Tubular Filter Gas Shielding for Cleaner Laser Processing Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing devices face challenges in preventing fumes and spatters from adhering to lenses due to secondary air currents generated by the velocity difference between cross-jet gas and ambient air, especially when dealing with metallic vapors from high-temperature laser irradiation.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing device with a tubular member and a tubular filter that discharges gas into the path of the laser beam, reducing velocity differences and forming a high-pressure layer to prevent turbulent flow and secondary air currents, using a sintered metallic filter to ensure durability and effective fume prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If cross-jet gas is discharged at high velocity to prevent spatters and fumes from reaching the lens, then spatter protection is improved, but secondary air currents are generated that carry fumes toward the lens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a porous filter (sintered metal or ceramic) in the gas discharge path. The porous structure reduces gas velocity while maintaining flow, preventing the formation of secondary air currents that would carry fumes to the lens, while still effectively blocking spatters and fumes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the velocity parameter of the discharged gas by using a porous filter to reduce velocity from high to low. This parameter change eliminates the velocity difference between discharged gas and ambient air, preventing secondary air current formation while maintaining protective function
2Productivity
If a tubular member with through path is used to direct laser beam, then laser beam transmission is maintained, but fumes can still adhere to the lens through the through path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a porous filter as an intermediary substance in the gas discharge path. This filter mediates between the gas flow and the laser beam path, allowing gas to pass through while filtering and velocity-reducing the discharge, thereby preventing fume adherence without blocking laser transmission
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
Effectively prevents fumes and spatters from adhering to the lens by creating a high-pressure layer with reduced velocity differences, ensuring the laser processing device maintains cleanliness and operational efficiency during welding and cutting processes.
Implementation Method 1
The velocity difference of the gas is evened out by resistance or the like caused when the gas passes through the filter. Owing to this, the gas having a reduced velocity difference between locations is discharged into the through path. As a result, between the article to be processed and the lens, a high-pressure layer in which, although the pressure thereof is higher than that of the outside air, the occurrence of a turbulent flow is prevented, is formed.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a laser processing device wherein adhesion of fumes to a lens can be effectively avoided. The laser processing device is provided with a laser scanner provided with protective glass on a laser output opening, and a cylindrical member having a through path through which the laser output via the protective glass passes formed on the center side in the direction of the radius. A cylindrically shaped filter is disposed on an inside wall part of the cylindrical member facing the through path. The cylindrical member discharges a gas into the through path from the filter.