Turbocharge Precision and Speed with Han's Laser Galvo: Unveiling the Principles of Laser Marking

In the intricate world of laser technology, the Galvo scanning system takes center stage, driving precision and speed to unprecedented heights. Scanner Optics, with its cutting-edge research and development team, has harnessed the power of laser galvo to revolutionize the field of laser marking machines. This article delves into the fundamental principles behind laser galvo and explores its applications in the context of laser marking machines.

Understanding Laser Galvo in Two-Dimensional Scanning

The flat two-dimensional scanning mirror of a laser marking machine comprises XY scanners, each housing laser-reflective mirrors and motors. Defined as the X-axis and Y-axis, these axes control the laser scan's two vertical coordinates, collectively shaping a two-dimensional scanning plane.

The laser scanning mirror, composed of a scanning motor, laser-reflective mirrors, and a control driver, operates by receiving digital or analog signals from a computer. The computer translates these signals into control voltage/current signals, steering the motors that manipulate the reflective mirrors. This precise manipulation achieves accurate scanning, marking a pivotal aspect of laser galvo's functionality.

Decoding the Galvo Scanning System

Referred to as the Galvo scanning system, this technology shares its design philosophy with ammeters. In the Galvo design, reflective mirrors replace the traditional meter needle, and the control signals for motors come from a drive control board, outputting DC signals ranging from -5V to 5V or -10V to +10V instead of current signals. Employing two sets of motor deflection systems (three in the case of 3D galvo), these systems independently control the X and Y-axis directions, introducing a closed-loop feedback system with sensors to significantly enhance the system's positioning accuracy.

Control circuits issue signals, prompting the Galvo motor to deflect. However, the control circuit lacks real-time knowledge of whether the Galvo motors have precisely reached the desired position. This is where sensors play a crucial role by providing feedback to the control circuit, facilitating closed-loop control for pinpoint accuracy—a testament to the sensor's significance in the entire system.

Commonly used sensors include capacitive and photoelectric sensors. While capacitive sensors may exhibit lower accuracy and susceptibility to drift under heat, photoelectric sensors effectively overcome these challenges. As a result, high-speed, high-precision Galvo mirrors predominantly utilize photoelectric sensors.

Synchronized Focus with Galvo Mirrors

Galvo mirrors typically work in tandem with focusing lenses. Two common focusing methods—rear focusing and front focusing—cater to different applications. In the context of two-dimensional flat scanning mirrors discussed here, rear focusing systems are prevalent. For information on front focusing and 3D dynamic scanning mirror systems, please refer to related articles.

Rear focusing, the focus method commonly associated with standard two-dimensional flat laser marking machines, involves the laser beam reflected by the Galvo mirror passing through a flat focusing lens, also known as an F-Theta lens. This lens ensures that the laser beam, reflected at any point within the working area, converges to the same focal point on a flat plane. This feature ensures that the pattern lines of normal marking converge at the focus point, providing a fundamental guarantee for consistent and accurate laser marking.

In conclusion, the laser galvo technology embedded in Scanner Optics's laser marking machines stands as a testament to precision engineering and innovation. Understanding the principles behind laser galvo unveils its significance in driving the evolution of laser technology, particularly in the realm of laser marking machines. As industries continue to demand higher precision and efficiency, laser galvo remains a cornerstone in meeting these evolving needs.