Pulse Laser Grid Marking for High-Speed Code Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser marking technologies face challenges in achieving high-speed and high-precision marking, particularly for small characters and machine-readable codes, due to limitations in raster and vector marking processes, which result in slow processing times and poor accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A pulse lasing apparatus controlled by a computing device that forms marks and voids in a grid pattern using packets of instructions, allowing for precise and fast marking of alphanumeric characters, UPC codes, and QR codes without the need for traditional labels or adhesives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If raster marking process is used, then marking speed can be increased, but marking precision and resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The marking process is segmented into multiple passes, with each pass depositing a layer of material. By controlling the overlap and spacing of laser tracks in successive passes, the system achieves both high speed (through efficient path planning) and high precision (through controlled material deposition at each segment)
Solution Approach 2:
The laser marking process uses periodic pulsed action rather than continuous operation. The laser is activated in controlled pulses during each pass, allowing for precise control of material deposition while maintaining high overall processing speed through optimized pulse timing and repetition rates
2Manufacturing precision
If vector marking process is used, then marking precision is improved, but marking speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the advantages of both raster and vector approaches by implementing a multi-pass scanning system that combines the precision of vector-based path control with the efficiency of raster-like systematic coverage. The laser follows precisely controlled vector paths in multiple passes, achieving both high precision and high speed
3Productivity
If single lines of large spots are used for date codes, then marking speed is improved, but reading precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solution transitions from two-dimensional large spot markings to a three-dimensional approach by using multiple passes to deposit layered material structures. This creates raised, tactilely detectable markings that maintain speed while dramatically improving machine and human readability through enhanced dimensional contrast
4Adaptability or versatility
If adhesive labels are used on polymer containers, then decoration flexibility is improved, but environmental impact and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical adhesive label system with a direct laser-based material deposition system. The laser directly deposits and fuses material onto the polymer container surface, eliminating the need for separate adhesive labels while providing equivalent or superior decoration flexibility and eliminating environmental concerns associated with adhesive removal and recycling
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 fast, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly laser marking of consumer and machine-readable features on articles, allowing for instantaneous changes in labeling without the use of labels or adhesives, improving both precision and speed compared to existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
Short-pulse laser marking utilizes energy from nano, pico and femto short pulse lasers across a variety of wavelengths and energies to mark decorative patterns onto articles
Implementation Method 2
The laser technique used in short pulse laser marking is, importantly, a high through-put technique which uses a stationary laser source from which the laser beam is directed by means of electronically/mechanically controlled mirrors
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet of material marked by a pulse lasing apparatus. The sheet of material has a predetermined feature comprising a plurality of marks and voids in a grid pattern. The grid pattern has a plurality of locations disposed along a series of substantially parallel rows, and each location comprises either one mark or one void. The pulses from the pulse lasing apparatus form the marks and the absence of a pulse forms the voids. The pulse lasing apparatus is controlled by a computing device that sends packets of instructions to the pulse lasing apparatus, the packet of instructions comprising at least 2, where each individual instruction informs the laser to pulse or not to pulse, creating a mark or a void, respectively, at each location on the grid pattern.