Why Use Wedge Prisms for Beam Steering?
Wedge Prisms are transparent glass lenses with one side ground and polished at an angle.
Share
ECi Software Solutions, Inc.
Featured Content
View More
Hwacheon Machinery America, Inc.
Featured Content
View More
Takumi USA
Featured Content
View More
Kurt Manufacturing Company
Featured Content
View More
Wedge Prisms are transparent glass lenses with one side ground and polished at an angle. When a laser beam passes through a Wedge Prism, the laser beam will be deflected. If the Wedge Prism is rotated, the laser beam will move in a circle. If two are used, the laser beam will be steered anywhere within the circle precisely.
This means:
- The laser beam can be calibrated to be concentric to the outside diameter, O.D., of the laser's case.
- You can use the laser's case as a mounting reference for the laser's beam alignment.
- The laser beam can be adjusted parallel to the bottom and side of the laser level's case.
- The Wedge Prisms are impervious to shock by dropping, harsh laser tool usage, extreme temperature changes or rough handling for the life of the laser tool.
- Outside shocks to the laser tool will not cause the Wedge Prisms to rotate. Only internal rotation of the Wedge Prisms themselves will cause the factory positioned laser beam to move.
Conclusion:
The use of Wedge Prisms for laser beam steering and calibration is a more reliable and dependable design method compared to using set screws to hold a small laser module centered in a hollow tube or metal case. The mechanical set screw approach is just cheap. Using Wedge Prisms is superior and results in a stable and lasting approach to laser beam positioning.
Related Content
-
What are Harmonics in Milling?
Milling-force harmonics always exist. Understanding the source of milling harmonics and their relationship to vibration can help improve parameter selection.
-
How to Calibrate Gages and Certify Calibration Programs
Tips for establishing and maintaining a regular gage calibration program.
-
How to Mitigate Risk in Your Manufacturing Process or Design
Use a Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) form as a proactive way to evaluate a manufacturing process or design.
