometries and weld seams with improved precision and control.
Implementation Method 1
at least one collimator for collimating the laser beam, wherein the at least one collimator can be moved during operation along a propagation direction of the laser beam, whereby a diameter D of the laser beam incident on the workpiece can be changed
Implementation Method 2
Controlled diversion optics in the laser processing head are known, which can be rapidly tilted or pivoted and redirect the processing laser beam in two vertical axes
Data Source
AI summary
A laser processing head for processing a workpiece by a laser beam includes at least one scanning device for diverting the laser beam, and at least one collimator for collimating the laser beam. The at least one collimator is movable during operation along a propagation direction of the laser beam, whereby a diameter of the laser beam incident on the workpiece is changeable.