Innovation in Laser Welding

I started to write a research proposal about laser welding and I want to search for new ideas in this field. My question is that, how we can utilize energy distribution to simplify the application of laser welding to minimize post-processing requirements?

Do you know any unconventional optical element to improve the process?

There are some hardships in laser welding:
?Contamination of the welded parts
?Ultraflatness of the two parts
?Traceability of laser-welded components
?Process parameters controling
?Equipment maintenance

The are some suggestions to overcome these hardships. But, as an expertise what do you think?
I am looking forward to your answer

alibaba,

Problems with laser welding thick (12mm to 34mm) steel plate:

http://www.ndt.net/article/wcndt00/papers/idn723/idn723.htm

The first result of my patent search:

http://www.google.com/patents/US6547447

Laser welding experts may contribute more this week.

John

Please check the laser beam thickness. On thickness of laser beam welding is dependent.