- Joined
- Jan 11, 2012
- Messages
- 9
- Points
- 0
Hello everyone!
I have spent some time lurking these forums, and haven't quite found what I needed. I'm working on a school project where we're modifying a 3D printer to be able to cut (or etch at least) using a laser. Basically improve on a design, and make this device multi-functioning (print plastic and etch).
Now, part of the electronics has areas where we can add in extensions. This uses pulse width modulation, which by my understanding, acts as a switch (opening and closing at a certain frequency). By adjusting the pulse width, we can adjust the power going to the laser, hence able to use different laser classes for this project.
Now, for DEMONSTRATION PURPOSES, we will be using a 5mW laser, and show that we can control this laser (when and where it turns on to etch). AFTERWARDS, we will switch the laser in with a higher class that can actually do some damage.
My problem, is I don't really know where to start. I'm new to lasers, and reading up in these forums and online kinda swamped me with all sorts of information, and confused me even more. I know I need a driver for the laser, but I don't really know why, or what it does.
My plan is to connect the driver in series with the PWM and power source.
Also another thing to consider is focal length (from what I understand). For the 5mW laser, I don't think this is too important since we're only demonstrating it to public. However, afterwards, in order to actually cut, I will have to calculate this. The cutting surface will probably around 5cm away. How can I figure this out?
Anyways, if anyone can point me in the right direction, I'd greatly appreciate it. I'll be checking up on these forums often. Thanks for your time!
I have spent some time lurking these forums, and haven't quite found what I needed. I'm working on a school project where we're modifying a 3D printer to be able to cut (or etch at least) using a laser. Basically improve on a design, and make this device multi-functioning (print plastic and etch).
Now, part of the electronics has areas where we can add in extensions. This uses pulse width modulation, which by my understanding, acts as a switch (opening and closing at a certain frequency). By adjusting the pulse width, we can adjust the power going to the laser, hence able to use different laser classes for this project.
Now, for DEMONSTRATION PURPOSES, we will be using a 5mW laser, and show that we can control this laser (when and where it turns on to etch). AFTERWARDS, we will switch the laser in with a higher class that can actually do some damage.
My problem, is I don't really know where to start. I'm new to lasers, and reading up in these forums and online kinda swamped me with all sorts of information, and confused me even more. I know I need a driver for the laser, but I don't really know why, or what it does.
My plan is to connect the driver in series with the PWM and power source.
Also another thing to consider is focal length (from what I understand). For the 5mW laser, I don't think this is too important since we're only demonstrating it to public. However, afterwards, in order to actually cut, I will have to calculate this. The cutting surface will probably around 5cm away. How can I figure this out?
Anyways, if anyone can point me in the right direction, I'd greatly appreciate it. I'll be checking up on these forums often. Thanks for your time!
Last edited: