Abstract: A laser-marking system that marks products by emitting a laser beam. A laser detection device in the laser-marking system determines whether a laser emitted a laser beam in proper relation to the product. If the laser detection device determines that the laser beam was not emitted in proper relation to the product, an error output signal is generated. The proper relation determination may, for example, be time based or count based. The error output signal may be communicated to a controller, such as a central controller or a programmable logic controller. The controller may shut down operation of the assembly line, shut down the laser-marking system, and/or may alter such systems as desired. The error output signal may also be communicated to a customer interface and/or to a remote location.

Abstract: An improved laser marking focal length setting device allows an operator of a laser marking apparatus to easily and properly set the distance between a movable laser source output and an item to be marked. The device includes a sensor which is mounted at the same distance from the item to be marked as the laser source output. The device further includes an array of light emitting diodes, each of which corresponds to a predetermined focal length. In operation, the laser source output and sensor are moved together along the axis of the laser beam. The sensor supplies a signal indicative of the distance between the sensor and item. Because the laser source output and sensor are located at the same distance from the item to be marked, this signal is also indicative of the distance from the laser source output to the item. When the distance sensed is a focal length corresponding to one of the LED's, that LED lights.

Abstract: A laser-marking system that marks products by emitting a laser beam. A laser detection device in the laser-marking system determines whether a laser emitted a laser beam in proper relation to the product. If the laser detection device determines that the laser beam was not emitted in proper relation to the product, an error output signal is generated. The proper relation determination may, for example, be time based or count based. The error output signal may be communicated to a controller, such as a central controller or a programmable logic controller. The controller may shut down operation of the assembly line, shut down the laser-marking system, and/or may alter such systems as desired. The error output signal may also be communicated to a customer interface and/or to a remote location.