Method and apparatus for laser cutting of multiple stacked metal worksheets
US5227606A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 1992 |
| Grant date | Jul 13, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 26, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2101/02
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for laser cutting of multiple stacked metal worksheets is disclosed wherein the tendency of the sheets to separate during the cutting operation is restrained. In one embodiment the laser head is pressed downwardly against the stacked worksheets which are supported on a ball-transfer work table. In other embodiments where it is not possible to press the laser head against the stacked worksheets because of the construction of the work table, the worksheets are coated with a viscous fluid so as to increase surface tension effects and thereby generate adhesive forces between adjacent sheets sufficient to resist the pressure of cutting assist gases which would otherwise cause separation of the sheets.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.