Opposed Laser Irradiators for Accurate Multi-Region Workpiece Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing systems face challenges in achieving high relative positional accuracy at multiple positions on a workpiece and efficiently adding information on the workpiece, often requiring complex device configurations and resulting in lower productivity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a laser processing system that utilizes multiple light emitting devices to process different regions of a workpiece, such as a PET bottle, with laser light emitted from first and second light emitting ports at different angles, allowing for increased relative positional accuracy and simplified device configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single light irradiator processes multiple regions sequentially by rotating the workpiece, then all regions can be processed, but the device complexity increases and productivity decreases due to standby time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the workpiece processing into multiple independent light irradiators, each responsible for a specific region. Instead of one irradiator sequentially processing all regions through workpiece rotation, multiple irradiators simultaneously process different regions, eliminating the need for complex rotation mechanisms and reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to process multiple regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional sequential processing approach (one irradiator moving to different positions via workpiece rotation) to a multi-dimensional parallel processing approach (multiple irradiators positioned at different locations processing simultaneously). This dimensional change eliminates standby time and reduces device complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple light irradiators process different regions simultaneously, then productivity increases and standby time is reduced, but achieving high relative positional accuracy becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light shield as an intermediary element between adjacent light irradiators. This light shield blocks stray light from one irradiator from interfering with the processing region of another irradiator, thereby maintaining high relative positional accuracy while enabling simultaneous processing by multiple irradiators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and isolates the light paths of multiple irradiators using light shields, separating the optical fields to prevent interference. This extraction of light paths ensures that each irradiator processes its designated region with high precision without being affected by adjacent irradiators.
3Manufacturing precision
If light shields are added between light irradiators to prevent interference, then relative positional accuracy is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies light shields only in the specific locations where light interference occurs between adjacent irradiators, rather than implementing a comprehensive shielding system throughout the entire device. This localized application of light shields maintains relative positional accuracy while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
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 enhances the relative positional accuracy among processing parts, reduces the complexity and cost of the conveyor system, and increases productivity by allowing for faster processing and reduced standby times.
Implementation Method 1
a light irradiator including a light scanner and a plurality of light emitting ports, the light irradiator emitting laser light to a workpiece to process
Implementation Method 2
the property of a material of the workpiece is changed by laser emission
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3~4A
AI summary
A laser processing system (30) includes: a first light irradiator including (23a): a first light emitter to emit first laser light; and a first light scanner to scan a first region of a workpiece with the first laser light emitted from the first light emitter; a second light irradiator (23b) including: a second light emitter to emit second laser light; and a second light scanner to scan a second region different from the first region of the workpiece (2) with the second laser light emitted from the second light emitter. The first light irradiator(23a) emits the first laser light to the first region of the workpiece (21) in a first irradiation direction, the second light irradiator (23b) emits the second laser light to the second region of the workpiece (21) in a second irradiation direction opposite to the first irradiation direction.