U.S. patent application number 13/828030 was filed with the patent office on 2013-12-19 for staggered laser-etch line graphic system, method and articles of manufacture.
This patent application is currently assigned to ECHELON LASER SYSTEMS, LP. The applicant listed for this patent is ECHELON LASER SYSTEMS, LP. Invention is credited to Darryl J. Costin, JR..
Application Number | 20130337238 13/828030 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42358525 |
Filed Date | 2013-12-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130337238 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Costin, JR.; Darryl J. |
December 19, 2013 |
STAGGERED LASER-ETCH LINE GRAPHIC SYSTEM, METHOD AND ARTICLES OF
MANUFACTURE
Abstract
A staggered laser-etch line graphic system, method, and articles
of manufacture are provided. One described method includes the
steps of laser engraving a first plurality of lines associated with
a first component section of a graphic on a surface of an article;
laser engraving a second plurality of lines associated with a
second component section of the graphic on the surface of the
article; and controlling said laser engraving of the first
plurality of lines and said laser engraving of second plurality of
lines to reduce the visual impact of a demarcation line separating
the first component section of the graphic and the second component
section of the graphic.
Inventors: |
Costin, JR.; Darryl J.;
(Avon, OH) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ECHELON LASER SYSTEMS, LP; |
|
|
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ECHELON LASER SYSTEMS, LP
West Chicago
IL
|
Family ID: |
42358525 |
Appl. No.: |
13/828030 |
Filed: |
March 14, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12768122 |
Apr 27, 2010 |
8460566 |
|
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13828030 |
|
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61172893 |
Apr 27, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
428/195.1 ;
425/150 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 428/24802 20150115;
Y10T 428/24479 20150115; B23K 26/355 20180801; B44C 1/228 20130101;
B23K 26/082 20151001; G05B 13/00 20130101; B23K 26/364
20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
428/195.1 ;
425/150 |
International
Class: |
G05B 13/00 20060101
G05B013/00 |
Claims
1-18. (canceled)
19. An article of manufacture having a laser etched graphic, said
article comprising: a first plurality of laser engraved lines
associated with a first component section of a graphic; a second
plurality of laser engraved lines associated with a second
component section sharing a border with said first component
section of said graphic; wherein the first plurality of lines and
the second plurality of lines are controlled to reduce the visual
impact of a demarcation line separating the first component section
and the second component section.
20. A system for laser engraving a graphic on a surface of an
article, comprising: a laser engraving apparatus for laser
engraving a graphic into a surface of an article, and a visual
impact controller in communication with the laser engraving
apparatus and configured to separate the graphic into at least
first and second component sections sharing a border, and further
configured to control the laser engraving apparatus by adjusting
the lengths of a first plurality of lines associated with the first
component section and a second plurality of lines associated with
the second component section to stagger the first plurality of
lines with the second plurality of lines across the border.
21. The system according to claim 20, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to adjust the lengths of the first
plurality of lines and the second plurality of lines up to 10%.
22. The system according to claim 20, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to adjust the lengths of the first
plurality of lines and the second plurality of lines up to 50%.
23. The system according to claim 20, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to randomize the lengths of the first and
second plurality of lines.
24. The system according to claim 20, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to adjust the line per inch density of the
first and second plurality of lines.
25. The system according to claim 20, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to control laser power.
26. The system according to claim 20, wherein the graphic is
greater in at least one dimension than the field size of a laser
engraving the first plurality of lines and the second plurality of
lines.
27. The system according to claim 20, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to control the laser engraving apparatus
to operate in a continuous print-on-the fly laser etching process
wherein the article is continuously moving and a laser beam etches
the graphic on the moving article.
28. The system according to claim 20, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to index the position of the laser
engraved first component section of the graphic prior to laser
engraving of the second component section of the graphic.
29. A system for laser engraving a graphic on a surface of an
article, comprising: a laser engraving apparatus for laser
engraving a graphic on a surface of an article, and a visual impact
controller in communication with the laser engraving apparatus and
configured to separate the graphic into at least a first component
section comprising a plurality of first lines having first
endpoints and a second component section comprising a plurality of
second lines having second endpoints that meet the first endpoints
at meeting points staggered on opposite sides of a border between
the first and second component sections.
30. A system according to claim 29, wherein the laser engraving
apparatus has a defined native field size that is less than at
least one dimension of the graphic.
31. A system according to claim 29, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to cause the laser engraving apparatus to
engrave the first component section before the second component
section.
32. A system according to claim 29, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to cause the laser engraving apparatus to
reduce the density of the first lines and second lines adjacent the
first and second endpoints.
33. A system according to claim 29, wherein the graphic comprises a
wood grain pattern.
34. A system for laser engraving a graphic on a surface of an
article, comprising: a laser engraving apparatus for laser
engraving a graphic on a surface of an article, and a visual impact
controller in communication with the laser engraving apparatus and
configured to separate the graphic into at least a first component
section comprising a plurality of first lines having staggered
first endpoints and a second component section comprising a
plurality of second lines having staggered second endpoints that
are spaced from the first endpoints.
35. A system according to claim 34, wherein the laser engraving
apparatus has a defined native field size that is less than at
least one dimension of the graphic.
36. A system according to claim 34, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to cause the laser engraving apparatus to
engrave the first component section before the second component
section.
37. A system according to claim 34, wherein the visual impact
controller is configured to cause the laser engraving apparatus to
reduce the density of the first lines and second lines adjacent the
first and second endpoints.
38. A system according to claim 34, wherein the graphic comprises a
wood grain pattern.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND CLAIM TO PRIORITY
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/172,893, entitled "Staggered
Laser-Etch Line Graphic System, Method and Articles of
Manufacture," and filed Apr. 27, 2009, the entirety of which is
incorporated herein and to which priority is claimed.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to laser engraving graphics
onto article surfaces, and more particularly to a staggered
laser-etch line graphic system, method, and articles of
manufacture.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Manufactured articles can present large or substantial
viewable surface areas. Often it is desirable to apply a graphic
design to one or more of these surface areas. Graphic designs
include ordered patterns, random non-patterns, discrete simple
graphic elements, complex graphical images and the like. Printing,
painting, and engraving are just a few examples of techniques that
may be employed to apply a graphic design to an article. Engraving
may involve carving, cutting, or etching the surface of the
assembly components to permanently remove surface area material of
the article. Laser etching is particularly useful for creating
graphic designs on the surface of an article. The graphic design
may be etched into the article surface during its manufacture. A
design may be applied after an article has been incorporated as a
component to another article or structure. Common articles having
substantial surface areas for applying a graphic design are boards,
doors, facings, floors, moldings, siding, fencing, railing, and
walls.
[0004] One of the difficulties associated with the laser etching of
a graphic design over a substantial surface area is that laser
etching equipment is typically not capable of etching a large
detailed graphic design in a single unitary application of the
whole graphic over the surface on an article. This difficulty is
particularly acute when the articles of manufacture are
mass-produced in a repeating process or a continuous process such
as an extrusion process. This can occur in the context of a
manufacturing assembly line process involving the continuous
repeated applications of a detailed graphic design in real-time.
