Abstract

There is provided a method for configuring an inspection system of a blister machine for producing blister packs comprising pharmaceutical products, the method comprising, obtaining, by the inspection system, an electronic reference comprising first data associated with a blister pack, analysing, by the inspection system, the electronic reference to extract the first data, obtaining, by the inspection system, a reference image; comprising an image of a portion of an unsealed bottom film of the blister pack comprising one or more pockets in which pharmaceutical product is located, comparing, by the inspection system, the first data with the reference image, determining, by the inspection system and based on the comparing, second data associated with the pharmaceutical product, and generating, by the inspection system, reference data comprising the first data and the second data, the reference data for use by the inspection system to identify issues during operation of the blister machine.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65B 57/10 - Automatic control, checking, warning or safety devices responsive to absence, presence, abnormal feed, or misplacement of articles or materials to be packaged
• B65B 9/04 - Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• G06T 7/90 - Determination of colour characteristics

Abstract

There is provided a laser coder, the laser coder comprising, a housing, a laser source disposed within the housing, the laser source configured to generate a laser beam, a laser beam steering assembly disposed within the housing, the laser beam steering assembly configured to steer the laser beam to an address within a two-dimensional marking field to create marks on a film substrate provided at a marking location adjacent to the housing, a detector configured to generate image data comprising an image of the film substrate, and a controller configured to: receive first image data comprising a first image of the film substrate when the film substrate is in a first position, receive second image data comprising a second image of the film substrate when the film substrate is in a second position, the film substrate having been advanced along a film substrate path in a first direction from the first position to the second position, identify a difference between the first image data and second image data, generate an address within the two-dimensional marking field based on the identified difference and a reference address within the two-dimensional marking field, and execute a marking operation to mark the film substrate using the address.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B65C 9/46 - Applying date marks, code marks, or the like, to the label during labelling

Abstract

2222 laser source (1) in either orthogonal direction to the first direction. The marking head has a dimension in the first direction that is greater than a dimension of the marking head in either orthogonal direction to the first direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/352 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment
• B23K 26/364 - Laser etching for making a groove or trench, e.g. for scribing a break initiation groove
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms

Abstract

A laser coder (l1) comprising a housing defining a front face(12a'), a rear face (12b1) opposite the front face (12a1), a marking face disposed between the front face (12a1) and the rear face (12b1), a mounting face opposite the marking face, and two opposing side faces extending between the front and rear faces (12a1, 12b1), a UV laser source (41) disposed within the housing configured to generate a UV laser beam, a beam steering assembly (5') disposed within the housing, and a cooling system configured to direct air along a cooling path from an air inlet to an air outlet, at least one of the air inlet and the air outlet being provided on the front face (12a1). The beam steering assembly (5') is configured to receive the UV laser beam from the UV laser source (41) along a beam generation axis at an inlet aperture, guide the UV laser beam to exit the housing via a marking aperture provided on the marking face at a location adjacent to the front face (12a1), and address a specific location within a two- dimensional marking field to create marks on a substrate provided at a marking location adjacent to the marking aperture.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/352 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment
• B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
• B23K 26/70 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
• B23K 37/00 - Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted for a procedure covered by only one of the other main groups of this subclass

Abstract

A laser marking system for marking a product includes a marking head having an electromagnetic radiation steering mechanism configured to steer electromagnetic radiation to address a specific location within a two-dimensional field of view. The electromagnetic radiation steering mechanism comprises a first optical element having an associated first actuator configured to rotate the first optical element about a first rotational axis to change a first coordinate of a first steering axis in the two-dimensional field of view and a second optical element having an associated second actuator configured to rotate the second optical element about a second rotational axis to change a second coordinate of a second steering axis in the two-dimensional field of view. The electromagnetic radiation steering mechanism comprises an electromagnetic radiation manipulator configured to introduce a difference between a first angle and a second angle (defined between the first and second rotational and steering (respectively) axes).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording
• B08B 5/04 - Cleaning by suction, with or without auxiliary action
• B08B 15/04 - Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are producedCollecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area from a small area, e.g. a tool
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/12 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring in a special environment or atmosphere, e.g. in an enclosure
• B23K 26/142 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor for the removal of by-products
• B23K 26/364 - Laser etching for making a groove or trench, e.g. for scribing a break initiation groove
• B23K 26/70 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 2/475 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material for heating selectively
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/04 - Arrangements for thermal management
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers

Abstract

A laser marking system (200) comprising first and second laser marking heads (201, 202) configured to mark a product (221, 222). The laser marking system comprises a first controller (231) associated with the first laser marking head (201) and a second controller (232) associated with the second laser marking head (202). The first and second controllers (231, 232) are configurable to receive data (205) indicating information to be marked on the product (221, 222), generate laser marking vectors based upon the received data, and control their associated laser marking head (201, 202) based on the laser marking vectors.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/455 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using laser arrays
• B41M 5/26 - Thermography

Abstract

A CO2 laser configured to produce infrared electromagnetic radiation comprising an optical element comprising a frequency selective structure having a substantially periodic pattern of features. A frequency response of the optical element is configured to change upon receipt of a signal. A Q-factor of the CO2 laser changes upon receipt of the signal. A laser marking system may incorporate the CO2 laser.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/115 - Q-switching using intracavity electro-optic devices
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/105 - Controlling the intensity, frequency, phase, polarisation or direction of the emitted radiation, e.g. switching, gating, modulating or demodulating by controlling the mutual position or the reflecting properties of the reflectors of the cavity

Abstract

The present application relates to a laser marking system (100) comprising a laser (110) configured to produce a laser beam, a marking head (130) configured to project the laser beam onto a target, and a negative curvature hollow core fiber (120) configured to transmit the laser beam from the laser (110) to the marking head (130).

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
• B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece

Abstract

An electromagnetic radiation system for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam (11) at a target (28) having a first arrangement (12) in which the radiation beam (11) is directed along a marking beam path that is within a marking range of the electromagnetic radiation system and a second arrangement (12, 15) in which the radiation beam (27) is directed along a different beam path (27) that is not within the marking range of the electromagnetic radiation system, wherein a positional relationship between the marking beam path (11) and the different beam path (27) satisfies a predetermined condition at the target (28) when the electromagnetic radiation system is at a predetermined distance (29) from the target (28).

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/359 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment by providing a line or line pattern, e.g. a dotted break initiation line
• B23K 26/04 - Automatically aligning, aiming or focusing the laser beam, e.g. using the back-scattered light
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems

Abstract

An electromagnetic radiation system (100) for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam at a target (130). The electromagnetic radiation system comprises an electromagnetic radiation source (110) for providing the electromagnetic radiation beam, a head (120) for projecting the electromagnetic radiation beam on to the target (130); and an umbilical assembly (140) connecting the electromagnetic radiation source (110) to the head (120) and configured to transmit the electromagnetic radiation beam to the head. The electromagnetic radiation system further comprises an optical isolator (150) positioned between the electromagnetic radiation source (110) and the umbilical assembly (140).

