Automatic focusing

Focus modes for precise laser engraving and cutting

The correct setting of the focus - which means the right distance between the laser head and the material to be engraved - is crucial in order to achieve best application results. Trotec offers different focus modes:

Sonar Technology

The Sonar Technology^TM enables the highest level of accuracy when focusing on every position of the working table. There is no need to use a focus tool. With only one press of the Z-positioning keys, an ultrasonic based sensor on the laser head detects the surface of your work piece. The focal point is calculated automatically and the Z-axis moves in the appropriate position.
Being easy and flexible to use, Sonar Technology^TM is a very efficient focus mode. Patent pending.

Light Bar Focus

This focus mode is based on sensors (light barriers) installed laterally in the enclosure. The processing table starts moving up automatically as soon as this focus mode is enabled on the keyboard of the laser system. The upward movement of the table stops as soon as the material that you inserted beforehand has passed the light barriers. The correct focal point was calculated and you can start the laser process.

The Light Bar Focus is ideal for flat opaque materials where the material thickness is unknown.

Software Focus

The optimal focus point is calculated in the JobControl Software. In the software you enter the material thickness and the lens used. Thanks to the bi-directional connection, the computer always knows exactly at what height the work table is positioned. Based on the information you entered in the software the table moves to the correct position with only one press of the button.

This focus mode is ideal for processing of materials of which the material thickness is known (eg. acrylics in 6mm).

Focus Tool

Each focus tool ist pre-set to the focal length of the corresponding lense and is appropriately colour coded. The operator simply hangs the focus tool on the laser head, and then moves the working table manually until the surface of the workpiece to be engraved touches the focus tool. Now the right focus point is set. This focus mode is fast and flexible.
This method is especially useful when you work with a lot of different materials, if the material thickness is unknown or can not be measured and for cylindrical objects.