Numerical controlled two optical paths CO₂ laser die-cutting technology

Abstract

A CO₂ laser die-cutting system, which does not need die board any more, is a new technique for manufacturing packing box. Two optical paths, the galvanometer scanning system and the flying optical system, are used to satisfy different processing needs. The scanning system is composed of galvanometer scanning mirrors and F-θ lens. And the flying optical system is driven by two servo motors. This paper presents the software and hardware design of the laser die-cutting system, the difference between the two optical paths, as well as the relationship among the cutting speed, thickness of wrapping paper and laser power. The cutting speed and thickness of wrapping paper are linearly increased by the incremental laser power, while the cutting speed is hyperbolically decreased by the incremental thickness of wrapping paper when the laser power is constant. The amount of incision is reduced by 20% and the processing time by 40% when tested by a low power RF CO₂ laser die-cutting system using the optimized program. This technique is also used for the reference of other rapid laser processing systems.

Keywords

laser manufacturing technique / laser die-cutting / galvanometer scanning system / flying optical system

References

[1] Zhang Guoshun. Laser Manufacturing Technology Today[M]. 2007, Beijing, China: Chemical Industry Press.

[2] Kleeman Tom. Tools and technical considerations for part complex die cutting[J]. Screen Printing, 2007, 97(1): 36-40.

[3] Brunton Daniel. Flatbed and rotary die-cutting[J]. International Paper Board Industry, 2007, 50(9): 56-74.

[4] Grigar Douglas. Athletic-number printing[J]. Printwear, 2006, 19(4): 86-90.

[5] Haines Don. Sutton investment in die-cut capacity: Diecutting investment for this third generation family business[J]. International Paper Board Industry, 2007, 50(11): 73-76.

[6] Brunton Daniel. Print and die-cutting investment for SRP[J]. International Paper Board Industry, 2008, 51(2): 40-44.

[7] Guo S., Hu J., Luo L., et al. Analysis of assist gas glow and the structural optimizing for simple supersonic nozzle in laser fusion cutting[J]. Applied Laser, 2007, 27(5): 403-407.

[8] Zheng L., Wang C., Li S., et al. Size dependence of the maximum energy of protons from Coulomb explosion of methane clusters under intense femtosecond laser irradiation[J]. Chinese Optics Letters, 2006, 4(4): 189 191

[9] Jin Z., Yang M., Yuan G., et al. Development of infrared spectral radiation measurement system of a non-luminous flame[J]. Chinese Optics Letters, 2005, 3(9): 549-551.

[10] Gang B., Zhang G., Jin S., et al. Development and application of digital controlled laser die-cutting machine[J]. Optoelectronics · Laser, 2006, 17(8): 1028-1030.

[11] Wang M., Zhang G., Li H., et al. New type high speed laser drilling system[J]. Chinese Journal of Lasers, 2007, 34(Sl): 360-363.

[12] Liu J., Li S., Jin G., et al. Influence on beam propagation through Z-shape tube of blowing nonabsorbing gas in[J]. High Power Laser and Particle Beams, 2005, 17(2): 164-168.

[13] Huang F., Niu Y., Wang Y., et al. Calculation of thermal and mechanical effect induced by laser in optical window materials[J]. Acta Optica Sinica, 2006, 26(4): 576-580.

[14] Hiroyuki H., Shigeaki U., Takashi Yabe. Numerical characterization of CW CO₂ laser propulsion with vapor[J]. Chinese Optics Letters, 2007, 5(S1): 67-69.

[15] Hoffmann H., Hörmann F. Improving the cut edge by counter-shaving[J]. Key Engineering Materials, 2007, 344(1): 217-224.

[16] Fang Shiyin. Energy balanced equation of laser cutting dieboards[J]. Packaging Engineering, 2006, 27(5): 142-143.