12 Jan. Precise galvo scanners for research and industry
Aerotech has introduced the AGV-CPO series, new dual-axis laser scan heads that combine precise motion control with a compact design. The Core performance class models feature 22-bit resolution, low thermal drift, and high dynamics. They are suitable for research and process development as well as industrial precision machining.
The AGV-CPO series includes variants with apertures of 10, 14, and 20 mm. It is based on the manufacturer‘s Core architecture, which is also used in the larger AGV-HPO and AGV-XPO scanners. Two digital encoders placed 64 µm apart increase positional accuracy, while control electronics mounted outside the galvo ensure thermal decoupling and long-term stability. Water cooling for motors and galvo blocks as well as air-cooled mirrors are available as options.
The beam entry can be on either the left or right side. All models in the series are controlled via the Automation1 platform with the GL4 laser scanner drive. This allows users to scale processes from the CPO to the XPO variant without hardware changes. According to Aerotech, the technical advantage lies particularly in the integration of motion control with the Automation1 platform, which promises precise synchronization and easy parameterization.
The AGV-CPO scan heads are designed for laser-based precision processes such as microstructuring, high-speed drilling and cutting, or laser texturing. Functions such as position-synchronized output (PSO) and infinite field of view (IFOV) support precise control of the laser beam even during dynamic movements.
IFOV – expanded workspace without compromise
With infinite field of view (IFOV), Aerotech offers a solution for synchronizing galvo scanners to linear or rotary servo axes. According to the manufacturer, this enables seamless laser processing of even large components without having to merge multiple scan areas. This is intended to prevent errors caused by overlaps.
IFOV is based on a common control architecture in which scanner and axis movements are precisely coordinated in real time. Accelerations, current limits, and trajectories are automatically adjusted and compensated. The result: high accuracy combined with increased processing speed – without time-consuming parameterization.
According to the manufacturer, the advantages are:
- seamless processing outside the scanner field
- no stitching, no loss of quality
- no manual adjustment required
- optimized dynamics and high throughput
Link to a YouTube IFOV demonstration video
To the product page of AGV-CPO
Source and image: www.aerotech.com