Rotating Cover Glass Layout for Continuous Laser Processing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing apparatuses face challenges in continuing processing without removing debris deposited on the laser beam applying unit, as debris can obstruct the laser beam or damage the condensing lens, particularly due to the limitations of large numerical aperture lenses and the risk of swarf deposition.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing apparatus with a cover glass positioned between the condensing lens and the workpiece, rotatably mounted on a cover glass holder eccentrically to the optical axis, which protects the lens from debris and allows continuous processing by redirecting debris away from the optical path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a condensing lens with a large numerical aperture is used to constrict the laser beam spot, then the laser beam focusing capability is improved, but the depth of focus becomes small making it difficult to secure sufficient space below the lens for debris trapping chambers and other components
Solution Approach 1:
The space below the condensing lens is segmented into functional zones: a debris trapping chamber for collecting debris, a gas ejection nozzle for removing debris, and a cover glass holder for protecting the lens. This segmentation allows efficient use of the limited depth of focus space while maintaining large numerical aperture for precise laser focusing.
2Productivity
If laser processing is performed without protective measures, then processing efficiency is maintained, but debris produced from the workpiece deposits on the condensing lens obstructing the laser beam and causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
A cover glass is introduced as an intermediary protective element between the condensing lens and the workpiece. This cover glass intercepts debris produced during laser processing, preventing it from depositing on the expensive condensing lens while allowing the laser beam to pass through and continue processing without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful debris is extracted from the optical path by the cover glass, which collects and holds the debris away from the condensing lens. This extraction prevents debris accumulation on the lens surface, maintaining beam quality and enabling continuous processing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the cover glass is positioned on the optical axis to protect the lens, then lens protection is improved, but debris still accumulates on the cover glass requiring frequent removal and interrupting processing
Solution Approach 1:
The cover glass holder is designed to be rotatable about a central axis, transforming the static cover glass into a dynamic protective element. This rotation capability allows the cover glass to be repositioned to redirect accumulated debris away from the optical path, enabling continuous processing without removing or replacing the cover glass.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover glass can be rotated periodically to redirect debris accumulation zones away from the optical path. This periodic repositioning maintains the protective function while allowing continuous laser processing to proceed without interruption.
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 continuous laser processing without removing debris from the laser beam applying unit, preventing damage to the condensing lens and maintaining the integrity of the optical path, thus ensuring uninterrupted processing.
Implementation Method 1
a laser oscillator for emitting a laser beam to be applied to the workpiece held on the holding unit
Implementation Method 2
a condensing lens for focusing the laser beam emitted from the laser oscillator to the workpiece
Implementation Method 3
the cover glass holder is rotatably mounted on the lens holder for rotation about a central axis spaced eccentrically from an optical axis of the condensing lens and parallel to the optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
A laser processing apparatus includes a holding unit for holding a workpiece thereon, a laser oscillator for emitting a laser beam to be applied to the workpiece held on the holding unit, a condensing lens for focusing the laser beam emitted from the laser oscillator to the workpiece, a lens holder housing the condensing lens therein, a cover glass disposed between the condensing lens and the holding unit for protecting the condensing lens from debris produced from the workpiece when the workpiece is processed by the laser beam, and a cover glass holder housing the cover glass and attached to the lens holder. The cover glass holder is rotatably mounted on the lens holder for rotation about a central axis spaced eccentrically from an optical axis of the condensing lens and parallel to the optical axis.