Computer-controlled laser cutter

摘要

A laser beam generator is mounted stationarily relative to a sheet roll feed mechanism of the type used in roll feed drafting plotters so as to project a laser beam lengthwise of the crossrail of such feed mechanism. A right angle reflecting and focusing assembly is mounted on a carriage moveable along the crossrail for directing the laser beam toward a sheet positioned by the feeder. The sheet is moved in one axis (the x-axis) by the roll feed mechanism, while the reflecting and focusing assembly is moved in the other axis (y-axis) by the carriage-all under computer control. On-off signals for the laser are derived from the pen up, pen down signaling mechanism of the plotter so that a design or pattern is cut in the sheet as though the plotter were drawing a drafting pattern. Mechanism is provided to calculate the actual speed of the focused laser beam relative to the sheet being cut and to adjust the power output of the laser automatically so that a uniform cut is achieved. Inert gas under pressure is supplied to the area of the cut in synchronism with actuation of the laser.