Laser Patents (Class 700/166)
  • Patent number: 11898237
    Abstract: A method and device for coating a component wherein the cooling fluid ducts contained in the component have to be reopened following the coating step. The component has a first region and a second region, where the first region includes at least one cooling fluid opening having an adjoining cooling fluid channel and where the first region is to be coated with a coating material which is not to be applied in the second region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Siemens Energy Global GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Thomas Beck, Jens Dietrich, Oliver Katzurke, Sven Kreuziger, Marcel Krügerke, Andrea Massa, Richard Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 11618099
    Abstract: A deposition welding process monitoring device that includes an optical detector (10), a conversion unit (70) and an evaluation unit (60) with equipment (60a) configured to determine a monitoring region (61a) of an image (61), equipment (60b) configured to repeatedly detect a surface region (61b) of the monitoring region (61a) in which a temperature-dependent intensity distribution exceeds a specified minimum value (62), equipment (60c) configured to detect a time period (61c) during which the detected surface region (61b) in which the temperature-dependent intensity distribution exceeds the specified minimum value (62) is greater than a specified limit value (63), and equipment (60d) configured to discontinue the deposition welding process if the time period (61c), during which the detected surface region (61b) in which the temperature-dependent intensity distribution is greater than the specified limit value (63), is greater than a specified time value (64).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Assignee: SAUER GmbH
    Inventors: Holger Perfahl, Christian Kledwig
  • Patent number: 11587225
    Abstract: A pattern inspection system inspects an image of an inspection target pattern of an electronic device using an identifier constituted by machine learning, based on the image of the inspection target pattern of the electronic device and data used to manufacture the inspection target pattern. The system includes a storage unit which stores a plurality of pattern images of the electronic device and pattern data used to manufacture a pattern of the electronic device, and an image selection unit which selects a learning pattern image used in the machine learning from the plurality of pattern images, based on the pattern data and the pattern image stored in the storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: HITACHI HIGH-TECH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shuyang Dou, Shinichi Shinoda, Yasutaka Toyoda, Hiroyuki Shindo
  • Patent number: 11504811
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of improving the stability and repeatability of the laser cutting of an RFID antenna is disclosed. The present invention provides direct feedback from an optical inspection of the cutting process to the control system to determine the shape of the RFID antennas that are being cut and compare the same to the desired RFID antenna shape or pattern. When appropriate, the present invention enables a user to employ both short term and long term feedback data to make modifications to the laser cutting process to improve the same and reduce waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Retail Information Services LLC
    Inventor: Ian J. Forster
  • Patent number: 11479892
    Abstract: Software and lasers are used in finishing apparel to produce a desired wear pattern or other design. A technique includes determining a fabric's response to a laser, capturing an initial image of a wear pattern on a garment, and processing the initial image to obtain a working image in grayscale. The working image is further processed to obtain a difference image by comparing each pixel relative to a dark reference. The difference image is converted to a laser values image by using the previously determined fabric response to the laser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Levi Strauss & Co.
    Inventors: Jennifer Schultz, James Barton Sights, Christopher Schultz
  • Patent number: 11435538
    Abstract: In various embodiments, optical fibers have arrangements of core, annular core, and cladding regions enabling variation of beam shape and/or beam parameter product and may be utilized for the processing (e.g., welding, cutting, drilling, etc.) of various workpieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wang-Long Zhou, Francisco Villarreal-Saucedo
  • Patent number: 11400496
    Abstract: A dry laser cleaning apparatus and a process thereof are provided. The dry laser cleaning apparatus includes a machine base, a laser cleaning module and a shielding housing. A base material is mainly placed on an object support platform of the machine base, so that a control module drives first parallel axial track groups, a second parallel axial track group and a vertical axial track group to move an optical fiber laser knife device of the laser cleaning module, and the optical fiber laser knife device irradiates a surface of the base material to clean the base material. Meanwhile, a height sensor device of the laser cleaning module and an orientation sensor device of the shielding housing are used to sense a position and a height of a to-be-cleaned object, so that the optical fiber laser knife device can automatically focus on the base material to optimize a cleaning effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: Unice E-O Services Inc.
    Inventor: Chih-Nien Chang
  • Patent number: 11352738
    Abstract: An on-demand manufacturing of apparel system includes online customization and ordering of garments, previewing of the garments, manufacturing including laser finishing of garments, and delivery to the customer. Laser finishing of apparel products reduces finishing cost, lowers carrying costs, increases productivity, shortens time to market, be more reactive to trends, reduces product constraints, reduces lost sales and dilution, and more. Fabric templates can be used to produce a multitude of laser finishes. Operational efficiency is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Levi Strauss & Co.