This can be a high-speed process as occurs with articles having a
flat surface. Or a slower process involving the application of a
complex graphic design to a flat, curved or three-dimensional
surface of an article, such as in an indexing process of
manufacture performed on a continuous or batch basis. To some
extent the difficulties in applying a detailed or complex laser
etched graphic design can also occur in craft-based methods of
manufacturing.
[0005] To address this need, computerized laser etching methods
have been developed for laser marking a graphic design in smaller
sub-component sections of a multi-component assembly of the whole
graphic design. The graphic design is first partitioned into a
plurality of graphic design component sections. Each of the graphic
design sections is assigned to a corresponding component section of
the surface area divided into a plurality of components for
presenting the whole graphic design. The graphic design sections
are laser marked onto corresponding component sections of an
article's surface area. The graphic image may be no larger than the
field size of the laser, however.
[0006] A problem can arise in the context of joining the component
sections during the laser etching process to form a unitary image
of a whole graphic design, particularly for relatively large work
pieces that have a visible area exceeding the field size of the
laser. The location at which the component sections of the graphic
are joined is called the border or demarcation line, wherein the
laser etched lines from separate component sections of the whole
graphic meet together. Often this meeting point will involve a
slight gap or a slight overlap in the laser graphic lines
associated with separate but adjoining component sectional areas.
This problem typically arises in the application of joined graphic
designs as the meeting point will involve a visually perceptible
imperfection forming a notable demarcation line between the two
component sections of the graphic design when applied by laser
etching. The demarcation is a substantial problem as it detracts
from the overall aesthetic quality of the manufactured article.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] A first aspect of the invention provides a method for
reducing a visual impact of a demarcation line of a graphic, the
method comprising laser engraving a first plurality of lines
associated with a first component section of a graphic on a surface
of an article; laser engraving a second plurality of lines
associated with a second component section of the graphic on the
surface of the article; and controlling said first plurality of
lines and said second plurality of lines to reduce the visual
impact of a demarcation line separating the first component section
of the graphic and the second component section of the graphic.
[0008] Another aspect of the invention provides a method for laser
engraving a graphic on an article, the method comprising laser
engraving a graphic on a surface of an article, the graphic
comprised of a first plurality of lines and a second plurality of
lines adjoined in a curvilinear section.
[0009] Another aspect of the invention provides a method of making
an article of manufacture with a laser etched graphic applied on a
surface of the article in at least two component sections, sharing
at least one border, and forming a unitary image of the graphic on
the surface of the article, wherein such unitary image is greater
than the field size of a laser and where the method involves using
multiple lasers to etch the individual sections such that the
complete graphic is lazed on the part which is larger than the
field size of the laser.
[0010] Another aspect of the invention provides an article of
manufacture having a laser etched graphic, said article comprising
a first plurality of laser engraved lines associated with a first
component section of a graphic; a second plurality of laser
engraved lines associated with a second component section sharing a
border with said first component section of said graphic; wherein
the first plurality of lines and the second plurality of lines are
controlled to reduce the visual impact of a demarcation line
separating the first component section and the second component
section.
[0011] Another aspect of the invention provides a system for laser
engraving a graphic on a surface of an article, comprising a laser
engraving apparatus for laser engraving a surface of an article,
and a visual impact controller in communication with the laser
engraving apparatus and configured to reduce the visual impact of a
demarcation line separating a first plurality of laser engraved
lines and a second plurality of laser engraving lines by
controlling the laser engraving of the first plurality of laser
engraving lines and the second plurality of laser engraving
lines.
[0012] Another aspect of the invention provides a method for laser
engraving a graphic on an article, the method comprising providing
a laser having a defined native field size; formatting a graphic
having at least one dimension exceeding the defined native field
size into a plurality of portions which collectively define a unity
graphic image; providing a surface having a dimension exceeding the
native field size; and laser engraving the plurality of portions
onto the surface to reproduce the unitary graphic image onto the
surface.
[0013] Other aspects of the invention, including apparatus,
systems, methods, and the like which constitute part of the
invention, will become more apparent upon reading the following
detailed description of the exemplary embodiments and viewing the
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The accompanying drawings and color photos are incorporated
in and constitute part of the specification. The drawings, together
with the general description given above and the detailed
description of the exemplary embodiments and methods given below,
serve to explain the principles of the invention. In such
drawings:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for staggered laser etch
lines according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0017] FIG. 3A is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 3B is a schematic view of a system for scribing
staggered laser etch lines in a continuous "print-on-the-fly"
process according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 3C is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines where multiple lasers are utilized to create the graphic
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 3D is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines where the laser scan head is moved according to another
embodiment of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 3E is a schematic view of a system for surfacing making
an article with both a laser and a printer according to another
embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a printing station for
staggered laser etch lines according to another embodiment of the
invention;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a printer applying ink and
laser scribing to an article having a channel feature according to
another embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 6A is an illustration of non-staggered laser etch
lines;
[0025] FIG. 6B is an illustration of staggered laser etch lines
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 6C is an illustration of staggered laser etch lines
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a graphic image that is
composed of a series of discontinuous lines, as may be the case for
some low density wood grain images, in which case individual
graphic sections that make up the unitary graphic image may be
divided into two parts by an adjoining line that is
curvilinear;
[0028] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating a high visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 12 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 13 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 14 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0035] FIG. 15 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0036] FIG. 16 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0037] FIG. 17 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0038] FIG. 18 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0039] FIG. 19 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention;
[0040] FIG. 20 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention; and
[0041] FIG. 21 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)
[0042] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary
embodiments and methods of the invention as illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate
like or corresponding parts throughout the drawings. It should be
noted, however, that the invention in its broader aspects is not
limited to the specific details, representative devices and
methods, and illustrative examples shown and described in this
section in connection with the exemplary embodiments and methods.
The invention according to its various aspects is particularly
pointed out and distinctly claimed in the attached claims read in
view of this specification, and appropriate equivalents.
[0043] The terms "laser" and "laser beam" may be used
interchangeably. The terms "mark" and "scribe" are used
interchangeably herein, and as used mean to irradiate an article or
component, such as a board made of plastic lumber, with a laser to
form a graphic design, such as a wood grain image. In the course of
marking and scribing, the laser causes a visually perceptible
change to the article surface, such as by causing removal,
ablation, or etching of surface material or color transformation of
a dye. The result is a visually-perceptible graphic on the article,
made up of laser etch lines forming a design, pattern, etc.
[0044] The terms "graphic" and "graphic design" are used
interchangeably herein, and as used herein, refer to decorative and
artistic designs, non-decorative designs, patterns, graphic images,
wood grain, alpha-numeric characters, corporate and trade logos, or
other markings, etc.
[0045] The terms "lines per inch" and "LPI" refer to the density of
the graphic laser lines within a single inch perpendicular
cross-section length of the area to be laser etched. More
specifically, this relates to the number of graphic laser lines
etched within a perpendicular cross-length. These measures are
expressed in LPI amounts, such as the higher density 60 LPI or
lower density 40 LPI measures referring, respectively, to a laser
etching with 60 or 40 laser-etching lines within a perpendicular
cross-section having a width of one inch.
