This article explores how we designed and manufactured a laser cutting and marking machine for Nike to drive its success and meet the evolving demands of consumers.
Nike, a global leader in athletic footwear and apparel, constantly innovates its production processes to enhance efficiency, precision, and customization. Laser cutting and marking machines have become indispensable tools in Nike’s manufacturing operations, offering unparalleled capabilities for both mass production and personalized products.
The Way We Produced a Laser Cutting and Marking Machine for Nike.
The initial task, was to develop a production system, that provided the flexibility for both laser marking and laser cutting of leather with the objective for transition in the future, to man-made based materials that would potentially replace leather in the long term. The machine is located in the Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton USA.
Following various trials, the CO2 source was selected and power output fixed at 250 watts.
The finished marking system utilised the M Series chassis designed by Thinklaser, and included an increased process area, taking customer process capability up to 600 x 600 mm. The unit was fitted with a 3 optic scan head, allowing us to utilise the full process area controlling spot size and distortion across such a large area. The large process area allowed for the placement of materials big enough to produce a complete shoe parts kit, providing both the pattern generation on the surface, as well as cutting the shape required. The system table was fitted with vacuum to hold the materials in place during the process, stopping any potential movement due to material stress releases as the heat is generated.
Other functions supplied included table autofocus for ease of use, air knives to protect optics from material residue (leather contains various amounts of oil from the tanning process and this, when burnt off, gives off a multitude of different gases). Adapted optics also allowed us to create a smaller laser beam than would normally be associated with this power of laser and process size.
The process chamber was fitted with extraction capability and viewing capability through filtered windows, as are all of Thinklaser products.
This laser based manufacturing tool provided the customer with the ability to reduce design proving time. Traditional methods would have required the generation of cutting tools for each design revision. The laser eradicated this and allowed designers to be much more adventurous in developing new concepts. Once the technology was introduced, many other applications were added to the systems capability. Multiple systems were supplied and continue to be used in operations around the world.
Understanding Laser Cutting and Marking Technology
How Laser Cutting Works
Laser cutting is a precise, non-contact method that uses a focused laser beam to cut through materials. The laser melts, burns, or vaporizes the material, creating clean and accurate cuts. This process is controlled by computer software, which allows for intricate designs and complex shapes to be cut with high precision.
How Laser Marking Works
Laser marking involves altering the surface of a material to create permanent marks, such as logos, serial numbers, or custom designs. This is achieved by using a laser beam to discolor, engrave, or etch the material. The marking process is also software-controlled, ensuring precision and consistency.
If you would like further information on this application, or any other application, please request a call back or, talk to one of our laser marking specialists by going to our contact page – link below.
Contact Us for Laser Engraving, Marking & Cutting Advice (thinklaser.theprogressteam.com/)
