Preform Laser Concave Marking for Blow-Mold Visibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser processing methods for forming marks on preforms before blow molding often result in deformation during the molding process, leading to reduced productivity and visibility of the marks on the final product.

Innovation Solution

A laser processing method that creates multiple concaves on the surface of a preform before blow molding, using laser light to form marks that are not in contact with the mold, maintaining their shape and visibility in the molded product, and optimizing the concave arrangement to prevent deformation and enhance visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If marks are formed on preform surface using existing laser processing methods, then visibility of marks is improved, but deformation occurs during blow molding process reducing mark quality

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevisibility of marksVSAvoidmark deformation

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The laser processing is performed on the preform before blow molding to create marks that will not deform during the subsequent molding process. By performing the marking action preliminarily on the preform surface, the marks are established in a state that maintains their integrity through the blow molding process, preventing deformation that would occur if marked after molding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The laser processing creates localized modifications on specific regions of the preform surface where marks are needed. The processing parameters (wavelength, pulse duration, power density) are optimized to affect only the surface layer locally, creating permanent marks without compromising the overall structural integrity or causing deformation during blow molding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If multiple concaves are marked on preform surface, then visibility and productivity are improved, but processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidprocessing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The marking process is segmented into multiple discrete concave features that are arranged in specific patterns on the preform surface. Each concave mark is created as an independent feature, allowing for systematic arrangement and optimization of visibility while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through automated laser processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

The method ensures that the marks formed on the preform are maintained and visually recognizable in the molded product, improving productivity and visibility without affecting the mechanical strength or function of the product.

Implementation Method 1

a laser beam is irradiated onto a preform

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLaser heating: Laser

Implementation Method 2

the preform is locally melted by the laser beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Implementation Method 3

vaporized by the laser beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVaporization: Evaporation

Implementation Method 4

the preform is locally melted by the laser beam and vaporized by the laser beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAblation: Laser Ablation

Data Source

PatentUS12097573B2Laser processing method and preform

Publication Date: 2024.09.24 RICOH CO LTD

AI summary

A laser processing method includes: marking multiple concaves on a surface of a preform before blow molding.