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/382 - Removing material by boring or cutting by boring

Abstract

There is provided a housing for a head for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam at a target, the housing comprising: an inlet for receiving a fluid; a cavity for enclosing at least one component for controlling the optical path of the radiation beam within the marking head; an outlet for the fluid; a first channel defining a first fluid path from the inlet to the cavity; and a second channel defining a second fluid path from the cavity to the outlet. When the at least one component for controlling the optical path of the radiation beam is enclosed within the cavity, the housing and the at least one component further define a third channel between the first channel and the second channel. The first channel, second channel and third channel are configured to isolate the fluid from the optical path of the radiation beam within the head. There is also provided a method of manufacturing a head for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam at a target.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/14 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor
• B23K 26/064 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing by means of optical elements, e.g. lenses, mirrors or prisms
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/352 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment

Abstract

A laser marking system (200) comprising first and second laser marking heads (201, 202) configured to mark a product (221, 222). The laser marking system comprises a first controller (231) associated with the first laser marking head (201) and a second controller (232) associated with the second laser marking head (202). The first and second controllers (231, 232) are configurable to receive data (205) indicating information to be marked on the product (221, 222), generate laser marking vectors based upon the received data, and control their associated laser marking head (201, 202) based on the laser marking vectors.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B41J 2/475 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material for heating selectively

Abstract

2222 laser.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/11 - Mode lockingQ-switchingOther giant-pulse techniques, e.g. cavity dumping
• H01S 3/02 - Constructional details
• G02F 1/015 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on semiconductor elements having potential barriers, e.g. having a PN or PIN junction
• H01S 3/121 - Q-switching using intracavity mechanical devices
• H01S 3/115 - Q-switching using intracavity electro-optic devices
• H01S 3/10 - Controlling the intensity, frequency, phase, polarisation or direction of the emitted radiation, e.g. switching, gating, modulating or demodulating
• H01S 3/106 - Controlling the intensity, frequency, phase, polarisation or direction of the emitted radiation, e.g. switching, gating, modulating or demodulating by controlling devices placed within the cavity
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes
• H01S 3/081 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof comprising three or more reflectors

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for applying a marking on an object according to image data, wherein the image data comprises pixels with first pixel values and pixels with second pixel values, and wherein the marking to be produced comprises several cells, each cell corresponding to one pixel of the image data, in which at least one light beam is emitted with light emitting means; a deflection direction of scanning means for deflecting the light beam is scanned over the object; when the deflection direction points at a cell corresponding to a pixel with a first pixel value, the light emitting means are activated to produce a mark in that cell; and; when the deflection direction points at a cell corresponding to a pixel with a second pixel value, the light emitting means are deactivated to leave that cell blank. The method is characterized in that the deflection direction is altered in a meander pattern for cells that correspond to pixels with first pixel values, and in a straight movement for cells that correspond to pixels with second pixel values. The invention further relates to a marking apparatus for applying a marking on an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
• G06K 1/12 - Methods or arrangements for marking the record carrier in digital fashion otherwise than by punching

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for applying a marking within a marking area on an object, in which at least one light beam is emitted with light emitting means, scanning means are moved to deflect the light beam line by line over the marking area, while the light emitting means is switched between being activated or deactivated according to the marking to be applied. The method is characterized in that, for each start of a line movement of the light beam over the object, the scanning means is moved such that its deflection direction points at a line starting point outside the marking area and the scanning means is accelerated such that its deflection direction is accelerated from the line starting point towards the marking area, wherein the light emitting means is deactivated while the deflection direction points somewhere outside the marking area. The invention further relates to a corresponding marking apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/26 - Thermography
• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording
• B41M 5/48 - Thermography characterised by the base, intermediate or covering layersHeat, radiation filtering or absorbing means or layersThermography combined with layers or compositions suitable for other methods of image registrationSpecial originals for reproduction by thermography combined with other image registration layers or compositionsSpecial originals for reproduction by thermography

Abstract

A laser marking system comprises at least one controller to control an array of optical devices, between a laser source and a scan head. The array applies a selected pattern of portions of the received spatial profile of the laser beam to the substrate to achieve a second intensity different from the first intensity of laser beam at a rate of power deposition relative to a rate of thermal diffusion in the substrate for a predetermined time interval to thermally heat locations of the substrate with the selected pattern of the portions. The second intensity effectuates carbonization of materials of the substrate to create a mark without ablation.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B41J 2/455 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using laser arrays
• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording

Abstract

A laser marking system for marking a product comprising a laser source for providing a laser beam, a marking head for projecting the laser beam on to the product, a housing comprising an extraction device configured to generate a flow of extraction fluid for extracting matter generated by an interaction between the laser beam and the product, and a controller for controlling the laser source and the marking head. The laser marking system further comprises an umbilical assembly connecting the housing to the marking head.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/142 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor for the removal of by-products
• B23K 26/364 - Laser etching for making a groove or trench, e.g. for scribing a break initiation groove
• B23K 26/70 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
• B23K 26/12 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring in a special environment or atmosphere, e.g. in an enclosure
• B08B 5/04 - Cleaning by suction, with or without auxiliary action
• B08B 15/04 - Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are producedCollecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area from a small area, e.g. a tool
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 2/475 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material for heating selectively
• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/04 - Arrangements for thermal management
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms

Abstract

The present application relates to a laser marking system (100) comprising a laser (110) configured to produce a laser beam, a marking head (130) configured to project the laser beam onto a target, and a negative curvature hollow core fiber (120) configured to transmit the laser beam from the laser (110) to the marking head (130).

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/352 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment
• B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
• B23K 26/40 - Removing material taking account of the properties of the material involved

Goods & Services

Industrial marking machines and machine tools; coding machines and machine tools; labelling machines, labelling equipment and apparatus [machines, other than for office use]; packaging machines, equipment and apparatus; laser marking machines and machine parts; laser heads; laser engraving machines; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Printers; contact and non-contact equipment and apparatus for coding, imaging, marking, printing or labelling namely, ink jet printers and imagers, laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers, roller printers, stamp printers, thermal transfer printers, coders and markers; computer software for controlling packaging coding equipment; computer software for controlling labelling printers, product recognition apparatus, bar code printers, bar code readers, production line equipment, packaging and labelling machines; computer software for warehouse management; computer software for production line management; computer software and operating systems for ink jet printers and imagers, laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers, coders and markers; printing controllers; controllers, assemblies, sub-assemblies, components, parts and fittings for ink jet and laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers; electronic controllers for production and bindery lines; apparatus, equipment and computer software for monitoring and controlling printers, industrial marking machines, imagers, coders and markers.

Abstract

There is provided a housing for a head for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam at a target, the housing comprising: an inlet for receiving a fluid; a cavity for enclosing at least one component for controlling the optical path of the radiation beam within the marking head; an outlet for the fluid; a first channel defining a first fluid path from the inlet to the cavity; and a second channel defining a second fluid path from the cavity to the outlet. When the at least one component for controlling the optical path of the radiation beam is enclosed within the cavity, the housing and the at least one component further define a third channel between the first channel and the second channel. The first channel, second channel and third channel are configured to isolate the fluid from the optical path of the radiation beam within the head. There is also provided a method of manufacturing a head for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam at a target.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/14 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor
• B23K 26/70 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/142 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor for the removal of by-products
• B23K 26/16 - Removal of by-products, e.g. particles or vapours produced during treatment of a workpiece

Abstract

An electromagnetic radiation system (100) for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam at a target (130). The electromagnetic radiation system comprises an electromagnetic radiation source (110) for providing the electromagnetic radiation beam, a head (120) for projecting the electromagnetic radiation beam on to the target (130); and an umbilical assembly (140) connecting the electromagnetic radiation source (110) to the head (120) and configured to transmit the electromagnetic radiation beam to the head. The electromagnetic radiation system further comprises an optical isolator (150) positioned between the electromagnetic radiation source (110) and the umbilical assembly (140).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B41J 2/475 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material for heating selectively
• B23K 26/064 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing by means of optical elements, e.g. lenses, mirrors or prisms
• B23K 26/12 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring in a special environment or atmosphere, e.g. in an enclosure
• B23K 26/21 - Bonding by welding
• B23K 26/38 - Removing material by boring or cutting
• B23K 26/382 - Removing material by boring or cutting by boring
• B23K 26/70 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
• B23K 37/00 - Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted for a procedure covered by only one of the other main groups of this subclass

Abstract

An electromagnetic radiation system for directing an electromagnetic radiation beam (11) at a target (28) having a first arrangement (12) in which the radiation beam (11) is directed along a marking beam path that is within a marking range of the electromagnetic radiation system and a second arrangement (12, 15) in which the radiation beam (27) is directed along a different beam path (27) that is not within the marking range of the electromagnetic radiation system, wherein a positional relationship between the marking beam path (11) and the different beam path (27) satisfies a predetermined condition at the target (28) when the electromagnetic radiation system is at a predetermined distance (29) from the target (28).