    Inventors: James Barton Sights, Jennifer Schultz, Benjamin Bell, Debdulal Mahanty, Ozgur Taylan Kuzucu, Christopher Schultz, Kris Tulin
  • Patent number: 11352739
    Abstract: A system allows a user to create new designs for apparel and preview these designs before manufacture. Software and lasers are used in finishing apparel to produce a desired wear pattern or other design. The user's preview may be based upon a two-dimensional image of a wear pattern in a laser input file and, from a set of two-dimensional images of a base garment, create a three-dimensional view of the base garment with the wear pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Levi Strauss & Co.
    Inventors: Benjamin Bell, Christopher Schultz, Jennifer Schultz, Debdulal Mahanty
  • Patent number: 11338440
    Abstract: This robot system includes a robot, a tool which is attached to the robot, an imaging device, and a controller which controls the robot and the tool, and the controller is configured so that a distal end portion of the robot is placed at a plurality of calibration positions, the tool is operated at each of the calibration positions, images of light irradiated to an object or a trace left on the object due to tool operation processing are captured by the imaging device, and calibration is performed based on comparison between irradiation positions of the light or positions of the traces, which are in an image captured by the imaging device, and predetermined reference positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hajime Suzuki, Shuusuke Watanabe
  • Patent number: 11305380
    Abstract: A method for sensing intensity of laser light in a simultaneous laser welding system includes placing a smart part in a weld area. The smart part includes at least a laser light intensity sensor for sensing laser light directed at it. Laser light intensity is sensed by the laser light intensity sensor of the smart part which provides an output signal indicative thereof to a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Branson Ultrasonics Corporation
    Inventors: Scott Caldwell, Christopher Almonte
  • Patent number: 11241053
    Abstract: Laser finishing of apparel products allows an operating model that reduces finishing cost, lowers carrying costs, increases productivity, shortens time to market, be more reactive to trends, reduce product constraints, reduces lost sales and dilution, and more. Improved aspects include design, development, planning, merchandising, selling, making, and delivering. The model uses fabric templates, each of which can be used to produce a multitude of laser finishes. Operational efficiency is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: Levi Strauss & Co.
    Inventors: David Love, Elizabeth O'Neill, James Barton Sights, Jeff Zens
  • Patent number: 11241054
    Abstract: Laser finishing of apparel products allows an operating model that reduces finishing cost, lowers carrying costs, increases productivity, shortens time to market, be more reactive to trends, reduce product constraints, reduces lost sales and dilution, and more. Improved aspects include design, development, planning, merchandising, selling, making, and delivering. The model uses fabric templates, each of which can be used to produce a multitude of laser finishes. Operational efficiency is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: Levi Strauss & Co.
    Inventors: David Love, Elizabeth O'Neill, James Barton Sights, Jeff Zens
  • Patent number: 11164783
    Abstract: A manufacturing method of a semiconductor device with a metal film includes a cut groove forming step of causing a cutting blade to cut into a first surface of a workpiece and forming cut grooves with a depth that exceeds the finished thickness of the workpiece along planned dividing lines, a protective member sticking step of sticking a protective member to the first surface of the workpiece, a grinding step of grinding the side of a second surface until the thickness of the workpiece becomes the finished thickness to divide the workpiece into semiconductor devices, a metal film covering step of covering, by a metal film, the side surface of each of the semiconductor devices for which the protective member is stuck to the side of the first surface and the side of the second surface after the grinding, and a protective member removing step of removing the protective member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: DISCO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Katsuhiko Suzuki
  • Patent number: 11144035
    Abstract: A method of additive manufacturing machine (AMM) build process control includes obtaining AMM machine and process parameter settings, accessing sensor data for monitored physical conditions in the AMM, calculating a difference between expected AMM physical conditions and elements of the monitored conditions, providing the machine and process parameter settings, monitored conditions, and differences to one or more material property prediction models, computing a predicted value or range for the monitored conditions, comparing the predicted value or range to a predetermined target range, based on a determination that predicted value(s) are within the predetermined range, maintaining the machine and process parameter settings, or based on a determination that one or more of the predicted value(s) is outside the predetermined range, generating commands to compensate the machine and process parameter settings, and repeating the closed feedback loop at intervals of time during the build process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Vipul Kumar Gupta, Natarajan Chennimalai Kumar, Anthony J Vinciquerra, III, Randal T Rausch, Subhrajit Roychowdhury, Justin John Gambone, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11132788
