As a high-precision, high-efficiency modern processing technology, laser cutting is widely used in many fields such as metal processing, automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and electronic equipment. In actual production, in addition to the performance of the equipment itself, the optimization of the cutting path is also of great significance for improving processing efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and improving product quality.



One, Significance of Optimizing Cutting Path



Laser cutting path refers to the movement trajectory of the laser head on the sheet metal. A reasonable cutting path can effectively reduce idle travel time, lower the risk of thermal deformation, improve material utilization, and extend the service life of the equipment. Especially in batch cutting or complex shape cutting, the effect of path optimization is more significant.



Two, Main Strategies of Path Optimization



1. Reducing Idle Travel

Idle travel refers to the distance that the laser head moves from one cutting start point to the next cutting point without cutting. Optimizing algorithms can make the laser head move along the shortest path as much as possible through path planning, saving time and improving efficiency.



2. Rational Arrangement of Cutting Sequence

When cutting multiple parts, priority should be given to cutting parts away from the edge of the sheet metal to reduce deformation caused by stress release during the cutting process. In addition, it should be avoided to cut large areas continuously to prevent local overheating that affects cutting quality.



3. Arrangement of Internal and External Contour Cutting Sequence

For parts with internal contours (such as holes), the internal contour should be cut first and then the external contour in the path planning to avoid displacement or deformation of the internal contour due to material fracture when cutting the external contour.



4. Introduction of 'Bridge' and 'Micro-connection' Technology

In multi-part cutting, using bridge or micro-connection technology can keep the parts connected to the sheet metal to a certain extent after cutting, preventing the parts from falling off during the cutting process, avoiding collision with the laser head, and improving cutting safety.



5. Automatic Nesting Technology

Using professional nesting software to intelligently arrange parts can cut more parts on a limited material area, reducing material waste rate. At the same time, combining path optimization can further improve overall efficiency.



Three, Achieving Intelligent Path Optimization with Software



Currently, many laser cutting systems are integrated with CAD/CAM software systems, which can automatically generate the optimal cutting path. For example, software such as HyperWorks, Lantek, and SigmaNest can intelligently plan the cutting sequence and path based on factors such as part shape, material thickness, and cutting power, significantly improving processing efficiency and ensuring processing quality.



Four, Conclusion



With the development of intelligent manufacturing and Industry 4.0, laser cutting path optimization is no longer a simple process adjustment, but a comprehensive technology integrating knowledge from various disciplines such as algorithm design, materials science, and mechanical engineering. By continuously optimizing the cutting path, not only can production efficiency and product quality be improved, but also a positive role can be played in energy conservation and emission reduction. In the future, the introduction of artificial intelligence and big data technology will further promote the development of laser cutting path optimization to a higher level.