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/04 - Automatically aligning, aiming or focusing the laser beam, e.g. using the back-scattered light
• B23K 26/046 - Automatically focusing the laser beam
• B23K 26/352 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment
• B23K 26/359 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment by providing a line or line pattern, e.g. a dotted break initiation line
• B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems

Abstract

An electromagnetic radiation steering mechanism An electromagnetic radiation steering mechanism configured to steer electromagnetic radiation to address a specific location within a two-dimensional field of view comprising a first optical element having an associated first actuator configured to rotate the first optical element about a first rotational axis to change a first coordinate of a first steering axis in the two-dimensional field of view, a second optical element having an associated second actuator configured to rotate the second optical element about a second rotational axis to change a second coordinate of a second steering axis in the two-dimensional field of view, and an electromagnetic radiation manipulator optically disposed between the first and second optical elements. A first angle is defined between the first and second rotational axes and a second angle is defined between the first and second steering axes. The electromagnetic radiation manipulator is configured to introduce a difference between the first angle and the second angle.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B23K 26/142 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor for the removal of by-products
• B23K 26/364 - Laser etching for making a groove or trench, e.g. for scribing a break initiation groove
• B23K 26/70 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
• B08B 5/04 - Cleaning by suction, with or without auxiliary action
• B08B 15/04 - Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are producedCollecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area from a small area, e.g. a tool
• B23K 26/12 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring in a special environment or atmosphere, e.g. in an enclosure
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/04 - Arrangements for thermal management
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms

Abstract

A laser marking system comprises a laser, an image capture device, a marking head including electromagnetic energy deflectors and at least one lens, a beam path of the laser and a beam path of the image capture device both passing through the at least one lens, and a computer system operable to perform a method comprising capturing image tiles at each of multiple different locations with the image capture device, stitching the image tiles to produce a composite image of the marking field, identifying a location and orientation of an image of a workpiece within the composite image of the marking field, determining a location and orientation of a mark to be applied to the workpiece based on the location and orientation of the image of the workpiece within the composite image of the marking field, and applying the mark to the workpiece with the laser.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording
• B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for applying a marking on an object according to image data, wherein the image data comprises pixels with first pixel values and pixels with second pixel values, and wherein the marking to be produced comprises several cells, each cell corresponding to one pixel of the image data, in which at least one light beam is emitted with light emitting means; a deflection direction of scanning means for deflecting the light beam is scanned over the object; when the deflection direction points at a cell corresponding to a pixel with a first pixel value, the light emitting means are activated to produce a mark in that cell; and; when the deflection direction points at a cell corresponding to a pixel with a second pixel value, the light emitting means are deactivated to leave that cell blank. The method is characterized in that the deflection direction is altered in a meander pattern for cells that correspond to pixels with first pixel values, and in a straight movement for cells that correspond to pixels with second pixel values. The invention further relates to a marking apparatus for applying a marking on an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers
• G06K 15/12 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by photographic printing
• G06K 1/12 - Methods or arrangements for marking the record carrier in digital fashion otherwise than by punching
• H04N 1/00 - Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmissionDetails thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for applying a marking within a marking area on an object, in which at least one light beam is emitted with light emitting means, scanning means are moved to deflect the light beam line by line over the marking area, while the light emitting means is switched between being activated or deactivated accord- ing to the marking to be applied. The method is characterized in that, for each start of a line movement of the light beam over the object, the scanning means is moved such that its deflection direction points at a line starting point outside the marking area and the scanning means is accelerated such that its deflection direction is accelerated from the line starting point towards the marking area, wherein the light emitting means is deactivated while the deflection direction points somewhere outside the marking area. The invention further relates to a corresponding marking apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording
• B41M 5/26 - Thermography

Goods & Services

(1) Industrial electromechanical laser marking machines and machine tools for printing codes and labels on products, product packaging and product containers; machines and machine tools for printing codes on products, product packaging and product containers in production; automatic industrial laser labelling machines for applying labels to products, product packaging and containers; packaging machines; machine parts for laser marking machines for marking products, product packaging and product containers, namely, laser heads, laser engraving machines for marking products, product packaging and product containers; structural parts and fittings for industrial electromechanical laser marking machines and machine tools for printing codes and labels on products, product packaging and product containers, coding machines and machine tools, automatic industrial laser labelling machines for applying labels to products, product packaging and containers, packaging machines, machine parts for laser marking machines for marking products, product packaging and product containers, namely, laser heads, laser engraving machines for marking products, product packaging and product containers (2) Laser printers, industrial sublimation printers and thermal transfer printers for use in relation to products, product packaging product containers and for use in product labelling, coding and marking products, product packaging and product containers; contact and non-contact equipment and apparatus for coding, imaging, marking, printing or labelling namely, ink jet printers and ink jet imagers, laser printers and laser imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and thermal transfer imagers, roller printers, stamp printers, thermal transfer printers, thermal transfer overprinting coders, laser coders, inkjet coders, and laser markers for marking products, packaging and labels; computer software for controlling packaging coding equipment; downloadable and recorded computer software for controlling labelling printers, bar code printers, bar code readers, packaging and labelling machines; downloadable and recorded computer software for warehouse management, namely for use in managing product inventory in warehouses; computer software for use in operating and managing operation of machines in a production line for printing on products, product packaging, and product containers; downloadable and recorded computer software and operating systems for ink jet printers and ink jet imagers, laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters, thermal transfer imagers, thermal transfer coders and thermal transfer markers; printing controllers, namely remote controllers for controlling printers for use in printing, labelling, marking and coding products, product packaging and product containers; electronic controllers for labelling, marking and coding production and bindery lines; computer hardware; computer software for monitoring and controlling industrial electromechanical laser marking machines and machine tools for printing codes and labels on products, product packaging and product containers; computer software for monitoring and controlling coding machines and machine tools for printing codes and labels on products, product packaging and product containers; computer software for monitoring and controlling automatic industrial laser labelling machines for applying labels to products, product packaging and containers; computer software for monitoring and controlling packaging machines; computer software for monitoring and controlling machine parts for laser marking machines for marking products, product packaging and product containers, namely, laser heads; computer software for monitoring and controlling laser engraving machines for marking products, product packaging and product containers; computer software for monitoring and controlling laser printers, industrial sublimation printers and thermal transfer printers for use in relation to products, product packaging product containers and for use in product labelling, coding and marking products, product packaging and product containers; computer software for monitoring contact and non-contact equipment and apparatus for coding, imaging, marking, printing or labelling namely, ink jet printers and ink jet imagers, laser printers and laser imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and thermal transfer imagers, roller printers, stamp printers, thermal transfer printers, thermal transfer overprinting coders, laser coders, inkjet coders, and laser markers for marking products, packaging; computer software for monitoring printing controllers and electronic controllers for controllers for labelling, marking and coding production and bindery lines

