The D-MILE is a laser engraver that relies on a 405 nm laser to etch into various materials. The
beam would be a gaussian profile, chosen for its ability to create gradient effects on the paper by causing
burning to the edges of paper where material was etched away resulting in improved visibility without a
noteworthy loss in resolution. The beam spot would be focused down to under our goal of ⅙” in diameter
in under 150mm of optical path length through a lens system. Designed in Zemax, our lens system used
two plano-convex lenses to focus the beam down to a point. We used two lenses to allow for sufficient
degrees of freedom while attempting to minimize spot size and total optical path length, while also
accounting for the difficulty in acquiring lenses and the associated costs. Overall, the work put into this
system meets the expectations we established for it and allows us to etch into materials including paper
and wood. This multimedia focus of our project creates an edge over consumer-available wood etching
machines, as it also serves as a printer alternative without relying on consumable cartridges to print. In
addition, the project allows for the printing of text with tactile feedback, like braille text for the visually
impaired.
Alongside the laser engraver are optical subsystems including a distance sensor and fire detection system. The distance sensor uses a laser diode to measure the distance from the print head to the work table to ensure that the media is in focus. The fire detection system uses a separate laser diode to check to see if smoke or fumes are being produced from the worktable and interfering with the beam path so that an emergency stop can be activated. These add to the efficacy and safety of the system.
Alongside the laser engraver are optical subsystems including a distance sensor and fire detection system. The distance sensor uses a laser diode to measure the distance from the print head to the work table to ensure that the media is in focus. The fire detection system uses a separate laser diode to check to see if smoke or fumes are being produced from the worktable and interfering with the beam path so that an emergency stop can be activated. These add to the efficacy and safety of the system.