The laser (LASER), originating from the principle of stimulated emission proposed by Albert Einstein, has been a catalyst for substantial advancements across numerous industrial and scientific domains. Initially confined to research and laboratory applications, the scope of laser technology has expanded rapidly over time. This expansion is primarily due to the laser's unique characteristics, such as high-density energy output and precise beam control, which have facilitated its widespread integration into contemporary industrial practices. Specifically, laser materials processing technology enables the machining of diverse materials, including metals, ceramics, and polymers, in a non-contact manner, thereby achieving high precision without the risk of wear or contamination. As a result, laser processing has become indispensable in fields such as advanced electronics manufacturing, medical device production, aerospace, and the automotive industry. Furthermore, laser materials processing exhibits significant potential for high-precision applications that demand minimal thermal deformation of materials, such as microfabrication and the production of complex geometries. This paper provides a comprehensive examination of the development and necessity of laser processing technology, explores various laser types and their possible applications, and elucidates why laser technology has emerged as a fundamental component of modern manufacturing, alongside its trajectory for future development.