Goods & Services

Industrial electromechanical laser marking machines and machine tools; machines and machine tools for printing codes on products, product packaging and product containers in production; automatic industrial laser labelling machines for applying labels to products, product packaging and product containers; laser machines for marking for use in packaging and products, product packaging and product containers and machine parts therefor; machine parts for laser marking machines used in marking products, product packaging and product containers, namely, laser heads; laser engraving machines; structural parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods Printers for use in relation to products, product packaging, product containers and for use in product labelling, coding and marking products, product packaging and product containers; contact and non-contact equipment and apparatus for coding, imaging, marking, printing or labelling namely, ink jet printers and imagers, laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers, roller printers, stamp printers, thermal transfer printers, coders and markers; downloadable and recorded computer software for controlling packaging coding equipment; downloadable and recorded computer software for controlling labelling printers, product recognition apparatus used in printing, labelling, marking and coding products, product packaging and product containers, bar code printers, bar code readers, production line equipment used in printing, labelling, marking and coding products, product packaging and product containers and for use in controlling electromechanical marking machines, machines for printing codes, labelling machines and laser marking machines; downloadable and recorded computer software for warehouse management, namely for use in managing products in warehouses; downloadable and recorded computer software for production line management, namely for managing the process and speed of printing, labelling, marking and coding products, product packaging and product containers in the production line; downloadable and recorded computer software and operating systems for ink jet printers and imagers, laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers, coders and markers; printing controllers, namely remote controllers for controlling printers for use in printing, labelling, marking and coding products, product packaging and product containers; structural parts and fittings for ink jet and laser printers, for use in printing, labelling, marking and coding products, product packaging and product containers, product and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers; electronic controllers for labelling, marking and coding production and bindery lines; computer hardware and recorded and non-downloadable computer software for monitoring and controlling printers, industrial marking machines, imagers, coders and markers

Abstract

A laser marking system includes a laser, an image capture device, a marking head including electromagnetic energy deflectors and a lens, beam paths of the laser of the image capture device both passing through the lens, and a computer system. The computer system is programmed to perform a method including generating an image calibration model at each of multiple areas across a marking field of the laser marking system, adjusting the electromagnetic energy deflectors to direct the beam path of the image capture device to multiple different locations within the marking field of the laser marking system, and capturing image tiles at each of the multiple different locations with the image capture device, wherein at each of the multiple different locations, if a location corresponds to an area at which an image calibration model was generated, correcting the image tile according to the image calibration model generated at the location.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece
• B23K 26/352 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment
• B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• G06T 3/40 - Scaling of whole images or parts thereof, e.g. expanding or contracting
• G06T 7/80 - Analysis of captured images to determine intrinsic or extrinsic camera parameters, i.e. camera calibration

Abstract

A laser marking system includes a laser, an image capture device, a marking head including electromagnetic energy deflectors and a lens, beam paths of the laser of the image capture device both passing through the lens, and a computer system. The computer system is programmed to perform a method including generating an image calibration model at each of multiple areas across a marking field of the laser marking system, adjusting the electromagnetic energy deflectors to direct the beam path of the image capture device to multiple different locations within the marking field of the laser marking system, and capturing image tiles at each of the multiple different locations with the image capture device, wherein at each of the multiple different locations, if a location corresponds to an area at which an image calibration model was generated, correcting the image tile according to the image calibration model generated at the location.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements

Abstract

A laser marking system comprises at least one controller to control an array of optical devices, between a laser source and a scan head. The array applies a selected pattern of portions of the received spatial profile of the laser beam to the substrate to achieve a second intensity different from the first intensity of laser beam at a rate of power deposition relative to a rate of thermal diffusion in the substrate for a predetermined time interval to thermally heat locations of the substrate with the selected pattern of the portions. The second intensity effectuates carbonization of materials of the substrate to create a mark without ablation.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/24 - Ablative recording, e.g. by burning marksSpark recording
• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 2/44 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using single radiation source, e.g. lighting beams or shutter arrangements
• B41J 2/455 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using laser arrays

Goods & Services

Industrial marking machines and machine tools; coding machines and machine tools; labelling machines, labelling equipment and apparatus [machines, other than for office use]; packaging machines, equipment and apparatus; laser marking machines and machine parts; laser heads; laser engraving machines; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Printers; contact and non-contact equipment and apparatus for coding, imaging, marking, printing or labelling namely, ink jet printers and imagers, laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers, roller printers, stamp printers, thermal transfer printers, coders and markers; computer software for controlling packaging coding equipment; computer software for controlling labelling printers, product recognition apparatus, bar code printers, bar code readers, production line equipment, packaging and labelling machines; computer software for warehouse management; computer software for production line management; computer software and operating systems for ink jet printers and imagers, laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers, coders and markers; printing controllers; controllers, assemblies, sub-assemblies, components, parts and fittings for ink jet and laser printers and imagers, thermal transfer overprinters and imagers; electronic controllers for production and bindery lines; apparatus, equipment and computer software for monitoring and controlling printers, industrial marking machines, imagers, coders and markers.

Abstract

An electromagnetic radiation steering mechanism An electromagnetic radiation steering mechanism configured to steer electromagnetic radiation to address a specific location within a two-dimensional field of view comprising a first optical element having an associated first actuator configured to rotate the first optical element about a first rotational axis to change a first coordinate of a first steering axis in the two-dimensional field of view, a second optical element having an associated second actuator configured to rotate the second optical element about a second rotational axis to change a second coordinate of a second steering axis in the two-dimensional field of view, and an electromagnetic radiation manipulator optically disposed between the first and second optical elements. A first angle is defined between the first and second rotational axes and a second angle is defined between the first and second steering axes. The electromagnetic radiation manipulator is configured to introduce a difference between the first angle and the second angle.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
• G02B 17/02 - Catoptric systems, e.g. image erecting and reversing system
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light

Abstract

A laser marking system for marking a product comprising a laser source for providing a laser beam, a marking head for projecting the laser beam on to the product, a housing comprising an extraction device configured to generate a flow of extraction fluid for extracting matter generated by an interaction between the laser beam and the product, and a controller for controlling the laser source and the marking head. The laser marking system further comprises an umbilical assembly connecting the housing to the marking head.

Abstract

A laser marking system comprises a laser (140), an image capture device (162), a marking head including electromagnetic energy deflectors (124) and at least one lens (136), a beam path of the laser and a beam path of the image capture device both passing through the at least one lens, and a computer system (150) operable to perform a method comprising capturing image tiles at each of multiple different locations with the image capture device, stitching the image tiles to produce a composite image of the marking field, identifying a location and orientation of an image of a workpiece within the composite image of the marking field, determining a location and orientation of a mark to be applied to the workpiece based on the location and orientation of the image of the workpiece within the composite image of the marking field, and applying the mark to the workpiece (X) with the laser.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
• B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• B41M 5/26 - Thermography
• G01B 21/00 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant
• G06T 7/33 - Determination of transform parameters for the alignment of images, i.e. image registration using feature-based methods
• B23K 101/00 - Articles made by soldering, welding or cutting

Goods & Services

Devices for surface processing, in particular for material removal; Laser ablation apparatus, laser inscription apparatus.

Abstract

b) which employ different marking technologies.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/435 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B41J 2/455 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using laser arrays
• B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/083 - Ring lasers
• H01S 3/0971 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping by gas discharge of a gas laser transversely excited
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes
• H01S 3/036 - Means for obtaining or maintaining the desired gas pressure within the tube, e.g. by gettering or replenishingMeans for circulating the gas, e.g. for equalising the pressure within the tube
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers

Abstract

i).