[0046] The term "border" or "border line", when used in reference
to the border formed between two graphic component sectional areas,
refers to the section or area formed or left between two component
sections of a laser engraved graphic. When a graphic is applied in
unmodified component sections (i.e., without staggering and/or
randomizing as described below), than the border may comprise a
highly visual straight line. The border between component sections
may or may not be modified to minimize any visual imperfections in
the application of the graphic design. An unmodified border in the
context of the invention will generally present a discrete straight
line between component sections, which if visually perceptible is
also a demarcation.
[0047] The term "demarcation" "line of demarcation", or
"demarcation line", when used in reference to the border formed
between two graphic component sections, refers to the visually
perceptible marking between the component sections in a graphic
design when applied in component sections by laser etching of laser
graphic lines without modification to the laser graphic lines in
the component sections to minimize or overcome the perceptibility
of the demarcation.
[0048] The terms "interlaced" or "staggering", when used in
reference to the staggering of graphic laser lines at the border
between two graphic component sectional areas, refers to the
percentage of overlap at the border of the laser graphic lines from
the two separate component sectional areas. For example,
"staggering" means that a graphic laser line from a first component
sectional area can extend across the straight border into the
second component sectional area. The term "10% staggering" means
the cross-border extension of the laser-etching line may vary,
randomly or otherwise, from 0 to 10% of the component section
length, when both the first and second component sectional areas
have equal dimensions of height and length. The staggering is
generally automated using a computer program or software
module.
[0049] The terms "randomized sub-unit length" or "randomization of
sub-unit length", when used in reference to graphic laser lines
forming a component sectional area of a design graphic, means the
randomized breaking-up or partitioning of the graphic laser etch
lines to randomized sub-unit lengths. These sub-unit lengths are
permutations of other depending on the number of sub-units into
which the whole graphic line is partitioned, and the degree of
variability in sub-unit lengths elected in the designated degree of
randomization chosen. The randomization is generally automated
using a random number generator or the like within a computer
program or software module.
[0050] The terms "staggered" or "staggering", when used in
reference to graphic laser-etched lines forming a component
sectional area of a design graphic, refers to the use of the
techniques of staggering, randomization or a combination of both
these techniques in the laser etching of graphic lines in the
component sections in order to minimize, overcome or remove the
perceptibility of visual imperfections in the component sections of
design graphic, such as a demarcation line between component
sections. The staggering is generally automated using a computer
program or software module.
[0051] The term "article" or "manufactured article" as used herein
includes but is not limited to building components. Building
components include, for example and not necessarily limitation,
flooring, decking, wall panels, door panels, door trim, siding,
cabinetry, railings, moldings, etc. For explanatory purposes,
exemplary embodiments below are described in relation to building
components. It should be understood that the methods and systems
described herein and the following exemplary embodiments may be
used for marking/scribing components other than building components
such as plastic components, textile fabrics, leather and vinyl
articles, etc.
[0052] The articles of manufacture according to the invention are
not limited as to the materials from which they are made. Exemplary
materials that may be laser-etched or otherwise marked or treated
using the systems and methods embodied herein include plastic
lumber, glass (tempered glass and/or annealed glass), stone,
ceramic, granite, leather, wood, engineered wood, laminates, metal,
specialty polymers, gypsum, fiberglass reinforced plastic, wood
composites, vinyl, acrylic, polyvinylchloride, hardboard, veneer,
low profile carpet tiles, fabrics, paper, etc.
[0053] U.S. Pat. No. 6,692,815 entitled "Extruded Plastic Lumber
and Method of Manufacture" discloses conventional plastic lumber
made with high-density polyethylene or polypropylene, combined with
wood flour and other fillers, and the methods of making the plastic
lumber. Another plastic lumber material is disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,539,027, entitled "Advanced Polymer/Wood Composite Structural
Member" disclosing another polymer-wood composite that may make up
the article for laser etching or other marking. This is a PVC
plastic lumber composite containing, for example, 30 to 50 wt % of
sawdust along with 50 to 70 wt % of a polyvinylchloride (PVC)
polymer.
[0054] Laser etching is the practice of using lasers to etch, mark
or decorate an object. The technique can be complex and a computer
system is desirable to drive the movements of the laser beam.
Despite this complexity, very precise and clean engravings can be
achieved at a high rate. The technique does not involve tool bits
which contact the engraving surface and wear out. This is
considered an advantage over alternative engraving technologies
where bit heads have to be replaced regularly. A laser etching
machine can be thought of as three main parts: a laser, a
controller, and a surface. The laser is like a pencil--the beam
emitted from it allows the controller to trace lines or patterns
onto the surface. The beam may either remove material from the
substrate upon which it impinges or it may transform a dye that
coats the surface or is intermixed into the substrate. The result
is either a removal of material or a color transformation or both,
with the result that the graphic is applied to the surface. The
controller is usually a computer and controls the direction,
intensity, speed of movement, and spread of the laser beam aimed at
the surface. The surface is picked to match what the laser can act
on.
[0055] There are three general types of laser etching machines. In
an X-Y table, usually, the workpiece surface is stationary and the
laser or laser scan head moves around in X and Y directions drawing
raster bits or vector lines. In a second general type, the laser is
stationary and the workpiece moves. Sometimes the workpiece moves
in the Y axis and the laser in the X axis. A third type of type of
laser etching machine is for three-dimensional workpieces where the
laser traverses a three-dimensional surface, such as in an indexed
manufacturing operation, and laser pulsing produces the desired
image, generally on a raster or vector basis. In this third type of
machine, both the laser and workpiece are stationary and
galvanometer (galvo) mirrors move the laser beam over the workpiece
surface. Laser etching machines according to these general types
are available commercially from LasX Industries, Inc.
[0056] The point where the laser touches the surface is typically
the focal plane of the laser's optical system, and is usually
synonymous with its focal point. This point is typically small,
perhaps less than a fraction of a millimeter, and dependent upon
the optics and field size of the laser. The area inside this focal
point and often immediately surrounding this focal point (referred
to as the heat affected zone) is significantly affected when the
laser beam passes over the surface. The energy delivered by the
laser changes the surface of the material under the focal point. It
may heat up the surface and subsequently vaporize the material, or
perhaps the material may fracture (known as "glass" or "glass up")
and flake off the surface. This is how material is removed from the
surface to create an etching. If the surface material is vaporized
during laser etching, ventilation through the use of blowers or a
vacuum pump are often used to remove the noxious fumes and smoke
arising from the process and for removal of debris on the surface
to allow the laser to continue etching. A laser can remove material
very efficiently because the laser beam can be designed to deliver
energy to the surface in a manner which converts a high percentage
of the light energy into heat. The beam is highly focused and
collimated--in most non-reflective materials like wood, plastics
and enamel surfaces, the conversion of light energy to heat is
substantial. However, the equipment used in laser engraving may
heat up rather quickly. Cooling systems are often used with the
laser. Alternatively, the laser beam may be pulsed to decrease the
amount of excessive heating. The laser scan speed determines
throughput of the process or the rate at which the substrates such
as building components are lazed with the desired graphic.
