Abstract: The invention relates to a method for machining a workpiece by means of a laser beam, in particular a part of a motor vehicle, wherein a laser beam is applied to the workpiece by means of a scanner, material of the workpiece is ablated, the radiation produced by the plasma during the process in the work area and/or reflected laser radiation is detected, and a signal is generated depending on the detected plasma and/or laser radiation. In addition the invention also relates to an apparatus for the laser beam machining of a workpiece, in particular for carrying out a method according to the invention. A greater process reliability can be ensured in laser beam machining in that the position of the laser beam in relation to the workpiece and/or the ablation depth is regulated and/or controlled depending on the signal.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for machining a workpiece by means of a laser beam, in particular a part of a motor vehicle, wherein a laser beam is applied to the workpiece by means of a scanner, material of the workpiece is ablated, the radiation produced by the plasma during the process in the work area and/or reflected laser radiation is detected, and a signal is generated depending on the detected plasma and/or laser radiation. In addition the invention also relates to an apparatus for the laser beam machining of a workpiece, in particular for carrying out a method according to the invention. A greater process reliability can be ensured in laser beam machining in that the position of the laser beam in relation to the workpiece and/or the ablation depth is regulated and/or controlled depending on the signal.

Abstract: A laser beam welding head for the welding of metal parts and method of use include at least one beam path for a welding beam and means for the optical acquisition of the position of the welding seam at a first measuring position, wherein the means for the optical acquisition of the position of the welding seam allow arrangement of the first measuring position in the welding direction running ahead of the welding position of the welding beam, and, at least as a function of a lateral deviation of the welding seam from a reference position, generate a correction signal for the correction of the welding position of the welding beam, as well as a corresponding use of the laser beam welding head.

Abstract: A laser beam welding head for the welding of metal parts and method of use include at least one beam path for a welding beam and means for the optical acquisition of the position of the welding seam at a first measuring position, wherein the means for the optical acquisition of the position of the welding seam allow arrangement of the first measuring position in the welding direction running ahead of the welding position of the welding beam, and, at least as a function of a lateral deviation of the welding seam from a reference position, generate a correction signal for the correction of the welding position of the welding beam, as well as a corresponding use of the laser beam welding head.