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/083 - Ring lasers
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes

Abstract

i) or one optical waveguide per laser beam. Each deflection means (30) is individually adjustable in its deflection direction and/or individually shiftable.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes

Abstract

The invention relates to a laser device (10) comprising at least one laser unit (20) for generating laser light, and cooling means (30) for cooling said laser unit, said cooling means including a channel arrangement (35) through which a cooling fluid is circulated for transferring heat away from the laser unit. The laser device is characterized in that a mounting member (46) for releasably holding a fluid container (50) is provided, the mounting member comprises a first connector element (42) for connecting to a second connector element (44) of the fluid container in a fluid tight manner, and the mounting member is connected with the channel arrangement. The invention further relates to a fluid container for cooling fluid for use in the laser device. The fluid container is designed as a cartridge (50) and comprises an information storage means (60) for storing information about the container and the cooling fluid filled in said fluid container.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/04 - Arrangements for thermal management
• F01P 5/00 - Pumping cooling-air or liquid coolants
• F01P 5/10 - Pumping liquid coolantArrangements of coolant pumps
• F01P 3/22 - Liquid cooling characterised by evaporation and condensation of coolant in closed cyclesLiquid cooling characterised by the coolant reaching higher temperatures than normal atmospheric boiling-point
• F01P 3/00 - Liquid cooling
• F01P 11/02 - Liquid-coolant overflow, venting, or draining devices

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus (100) for marking an object with laser light, comprising a plurality of lasers (10), in particular gas lasers (10), and a control unit for individually activating each of the lasers (10) to emit a laser beam according to a sign to be marked. A deflection device (30) is provided by which at least two laser beams are combined on a common spot.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/083 - Ring lasers
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes

Abstract

i) is individually adjustable in its deflection direction and/or individually shiftable.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• H01S 3/101 - Lasers provided with means to change the location from which, or the direction in which, laser radiation is emitted
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus for marking an object with laser light, which apparatus comprises at least one gas laser for emitting at least one laser beam for marking the object. The at least one gas laser comprises a plurality of resonator tubes (12) for receiving a laser gas, a plurality of heat dissipaters (20) for dissipating heat from the resonator tubes (12) is provided, each resonator tube (12) is thermally connected to one of the heat dissipaters (20), and each heat dissipater (20) comprises microchannels for receiving a cooling fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/02 - Constructional details
• H01S 3/04 - Arrangements for thermal management
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers
• H01S 3/038 - Electrodes, e.g. special shape, configuration or composition
• B23K 26/364 - Laser etching for making a groove or trench, e.g. for scribing a break initiation groove
• B23K 26/361 - Removing material for deburring or mechanical trimming
• B23K 26/352 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring for surface treatment
• H01S 3/08 - Construction or shape of optical resonators or components thereof
• H01S 3/083 - Ring lasers
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes

Abstract

An apparatus for marking an object includes a marking unit for marking the object with a laser beam, a transporting device for transporting the object and a device for determination of a position of the object by means of ultrasonic waves originating from the object. A pulsed laser beam is directed to the object to cause vibrations at a surface of the object, by which vibrations the object is excited to generate ultrasonic waves.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 15/06 - Systems determining position data of a target
• G01S 15/02 - Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems using reflection of acoustic waves
• G01S 15/04 - Systems determining presence of a target

Abstract

Laser device comprising at least two gas laser units (10), stacked in layers, each laser unit comprising a plurality of resonator tubes (12), the resonator tubes being in fluidic communication with each other and forming a common tubular space, connecting elements (20, 21) for connecting adjacent resonator tubes so as to form a loop, mirrors (22) arranged in the connecting elements for reflecting the laser light between the resonator tubes, a rear mirror (44) and a partially reflecting output coupler (42) for coupling out a laser beam. In each laser unit an integrated output flange (40) comprises the rear mirror, the partially reflecting output coupler and an output mirror (46) which deflects the laser beam passing through the output coupler to a scanning device (80) located in the central space (8) surrounded by the resonator tubes. The invention also relates to a method for marking an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/70 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
• B23K 26/142 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor for the removal of by-products
• B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
• H01S 3/0975 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping by gas discharge of a gas laser using inductive or capacitive excitation
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers

Abstract

Apparatus for marking and/or scanning (m/s) an object comprising a m/s head (20) having a plurality of receiving spaces (24) for m/s devices (40), a driving mechanism for moving the object, a measuring device (50) for measuring the object speed comprising a transmitter having a transmitting fibre (56) for transmitting light to the object, a receiver having first and second light receiving fibres (57, 58) for receiving light reflected from the object forming light signals, and processor means (70) for determining a time shift between the light signals to provide a speed value of the object, all the fibres are arranged in a common first ferrule (52), the m/s devices include second ferrules, the first and second ferrules have corresponding connector sections and are variably connected to the receiving spaces of the scanning head, and the speed measuring device is arranged in one of the receiving spaces. The invention further relates to a method for measuring the object speed with the m/s apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01P 3/36 - Devices characterised by the use of optical means, e.g. using infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• G01P 1/02 - Housings
• G01P 3/68 - Devices characterised by the determination of the time taken to traverse a fixed distance using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light
• G01S 7/481 - Constructional features, e.g. arrangements of optical elements
• G01S 17/58 - Velocity or trajectory determination systemsSense-of-movement determination systems

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor apparatus for detecting an object comprising a sensor head having a plurality of receiving spaces for individual sensor devices and a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the sensor head in an advance direction during a detecting operation. The receiving spaces are arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, such that an array of receiving spaces with a rectangular pattern of the receiving spaces is formed, and the array of receiving spaces is tilted with regard to the advance direction such that the rows extend in a transverse direction relative to the advance direction and the receiving spaces of a successive row of the rectangular pattern are offset with regard to the receiving spaces of a preceding row of the rectangular pattern in a direction perpendicular to the advance direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 11/00 - Investigating flow properties of materials, e.g. viscosity or plasticityAnalysing materials by determining flow properties
• G01D 11/00 - Component parts of measuring arrangements not specially adapted for a specific variable
• H04N 1/193 - Simultaneously scanning picture elements on one main scanning line using electrically scanned linear arrays
• H04N 1/195 - Scanning arrangements using multi-element arrays the array comprising a two-dimensional array

Abstract

The invention relates to a making apparatus for making an object comprising—a marking head (20) having a plurality of receiving spaces (24) for individual marking devices (40) and—a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object (8) relative to the marking head (20) in an advance direction (16), wherein—the receiving spaces (24) are arranged in a plurality of rows (30) and columns (32), such that an array (22) of receiving spaces (24) with a rectangular pattern of the receiving spaces (24) is formed, and—the array (22) of receiving spaces (24) is tilted with regard to the advance direction (16)—the marking head (20) comprises a receiving plate (28) having a plurality of receiving holes (26) formed as through-holes therein, the receiving holes (26) forming the receiving spaces (24) for the individual marking devices (40),—the marking devices (40) each include a ferrule (42) which is insertable into a receiving hole (26) of the receiving plate (28), and—the receiving holes (26) are formed to tightly and removably hold the individual ferrules (42) therein.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/515 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes from an assembly of identical printing elements line printer type
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
• B41J 2/45 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using light-emitting diode arrays
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 2/447 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus for marking an object comprising a marking head having a plurality of receiving spaces for individual marking devices, wherein the receiving spaces are arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, such that a two-dimensional array of receiving spaces is formed, and a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the marking head in an advance direction during a marking operation. The marking head is rotatable about an axis extending transversely to the advance direction, at least one detector device is arranged downstream of the receiving spaces in the advance direction, and a control marking, which has been applied by at least one marking device arranged in one of the receiving spaces during the movement of the object relative to the marking head, is detectable by the at least one detector device at different angles of rotation of the marking head. The invention further relates to a method for operating a marking apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 3/00 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for marking and/or scanning an object comprising a head, in particular a marking head or a scanning head, having a plurality of regular operating elements for marking and/or scanning the object, and comprising a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the head in an advance direction during a working operation, at least a part of the regular operating elements being arranged in a rectangular pattern of rows and columns. The inventive device is characterized in that at least one spare operating element is provided, which is idle in case that all regular operating elements are functioning, the at least one spare operating element is movable relative to the regular operating elements, in case that one of the regular operating elements is defective, the at least one spare operating element is movable into a position in which the defective operating element is replaced by the spare operating element and the at least one spare operating element is settable to an active state. The invention further relates to a method for marking and/or scanning an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 2/45 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using light-emitting diode arrays
• B41J 2/385 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective supply of electric current or selective application of magnetism to a printing or impression-transfer material
• B41J 2/015 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
• B41J 2/15 - Arrangement thereof for serial printing
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/435 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for applying a marking on an object, wherein the object is moved in an advance direction relative to a marking head comprising a plurality of marking devices and the marking is applied on the object by means of the plurality of marking devices during the relative movement between the object and the marking head. For applying the marking on a predetermined marking area relative to a transverse direction, which extends transversely to the advance direction, a position of the object in the transverse direction is determined and based on the determined position of the object in the transverse direction a first number of marking devices is deactivated and a second number of marking devices is activated, wherein the marking is applied on the object by the second number of marking devices. The invention also relates to a marking apparatus for applying a marking on an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/00 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine
• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 2/435 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material
• B41J 2/015 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
• B41J 2/385 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective supply of electric current or selective application of magnetism to a printing or impression-transfer material
• B41J 2/45 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using light-emitting diode arrays
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