[0057] Different patterns can be etched by programming the
controller to traverse a particular path for the laser beam over
time. The trace of the laser beam is carefully regulated to achieve
a desired removal depth of material. For example, crisscrossed
paths are generally avoided to ensure that each etched surface is
exposed to the laser only once, and so the same amount of material
is removed. The speed at which the beam moves across the material
is also considered in creating etching patterns. Changing the
intensity and spread of the beam allows more flexibility in the
design. For example, by changing the proportion of time (known as
"duty-cycle") the laser is turned on during each pulse, the power
delivered to the etching surface can be controlled appropriately
for the material. Changing the power on the fly or the duty cycle
on the fly allows for the creation of unique designs where the
intensity of the graphic can change along each laser etched line as
well as along individual sections of the graphic.
[0058] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for staggered laser etch
lines according to an embodiment of the invention. Articles that
may be subject to marking according to the present invention
include synthetic building components intended to replicate natural
wood. Especially contemplated are exterior entry doors and interior
passage doors, decks and deck components, siding, paneling,
furniture components, etc., whether of solid construction or
so-called hollow core doors constructed from a peripheral door
frame with opposite door skins. Peripheral door frames include
stiles and rails which define the sides and top and bottom of the
door. A pair of door skins have interior surfaces secured to
opposite sides of the peripheral door frame via bonding, mechanical
fasteners, etc., and opposite exterior surfaces. As known in the
art, hollow core doors may include additional support members
and/or core materials (e.g., foam) disposed between the skins.
[0059] Other building components that may be subject to the
exemplary methods and systems described herein include furniture
and cabinet doors, closet and bifold doors, door trim, window
frames, furniture elements, cabinetry, picture frames, tables,
molded wall paneling, wainscot, decking, wall panels, siding,
railings, window trim, architectural trim, flooring, etc. For
explanatory purposes, exemplary embodiments below are described in
relation to building components, in particular door structures. It
should be understood that the methods and systems described herein
may be used for marking other building component and articles other
than building components.
[0060] The exemplary embodiments and methods described herein are
particularly intended for use with engineered composite materials
such as medium density fiberboard (MDF) and high density hardboard.
Engineered composite materials generally contain cellulosic fibers
or other particles, often broken down in a defibrator, and a resin
and optionally wax, which are compressed at high temperatures and
pressures. The cellulosic fibers/particles often constitute more
than 90 weight percent of the material. The cellulosic component
typically but not necessarily is wood fiber. The binding resin is
typically a thermoset. An example of an engineered composite
material is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,344,484. Examples of other
materials that may be treated using the systems and methods
embodied herein include fiberglass-reinforced sheet molding
compound (SMC) polyesters, paints and basecoats on substrates,
polymer sheets, veneers, papers, and natural materials, e.g.
wood.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 1, the method 100 begins with laser
engraving a first plurality of lines associated with a first
component section of a graphic 102. A laser engraved graphic
typically consists of multiple lines laser etched on a surface.
Together, in aggregate, the plurality of etched lines can reproduce
the overall appearance, or effect, of the graphic.
[0062] Next, the method 100 continues with laser engraving a second
plurality of lines associated with a second component section of a
graphic 104. A graphic may be divided into two or more component
sections. For example, in order to etch a graphic greater in at
least one dimension than the field size of a laser, than multiple
component sections can be used to etch the graphic on the surface
of an article. One or more lasers may laser engrave the first
plurality of lines and/or the second plurality of lines.
[0063] Various techniques may be used to align the multiple
component sections to provide a high quality image. In one
embodiment, after a first section of the graphic is laser engraved,
a position of the laser engraved first section is indexed, and the
second section of the graphic is laser engraved beginning at the
indexed position. In another embodiment, after a first component
section of the graphic is laser engraved, the laser scanning head
is moved to a location adjacent to the laser engraved first
component section,
[0064] Finally, the method 100 concludes by controlling said laser
engraving of the first plurality of lines and said laser engraving
of second plurality of lines to reduce the visual impact of a
demarcation line separating the first component section of the
graphic and the second component section of the graphic 106.
[0065] The laser engraving of the first plurality of lines and the
laser engraving of the second plurality of lines can be controlled
in one or a combination of ways to reduce the visual impact of the
demarcation line. In one embodiment, controlling comprises
staggering said first plurality of lines with said second plurality
of lines by adjusting the lengths of said first plurality of lines
and said second plurality of lines. By staggering the first
component section and the second component section, the demarcation
line can take on a more curvilinear shape, as opposed to the
straight line of a non-staggered application of the graphic. A more
curvilinear demarcation line may reduce the visual impact of the
demarcation line, and thus creating a higher quality product.
[0066] Controlling the laser engraving of the first plurality of
lines and the laser engraving of the second plurality of lines can
also include randomizing the laser engraving of at least one of
said first plurality of lines and said second plurality of lines by
partitioning said lines into a random number of random length
sub-unit lengths, controlling the line per inch density of said
first plurality of lines and said second plurality of lines, and/or
controlling the laser power of the laser engraving of the first
plurality of lines and the second plurality of lines.
[0067] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention. As
shown in FIG. 2, the system 200 is configured to laser etch
graphics onto a surface. The system 200 comprises a controller 202
in communication with the laser 204 and gas tank 208.
[0068] The laser 204 generates a laser beam 206. The laser beam 206
output from the laser 204 may be adjusted from 500 watts up to
2,500 watts or more. The laser beam 206 may be directed and/or
manipulated by x-axis mirror 218 and/or y-axis minor 220. An x-axis
galvanometer 210 is in communication with x-axis mirror 218, and
can rotate x-axis mirror 218 in the direction of 214 to direct the
laser beam 206 along the x-axis. As the x-axis mirror 218 is
rotated, laser beam 206 may be directed along the x-axis.
Similarly, a y-axis galvanometer 212 is in communication with the
y-axis mirror 220, and can rotate y-axis mirror 220 to further
direct laser beam 206. As the y-axis mirror 220 is rotated, laser
beam 206 may be directed along the y-axis. The controller 202 can
be configured to control the x-axis galvanometer 210 and the y-axis
galvanometer 212 by manipulating the power provided to each
galvanometer 210, 212.
[0069] After the laser beam 206 is directed by the x-axis minor 218
and the y-axis mirror 220, the laser beam 206 travels through a
focusing lens 222. The focusing lens can be configured to focus the
laser beam 206 into a directed laser beam 224 onto a surface 230 of
a workpiece 228. The focusing lens 222 may be a multi-spot on a
flat plane as the laser beam 206 moves across the workpiece 228 to
scribe a graphic. One or more of the focusing lens 222, x-axis
galvanometer 210, y-axis galvanometer 212, x-axis minor 218 and/or
y-axis mirror 220 can be housed in a galvanometer block (not
shown).
[0070] The system 200 further comprises a working surface 226.
Working surface 226 may comprise a solid substrate such as a table,
or even a fluidized bed. One or more workpieces 228 to be laser
etched are placed on the working surface 226. The workpiece 228
includes a surface 230 for laser-etching and/or printing.
