Wireless CNC Laser Marker for In-Situ Part Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing process of using separate standalone laser markers for CNC machined parts is inefficient due to part misplacement, increased setup time, and space requirements, as parts need to be transferred and precisely aligned between machines, leading to higher manufacturing costs and time consumption.
Innovation Solution
A wireless laser marking tool integrated into a CNC machine, comprising a tool housing with a laser diode, beam-shaping optics, electronic circuitry, a wireless communication device, and a battery-powered system, allowing for precise motion synchronization and eliminating the need for a separate marking machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a separate standalone laser marker is used for marking CNC machined parts, then the laser marking function can be performed, but additional setup time is required for part transfer and alignment, and space is required for both machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser marker with the CNC machine into an integrated system. The laser marker is mounted on the CNC machine tool, allowing marking operations to be performed in-situ without transferring parts to a separate marking machine. This eliminates the setup time associated with part transfer and alignment while maintaining marking precision through the CNC machine's positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The CNC machine is designed to perform multiple functions: machining operations and laser marking operations. By integrating the laser marker into the CNC machine, a single piece of equipment can accomplish both material removal and permanent marking, eliminating the need for separate dedicated machines and reducing overall setup time.
2Manufacturing precision
If a separate standalone laser marker is used for marking CNC machined parts, then the laser marking function can be performed, but parts can be lost, misplaced, or mixed up during transfer between machines
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the laser marker directly onto the CNC machine, the patent eliminates the physical transfer of parts between separate machines. The part remains on the CNC machine throughout both machining and marking operations, ensuring continuous tracking and eliminating risks of loss, misplacement, or mixing up during transfer.
3Manufacturing precision
If a separate standalone laser marker is used for marking CNC machined parts, then the laser marking function can be performed, but space is required on the shop floor for both machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the laser marker into the CNC machine structure, combining two previously separate stationary machines into one. This consolidation reduces the total shop floor space required while maintaining the precision capabilities of both machining and marking operations through the shared positioning system.
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
The integration of the wireless laser marking tool into the CNC machine reduces setup time, minimizes part loss, and optimizes space usage by enabling precise and efficient laser marking directly on the CNC machine, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and improving overall efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a laser diode disposed in the beam delivery system
Implementation Method 2
beam-shaping optics disposed in the beam delivery system to focus light emitted from the laser diode
Implementation Method 3
a laser beam of sufficient power is directed upon the surface to cause a permanent change such as a burn or ablation where material is removed from the surface being irradiated
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless laser marking tool for use in a CNC machine is disclosed. The wireless laser marking tool includes a tool housing with top and bottom opposing ends, a beam delivery system between the ends, and an opening at the bottom end; a tool adapter connected to the top end of the housing for adapting the device to the CNC machine; a laser diode disposed in the beam delivery system; beam-shaping optics disposed in the beam delivery system to focus light emitted from the laser diode through the opening; electronic circuitry disposed in the beam delivery system and in electrical communication with the laser diode; a wireless communication device disposed in the beam delivery system and in electrical communication with the electronic circuitry; and a power source disposed in the beam delivery system and electrically connected to the electronic circuitry.