b) for applying a marking on the object and a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the marking head in an advance direction (16) during a marking operation. The marking head comprises in addition to the plurality of marking devices a plurality of sensor devices and the sensor devices (50) are arranged down-stream of the marking devices in the advance direction, so that the marking applied by the marking devices is detectable by the sensor devices, when the object is moved relative to the marking head in the advance direction. The invention also relates to a method for marking an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/435 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking and/or scanning head comprising a plurality of receiving spaces in which individual marking and/or sensing devices can be arranged for marking and/or scanning an object, wherein the receiving spaces are arranged in at least two sub-arrays, wherein at least one sub-array is movable and/or rotatable with regard to at least one other sub-array. The invention further relates to a marking and/or scanning apparatus and a method for operating a marking and/or scanning head or apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 1/024 - Details of scanning heads
• B41J 2/00 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light
• B41J 15/14 - Supporting, feeding, or guiding devicesMountings for web rolls or spindles characterised by being applied to printers having transversely-moving carriages and detached from the carriage
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• B41J 3/54 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed with two or more sets of type or printing elements
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling an apparatus, in particular a marking apparatus and/or a scanning apparatus, for printing a digital image on an object and/or scanning an object to create a digital image of the object, wherein the digital image comprises pixels arranged in image columns and image rows, wherein the apparatus comprises an operating head having a plurality of operating devices, in particular marking devices and/or sensing devices, wherein the object is moved relative to the operating head in an advance direction, in which the pixel values are transferred between the operating devices and an image storage comprising storing elements arranged in storage columns and storage rows for storing pixel values, particularly in which the operating devices are time dependently supplied with pixel values of the digital image from the image storage, and/or pixel values sensed by the operating devices are transferred to the image storage to form the digital image. The inventive method is characterized in that the operating devices are arranged in an array of array rows and array columns, such that a rectangular pattern of the operating devices is formed, the array of operating devices is tilted by a tilting angle with regard to the advance direction, and the operating devices are controlled according to a mapping algorithm that defines between which operating device and which storing element of the image storage a pixel value is transferred based on the tilting angle. The invention further relates to an apparatus for printing and/or scanning, to a computer program, and a computer program product.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 15/00 - Digital computers in generalData processing equipment in general
• G06K 1/00 - Methods or arrangements for marking the record carrier in digital fashion
• G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data
• H04N 1/195 - Scanning arrangements using multi-element arrays the array comprising a two-dimensional array
• H04N 1/193 - Simultaneously scanning picture elements on one main scanning line using electrically scanned linear arrays

Abstract

The invention relates to a monitoring device for monitoring marking elements of a marking head. The inventive device is characterized in that it comprises a detector for recording detected information on the marking elements, and a control and evaluation unit that is adapted to determine whether the marking elements carry out marking operations based on the detected information. The invention further relates to a method for monitoring marking elements of a marking head.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 2/45 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using light-emitting diode arrays
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking device for marking an object (1) with marking light. The marking device comprises a plurality of marking modules (10a - d) for emitting marking light, and a base unit (20) to which the plurality of marking modules (10a - d) is connected, wherein the base unit (20) comprises a control unit (25) for controlling the plurality of marking modules (10a - d). The plurality of marking modules (10a - d) comprises at least a first marking module (10a) and a second marking module (10b) which employ different marking technologies.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material

Abstract

The invention relates to a laser device (10) comprising at least one laser unit (20) for generating laser light, and cooling means (30) for cooling said laser unit, said cooling means including a channel arrangement (35) through which a cooling fluid is circulated for transferring heat away from the laser unit. The laser device is characterized in that a mounting member (46) for releasably holding a fluid container (50) is provided, the mounting member comprises a first connector element(42) for connecting to a second connector element (44) of the fluid container in a fluid tight manner, and the mounting member is connected with the channel arrangement. The invention further relates to a fluid container for cooling fluid for use in the laser device. The fluid container is designed as a cartridge (50) and comprises an information storage means (60) for storing information about the container and the cooling fluid filled in said fluid container.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/04 - Arrangements for thermal management

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus for marking an object with laser light, comprising a plurality of lasers and a control unit for individually activating each of the lasers to emit a laser beam (90a-i) according to a sign to be marked. A set of deflection means (30) for directing the laser beams (90a-i) toward the object to be marked is provided, a set of telescopic means (40) comprising at least one telescopic means (40a-i) per laser beam (90a-i) is provided, and each telescopic means (40a-i) is adjustable for individually setting a focal length of the respective laser beam (90a- i).

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus (100) for marking an object with laser light, comprising a plurality of lasers (10), in particular gas lasers (10), and a control unit for individually activating each of the lasers (10) to emit a laser beam according to a sign to be marked. A deflection device (30) is provided by which at least two laser beams are combined on a common spot.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus (100) for marking an object with laser light, comprising a plurality of gas lasers (10) and a control unit for individually activating each of the gas lasers (10) to emit a laser beam according to a sign to be marked. The gas lasers (10) are stacked such that the laser beams emitted by the gas lasers (10) form an array of laser beams, in particular a linear array with parallel laser beams, each gas laser (10a - i) comprises laser tubes (12) that at least partially surround an inner area (5). The apparatus (100) further comprises beam-delivery means (14) for directing the array of laser beams into the inner area (5) and a set of deflection means (30) for rearranging the array of laser beams into a desired array of laser beams. The set of deflection means (30) is arranged in the inner area (5) and comprises at least one deflection means (33a, 33i) per laser beam, in particular at least one mapping mirror (33a, 33i) or one optical waveguide per laser beam. Each deflection means (30) is individually adjustable in its deflection direction and/or individually shiftable.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments

Abstract

The invention relates to a laser device comprising at least three linear laser gain volumes (12) for a gas to be excited, connecting elements (20) for connecting adjacent laser gain volumes, the laser gain volumes being mechanically coupled to other, and forming a common volumetric space, excitation means (50) for the laser gain volumes for exciting the gas in the laser gain volumes for generating a laser light, mirrors (22) arranged in the connecting elements for reflecting laser light between the laser gain volumes, a totally reflecting rear mirror (44), and a partially reflecting output coupler (42) for coupling out a laser beam. The laser gain volumes are arranged in the shape of an open or closed ring surrounding a free central space (8) between them. The invention also relates to a method for marking an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/083 - Ring lasers
• H01S 3/038 - Electrodes, e.g. special shape, configuration or composition
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media

Abstract

The invention refers to a device for determination of a position of an object by means ultrasonic waves, comprising at least one ultrasonic sensor for receiving ultrasonic signals from the object und computing means for computing the position of the object based on the received ultrasonic signals. At least one laser unit for generating a pulsed laser beam is provided, wherein said pulsed laser beam being directed to the object and adapted to cause at a surface of the object vibrations, by which the object is excited to generate ultrasonic signals. The invention also relates to a method for determination of a position of an object by means of ultrasonic waves, wherein by at least one ultrasonic sensor ultrasonic signals are received from the object, and based on the received ultrasonic signals, the position of the object is computed. A pulsed laser beam is generated by at least one laser unit, said laser beam is directed to the object and by means of the pulsed laser beam vibrations are caused at a surface of the object, wherein the object is excited to generate the ultrasonic signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 15/02 - Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems using reflection of acoustic waves
• G10K 15/04 - Sound-producing devices
• G01S 15/04 - Systems determining presence of a target