    Abstract: A pattern inspection system inspects an image of an inspection target pattern of an electronic device using an identifier constituted by machine learning, based on the image of the inspection target pattern of the electronic device and data used to manufacture the inspection target pattern. The system includes a storage unit which stores a plurality of pattern images of the electronic device and pattern data used to manufacture a pattern of the electronic device, and an image selection unit which selects a learning pattern image used in the machine learning from the plurality of pattern images, based on the pattern data and the pattern image stored in the storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: HITACHI HIGH-TECH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shuyang Dou, Shinichi Shinoda, Yasutaka Toyoda, Hiroyuki Shindo
  • Patent number: 11131935
    Abstract: An information processing apparatus outputs correction data using a first system that outputs the correction data for correcting a condition defining processing to be performed in a lithography apparatus that forms a pattern onto a substrate. The first system includes a first model that outputs the correction data in case where a processing result indicating a result of the processing is input, and a second model that outputs the processing result in case where the condition is input. The first system corrects the condition using the correction data output from the first model, and outputs the correction data based on the processing result output by inputting the corrected condition to the second model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kenji Yamamoto, Mitsuhiro Masuda
  • Patent number: 11126306
    Abstract: An optical touch apparatus and a width detecting method thereof are provided. The optical touch apparatus includes at least two sensing components, a light emitting component, and a width detecting module. The sensing components are configured to sense a touch object located on a touch plane. The light emitting component is configured to be a light source of the touch plane and is disposed adjacent to one of the sensing components. The width detecting module is coupled to the light emitting component and the other of the sensing components. The light emitting component is controlled by the width detecting module to emit a light. The other of the sensing components is controlled by the width detecting module to sense intensity of the light. The width detecting module detects a distance between the sensing components according to the sensed intensity of the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Kuo-Hsien Lu, Yu-Yen Chen
  • Patent number: 11009691
    Abstract: Provided are a microscope apparatus and a method for correcting a position of a light source according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The microscope apparatus for correcting the position of the light source according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a light source unit which includes a light emitting element array including multiple light emitting elements and is configured to emit light to a subject; an optical unit which is disposed in parallel with the subject and configured to form an enlarged image of the subject to which the light is emitted; an image sensor which is configured to acquire the enlarged image of the subject by capturing the enlarged image formed by the optical unit; and a processor which is operably connected to the light source unit, the optical unit, and the image sensor and corrects a position of the light source unit based on the image acquired by the image sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignees: Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation, Yonsei University, Small Machines
    Inventors: Chul Min Joo, Seung Ri Song, Sunwoong Hur, Jun Kyu Choi, Chang Hyuk Yoo
  • Patent number: 10977478
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method to image a probe array is described that includes focusing on a plurality of fiducials on a surface of an array. The method utilizes obtaining the best z position of the fiducials and using a surface fitting algorithm to produce a surface fit profile. One or more surface non-flatness parameters can be adjusted to improve the flatness image of the array surface to be imaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Affymetrix, Inc.
    Inventors: David Stern, Chuan Gao, Melvin Yamamoto, Devin Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10953609
    Abstract: In in-process inspection or calibration of a print bed or 3D printed part with a 3D printer, toolpaths defining printing material shells for deposition by a 3D printer are compared to surface profile scans from a range scanner to identify differences between the print bed, instructed deposition and the measured result, permitting pausing or alteration of the toolpaths or printing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: MARKFORGED, INC.
