The customer was a high volume manufacturer of relatively low margin lighting products. Laser marking was used to reduce the cost of labeling the product. Automation was seen as a way to address foreign competitive threats and remain responsive to their customers in local markets.

The customer ran multiple product types down the same production line but did not have space or funding for multiple laser configurations. The installation would have to accommodate different part dimensions and support automated changeover. They also needed a solution in 12 weeks!! to celebrate their 100th anniversary.

Optics were designed to mark a label on a compound curved surface in a single pass. Parameters were developed for high contrast legible marks on a variety of finishes. Dual scan heads and a beam switcher were used to mark both the inside and outside of the part as a single process step. Automation was integrated to reposition the scan heads for different part dimensions.

The cost of the paper labels required for UL listing was eliminated without reducing quality and manufacturing throughput was maintained. (Cheaper. Faster.) The system was highlighted as a showcase for their 100th anniversary and evidence of sustained competitiveness. (Better.) The customer filed a patent for the deliverable.