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus (100) for marking an object with laser light, comprising a plurality of lasers (10) and a control unit for individually activating each of the lasers to emit a laser beam according to a sign to be marked. A set of deflection means (30) for rearranging the laser beams into a two-dimensional array of laser beams is provided, the set of deflection means (30) comprises at least one deflection means (33) per laser beam, in particular at least one mapping mirror (33) or one optical waveguide per laser beam.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus for marking an object with laser light, comprising a plurality of lasers and a control unit for individually activating each of the lasers to emit a laser beam (90) according to a sign to be marked. A set of deflection means (30) for rearranging the laser beams (90) into a desired array of laser beams (90) is provided, the set of deflection means (30) comprises at least two deflection means (33a-i, 34a-i) per laser beam (90), in particular at least two mapping mirrors (33a-i, 34a-i) or at least one optical waveguide and one lens per laser beam (90a-i), and each deflection means (33a-i, 34a-i) is individually adjustable in its deflection direction and/or individually shiftable.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments

Abstract

The invention refers to a laser device comprising a plurality of linear resonator tubes (12) for a gas to be excited, the resonator tubes being in fluidic communication with each other and forming a common tubular space, connecting elements (20) arranged in corners between adjacent resonator tubes of a common tubular space, excitation means (50) for the resonator tubes for exciting the gas in the resonator tubes for generating a laser light, mirrors (22) arranged in the connecting elements for reflecting laser light between the resonator tubes, and a partially reflecting output coupler (42) for coupling out a laser beam. The resonator tubes are arranged in the shape of a helix, surrounding a free central space. The invention also relates to a method for generating laser light with such a laser device.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/0975 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping by gas discharge of a gas laser using inductive or capacitive excitation
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece

Abstract

Laser device comprising at least two gas laser units (10), stacked in layers, each laser unit comprising a plurality of resonator tubes (12), the resonator tubes being in fluidic communication with each other and forming a common tubular space, connecting elements (20, 21) for connecting adjacent resonator tubes so as to form a loop, mirrors (22) arranged in the connecting elements for reflecting the laser light between the resonator tubes, a rear mirror (44) and a partially reflecting output coupler (42) for coupling out a laser beam. In each laser unit an integrated output flange (40) comprises the rear mirror, the partially reflecting output coupler and an output mirror (46) which deflects the laser beam passing through the output coupler to a scanning device (80) located in the central space (8) surrounded by the resonator tubes. The invention also relates to a method for marking an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/23 - Arrangement of two or more lasers not provided for in groups , e.g. tandem arrangement of separate active media
• H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers
• H01S 3/0975 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping by gas discharge of a gas laser using inductive or capacitive excitation
• H01S 3/223 - Gases the active gas being polyatomic, i.e. containing two or more atoms
• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus for marking an object with laser light, which apparatus comprises at least one gas laser for emitting at least one laser beam for marking the object. The at least one gas laser comprises a plurality of resonator tubes (12) for receiving a laser gas, a plurality of heat dissipaters (20) for dissipating heat from the resonator tubes (12) is provided, each resonator tube (12) is thermally connected to one of the heat dissipaters (20), and each heat dissipater (20) comprises microchannels for receiving a cooling fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B23K 26/36 - Removing material
• H01S 3/041 - Arrangements for thermal management for gas lasers
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments

Abstract

The invention refers to a laser device comprising a tubular space formed by at least two resonator tubes (12) for a gas to be excited, excitation means (50) for each of the at least two resonator tubes for exciting the gas in the resonator tube for generating laser light, a partially reflecting output coupler (42) for coupling out a laser beam, and at least one gas reservoir container (60) which forms a gas reservoir, the gas reservoir container being free of excitation means and in fluidic communication with the tubular space, wherein the gas reservoir container is arranged between the at least two resonator tubes and connected to the tubular space at two separate connecting portions (20).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01S 3/03 - Constructional details of gas laser discharge tubes
• H01S 3/07 - Construction or shape of active medium consisting of a plurality of parts, e.g. segments
• H01S 3/0975 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping by gas discharge of a gas laser using inductive or capacitive excitation

Abstract

The invention relates to an embossing structure for displaying different images in different viewing directions. The embossing structure comprises a plurality of grooves, wherein each groove comprises a first side wall for displaying one line of a first image in a first viewing direction, and a second side wall for displaying one line of a second image in a second viewing direction. The inventive embossing structure is characterized in that each groove further comprises a bottom section for displaying one line of a third image in a third viewing direction, and each of the bottom section, the first side wall and the second side wall comprises recesses which define the amount of light that is scattered in the respective viewing direction corresponding to pixel values of the three images. The invention further relates to an embossing structure for displaying four different images in four different viewing directions.

IPC Classes  ?

• B42D 15/10 - Identity, credit, cheque or like information-bearing cards (record carriers, e.g. credit or identity cards, for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings G06K 19/00)

Goods & Services

Devices for surface processing, in particular for material removal; Laser ablation apparatus, laser inscription apparatus. Computer software for surface processing, in particular for laser ablation apparatus and laser inscription apparatus.

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus for marking an object comprising a marking head having a plurality of receiving spaces for individual marking devices, wherein the receiving spaces are arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, such that a two-dimensional array of receiving spaces is formed, and a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the marking head in an advance direction during a marking operation. The marking head is rotatable about an axis extending transversely to the advance direction, at least one detector device is arranged downstream of the receiving spaces in the advance direction, and a control marking, which has been applied by at least one marking device arranged in one of the receiving spaces during the movement of the object relative to the marking head, is detectable by the at least one detector device at different angles of rotation of the marking head. The invention further relates to a method for operating a marking apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor apparatus for detecting an object comprising a sensor head having a plurality of receiving spaces for individual sensor devices and a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the sensor head in an advance direction during a detecting operation. The receiving spaces are arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, such that an array of receiving spaces with a rectangular pattern of the receiving spaces is formed, and the array of receiving spaces is tilted with regard to the advance direction such that the rows extend in a transverse direction relative to the advance direction and the receiving spaces of a successive row of the rectangular pattern are offset with regard to the receiving spaces of a preceding row of the rectangular pattern in a direction perpendicular to the advance direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 1/193 - Simultaneously scanning picture elements on one main scanning line using electrically scanned linear arrays
• H04N 1/195 - Scanning arrangements using multi-element arrays the array comprising a two-dimensional array

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for marking and/or scanning an object comprising a head, in particular a marking head or a scanning head, having a plurality of regular operating elements for marking and/or scanning the object, and comprising a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the head in an advance direction during a working operation, at least a part of the regular operating elements being arranged in a rectangular pattern of rows and columns. The inventive device is characterized in that at least one spare operating element is provided, which is idle in case that all regular operating elements are functioning, the at least one spare operating element is movable relative to the regular operating elements, in case that one of the regular operating elements is defective, the at least one spare operating element is movable into a position in which the defective operating element is replaced by the spare operating element and the at least one spare operating element is settable to an active state. The invention further relates to a method for marking and/or scanning an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