    Inventor: Gregory Thomas Mark
  • Patent number: 10888923
    Abstract: A manufacturing machine is capable of additive manufacturing. The manufacturing machine includes: a connecting part configured to be connectable to a machine tool capable of subtractive manufacturing; and an additive manufacturing head configured to be positioned in a machining area of the machine tool and discharge a material, when the connecting part is connected to the machine tool. The manufacturing machine for additive manufacturing that can be installed at a low cost is thus provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: DMG MORI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masahiko Mori, Yuhei Mezawa, Shigeyuki Takashima, Shigetsugu Sakai, Makoto Fujishima
  • Patent number: 10852711
    Abstract: To provide a laser machine allowing size reduction and space saving while guaranteeing a high degree of configurational freedom. A laser machine comprises: a numerical controller; a motor current controller that controls a motor; and a basic unit that supplies DC power to a laser excitation current controller that controls a laser excitation part. The basic unit comprises: an AC input part that receives AC power; an AC/DC converter that converts the AC power supplied from the AC input part to DC power, and supplies the DC power to the motor current controller and the laser excitation current controller; and multiple connection parts that connect the basic unit to the numerical controller, the motor current controller, and the laser excitation current controller mechanically and electrically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Michinori Maeda
  • Patent number: 10786904
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods to provide a method for calibrating a touchscreen coordinate system of a touchscreen with an industrial robot coordinate system of an industrial robot for industrial robot commissioning and industrial robot system and control system using the same. In one form the systems and methods include attaching an end effector to the industrial robot; (a) moving the industrial robot in a compliant way until a stylus of the end effector touches a point on the touchscreen; (b) recording a position of the stylus of the end effector in the industrial robot coordinate system when it touches the point of the touchscreen; (c) recording a position of the touch point on the touchscreen in the touchscreen coordinate system; and calculating a relation between the industrial robot coordinate system and the touchscreen coordinate system based on the at least three positions of the end effector stylus and the at least three positions of the touch points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Hao Gu, Qingwei Li, Jinsong Li, Jihuan Tian, Liwei Qi, Jianjiang Wang
  • Patent number: 10730141
    Abstract: Plastic parts are welded in a laser welding system. An infrared laser source in a laser chamber is controlled by a controller using closed-loop feedback control with a corrected feedback signal that is compensated for background infrared radiation in the laser chamber. Prior to the infrared laser source being turned on, the controller senses with the optical sensor an intensity of background infrared radiation in the laser chamber. Once the laser is on, the controller senses with the optical sensor an intensity of infrared laser radiation in the laser chamber. The controller calculates the corrected feedback signal by subtracting the intensity of the background infrared radiation sensed when the infrared laser source was off from the intensity of the infrared laser radiation sensed when the infrared laser source is on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: Branson Ultrasonics Corporation
    Inventor: Scott Caldwell
  • Patent number: 10725450
    Abstract: A control system of a machine tool which machines a work includes: a numerical control device which controls the drive axis of the machine tool based on control data; a machined surface measurement device which measures the machined surface of the work; and a data processing device, and the data processing device includes a drive axis control data acquisition portion which acquires, from the numerical control device, the chronological control data when the work is machined; a machined surface measurement data acquisition portion which acquires spatial machined surface measurement data after the machining of the work measured by the machined surface measurement device; and a data-associating processing portion which associates the chronological control data acquired by the drive axis control data acquisition portion and the spatial machined surface measurement data acquired by the machined surface measurement data acquisition portion with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shougo Shinoda, Satoshi Ikai
  • Patent number: 10719174
    Abstract: An optical touch apparatus and a width detecting method thereof are provided. The optical touch apparatus includes at least two sensing components, a light emitting component, and a width detecting module. The sensing components are configured to sense a touch object located on a touch plane. The light emitting component is configured to be a light source of the touch plane and is disposed adjacent to one of the sensing components. The width detecting module is coupled to the light emitting component and the other of the sensing components. The light emitting component is controlled by the width detecting module to emit a light. The other of the sensing components is controlled by the width detecting module to sense intensity of the light. The width detecting module detects a distance between the sensing components according to the sensed intensity of the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Kuo-Hsien Lu, Yu-Yen Chen
  • Patent number: 10596630
    Abstract: Provided is a three-dimensional deposition device which forms a three-dimensional object by depositing a formed layer on a base unit, comprising: a powder supply unit which supplies a powder material; a light irradiation unit which irradiates the powder material with a light beam and forms a formed layer by sintering or melting and solidifying at least a part of the powder material irradiated with the light beam; a machining unit which includes a tool and performs a machining operation on the formed layer by the tool; and a controller which serves as a control device controlling an operation of at least one of the powder supply unit, the light irradiation unit, and the machining unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Hitoshi Yoshimura, Yoshiharu Ozawa
  • Patent number: 10586095
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method to image a probe array is described that includes focusing on a plurality of fiducials on a surface of an array. The method utilizes obtaining the best z position of the fiducials and using a surface fitting algorithm to produce a surface fit profile. One or more surface non-flatness parameters can be adjusted to improve the flatness image of the array surface to be imaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: Affymetrix, Inc.
