Patent ID: 6531682
Filing Date: 2003-03-11
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
An apparatus for cutting or engraving workpieces with a laser, comprising:a base for supporting a workpiece; a head mounted for movement relative to the base; a lens mounted in the head for directing a laser beam on a workpiece in a direction substantially normal thereto to impinge upon a first point thereof; a hood covering the head and terminating at a margin spaced from the base, the interior of the hood being connected to a source of vacuum pressure for removing dust created by cutting or engraving; a first nozzle connected to a source of pressurized gas for directing a jet of gas toward the workpiece in an orientation inclined relative to the laser beam and impinging substantially at the first point of the workpiece to swirl up the dust; and a second nozzle connected to a source of pressurized gas for directing a jet of gas toward the workpiece in an orientation inclined relative to the laser beam and impinging at a second point on the workpiece laterally offset from the first point to retard movement of dust particles thereby to prevent the dust particles from escaping between the margin of the hood and the base.