Apparatus for marking and/or scanning (m/s) an object comprising a m/s head (20) having a plurality of receiving spaces (24) for m/s devices (40), a driving mechanism for moving the object, a measuring device (50) for measuring the object speed comprising a transmitter having a transmitting fibre (56) for transmitting light to the object, a receiver having first and second light receiving fibres (57, 58) for receiving light reflected from the object forming light signals, and processor means (70) for determining a time shift between the light signals to provide a speed value of the object, all the fibres are arranged in a common first ferrule (52), the m/s devices include second ferrules, the first and second ferrules have corresponding connector sections and are variably connected to the receiving spaces of the scanning head, and the speed measuring device is arranged in one of the receiving spaces. The invention further relates to a method for measuring the object speed with the m/s apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01P 1/02 - Housings
• G01P 3/36 - Devices characterised by the use of optical means, e.g. using infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light
• G01P 3/68 - Devices characterised by the determination of the time taken to traverse a fixed distance using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light
• G01P 3/80 - Devices characterised by the determination of the time taken to traverse a fixed distance using auto-correlation or cross-correlation detection means
• G01S 17/58 - Velocity or trajectory determination systemsSense-of-movement determination systems
• B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
• B41J 2/435 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling an apparatus, in particular a marking apparatus and/or a scanning apparatus, for printing a digital image on an object and/or scanning an object to create a digital image of the object, wherein the digital image comprises pixels arranged in image columns and image rows, wherein the apparatus comprises an operating head having a plurality of operating devices, in particular marking devices and/or sensing devices, wherein the object is moved relative to the operating head in an advance direction, in which the pixel values are transferred between the operating devices and an image storage comprising storing elements arranged in storage columns and storage rows for storing pixel values, particularly in which the operating devices are time dependently supplied with pixel values of the digital image from the image storage, and/or pixel values sensed by the operating devices are transferred to the image storage to form the digital image. The inventive method is characterized in that the operating devices are arranged in an array of array rows and array columns, such that a rectangular pattern of the operating devices is formed, the array of operating devices is tilted by a tilting angle with regard to the advance direction, and the operating devices are controlled according to a mapping algorithm that defines between which operating device and which storing element of the image storage a pixel value is transferred based on the tilting angle. The invention further relates to an apparatus for printing and/or scanning, to a computer program, and a computer program product.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 1/195 - Scanning arrangements using multi-element arrays the array comprising a two-dimensional array
• H04N 1/193 - Simultaneously scanning picture elements on one main scanning line using electrically scanned linear arrays

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking and/or scanning head comprising a plurality of receiving spaces in which individual marking and/or sensing devices can be arranged for marking and/or scanning an object, wherein the receiving spaces are arranged in at least two sub-arrays, wherein at least one sub-array is movable and/or rotatable with regard to at least one other sub-array. The invention further relates to a marking and/or scanning apparatus and a method for operating a marking and/or scanning head or apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
• B41J 3/54 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed with two or more sets of type or printing elements
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for applying a marking on an object, wherein the object is moved in an advance direction relative to a marking head comprising a plurality of marking devices and the marking is applied on the object by means of the plurality of marking devices during the relative movement between the object and the marking head. For applying the marking on a predetermined marking area relative to a transverse direction, which extends transversely to the advance direction, a position of the object in the transverse direction is determined and based on the determined position of the object in the transverse direction a first number of marking devices is deactivated and a second number of marking devices is activated, wherein the marking is applied on the object by the second number of marking devices. The invention also relates to a marking apparatus for applying a marking on an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking apparatus (10) for marking an object comprising a marking head (20) having a plurality of marking devices (40, 40a, 40b) for applying a marking on the object and a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object relative to the marking head in an advance direction (16) during a marking operation. The marking head comprises in addition to the plurality of marking devices a plurality of sensor devices and the sensor devices (50) are arranged downstream of the marking devices in the advance direction, so that the marking applied by the marking devices is detectable by the sensor devices, when the object is moved relative to the marking head in the advance direction. The invention also relates to a method for marking an object.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

The invention relates to a making apparatus for making an object comprising - a marking head (20) having a plurality of receiving spaces (24) for individual marking devices (40) and - a driving mechanism for providing a relative movement of the object (8) relative to the marking head (20) in an advance direction (16), wherein - the receiving spaces (24) are arranged in a plurality of rows (30) and columns (32), such that an array (22) of receiving spaces (24) with a rectangular pattern of the receiving spaces (24) is formed, and - the array (22) of receiving spaces (24) is tilted with regard to the advance direction (16) - the marking head (20) comprises a receiving plate (28) having a plurality of receiving holes (26) formed as through-holes therein, the receiving holes (26) forming the receiving spaces (24) for the individual marking devices (40), - the marking devices (40) each include a ferrule (42) which is insertable into a receiving hole (26) of the receiving plate (28), and - the receiving holes (26) are formed to tightly and removably hold the individual ferrules (42) therein.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 25/316 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with tilting motion mechanisms relative to paper surface
• B41J 2/515 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes from an assembly of identical printing elements line printer type
• B41J 2/447 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for

Abstract

The invention relates to a monitoring device for monitoring marking elements of a marking head. The inventive device is characterized in that it comprises a detector for recording detected information on the marking elements, and a control and evaluation unit that is adapted to determine whether the marking elements carry out marking operations based on the detected information. The invention further relates to a method for monitoring marking elements of a marking head.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/45 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using light-emitting diode arrays
• B41J 2/46 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources characterised by using glass fibres

Goods & Services

Computer software for laser marking and engraving.

Goods & Services

Optical monitoring devices. Lighting devices for optical monitoring devices.

Goods & Services

(1) Optical, electric and electronic monitoring equipment, in particular for pharmaceutical products, namely video monitors, camera system for optical character recognition (OCR), optical inspection systems for use in packaging processes (pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics), radio frequency identification (RFID) tag readers; software for monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes in manufacturing plants for pharmceutical and cosmetical products; writing and reading apparatus for bar and matrix codes, namely bar code readers, bar code scanners, matrix code readers, bar code printers, matrix code printers; camera and image processing systems, namely cameras, including software therefor.

Goods & Services

Optical, electric and electronic monitoring equipment, in particular for pharmaceutical products; software for monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes; writing and reading apparatus for bar and matrix codes and for RFID chips; camera and image-processing systems, including software therefor. Development, maintenance and updating of software, in particular for monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes and for camera and image-processing systems.

Goods & Services

Optical, electric and electronic monitoring devices, in particular for pharmaceutical products; software for the monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes; writing and reading apparatus for bar codes and matrix codes and for RFID chips; cameras and image processing systems, including software therefor. Development, maintenance and updating of software, in particular for the monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes, and for cameras and image processing systems.

Goods & Services

Optical, electric and electronic monitoring equipment, in particular for pharmaceutical products; software for monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes; writing and reading apparatus for bar and matrix codes; camera and image processing systems, including software therefor. Development, maintenance and updating of software, in particular for monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes and for camera and image processing systems.

Goods & Services

Optical, electric and electronic monitoring devices, in particular for pharmaceutical products; software for the monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes; writing and reading apparatus for bar codes and matrix codes; cameras and image processing systems, including software therefor. Development, maintenance and updating of software, in particular for the monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes, and for cameras and image processing systems.

Goods & Services

Optical, electric and electronic monitoring devices, in particular for pharmaceutical products; software for the monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes; writing and reading apparatus for bar codes and matrix codes; cameras and image processing systems, including software therefor. Development, maintenance and updating of software, in particular for the monitoring, control and/or documentation of packaging processes, and for cameras and image processing systems.

Goods & Services

Optical, electrical and electronic supervisory equipment, particularly for pharmaceutical products; software for supervision, control and/or documentation of packing processes; equipment for printing and scanning of bar codes; camera and image processing systems including the software for these. Design, maintenance and updating of software, particularly for supervision, control and/or documentation of packaging processes and for camera and image processing systems.

Goods & Services

Machines, mechanical apparatus and devices for the treatment of materials using lasers, in particular for inscribing, marking and engraving, and for cutting material; parts for the aforesaid goods; all the aforesaid goods not for use in the photography, film, printing or printing pre-stage sectors, included in class 7.

Goods & Services

Writing and reading apparatus for bar codes, software for the writing and reading of bar codes.