Abstract: A laser safety system providing a system for checking the presence, focus and integrity of a laser beam focusing lens is disclosed. The laser safety system checks the focusing lens properties by capturing an image of a target by viewing the target through the focusing lens from along the laser beam path. An initial, known good, image is compared to an image captured immediately before enablement of the laser beam source to determine if the focusing lens is present, focused and is not damaged. The system may also utilize a mask projected onto the target as well as a low-power visible light laser directed along the path of the processing laser to determine the focusing lens properties. The system can also provide target recognition.

Abstract: A laser safety system providing a system for checking the presence, focus and integrity of a laser beam focusing lens is disclosed. The laser safety system checks the focusing lens properties by capturing an image of a target by viewing the target through the focusing lens from along the laser beam path. An initial, known good, image is compared to an image captured immediately before enablement of the laser beam source to determine if the focusing lens is present, focused and is not damaged. The system may also utilize a mask projected onto the target as well as a low-power visible light laser directed along the path of the processing laser to determine the focusing lens properties. The system can also provide target recognition.

Abstract: A flexible laser safety curtain is disclosed that utilizes a plurality of columns flexibly attached to one another along their longitudinal edges in such a manner as to create a curtain of columns. The base of each column contains a cavity within which at least one moveable element, columnar in form, may be located and protrude from the cavity. The moveable element, when pressed against a work surface, is forced into the cavity. A biasing element within the cavity provides an opposite force on the moveable elements to both keep the moveable element in contact with the work surface, and to return the moveable element to its original position when the inward force is removed. The curtain's edge follows the contours of an uneven work surface and thereby the curtain provides a complete barrier to laser radiation.

Abstract: A laser safety system providing a system for checking the presence, focus and integrity of a laser beam focusing lens is disclosed. The laser safety system checks the focusing lens properties by capturing an image of a target by viewing the target through the focusing lens from along the laser beam path. An initial, known good, image is compared to an image captured immediately before enablement of the laser beam source to determine if the focusing lens is present, focused and is not damaged. The system may also utilize a mask projected onto the target as well as a low-power visible light laser directed along the path of the processing laser to determine the focusing lens properties. The system can also provide target recognition.

Abstract: An optical system for use in an electron beam welding machine for viewing workpieces mounted within a vacuum chamber from a position outside the chamber, either before or during the welding operation. The optical system includes an automatic motorized means for adjusting the focus of the system to accommodate different electron beam gun to work distances, and simultaneously to automatically adjust the angle with respect to the axis of the electron beam along which the view of the area being welded is to be observed. A transparent disc, which may be rotated step by step about its central axis in approximately 30.degree. increments is mounted so that a portion of its surface near its periphery is interposed in the viewing path so as to shield the optical parts of the viewing system from the vapors and radiations which are generated during the electron beam welding process. A means for illuminating only the area on the work surface which is to be viewed is also provided with a similar shielding means.