Pivotable Laser Power Distribution Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-power laser systems require efficient and space-saving power distribution solutions that enhance serviceability and reduce development costs, while existing technologies often compromise on these aspects due to increased power demands and complex AC distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular laser power distribution module with a pivotable enclosure and standard metal rails for component attachment, allowing for easy assembly, serviceability, and adaptability to various power requirements, incorporating circuit breakers, contactors, and line filters to manage AC power distribution efficiently and protect against overloads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If laser power increases to meet higher performance requirements, then laser performance metrics improve, but AC distribution system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The AC distribution system is segmented into modular units, each handling specific power levels. This allows the system to be scaled by adding or removing modules rather than redesigning the entire distribution system, thus managing complexity while supporting higher power requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular AC distribution modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized configurations that can serve multiple laser modules. This multi-functionality reduces the need for custom distribution systems for different power levels, thereby controlling complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If circuit branches are housed in a metal box within the laser system, then power distribution is integrated, but system space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The AC distribution modules are designed to be nested within the laser system architecture, fitting into available spaces efficiently. The modular design allows these components to be tucked into corners or alongside other modules, minimizing the overall volume increase while maintaining integration.
3Volume of moving object
If laser systems are designed to take up less space, then space efficiency improves, but serviceability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular units with standardized interfaces, allowing service personnel to access and replace individual modules without disassembling the entire compact system. This segmentation maintains space efficiency while improving serviceability through targeted access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular modules are designed with movable or removable features that allow dynamic access during servicing. This enables maintenance personnel to quickly extract and replace modules in the compact system without permanent disassembly, balancing space efficiency with serviceability.
4Ease of repair
If modular design is implemented for reusability, then serviceability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design employs universal interfaces, standardized mounting mechanisms, and consistent electrical connections across all modules. This universality allows the same module design to be reused in different configurations and positions, improving serviceability while actually reducing overall complexity through standardization rather than increasing it through variety.
Data Source
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AI summary
A laser system including a rack, a plurality of laser modules mounted in the rack to drive light through an optical fiber exiting the system, and a power distribution module to distribute electricity through circuit branches coupled to the laser modules is generally presented. In some embodiments, the rack includes a horizontal cross-member with a bottom rack flange extending vertically and defining a bottom of an opening in the rack. In some embodiments, the power distribution module includes an enclosure disposed in the rack opening, a face of the enclosure including a bottom lip to engage an edge of the bottom rack flange as a fulcrum point over a range to allow the enclosure to pivot between first and second pivot angles relative to the rack, one or more rails mounted within the enclosure, and one or more circuit components associated with each circuit branch disposed within the enclosure.