Pre-Cut Workpiece Marking for Faster Laser Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current marking systems for metallic workpieces in laser cutting machines are inefficient as they require marking during the cutting process, leading to increased processing time and potential contamination, and do not allow for easy identification of parts before cutting.
Innovation Solution
A marking system that applies markings outside the laser cutting machine using a movable unit with a print head or engraving laser, capable of moving in four axes, to mark metallic workpieces before cutting, ensuring parts are identifiable and reducing processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If marking is performed during the laser cutting process, then parts can be identified after cutting, but processing time increases and contamination risk occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The marking unit applies markings to the workpiece before the laser cutting process begins. This preliminary action ensures parts are identifiable for subsequent processing while allowing the laser cutting to proceed without interruption, thus maintaining high productivity and avoiding contamination from simultaneous cutting operations.
2Loss of information
If marking is performed during the laser cutting process, then parts can be identified after cutting, but the processing time per cutting plan increases
Solution Approach 1:
Markings are applied in advance before laser cutting starts, ensuring all identification information is available from the beginning. This eliminates the need to wait for cutting completion before marking, thereby reducing total processing time while maintaining full information availability for subsequent operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the marking operation from the laser cutting operation, allowing them to be performed independently. The marking unit operates on the workpiece while the laser cutting process is planned and executed separately, enabling parallel processing and reducing overall cycle time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a marking system is integrated into the laser cutting machine, then marking and cutting can be combined, but the production plant footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The marking unit is designed as a multi-functional component that can operate independently or integrate with the laser cutting system. It features a movable platform that can position marking devices over the workpiece area, allowing the same system to perform both marking and cutting functions without requiring separate dedicated spaces for each operation.
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 allows for efficient and reliable marking of parts before cutting, reducing processing time and preventing contamination, while enabling easy identification and subsequent processing steps, such as bending, without increasing the production plant's footprint.
Implementation Method 1
three translational axes and a rotary axis are provided for moving the marking unit, wherein the rotary axis is arranged perpendicular to the horizontally extending processing area
Implementation Method 2
the marking unit comprises a print head. For example, an inkjet print head may be used
Implementation Method 3
laser cutting machine configured for cutting parts of a metallic workpiece
Implementation Method 4
laser cutting head in a laser processing space configured for cutting parts from a metallic workpiece
Implementation Method 5
a distance sensor is provided, which is configured to measure the distance between the marking unit and the workpiece. The distance sensor may, for example, operate optically or capacitively
Data Source
AI summary
A marking system configured for marking a metallic workpiece is provided. The marking system includes an interface configured to receive information about parts to be cut out of the workpiece. A marking unit is movable over a processing area configured to receive the workpiece. The marking unit is configured to provide parts to be cut with a marking identifying the respective part to be cut before the cutting process from the workpiece.