Patent ID: 8723075
Filing Date: 2014-05-13
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A laser processing system for machining a fired ceramic or other hard material, the system comprising: a laser to generate a laser beam, the laser beam configured to scribe a workpiece along a sequence of parallel laser paths within a cutout region of the workpiece, wherein the laser processing system is configured to control the scribing to create a kerf in the cutout region that widens and deepens as the laser beam advances from a first laser path to a second laser path in the sequence so as to create a series of parallel descending steps as an escape for debris generated by an interaction of the laser beam with the workpiece; and a nozzle to direct a high velocity stream of gas to an interface between the laser beam and the workpiece, wherein the laser processing system causes the stream of gas to direct the debris away from the sequence of parallel laser paths.