Multi-Axial Support Apparatus for Simultaneous Laser Etching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser etching systems are limited in processing multiple objects simultaneously, especially those with non-flat surfaces, due to the need for individual handling and alignment with a laser source.
Innovation Solution
A multi-object apparatus that allows multiple products to be simultaneously mounted and rotated to maintain their surfaces at the focal position of a single laser source, utilizing a gear assembly and support wheel assemblies to accommodate various shapes and sizes, enabling efficient laser etching or printing on cylindrical or conical surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional laser etching systems process one object at a time, then the laser source can maintain precise focal positioning on a single object, but the processing throughput is limited and setup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the processing system into multiple independent product support assemblies (first, second, third, and fourth assemblies), each capable of holding and positioning a separate object. This segmentation allows four objects to be processed simultaneously by a single laser source, directly increasing throughput while maintaining individual focal positioning for each object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from processing objects in a single dimension (one at a time) to processing in multiple dimensions by arranging product support assemblies at different locations around the laser source. The assemblies can be positioned at various angular positions and distances, enabling simultaneous multi-object processing without compromising focal precision.
2Productivity
If multiple objects are mounted on the apparatus for simultaneous etching, then throughput increases, but the device complexity increases due to additional support assemblies and positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
Each product support assembly is designed as a universal unit that can accommodate different object types and sizes. The assemblies include adjustable components such as support wheels with varying diameters and positioning mechanisms that can adapt to various object geometries. This universality allows the same basic assembly design to be replicated multiple times without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functional elements into integrated support assemblies. Each assembly merges the object holding mechanism, positioning system, and rotation capability into a single coordinated unit. This consolidation reduces the overall system complexity compared to having separate independent mechanisms for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If objects with non-flat surfaces are processed, then versatility is improved, but maintaining precise focal positioning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The product support assemblies incorporate rotational capability that allows objects to be dynamically positioned during the etching process. The assemblies can rotate to bring different surfaces of non-flat objects into the laser focal point, enabling precise processing of complex geometries. The dynamic adjustment of object orientation compensates for surface irregularities and maintains focal accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
Each product support assembly is equipped with locally optimized features such as support wheels of specific diameters and positioning mechanisms tailored to handle particular object types. The first assembly through fourth assembly can have different configurations suited for different object geometries, allowing precise focal positioning for each local case while maintaining overall system versatility.
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 solution significantly increases throughput by allowing simultaneous processing of multiple objects, reducing setup time and enabling precise etching on non-flat surfaces, such as glasses with truncated conical shapes, while accommodating different sizes and shapes.
Implementation Method 1
Laser etching is used to imprint text, images or other graphics on various materials
Data Source
AI summary
An example apparatus includes a first axle extending from a left side support to a right side support, the first axle configured to axially rotate; a second axle extending from the left side support to the right side support and being substantially parallel to the first axle, the second axle configured to axially rotate, the second axle and the first axle being spaced apart. Each of the first axle and second axle include two or more lower support wheel assemblies and two or more higher support wheel assemblies alternatingly positioned along each axle. The higher support wheel assemblies have a larger diameter than the lower support wheel assemblies, and each of the lower support wheel assemblies and the higher support wheel assemblies are configured to axially rotate with a corresponding axle.