Rotating Laser Marking Fixture for Stable Multi-Angle Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser marking methods for metals, ceramics, glasses, and plastics lack versatility and precision in producing high-resolution, permanent marks with minimal substrate damage, and there is a need for a reliable fixture device to securely hold objects like weapons during marking without movement.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable fixture assembly with a base, activator section, cradle, and laser marking device that securely attaches and rotates the object, allowing flexible marking at various angles, using a platform with tracks and a motorized clamping system to maintain stability during the marking process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed fixture device is used to hold the object during laser marking, then the stability and precision of marking are improved, but the adaptability to mark various objects at different positions and angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture device incorporates a rotatable cradle that can rotate about a vertical axis, transforming a static fixture into a dynamic one. This allows the object to be positioned at different angles and orientations while maintaining secure holding, thus achieving both marking precision and versatility for various object configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture device is designed with universal adaptability to hold and mark various types of objects including weapons, tools, and other substrates. The combination of adjustable clamping mechanisms, rotatable cradle, and positionable tower device enables a single fixture to perform multiple marking functions on different object types and surfaces
2Manufacturing precision
If the object is securely clamped to prevent movement during marking, then the marking precision is improved, but the ease of operation and adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle is designed to be rotatable and adjustable during operation, allowing operators to easily reposition objects at different angles. The motorized tower device can also be repositioned along the tracks, providing dynamic adjustability while maintaining secure clamping for precise marking
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture device is divided into separable components including the clamping mechanism, rotatable cradle, and motorized tower device. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and operated, making the overall system easier to operate and adapt to different marking requirements
3Manufacturing precision
If a motorized clamping system with multiple components is used, then the stability and precision are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components including the clamping mechanism, rotatable cradle, and motorized tower device are integrated into a single unified fixture assembly. This merging allows the complex system to operate as a coordinated whole, with components working together to achieve precise marking while sharing common structural elements and control mechanisms
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 precise, high-resolution, and permanent marking on various substrates with minimal damage, while ensuring the object remains fixed and stable throughout the laser marking process, enhancing the versatility and reliability of the marking technique.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating said layer with a laser or diode based energy source such that the radiation is directed onto said layer in accordance with the form of the marking to be applied
Implementation Method 2
using a laser or diode based energy source of a wavelength which is sufficiently absorbed by the marking material so as to create a bonding of the marking material to the surface of the workpiece at the irradiated areas
Implementation Method 3
the known methods of a laser marking of metals typically involves a vaporization process, wherein a laser is used to remove or ablate metal from the surface along the travel path of the laser
Implementation Method 4
a laser is used to remove or ablate metal from the surface along the travel path of the laser. The resultant marking comprises engraved or indented portions
Implementation Method 5
another process of laser marking of metals surfaces including annealing a selected portion of the metal surface to provide areas of contrasting color, wherein instead of removing metal from the surface, the laser is used to heat the surface of the metal to an annealing temperature
Implementation Method 6
the laser is used to heat the surface of the metal to an annealing temperature which typically results in darkening of the annealed regions
Implementation Method 7
plastics are typically laser marked by either changing the color of the plastic or engraving the surface of the plastic along the travel path of the laser. The color of the plastic is typically changed by localized melting and re-solidification of the plastic
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable fixture assembly for marking objects, such as pistols, includes a base and an adjusting device. The base includes a platform having a first end, a second end, a pair of side walls, and a pair of tracks extending between the first end, and a second end. An activator section includes a neck section and a motor section including a motor having a circular base and a clamping surface for engaging the rear side of the pistol, wherein the clamping surface includes a first axis. The activator section includes a cradle member for holding the pistol. A laser marking device marks the pistol, as the pistol is fixedly attached to the cradle. As the cradle rotates about the axis, the laser marking device marks various surfaces of the pistol at various angles thereby allowing variety and flexibility in laser marking.