Laser scanning
technology and working principle
Laser Scanning
Laser scanning describes the targeted deflection of a laser beam over a defined surface or object. The beam is directed with high speed and precision by special beam deflection units to process materials, structure surfaces or take measurements. The process is widely used in modern Laser technology in areas such as industrial manufacturing, medical technology, metrology and many others.
Advantages of laser scanning
The use of a laser scanner for beam deflection offers decisive advantages over mechanical methods, where either the entire laser optics or the workpiece must be moved:
- Higher process speed: Instead of moving the component or the optics, the scanner moves the laser beam almost instantaneously. This enables extremely fast processing, even for complex patterns.
- Precise positioning: By using highly dynamic and precisely controlled mirrors, the laser beam can be directed with extreme accuracy – even for the smallest structures in the micrometer range.
- Compact design: A scanner requires less space than a mechanical axis, which enables more compact machine concepts and lower space requirements.
- Increased process stability: As the laser source remains stationary, there are no vibrations or positioning errors caused by mechanical movements. This improves the repeatability and quality of the processing.
- Reduced mechanical stress: Since no heavy mechanical components are moved, the effects of inertia and wear are eliminated. This extends the service life of the systems.
Laser scanning greatly improves the efficiency of processing compared to conventional mechanical motion methods and is therefore indispensable in many modern applications.
What types of laser scanners are available?
Depending on the application and requirements, different scanner technologies are used:
- Galvanometer scanners: Two movable mirrors deflect the laser beam with high precision. This technology is ideal for marking, welding, structuring and additive manufacturing.
- Polygonal scanners: A rotating polygon mirror wheel continuously deflects the laser beam, which is particularly suitable for high-speed applications such as semiconductor manufacturing or image processing.
- MEMS scanners: Micromechanical mirror arrays deflect the laser beam. They are frequently used in LIDAR systems, AR/VR applications and optical data transmission.
- AOD scanners (acousto-optical deflectors): acousto-optical modulators use sound waves to deflect the laser beam extremely quickly and are ideal for high-precision measurement systems.
What is the optimal scanning technology?
The choice of the right scanning technology depends on various factors. Important questions to ask are:
- What speed is required? Galvanometer scanners are suitable for dynamic applications, while polygon scanners are designed for very high speeds.
- What precision is required? Galvanometer or AOD scanners are a good choice for applications requiring the highest level of detail.
- What materials are being processed? Depending on the material properties, the laser power, wavelength and deflection technology must be optimally adapted.
- What is the scan volume? MEMS scanners are suitable for compact applications, while galvanometer or polygon scanners can cover larger areas.
- Which interfaces and control options are required? Modern scanners offer digital control via XY2-100, SL2-100 or RL3-100 protocols for precise process monitoring.
Laser scanning applications
Laser scanning is a key technology in numerous industrial and scientific applications. The precise and fast deflection of the laser beam allows complex processes to be implemented efficiently and reliably.
- Laser marking & coding:Logos, serial numbers or barcodes are applied to a wide variety of materials with high precision and speed – permanently and without contact.
- Laser cutting & structuring: Whether fine micro-cuts or large-area structuring – laser scanning enables high-precision material processing with minimal heat input.
- Additive manufacturing (3D printing): In laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), metal or plastic powder is melted layer by layer to produce complex components with a high level of detail.
- Laser welding & joining: Laser scanning can be used to create precise weld seams – ideal for fine, fast and material-friendly connections.
- Laser cleaning: Coatings, paint or impurities are removed in a targeted manner without damaging the base material – an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical processes.
- LIDAR & optical metrology: In autonomous vehicles, industrial quality control and 3D mapping, laser scanning enables highly accurate, non-contact measurements.
Thanks to its flexibility, precision and speed, laser scanning is indispensable in many areas and drives innovation in production, research and development.
Why is RAYLASE the right partner?
RAYLASE is a leading supplier of high-precision beam deflection units and digital control systems for laser applications. And we offer more than just beam deflection units – we are your partner for precise and efficient laser processes.
- Comprehensive solutions
We optimize not only individual components, but also the entire interplay between scanner, optics, control and process sensors. This is how we ensure maximum efficiency and precision in your application. - Application knowledge & simulations
Our experts support you in selecting the right components and simulate your laser processes in advance. This is how we ensure that spot size, processing speed and quality are optimally aligned. - Support with installation & service
We support you during the installation of our systems – if required, even on-site. This ensures seamless integration and consistently stable performance. - Workshops & training
Our targeted and practical training sessions will ensure that your users are fully equipped to use our systems. This means that you can use our technology efficiently and independently. - The POWER OF WE – Working together as equals
We at RAYLASE firmly believe that together we can achieve more. Therefore, we place great value on cooperative partnerships and open communication – from expert to expert. We believe that this is the only way to develop customized solutions that are successful in the long term.
Whether for high-speed processes or high-precision machining tasks – with RAYLASE, you can rely on proven technology and extensive expertise in the field of laser scanning.