Through-Feed Woodworking Machine With Integrated Laser Engraving
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current through-feed machines for machining wooden workpieces lack the capability to perform operations like engraving, decoration, abrasion, marking, and finishing using a laser system, which are typically reserved for stationary machining centers.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a laser system into a through-feed machine, featuring a conveyor belt with a containment system for fumes and dust, and an absorbent surface to prevent conveyor belt wear, allowing for engraving and other operations during the movement of workpieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a laser system is integrated into a through-feed machine, then the machine gains the capability to perform engraving and finishing operations during workpiece movement, but the device complexity increases due to the addition of laser components and containment systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser system with the existing through-feed sanding machine structure, integrating multiple functions (sanding, engraving, finishing) into a single machine. The laser unit is positioned within the machine frame and coordinated with the conveyor belt system, allowing sequential or simultaneous operation of different working units on the workpiece during through-feed movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The through-feed machine is designed to perform multiple operations (sanding, engraving, decoration, abrasion, marking, finishing) on workpieces using different working units. The laser system adds engraving and finishing capabilities to the existing sanding functionality, creating a multi-functional machining center that handles various wood treatment operations in one continuous process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a laser system is added to perform further operations on workpieces, then the functionality is enhanced, but the machine structure becomes more complex requiring additional containment elements and suction systems
Solution Approach 1:
The containment element for laser beam fumes and the suction system for dust are integrated into the existing machine structure. The suction system serves dual purposes: removing dust from sanding operations and capturing fumes from laser processing. This combined approach reduces the need for separate containment systems and simplifies the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The containment element acts as an intermediary structure that confines the laser beam interaction zone, directing fumes toward the suction system. This intermediate containment structure enables efficient fume extraction while maintaining a compact design and protecting the laser system from interference by dust and debris.
3Productivity
If the conveyor belt is used for continuous workpiece transport, then productivity is improved, but the conveyor belt may suffer from wear due to laser beam interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the laser beam interaction zone from direct contact with the conveyor belt by using a containment element with an opening or transparent surface. This allows the laser beams to pass through to treat the workpiece while preventing the beams from directly striking and degrading the conveyor belt material, thus extending belt life while maintaining continuous transport capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The containment element serves as an intermediary that transmits laser beams to the workpiece while protecting the conveyor belt. The opening or transparent surface in the containment element allows laser passage for workpiece treatment, while the containment structure itself shields the conveyor belt from direct laser exposure and resulting thermal damage or material degradation.
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 efficient and simple execution of engraving and finishing operations on wooden workpieces within a through-feed machining process, enhancing the functionality of existing machines without requiring significant modifications.
Implementation Method 1
a laser system configured for carrying out further working operations on said workpiece
Implementation Method 2
a laser beam emitting device capable of carrying out further operations on said workpiece
Implementation Method 3
a containment element of said laser beam
Implementation Method 4
an absorbent surface of said laser beams insertable in said conveyor belt, capable of absorbing laser beams emitted by said emitting device
Implementation Method 5
a suction and/or blowing system capable of sucking and/or blowing the fumes produced during the execution of said further operations and the dust generated by said working unit
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine (M) for working a workpiece (P) made of wood, plastic, glass, fiberglass, metal, ceramic, and the like comprising: an entry station (1) for the entrance of said workpiece (P) to be worked and an exit station (2) for the exit of the worked workpiece (P); a conveyor group (3) for moving said workpiece (P) to be worked, according to a forward direction (A), from said entry station (1) towards said exit station (2); at least one working unit (4) of said workpiece (P), arranged overhead with respect to said conveyor group (3) comprising at least one working tool (41) of said workpiece (P); said machine (M) being characterized in that it comprises a laser system (5) configured for carrying out further working operations on said workpiece (P). The present invention also relates to a laser system (5) that can be installed on a machine (M) for machining a workpiece (P). The present invention also relates to an operation method of a machine (M) for machining a workpiece (P).