    Inventors: David Stern, Chuan Gao, Melvin Yamamoto, Devin Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10522963
    Abstract: A method of laser processing a workpiece includes: focusing a pulsed laser beam into a laser beam focal line directed into the workpiece such that the laser beam focal line generates an induced absorption and produces a defect line along the laser beam focal line within the workpiece. The laser beam focal line has length L and a substantially uniform intensity profile such that the peak intensity distribution over at least 85% of the length L of the focal line does not vary by more 40%, and in some embodiments by no more than 30 or 20% from its mean peak intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Lovell Eglin Comstock, II, Jaques Gollier, Thien An Thi Nguyen, Garrett Andrew Piech, Mark Ranney Westcott
  • Patent number: 10504006
    Abstract: A method of classifying substrates with a metrology tool is herein disclosed. The method begins by training a deep learning framework using convolutional neural networks with a training dataset for classifying image dataset. Obtaining a new image from the meteorology tool. Running the new image through the deep learning framework to classify the new image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Sreekar Bhaviripudi, Shreekant Gayaka
  • Patent number: 10470511
    Abstract: Software and lasers are used in finishing apparel to produce a desired wear pattern or other design. A technique includes determining a fabric's response to a laser, capturing an initial image of a wear pattern on a garment, and processing the initial image to obtain a working image in grayscale. The working image is further processed to obtain a difference image by comparing each pixel relative to a dark reference. The difference image is converted to a laser values image by using the previously determined fabric response to the laser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: Levi Strauss & Co.
    Inventors: Jennifer Schultz, James Barton Sights, Christopher Schultz
  • Patent number: 10406634
    Abstract: A ceramic material, such as sapphire, is irradiated using a laser-based process to form a cut. In some implementations, a region of the ceramic material adjacent to the cut may be heated. The region may be removed to form an edge feature. In various implementations, the region of the ceramic material adjacent to the cut may be shielded from an outer portion of a laser beam used in the laser-based process using a shield, such as a polyethylene film. This removal and/or shielding operations may improve the mechanical strength of the ceramic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: APPLE INC.
    Inventors: Michael M. Li, Palaniappan Chinnakaruppan, Yulei Sun, Phillip W. Hum, Marwan Rammah
  • Patent number: 10303922
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method to image a probe array is described that includes focusing on a plurality of fiducials on a surface of an array. The method utilizes obtaining the best z position of the fiducials and using a surface fitting algorithm to produce a surface fit profile. One or more surface non-flatness parameters can be adjusted to improve the flatness image of the array surface to be imaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Affymetrix, Inc.
    Inventors: David Stern, Chuan Gao, Melvin Yamamoto, Devin Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10173324
    Abstract: Robot positioning is facilitated by obtaining, for each time of a first sampling schedule, a respective indication of a pose of a camera system of a robot relative to a reference coordinate frame, the respective indication of the pose of the camera system being based on a comparison of multiple three-dimensional images of a scene of an environment, the obtaining providing a plurality of indications of poses of the camera system; obtaining, for each time of a second sampling schedule, a respective indication of a pose of the robot, the obtaining providing a plurality of indications of poses of the robot; and determining, using the plurality of indications of poses of the camera system and the plurality of indications of poses of the robot, an indication of the reference coordinate frame and an indication of a reference point of the camera system relative to pose of the robot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Jianjun Wang, Biao Zhang, Carlos Martinez, Carlos Winsor Morato, Remus Boca
  • Patent number: 10086471
    Abstract: A laser processing unit includes a workpiece loading station. A laser workstation includes a laser robot operable to perform a laser operation on a workpiece. A track extends from the loading station through the workstation. A first stationary wall section separates the workstation from the loading station at a proximal side of the workstation. A second stationary wall section is offset from the first stationary wall section at a distal side. A first movable wall section forms a laser light-tight seal with the first stationary wall section. A second movable wall section forms a laser light-tight seal with the second stationary wall section. A shuttle is operable to move along the track to deliver the workpiece from the loading station to the workstation. The movable wall sections are supported by the shuttle and move concurrently with the shuttle and the workpiece, as the workpiece is delivered to the workstation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.