[0071] The position of the workpiece 228 and the surface of the
workpiece 230 may be adjusted in a variety of ways. The working
surface 226 may move vertically to adjust the distance from the
focusing lens 222 to the workpiece surface 230. The working surface
226 may comprise a conveyer belt capable of horizontal
movement.
[0072] As the x-axis mirror 218 and the y-axis mirror 220 move, or
rotate, the focused laser beam 224 is directed across the surface
230 of the workpiece. In some embodiments, the focused laser beam
224 hits the surface 230 of the workpiece 228 at a perpendicular,
i.e. 90.degree. angle. Variations in the laser-markings on the
surface 230 may be achieved by adjusting the angle of incidence of
the focused laser beam 224 on the surface 230, such as between
angles of about 45.degree. to about 135.degree..
[0073] As the focused laser beam 224 contacts and moves about the
surface 230 of the workpiece, a graphic 232 is laser-etched onto
the surface 230. The movements and timing of the mirrors 218, 220
and the power of the laser beam 206 can be controlled by the
control computer 202 to laser-etch a specific graphic 232. As
referred to herein, relative movement may involve movement of the
focused laser beam 224 (e.g., using the mirror system) as the
workpiece 228 remains stationary, movement of the workpiece 228
while the directed laser beam 224 remains stationary, or a
combination of simultaneous movement of the laser beam 224 and the
workpiece 228 in different directions and/or at different
speeds.
[0074] The control computer 202 and/or a second computer (not shown
in FIG. 2) may be used to form a desired graphic. For example, a
graphic can be scanned into a second computer, converted into the
proper format, and then communicated to the control computer 202.
The control computer then controls the galvanometers 210, 212,
mirrors 218, 220, and the power output of the laser 206 to form the
graphic 232 on the surface 230 of the workpiece 228.
[0075] The system 200 can also include a tank 208 to inject a gas
such as an inert gas into the working zone. The amount of gas can
be controlled by the numerical control computer or by other means.
The power and speeds should be controlled to effect the desired
color change while avoiding undesirably consequences of
over-treatment, such as complete carbonization, burn-through and/or
melting of the workpiece 228.
[0076] Computer hardware and software for carrying out the
embodiments of the invention described herein may be any kind,
e.g., either general purpose, or some specific purpose such as a
workstation. The computer may be a Pentium.RTM. or higher class
computer, running an operating system such as Windows XP.RTM.,
Windows Vista.RTM., or Linux.RTM., or may be a Macintosh.RTM.
computer. The computer may also be a portable or mobile computer,
such as a PDA, cell phone, or laptop. The programs may be written
in source code, C, C plus, Java or any other programming language.
The programs may be resident on a storage medium, e.g., magnetic or
optical, of, e.g., the computer hard drive, a removable disk or
media such as a memory stick or SD media, or other removable
medium. The programs may also be run over a network, for example,
with a server or other machine sending signals to one or more local
machines, which allows the local machine(s) to carry out the
operations described herein.
[0077] In the course of marking and scribing, the laser beam 224
applies heat to the plastic composite working surface of the
substrate, thereby causing a visually perceptible change to the
substrate surface, such as by causing removal, ablation, or etching
of a coating of the substrate, removal, ablation or etching of
substrate material, transformation of a dye such as by dye removal
or alteration of the color of the dye, etc. The result is a
visually-perceptible graphic marking on or in the substrate. The
term graphic refers to decorative and artistic designs,
non-decorative designs, patterns, graphic images, simulated wood
grain, alpha-numeric characters, logos, other markings, etc. It
should be understood that the methods and systems described herein
may be used for marking/scribing materials other than plastic
lumber or other building materials.
[0078] It should be understood that the present invention may be
carried out using various other laser systems having alternative
layouts and components to those shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, or as
otherwise generally described above. The laser scanning system
configuration can be pre-objective architecture where the laser
beam is reflected from two scan mirrors and then directed through a
focusing lens. Alternately, the laser scanning system architecture
can be post-objective where the laser beam is first passed through
the focusing lens and then reflected from the scan mirrors onto the
work piece. Any number of optics and lenses can be introduced into
either architecture. Examples of other such laser systems are
disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0108170,
to Costin et al.
[0079] Other embodiments of the invention combine ink-jet printing
with laser scribing. In certain exemplary embodiments of the
invention a method is provided for marking the surface of an
article in which a first graphic design element is laser scribed
into the article surface, and a second graphic design element is
printed on the surface of the article. The first and second graphic
design elements are applied to the article surface in registry with
one another so that the overall graphic design is a cooperative
interaction between the lased and printed elements. Spatially,
registering the first and second graphic elements may involve their
superimposition or juxtaposition on the article surface using, for
example, predetermined coordinates. Aesthetically, the lased and
printed graphic design elements produce a synergistic effect that
in exemplary embodiments is manifested as a high quality simulation
of natural materials that could not be attained by either laser
marking or printing without the other. In certain exemplary
embodiments the first and second graphic design elements may also
produce a textural contrast as discussed below. Laser scribing and
printing may be conducted in any order or simultaneously, although
preferably the substrate is lazed first and ink-jet printed
second.
[0080] FIG. 3A is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention.
Articles according to the invention may be marked using a
high-speed high power laser system 300 such as shown in FIG. 3A.
The laser 304 may be a high power laser, such as a CO.sub.2 laser
of at least 500 watts and up to 2500 watts or more. The output 306
of the laser 304 is coupled to a laser scanning head 308. The laser
scanning head 308 includes a relatively light weight coated mirror
that is capable receiving the output 306 generated by the laser 304
and generating a directed laser beam 324 at a relatively high
speed. The directed laser output 324 can be scanned across the work
piece 330 on working surface 326. The workpiece 330 may comprise a
plastic lumber building component or some other material.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 3A, the system 300a includes a controller
302. The controller 302 may store control information for
controlling the laser before, during, and/or after the laser
engraving process. The control information may be linked to one or
many different graphics, such as a wood grain pattern, or a floral
pattern 332. The controller 302 is capable of keeping up with the
high scan speeds of the laser scanning head 308 produced by the
lightweight mirrors and able to make the necessary power changes at
the specified speed. To create fine resolution graphics, the
controller 302 can make such power changes at high rates, such as
10,000 to 50,000 power changes per second. The type (e.g.,
complexity and intricacy) and depth of the graphic will also
influence how it is scribed on the substrate.
[0082] FIG. 3B is a schematic view of a system for scribing
staggered laser etch lines in a continuous "print-on-the-fly"
process according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown
in FIG. 3B, the system 300b comprises a conveyer apparatus 338. The
conveyer apparatus 338 can move, or convey the work piece 330 under
the directed laser 324. The speed of the conveyor apparatus 338 may
be fixed, or predetermined. Or, the controller 302 may continuously
set and maintain the proper speed of the conveyer apparatus to
assure accurate registration of the component sections that
collectively comprise the graphic being applied. In one embodiment,
the conveyor apparatus 338 is a roller based table where the
workpiece is pulled along the conveyor by means of a nip roll
system.
[0083] FIG. 3C is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines where multiple lasers are utilized to create the graphic
according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG.
