High-precision laser processing is essential for manufacturing critical components in diverse applications ranging from medical device and electronics production to semiconductor fabrication. Cost-effective, high-quality production requires equipment with exceptional precision and dynamics. Even when using advanced controls and precision components, optimizing motion systems for laser beam guidance remains a challenge. Fully optimizing precision machines normally requires a large time investment and detailed knowledge of underlying control principles and algorithms.
This presentation introduces optimization tools and strategies that enable machine builders to maximize hardware performance, resulting in increased throughput without compromised quality or yield. These automated strategies facilitate comprehensive system optimization (encompassing mechanical hardware, electrical components and controller parameters) without requiring in-depth knowledge of underlying technologies or significant time investment. We will discuss optimization examples for step-and-settle and high-frequency circle motion used in laser drilling applications, plus examples for contour motion used in cutting.
By optimizing motion hardware for specific laser processing objectives, users may achieve significant improvement in part cycle time while maintaining output quality. These benefits apply to any laser processing application requiring precise motion from both linear and rotary servo stages, as well as galvanometer-based laser scan heads.
Bryan Germann is Aerotech’s global leader for Optomechatronics product initiatives, which encompass Aerotech’s AGV laser scan heads and associated Automation1 drives & software control features. Bryan has 10+ years of experience working with high-precision motion control solutions for laser processing applications across a broad spectrum of industrial use cases, ranging from medical devices to electronics manufacturing and semiconductor manufacturing. His responsibilities range from driving product strategy/R&D to operational buildout of manufacturing processes and capabilities for delivering Aerotech’s AGV laser scan head solutions across Aerotech’s market segments and global customer base. Bryan holds a BS and MS in mechanical engineering from the University of South Carolina, as well as 17 US & international patents.