    Inventor: Brian Mabee
  • Patent number: 10052712
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing and measuring the geometry of at least a part of a component, and a method of manufacturing a component, both include providing a powder layer to a melt region; selectively melting the powder layer using an energy source, the melted powder subsequently solidifying to form a solid layer; scanning the melt region, including the solid layer, using a scanning electron beam; detecting backscattered electrons resulting from the interaction of the scanning electron beam with the melt region; determining the geometry of the solid layer from the detected backscattered electrons; and storing data relating to the determined geometry of the solid layer. The methods may also include adjusting parameters of the steps of providing a powder layer and/or selectively melting the powder layer to avoid future recurring errors, or generating a virtual 3-D model of the manufactured component, using the stored data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Michael Lewis Blackmore
  • Patent number: 10046412
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a component includes providing a powder layer; scanning the powder layer using an electron beam; detecting back scattered electrons produced by the interaction of the electron beam with the powder layer; identifying, from the detected back scattered electrons, any defects in the powder layer; selectively melting at least a part of the powder layer so as to generate a solid layer; and repeating these steps at least once so as to build up a shape corresponding to the component. The method may also includes steps of making a decision about whether to remove any identified defects in the powder layer, and adjusting one or more parameters of the step of providing a powder and/or adjusting one or more parameters of the selective melting step so as to avoid future recurring defects at that position based on stored data relating to the scanned powder layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Michael Lewis Blackmore
  • Patent number: 9987769
    Abstract: A mold capable of inhibiting supercooling is provided. The mold includes a cooling channel formed therein and has a recess formed in a cavity surface, and a heat-insulating barrier formed between the cooling channel and a bottom surface of the recess formed in the cavity surface. The heat-insulating barrier includes a space formed between the cooling channel and the bottom surface of the recess formed in the cavity surface. The space is filled with a medium (for example, air) having a thermal conductivity lower than that of other portions of the mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Naoaki Sugiura
  • Patent number: 9823644
    Abstract: A numerical control device includes: a switching unit switching between a first processing mode in which a position command for an amplifier is generated by performing interpolation process and acceleration/deceleration process on a program command in a machining program, and a second processing mode in which a position command every intra-amplifier control cycle for the amplifier is generated by performing acceleration/deceleration process on a command generated every intra-amplifier control cycle, which is a control cycle in the amplifier; a normal analysis unit extracting movement data on a machine tool by analyzing the program command when operating in the first processing mode; an interpolation processing unit obtaining first interpolated data by performing the interpolation process on the movement data when operating in the first processing mode; and a fast analysis unit extracting interpolated movement data as second interpolated data by analyzing the program command when operating in the second proces
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yuya Kado, Masaki Ryu
  • Patent number: 9822956
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for calibrating equipment, such as a lighting fixture. A kinematic model of the lighting fixture is obtained. Test points, which include a pair of a corresponding control signal and an output are collected. These can be collected using a tracking system. The test points are then used to update the kinematic model of the lighting fixture. The process of updating the kinematic model can include the use of a Kalman filter. The calibration is then verified and may be re-calibrated. These methods can also be used to calibrate other equipment, for example, lasers, light projectors showing media content, audio speaker, microphones, cameras, and projectile equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: CAST Group of Companies Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Eichel
  • Patent number: 9752988
    Abstract: A microstructure detector and in-situ method for real-time determination of the microstructure of a material undergoing alloying or other phase transformation. The method carried out by the detector includes the steps of: (a) detecting light emitted from a plasma plume created during phase transformation of a material; (b) determining at least some of the spectral content of the detected light; and (c) determining an expected microstructure of the transformed material from the determined spectral content. Closed loop control of the phase transformation process can be carried out using feedback from the detector to achieve a desired microstructure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Michigan
    Inventors: Jyotirmoy Mazumder, Lijun Song, Cunshan Wang
  • Patent number: 9508192
    Abstract: The invention provides the image processing device that can shorten a time required for setting a parameter. The invention provides the image processing device that searches an input image for a feature amount based on a feature amount included in a model image. The image processing device includes: the hardware for holding a feature amount of a feature portion of the model image; the search-range reception module for receiving a setting value indicating a size of a range of searching the input image for a feature amount corresponding to the feature amount of the model image; the search-range determination module for determining, by using the setting value, a range of searching the input image for a feature amount corresponding to a feature amount of the model image; and the display module, in superposition with the model image, a search range determined by the search-range determination module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: OMRON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Minato, Yuhki Akatsuka
