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- Jun 8, 2018
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I posted a while ago asking about drivers, and more recently about beam dispersion. So far I've been out of my element, but we're into the mechanical design so it's my time to ask a few questions but also show off a bit.
This is my design for the host. As shown, it will be 11.5" long and 2" around the heatsink.
Cutaway with callouts of components:
Key features:
To do:
I have a few questions about it, and wanted some pro input.
1. Is the heatsink total ridiculous overkill? I was originally planning to use the fan to force air through the host past the aluminum fins, but I happened to have a hunk of brass tube available so I threw it on there as a thermal mass and because it's pretty. Should I ditch the fan? the brass? both? I don't have specific plans to upgrade diodes, but the driver board is rated up to 8A with proper heat sinking.
2. Should I be concerned about the focus head floating on the laser's own focus threads? I would have a hell of a time getting fine focusing threads into those 1.75" bores, but I'm a bit worried what a drop on its nose would do to the laser housing.
3. What are your general thoughts on a software-limited interlock? I want to be able to remove the key and not worry about letting people handle it without glasses, but still have the ability to access the full power of the laser when it's appropriate. The lock is rated to handle the full system power, but I'd prefer to do it the other way.
This is my design for the host. As shown, it will be 11.5" long and 2" around the heatsink.
Cutaway with callouts of components:
Key features:
- Adjustable power by rotary encoder rather than potentiometer, ensures that laser is always at safe levels when powered on
- Encoder knob has integrated LED which will be programmed to change from green to red based on power output
- Encoder knob also has a pushbutton which will be programmed to jump straight to minimum power
- Power indicator LEDs on the main power switch, the firing switch, and power knob
- High power interlock allows operation without key from 0-50mw (should I set the limit elsewhere?), 0-2000mw with key
- Thermal isolator (black) separates heatsinking components from handle and electronics
To do:
- Finalize electronics mounts
- Recess power knob a few mm if there's space?
- Battery tray for positioning and easy removal
I have a few questions about it, and wanted some pro input.
1. Is the heatsink total ridiculous overkill? I was originally planning to use the fan to force air through the host past the aluminum fins, but I happened to have a hunk of brass tube available so I threw it on there as a thermal mass and because it's pretty. Should I ditch the fan? the brass? both? I don't have specific plans to upgrade diodes, but the driver board is rated up to 8A with proper heat sinking.
2. Should I be concerned about the focus head floating on the laser's own focus threads? I would have a hell of a time getting fine focusing threads into those 1.75" bores, but I'm a bit worried what a drop on its nose would do to the laser housing.
3. What are your general thoughts on a software-limited interlock? I want to be able to remove the key and not worry about letting people handle it without glasses, but still have the ability to access the full power of the laser when it's appropriate. The lock is rated to handle the full system power, but I'd prefer to do it the other way.