3C, the system 300c comprises a plurality of lasers 304a, 304b. One
or more laser controllers 302 (not shown in FIG. 3C) may control
the plurality of lasers 304a, 304b. A plurality of laser scanning
heads 308a, 308b are in communication with the plurality of lasers
304a, 304b, and laser engrave graphics onto the article 330 by
generating directed laser beams 324a, 324b. While each laser 304a,
304b may have its own controller, a single master controller may
control all lasers 304a, 304b, or control individual controllers.
By using multiple lasers, each laser 304a, 304b may apply a
component section, or portion, of the graphic. In order to assure a
unitary, uniform composite image, each component section may be in
registration.
[0084] FIG. 3D is a schematic view of a system for staggered laser
etch lines where the laser scan head is moved according to another
embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 3D, the system 300d
comprises laser scanning head 308 operably connected to a first
track 340a and a second track 340b. The laser scanning head 308 can
move along the tracks 340a, 340b so that the work piece 330 may
remain stationary on the support apparatus 326. The laser scanning
head 308 may be carried on a rail, track, robot arm or similar
system to allow the laser scan head 308 to move along the work
piece 330 as it applies the graphic in portions onto the work
piece. A plurality of component sections of the graphic applied by
the laser scanning head 308 may be in registration to assure a
unitary and uniform graphic applied to the work piece.
[0085] It should be understood that the present invention may be
carried out using various other laser systems having alternative
layouts and components to those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3A-3E, or as
otherwise generally described above. It should be understood that
methods of the present invention may be carried out using various
other laser systems, such as the laser system disclosed in U.S.
Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0108170, to Costin et
al.
[0086] Other embodiments of the invention may combine ink-jet
printing with laser scribing. In certain exemplary embodiments of
the invention a method is provided for marking the surface of an
article in which a first graphic design element is laser scribed
into the article surface, and a second graphic design element is
printed on the surface of the article. The first and second graphic
design elements are applied to the article surface in registry with
one another so that the overall graphic design is a cooperative
interaction between the lased and printed elements. Spatially,
registering the first and second graphic elements may involve their
superimposition or juxtaposition on the article surface using, for
example, predetermined coordinates. Aesthetically, the lased and
printed graphic design elements produce a synergistic effect that
in exemplary embodiments is manifested as a high quality simulation
of natural materials that could not be attained by either laser
marking or printing without the other. In certain exemplary
embodiments the first and second graphic design elements may also
produce a textural contrast as discussed below. Laser scribing and
printing may be conducted in any order or simultaneously, although
preferably the substrate first is lazed and then ink jet
printed.
[0087] A system for laser scribing and ink printing graphic design
on articles such as building components using a high-speed high
power laser and ink jet printer is shown in FIGS. 3E, 4, and 5. It
should be understood that the elements of the system described
below are exemplary and are not necessarily intended to be limiting
on the scope of the invention. Other systems and apparatus may be
substituted for those described below, and the system and apparatus
described below may be modified as dictated by the nature of the
graphic pattern and the article.
[0088] FIG. 3E is a schematic view of a system for surfacing making
an article with both a laser and a printer according to another
embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 3E, a system 300e
comprises a work station computer 350. The work station computer
350 may be accessed by an operator, and receive input specifying
one or more parameters related to a graphic to be laser engraved on
an article. For example, a user may specify a specific graphic to
be laser engraved on the surface of the article, along with a speed
and a quality level. The work station computer 350 is in operative
communication with the controller 302 and a printer controller 352.
The controller 302 is in communication with the laser 304 and the
laser scanning head 308 to direct the output of the laser 306. The
printer controller 352 communicates with an ink-jet printing
apparatus 354.
[0089] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a printing station for
staggered laser etch lines according to another embodiment of the
invention. As shown in FIG. 4, the system 400 comprises a printing
station 402. The printing station 402 includes an ink-jet printer
404 with at least one ink jet print head 406. The ink-jet print
head 406 is mounted for horizontal movement in the direction of
arrow 408, which is perpendicular to the direction of movement of
the article 430 on the working surface 426, indicated by arrow 410.
The ink jet print head 406 may move in the direction 408 across the
entire width of the door structure 430. The printer 402 may be a
flat bed printer, such as available through Inca Digital Printers
Limited of Cambridge, United Kingdom.
[0090] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a printer applying ink and
laser scribing to an article having a channel feature according to
another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 5, a printer
500 is configured to print on a surface of an article 514. The
printer 500 may include a rail 502 for supporting the print head
504. The rail 502 provides for lateral movement of the print head
504 under the control of the print controller 506. The print head
504 is shown with a UV curing lamp 508 for drying and curing the
ink jet ink. Alternatively, a separate curing station (not shown)
may be provided. Ink jet ink droplets 510 are emitted from one or
more nozzles 512 of the print head 504.
[0091] It should be understood that the printer 500 may include
multiple print heads 506 arranged in rows or arrays, so that each
pass may effective print in more than one set of print grid
positions. The nozzles 510 may emit droplets 510 of various desired
colors in order to create a desired color. While the printing
apparatus 500 described above is an ink jet printer, it should be
understood that other printer types, such as laser printers, may be
used.
[0092] An object of the invention is to reduce or eliminate the
visual impact, i.e. visual perceptibility, of a demarcation line at
the border between two adjoining component sections of a graphic
which is laser engraved onto the surface of an article. This object
is accomplished by controlling the laser engraving of the adjoining
component sections, such as by staggering and/or randomizing the
laser engraved lines associated with the two component sections.
Staggering occurs at the border between the two component sections.
Randomization of laser etched line sub-length occurs within each
individual laser etched line in a component section within which it
occurs. The concept can incorporate both staggering and the
randomizing of the sub-lengths of the laser etch lines from one or
both component sections with those from an adjoining component
section.
[0093] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C provide a simplified representation of
the concepts of randomizing and staggering according to the
invention. FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C all illustrate a graphic made by
laser-engraving a substrate or an article surface. In each of FIGS.
6A, 6B, and 6C, two component sections are shown, with a first
component section 602a, 602b, 602c and a second component section
604a, 604b, 604c. Each component section of the FIGS. 6A-6C share a
border represented by lines E. In each component section there are
four laser engraved lines from top to bottom. Each first component
section comprises laser engraved lines L601, L602, L603 and L604.
Each second component section comprises laser engraved lines L611,
L612, L613, and L614. Each laser engraved line has an endpoint, E,
where a laser engraved line from either component sections meets
the corresponding laser engraved line of the other component
section at the border.
[0094] FIG. 6A is an illustration of non-staggered laser etch lines
according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 6A, a
graphic comprises a first component section 602a and a second
component section 604a. The first component section 602a comprises
a first plurality of laser engraved lines L601A-L604a. The second
component section 604a comprises a second plurality of laser
engraved lines L611a-L614a. Neither the lengths of the first
plurality of lines L601a-604a or the lengths of the second
plurality of lines L611a-L614a have been adjusted. Accordingly, the
endpoints E of each laser engraved line up in a straight
demarcation line, or border.
[0095] Conventional methods of laser engraving a graphic 600a do
not stagger laser engraved lines, and result in a highly
perceptible demarcation line, i.e. a demarcation line with a high
visual impact. Consumers examining articles produced by laser
engraving graphics with no staggering may immediately spot the line
of demarcation, even from a distance, due to its high visual
impact.
[0096] FIG. 6B is an illustration of staggered laser etch lines
according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG.
6B, the graphic 600b comprises a first component section 602b and a
second component section 604b. The first plurality of lines
L601b-L604b and the second plurality of lines L611b-L614b are
staggered, as illustrated by the shifting border lines E. The
staggering shown in FIG. 6B may represent a low amount of
staggering, i.e. adjusting the lengths of each of the plurality of
laser engraved lines up to 10%.
[0097] At the low staggering illustrated in FIG. 6B, the individual
laser engraved lines join at staggered locations, i.e. in a
curvilinear line. Because of the staggered lengths and the
resulting curvilinear demarcation line, the visual impact of the
demarcation line is reduced compared to the visual impact of the
demarcation line of a non-staggered graphic such as 600a. The
demarcation at the borders between each laser engraved line is less
obvious, or perceptible, because the demarcation is dispersed.
[0098] FIG. 6C is an illustration of staggered laser etch lines
according to another embodiment of the invention. The graphic 600c
comprises a graphic with a high amount of staggering, i.e. with the
lengths of the each plurality of laser engraved lines adjusted up
to 50%. As shown by the high staggering in FIG. 6C, the demarcation
line is spread over a larger area than the low staggering in FIG.
6B, or the non staggering in FIG. 6A. From a distance, the
demarcation line of a graphic 600c with high staggering, in effect,
disappears, and thus has zero visual impact.
[0099] The amount of staggering of the laser engraved lines may
vary from zero staggering up to 50% of the length of the laser
engraved lines, such as 10%, 12%, 17%, 25%, 40%, 50%, etc. In one
embodiment of the invention, the level of staggering among the
individual lines varies randomly, or has no perceivable pattern,
between zero staggering and maximum staggering. A highly randomized
amount of staggering may be preferable so that the lengths of the
laser engraved lines have a high degree of variation, and the
resulting demarcation line is highly curvilinear.
[0100] In some embodiments of the invention, the degree of
staggering of each laser line is controlled. The degree of
staggering from the border center point can be changed from very
little to very large, i.e. from 0% to 50%. The degree of staggering
and staggering randomization is set through programming controls
that automate application of the graphic design from a raster or
vector file. The major advantage to adding a staggering effect to
each component section is to prevent or reduce the visual
perceptibility of any lines of demarcation from areas where the
lines from one component section of the graphic meet to another
component section.
[0101] The visual impact of the demarcation line may also be
controlled through other methods. For example, control or
manipulation of laser power, laser scan speed, laser frequency,
process control factors, and line density of graphic laser lines
per inch (i.e., LPI) may be combined with staggered to further
reduce the visual impact of the demarcation line. Combinations of
these methods and factors in applying detailed wood grain graphic
designs has yielded novel and surprising results in removing or
lowering the perceptibility of any demarcation line between
component sections when the wood grain graphic was laser scribed to
the surface of a plastic lumber article.
[0102] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a graphic image that is
composed of a series of discontinuous lines, as may be the case for
some low density wood grain images, in which case individual
graphic sections that make up the unitary graphic image may be
divided into two parts by an adjoining line that is curvilinear. As
shown in FIG. 7, an article surface 700 comprises a first component
section of a graphic 702 and a second component section of a
graphic 704 separated by a demarcation line 706.
[0103] The first component section of the graphic 702 comprises a
first plurality of laser engraved lines L701, L702, L703, L704,
L705, L706, L707 and L708. The second component section of the
graphic 704 comprises a second plurality of laser engraved lines
L711, L712, L713, L714, L715, L716, L717 and L718. The line of
demarcation 706 represents an area (i.e. a border) between the
first component section 702 and the second component section 704.
As shown in FIG. 7, the line of demarcation is a curvilinear
section, or line.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 7, the first plurality of laser engraved
lines L701-708 are staggered with the second plurality of laser
engraved lines L711-L718, as the lengths of the first plurality of
laser engraved lines L701-L708 and the lengths of the second
plurality of laser engraved lines L711-L718 have been adjusted.
[0105] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention. As
shown in FIG. 8, the system 800 may comprise a nip roll system. The
system 800 comprises a laser engraver 802 and a work station
computer 804. Articles are fed into the system 800 via an input
conveyer 806, and leave the system via an output conveyer 808.
[0106] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a system for staggered laser
etch lines according to another embodiment of the invention. As
shown in FIG. 9, the system 900 includes a controller 902. The
controller 902 is in communication with a laser (not shown in FIG.
9), and can control the process of laser engraving a graphic onto a
surface of an article.
[0107] In one example, a wood grain pattern graphic 6 inches wide
and 16 feet long is supplied in a digital format (i.e. a digital
file) and imported into laser etch control program executed by the
controller. Next, the controller formats the wood grain pattern
graphic into a plurality of component sections to be laser engraved
onto the surface of a piece of plastic lumber. A 12 foot long piece
of plastic lumber may be divided into 24 six inch parts, in order
to maximize throughput within a 20 inch field. Once the number of
component sections is determined, the controller divides the wood
grain pattern graphic into the calculated number of component
sections. The resulting file may be saved as a job, and process
parameters, such as laser speed, lines per inch, and laser power,
are selected. Finally, the laser system is activated, and articles
are fed into the system via a conveyer belt. The laser engraves the
wood grain pattern graphic onto the surface of a moving article via
a continuous "print-on-fly" process.
[0108] The grain of the wood grain pattern graphic flows along the
length of the wood composite plastic lumber and therefore is
generally laser etched in the same direction. The speed of the
conveyer system can be adjusted depending upon the graphic and the
speed of the laser beam. From a manufacturing and economical
perspective, it may be preferred to immediately begin lazing the
next article after the completion of the previous article.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 10, a shuttle system may be used to reduce
or eliminate any slight wobble or movement of the articles as they
move through the system during continuously lazing. In this way,
more accurate graphics can be engraved onto the surface of the
article. One alternative method for preventing wobble, or movement
of the article, comprises a frame 1002. The frame 1002 may be
positioned along the input conveyor and extend through the work
enclosure to the output conveyor. Articles to be laser engraved may
be held in place by being positioned inside the frame, which also
serves to constrain side-to-side movement of the article while it
progresses through the system.
