Raytheon Company

Prc Inc.

Data Technology, Inc.

David R Whitehouse

Thomas E Salzer

David W Hartshorn

A direct in-process measurement of the bottom kerf width uses a hardware, vision, and software system which captures a direct image of this kerf, computes its average width over a prescribed length and presents the data for visual observation, automatic control, and/or recordkeeping. In addition, by expanding the system to a measurement of the width of the top of the kerf, the verticality of the kerf may also be determined. In the preferred embodiment, a laser-cutting head produces controlled width kerfs in a sheet of plywood according to a preprogrammed pattern. A video camera is mounted relative to the cutting head and is held by a positioning system that is programmed to follow behind the cutting process and directly over the kerf. The optics of the camera are adjusted to view through the kerf and are focused on the bottom of the kerf which is backlit by a subsurface lighting system mounted in the corners of the tub on which the dieboard is mounted. The camera sends a video signal to a monitor that shows a reverse shadow of the bottom of the open kerf. This video signal is also monitored by a data acquisition and analysis system that is programmed to capture an image at some specific locations or times. These images are then analyzed for average width, root mean square (rms) variation, location, and orientation and the system parameters are adjusted accordingly to correct any deficiencies found in the kerf width.

In-process kerf measurement system

A computer controlled laser apparatus having multiple mirrors positioned along the locus of an ellipse having a first focus point at the center of an angle select mirror and a second focus point on a workpiece to be soldered. Such a geometrical configuration permits a computer to efficiently control the reflection of the laser beam onto the workpiece at different angles of incidence while maintaining a constant laser beam pathlength without requiring refocusing of the beam as it is moved from angle to angle.

Laser process apparatus

A laser optical element mounting arrangement and method are disclosed wherein a laser optical element is mounted to a laser mounting support member. The mounting support member has a smooth surface to which a surface of the optical element is engaged to form a vacuum seal between the optical element and the support member. The seal is accomplished with the application of only light pressure contact between the respective surfaces at ambient temperature and without the need for a sealant.

Laser optical element mounting arrangement and method

A method of energizing a laser source stimulating flash lamp directly from an AC power line. Uncontrolled diodes couple the anode and cathode of the flash lamp directly to the AC line. The lamp is triggered by a separate triggering circuit which produces its trigger pulse at a predetermined phase of the AC power source. The use of high current carrying controlled rectifiers and large energy storage devices is thereby eliminated.

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Weston, MA, United States of America

David R Whitehouse