Enhanced Flexibility in Direct Laser Interference Patterning through Industrial Robot Integration

Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) is a well-established method for surface functionalization, enhancing properties like friction, wetting, and bacteria repellence. Traditionally, DLIP uses transla-tional stage or scanner systems to move either the laser or the component, offering high processing velocities and precision. However, these methods face limitations with heavy 3D parts, such as form-ing tools, reducing the range of components and applications. The study presents a new DLIP ap-proach using an industrial robot, providing more freedom for treating large components with complex geometries. The DLIP tool, including the laser source, is attached to a robot arm. The laser delivers nanosecond pulses with up to 120 W power and 40 mJ pulse energies, designed to be lightweight and vibration-tolerant. The DLIP optics generate an elongated rectangular beam with a long depth of focus. Initial experiments structured stainless steel plates with a pulse frequency up to 800 Hz and 15 W power, with structuring velocities from 2 to 20 mm/s. Different structuring strategies were applied to punches, and their tribological performance in forming applications was compared to non-structured punches. The produced topographies are characterized using a confocal microscope.