[0110] Various tests were conducted in order to determine the
influence of a number of variables on the degree of perceptibility
of the demarcation. These variables included the laser power, the
lines per inch of the graphic, the speed of the laser beam and thus
the conveyor speed, the boundary settings in graphics application
software, and the percent staggering selected in the graphics
application software. The parameters and results are summarized in
Table I and described below.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE I Nip Roll Laser Trial Parameters FIG. Laser
Power LPI (lines Laser Scan Speed Web # Randomization (watts) per
inch) (meters per second) fpm Results 11 0% 2000 60 10 2.5 Distinct
Demarcation Lines 12 10% 1000 60 10 2.5 Demarcation Lines Still
Visible 13 20% 2000 60 10 0 Demarcation Lines Obvious 14 20% 2000
60 10 2.5 Demarcation Lines Obvious 15 10% 1000 60 10 2.5
Demarcation Lines Obvious 16 10% 2000 60 10 2.5 Demarcation Lines
Somewhat Masked 17 10% 1000 40 10 2.5 Demarcation Lines Lighter 18
50% 2000 60 10 2.5 Invisible Demarcation Lines 19 50% 1000 60 10
2.5 Good (Low) Visibility of Demarcation Lines 20 50% 2375 60 15
5.5 Good (Low) Visibility of Demarcation Lines
[0111] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating a high visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 11, an initial laser
scribing test run was performed without staggering or other
randomization as a basis for comparison. The first set of data on
laser etching wood grain patterns on a plastic lumber wood
composite article produced poor results in that a clear line of
demarcation could be seen at the intersection of each component
section of the graphic. Every six inches along the length of the
plastic lumber, a strong demarcation line 1102 was visually
perceptible as shown in FIG. 11.
[0112] FIG. 12 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 12, another run was
prepared with the laser etched lines in the component sections of
the wood grain graphic interlaced 10% produced unexpected and
surprisingly improved results which showed demarcation lines 1202a,
1202b, 1202c with reduced visual impact as shown in FIG. 12.
[0113] FIGS. 13 and 14 are illustrations laser engraved articles
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to embodiments
of the invention. FIG. 13 illustrates a laser scribing test run
with a moving laser and a stationary article, i.e. stationary
lazing. FIG. 14 illustrates a laser scribing test run with a moving
article. As shown in FIGS. 13-14, the demarcation line 1302 and
demarcation line 1402 were still slightly perceptible when the
laser etching was done on both the stationary article 1300 and the
moving articles 1400. Because the demarcation line 1302 was still
evident in the in the stationary product of FIG. 13, persisting
demarcation may not be associated with the moving process or any
associated side-to-side wobble of the plastic lumber as it moves
through the laser scribing system. Therefore joining two laser
etched sections either by moving the laser or by moving the part or
by moving both generate this defect.
[0114] The effect of the laser power was tested. FIGS. 15 and 16
are illustrations laser engraved articles demonstrating visual
impact of demarcation according to embodiments of the invention.
FIG. 15 shows an article 1500 lazed at 1,000 watts power. FIG. 16
shows an article 1600 lazed at 2,000 watts power with all other
parameters equal to article 1500, as indicated in Table I.
Comparison of these two samples 1500 and 1600 indicates,
surprisingly and unexpectedly, that the higher power tends to mask
the degree of demarcation somewhat, but the demarcation was still
evident at close examination.
[0115] FIG. 17 is an illustration of a laser engraved article
demonstrating visual impact of demarcation according to one
embodiment of the invention. The effect of lines per inch (LPI)
etch line density was tested. Lines per inch represent how many
laser lines per inch were used to laser etch the graphic. As shown
in FIGS. 15 and 17, in the article 1700, the lower line per inch
setting of 40 LPI tends to results in lighter lines of demarcation
1702 at the intersection of the component sections compared to
demarcation lines 1502 of the article 1500, as shown in FIG. 15,
where the same graphic was lazed at 60 LPI.
[0116] The effect of different boundary settings in the graphic
software was tested. The purpose of the boundary is to prevent the
laser from suddenly turning on at the beginning of the laser line
and suddenly turning off at the end of the laser line, allowing the
laser to over excite. Boundary settings activate the laser at a
specified distance prior to the beginning of the laser line and
deactivate the laser at a specified distance at the end of the
laser line. The controller can execute graphics application
software which can receive selections of a boundary length and a
boundary power. Boundary power should be set low enough to where it
is not visible. Several variations on the boundary setting were
examined in which the maximum and minimum settings for both
boundary length and boundary power were tested. Changing these
settings had little impact on the quality of the applied graphic
and did not prevent any lines of demarcation.
[0117] The effect of control factor settings was tested. Control
factor settings can be used to maintain consistency between where
the laser is directed to engrave a line and where the laser
actually engraves the line. When the laser is directed to begin
engraving a line, there is typically a delay. Selecting an optimum
control factor setting will enhance precision, and ensure the laser
actually engraves at the exact, directed location. A less than
optimum control factor setting could result in the laser engraving
before or after the exact directed point, resulting in an
undesirable graphic. Control factor trials at the extreme settings
identified the optimum control factor setting. Although the optimum
control factor settings improved the quality of the graphic, the
optimum settings did not eliminate visible of demarcation lines
between graphic component sections.
[0118] The effect of staggering, or interlace, percentage was
tested. This percentage relates to how far an etching line from one
sectional component of graphic can extend into another. Several
trials were conducted changing the new interlace setting in
graphics application software from 10% to 50%. FIG. 15 illustrates
an article 1500 with a Knotty Pine graphic image laser engraved at
10% staggering. FIG. 18 illustrates an article 1800 with the same
Knotty Pine graphic image laser engraved at 50% staggering.
Increasing the staggering, or interlace setting to 50% appears to
completely eliminate the visual impact, or visibility, of
demarcation lines. FIG. 19 shows several separate plastic lumber
articles 1900 lazed at 50% interlace with a Teak wood grain graphic
pattern. There are no discernable lines of demarcation evident in
this case. The actual intersection of the parts lazed appears to be
well masked.
[0119] The effect of conveyor speed was tested. The conveyor speed
measured in feet per minute is a function of the scan speed of the
laser beam (measured in meters per second). FIGS. 20 and 21 show
the impact of increasing the laser scan speed from 10 to 15 meters
per second with a corresponding increase in conveyor line speed
from 2.5 feet per minute to 5.5 feet per minute. Doubling the line
speed does not change the visual impact of the demarcation lines on
article 2000 or article 2100 so long as the interlace is set at
50%. This result is particularly surprising given the unexpected
increase in productivity this can allow.
[0120] Staggering and randomization work exceptionally well in
reducing the visual impact, or masking, demarcation lines
separating component sections of a graphic. With the wood grain
graphic images tested, the demarcation lines appear to be
sufficiently or completely masked resulting in the lazed product
appearing surprisingly realistic and quite attractive, appearing
like natural wood grains on plastic lumber. These results suggest a
potential breakthrough in the industry.
[0121] The foregoing detailed description of the certain exemplary
embodiments of the invention has been provided for the purpose of
explaining the principles of the invention and its practical
application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to
understand the invention for various embodiments and with various
modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
This description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
invention to the precise embodiments disclosed. Although only a few
embodiments have been disclosed in detail above, other embodiments
are possible and the inventors intend these to be encompassed
within this specification and the scope of the appended claims. The
specification describes specific examples to accomplish a more
general goal that may be accomplished in another way. Modifications
and equivalents will be apparent to practitioners skilled in this
art and are encompassed within the spirit and scope of the appended
claims and their appropriate equivalents. This disclosure is
intended to be exemplary, and the claims are intended to cover any
modification or alternative which might be predictable to a person
having ordinary skill in the art. For example, other kinds and
wattages of lasers, beyond those described above, could be used
with this technique.
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