Process control for laser materials processing

Abstract

Examples of process monitoring and real time process control are given. Considering industrial applications, methods for the detection of process signals are integrated into the beam path to provide free access to the workpiece without being blocked by the diagnostic tools. When carrying out industrial applications, it is necessary to detect process signals independent of workpiece geometry and characteristics of the handling system. The application of the diagnostic methods and devices presented in this paper enables to detect the process in all laser machining processes. The possibilities of process control are demonstrated in case of welding. A sensor/actuator field bus network allows it to collect and analyze a lot of sensor signals to facilitate extensive on line process control with the greatest possible autonomy and self-calibration of the processing system