Optical Axis Adjustment Jig for Quantitative Laser Perpendicularity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing apparatuses lack a reliable method to quantitatively assess whether the optical axis of a laser beam is perpendicular to a workpiece, often resulting in defects such as oblique processing or uneven groove processing.
Innovation Solution
An optical axis adjustment jig featuring a flat parallel-surface plate with reflective films and an image capturing unit is used to detect the tilt of the laser beam based on internal reflections, allowing for quantitative assessment of the optical axis alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mirror is used to reflect the laser beam for confirming perpendicularity, then the laser beam application can be assessed, but the assessment criterion becomes indefinite due to reliance on eye measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual assessment method (eye measurement of reflected beam) with an optical detection system. The image capturing unit photographs the reflected laser beam positions, and a control unit processes these images to calculate the degree of perpendicularity quantitatively, eliminating subjective visual assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a flat parallel-surface plate as an intermediary between the laser beam and the detection system. This plate creates distinct reflected beam images that can be captured and measured, serving as a mediator that transforms the invisible beam angle into measurable visual information.
2Ease of operation
If eye measurement is used to confirm laser beam perpendicularity, then the process remains simple, but the measurement criterion becomes indefinite and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the control unit calculates the degree of perpendicularity based on captured images and provides quantitative feedback. This allows operators to adjust the laser beam application unit until the measured perpendicularity meets specified criteria, transforming subjective judgment into objective feedback-driven adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces simple visual inspection with an automated optical measurement and calculation system that provides precise quantitative data, maintaining operational simplicity while dramatically improving measurement precision through automated image processing and calculation.
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
Enables precise and quantitative confirmation of the laser beam's perpendicularity to the workpiece, preventing defects and ensuring accurate processing.
Implementation Method 1
a flat parallel-surface plate having an upper surface and a lower surface with reflective films disposed respectively thereon
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an optical axis adjustment jig including a flat parallel-surface plate having an upper surface and a lower surface with reflective films disposed respectively thereon, and an image capturing unit disposed beneath the flat parallel-surface plate for capturing an image of a laser beam applied thereto. The flat parallel-surface plate is made of a material that is transmissive of a wavelength of the laser beam. The laser beam is applied through the flat parallel-surface plate to the image capturing unit. A tilt of the optical axis of the laser beam is detected on the basis of the shape of the beam spot of the laser beam whose image has been captured by the image capturing unit.