Thunder Laser Nova Series: Gaining Extra Clearance With The 4" Head
Do not use autofocus with this lens assembly or any other Thunder or aftermarket lens assembly! Autofocus is meant for the stock 2" head that was installed in the machine from the factory.
Even with this modification, the distance from the lens to the work is the focal point and that distance does not change. The extension tube and the nozzle are just to get the air assist close to the work surface and maintain the nominal 10mm gap.
Here is more on that: Nova Series Overview - Heads, Optics, Focus
You can gain extra clearance for things like engraving the centers of platters without worrying about the head contacting the platter's taller edges, etc... by implementing the modification shown below. You should gain ~44.6mm (1.75") of clearance for a total of ~53.6mm(2.1") when focused.
IMPORTANT: This head was designed specifically for cutting thicker substrates and was not designed for engraving. The spot size is larger and beam density is decreased so line interval and proper artwork and prep will be a factor. You basically cut the resolution in half with the 4" lens as opposed to the stock 2" lens.
Normal 4" lens assembly:
4" head disassembled:
Middle section removed allowing the most possible clearance:
For more on the 4" Lens assembly, please see this article.
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Please see the video below:
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