  • Patent number: 9293706
    Abstract: Methods for encapsulating OLED structures disposed on a substrate using a soft/polymer mask technique are provided. The soft/polymer mask technique can efficiently provide a simple and low cost OLED encapsulation method, as compared to convention hard mask patterning techniques. The soft/polymer mask technique can utilize a single polymer mask to complete the entire encapsulation process with low cost and without alignment issues present when using conventional metal masks. Rather than utilizing a soft/polymer mask, the encapsulation layers may be blanked deposited and then laser ablated such that no masks are utilized during the encapsulation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Dieter Haas, John M. White, Byung-sung Leo Kwak, Soo Young Choi, Jrjyan Jerry Chen, Jose Manuel Dieguez-Campo
  • Patent number: 9233433
    Abstract: A laser processing method of applying a laser beam to a workpiece having a plurality of members, thereby forming a laser processed groove on the workpiece. The laser processing method includes the steps of setting a plurality of processing conditions respectively corresponding to a plurality of different materials forming the plurality of members constituting the workpiece, detecting the wavelengths of plasma lights generated by applying the laser beam to the plurality of members constituting the workpiece, selecting any suitable one of the processing conditions corresponding to any one of the members corresponding to the wavelength of plasma lights detected above, and applying the laser beam under the processing condition selected above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: DISCO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroshi Morikazu
  • Patent number: 9174300
    Abstract: A method for layer-by-layer manufacturing of a three-dimensional work piece, including: (a) delivering a metallic feed material into a feed region; (b) emitting an electron beam; (c) translating the electron beam through a first predetermined raster pattern frame that includes: (i) a plurality of points within the feed region; and (ii) a plurality of points in a substrate region that is outside of the feed region; (d) monitoring a condition of the feed region or the substrate region for the occurrence of any deviation from a predetermined condition; (e) upon detecting of any deviation, translating the electron beam through at least one second predetermined raster pattern frame that maintains the melting beam power density level substantially the same, but alters the substrate beam power density level; and (f) repeating steps (a) through (e) at one or more second locations for building up layer-by-layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: SCIAKY, INC.
    Inventors: Scott Stecker, Phillip E. Wollenhaupt
  • Patent number: 9049754
    Abstract: A laser light display system that includes a plurality of laser heads, a router controller and a plurality of transmission cables is disclosed. The system includes control signal receivers associated with the laser heads and a laser controller that includes a relay, signal output ports, and a programmable logic controller for providing output signals for the control of the laser heads each which emit a single static and motionless beam of radiation of visible light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: X-LASER, LLC
    Inventor: Dan Goldsmith
  • Publication number: 20150127137
    Abstract: An automated material processing system is provided for processing a workpiece using a processing table. The system includes a replaceable component comprising at least one cutting head consumable, one or more radio frequency identification (RFID) signal devices disposed in or on the replaceable component, and at least one reader communicatively connected to the one or more signal devices. The one or more signal devices are encoded with information about the replaceable component and the reader is configured to sense the information encoded on the one or more signal devices. In addition, the system includes a computing device communicatively connected to the reader for (i) processing the information transmitted by the reader and (ii) configuring a set of operating parameters of the material processing system based on the sensed information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Aaron Brandt, E. Michael Shipulski
  • Publication number: 20150105899
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for laser assisted machining are provided, by utilizing a computer to develop interrelated heating and machining plans, from a variety of input data describing the material to be machined, the properties of lasers and pyrometers used for heating the material, and computer models of the machining arrangement, workpiece and final part to be produced. An iterative process continues until the machining and heating plans result in the cutting zone of the workpiece being maintained at a desired temperature with no obstruction in the line-of-sight of at least one laser and pyrometer throughout the machining process, while also maintaining the cutting tool at or below a desired maximum temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Applicant: BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Joseph S. Santner, Federico M. Sciammarella, Stefan Kyselica
  • Publication number: 20150066193
    Abstract: In a method for compensating step value of a processing product placed on a machining device using a computing device, a machining tool of the machining device is controlled to be moved to each benchmark point in sequence. Actual coordinate values of each benchmark point is calculated by a laser detection device of the machining device. The acquired actual coordinate values are fitted to be a benchmark plane. New coordinate values of each machining point in a machining program is acquired by rotating each of the machining points to the benchmark plane. The machining tool is controlled to move to each machining point according to the calculated new coordinate values and an actual z coordinate value of each machining point is acquired using the laser detection device. The step compensation value in Z-axis of the each machining point is calculated and transmitted to the machining device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: CHIH-KUANG CHANG, XIN-YUAN WU, LU YANG