The function of the red light indicator

In laser marking equipment, the red light indicator is a crucial photoelectric component used for assisting positioning and processing verification. Since the laser beam is invisible and the processing position has a direct impact on the marking accuracy, it is necessary to visualize the processing path, processing points, and processing area through the red light indicator. In most industrial marking scenarios, the red light indication system has become an important component of the marking machine. 
1. Processing position indication 
The core function of the red light indicator is to visually calibrate the laser processing points. Before marking, the equipment projects a red light beam to the preset coordinate position. The operator can directly observe the red light spot to confirm whether the marking position is consistent with the product processing area. This visual positioning method can reduce human focusing errors and improve product consistency. 
2. Auxiliary focusing and focal length confirmation 
Some devices combine the red light indication system with the automatic focusing module, achieving focal length status feedback through dual red light positioning or laser triangulation. The overlapping, separation or change in brightness of the red light dots can indicate whether the current focal length has reached the optimal processing position, ensuring that the spot diameter and power density of the laser beam are at the optimal state. 
3. Processing Range Preview 
In the two-dimensional scanning marking system, the red light indicator can simulate the movement trajectory of the galvanometer, project the boundary or graphic outline of the processing area, enabling the operator to intuitively confirm the compatibility between the pattern size and the product working area. This function can reduce product scrapping caused by incorrect graphic settings. 
4. Position correction and fixture adaptation 
For the multi-station processing method using fixture positioning, the red light indication can assist in detecting the installation deviation of the fixture. By observing the projection position of the red light on the fixture or the workpiece surface, the operator can promptly adjust the product placement angle or the offset of the coordinate system to ensure the consistency of batch processing. 
5. Enhance Security 
The red light indicator, as a visible light source, can inform the operator of the position of the laser processing area and the processing point. Although the red light itself does not have processing capabilities, its visual indication function can reduce safety hazards caused by accidental contact with the processing area or incorrect placement of the workpiece. 
The red light indicator in the laser marking machine mainly serves functions such as positioning, focusing, range preview, workstation correction and safety alert. Through visual assistance, it makes the laser processing process more accurate, efficient and stable, and is an important optical auxiliary module for improving marking quality and operational efficiency.