METHOD AND DEVICE FOR POSITIONING A LENS MEMBER IN A MANUFACTURING APPARATUS, MANUFACTURING PROCESS FOR AN OPTICAL LENS AND STORAGE MEDIUM
Patent Information
- Application Number
- BR112023024647
- Authority / Receiving Office
- BR · BR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-08
Smart Images
Figure 00000042_0000 
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Figure 00000044_0000
Abstract
Description
1 / 35 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR POSITIONING A LENS MEMBER IN A MANUFACTURING APPARATUS, MANUFACTURING PROCESS OF AN OPTICAL LENS AND STORAGE MEDIUM FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the field of optical lens manufacturing and, more particularly, to the positioning and locking of a lens element in a manufacturing apparatus.
[002] The lens element can be a lens blank, also called a semi-finished lens, or a finished lens, and the manufacturing apparatus can be any apparatus used to manufacture an optical lens. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[003] Optical lenses help correct vision disorders or refractive errors, also called ametropia, such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. An optical lens is manufactured based on a user's ophthalmic prescription. The prescription includes different information, such as the sphere value, the cylinder value, the prism, and the addition power.
[004] To reduce the complexity of manufacturing optical lenses, it is now common to manufacture semi-finished lenses upstream, that is, lenses in which only one of the surfaces is already finished and machined. When an ophthalmic prescription is received, the most suitable semi-finished lens to meet that prescription is chosen, thus requiring only the machining of the unfinished surface. In addition, the use of semi-finished lenses makes it possible to increase the speed of lens manufacturing.
[005] Currently, the manufacture of an optical lens is largely automated and devices are used in series for the different manufacturing steps applied to a lens component. For example, Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 8 / 97 2 / 35 The steps include blocking, surfacing, or polishing the lens member. For each step, it is necessary to correctly position the lens member in the manufacturing apparatus. In this case, the lens member is a lens blank or a semi-finished lens.
[006] The positioning of a lens member is also a matter for the ophthalmologist whose job consists of mounting a lens member in a spectacle frame selected by a client. In particular, it is necessary to lock the lens member by attaching a locking accessory to the lens member to couple the lens member to a flaring device. A flaring device allows the lens member to be machined into the desired shape corresponding to the spectacle frame. In this case, the lens member is a finished lens.
[007] However, this positioning is complicated, since a lens member may appear rotationally symmetrical to the naked eye.
[008] To facilitate the positioning of the lens member, a preliminary step of engraving markings according to a chosen geometric figure is usually performed before the manufacturing process. These markings allow for the correct positioning and orientation of the lens throughout the manufacturing process. However, this engraving operation presents several drawbacks. In fact, this step prolongs the duration of the manufacturing process and can impact the quality of the optical lenses.
[009] The present invention seeks to improve the situation. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention relates to a method comprising: - to detect, using an optical sensor, at least one intrinsic optical feature of a lens member to be Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 9 / 97 3 / 35 positioned in a manufacturing apparatus configured to apply an optical lens manufacturing operation to said lens member; and - To determine, using a processing unit, the position or orientation of the lens member in a fabrication apparatus structure based on at least one intrinsic optical feature.
[0011] In the context of the invention, the optical features considered are “intrinsic,” meaning that the optical features were not intentionally etched or engraved into the lens member for the specific purpose of determining the position or orientation of the lens member.
[0012] Typically, at least one intrinsic optical feature provides an optical function for correcting vision disorders or refractive errors in a user.
[0013] Determining the position or orientation of the lens member based on an intrinsic optical feature improves the accuracy of the positioning and manufacturing of an optical lens. Furthermore, it is no longer necessary to engrave markings on the surface of the lens member to position it at each stage of the manufacturing process.
[0014] Eliminating this preliminary operation simplifies the process.
[0015] Advantageously, the method also includes: - providing a desired position or orientation of the lens member within the fabrication apparatus structure; - estimation of a difference between the desired position and the determined position of the lens member or between the desired orientation and the determined orientation of the lens member; and - Adjusting the position or orientation of the lens member in Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 10 / 97 4 / 35 manufacturing apparatus moving the lens member in a translational manner from the determined position or in a rotational manner from the determined orientation of the lens member to compensate for the difference.
[0016] It is worth noting that these additional steps accommodate both the case where the lens member is pre-placed in the fabrication apparatus and the opposite case where the lens member is not pre-placed in the fabrication apparatus. These two distinct cases will be detailed in the description, with two alternative devices.
[0017] The method may also comprise locking the lens member in the manufacturing apparatus in the adjusted position or orientation using locking means.
[0018] The position of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure is, for example, characterized by the location of a reference positioning point in the fabrication apparatus structure.
[0019] For example, at least one intrinsic optical feature includes a curvature distribution. The curvature distribution is detected by acquiring, using an image sensor, an image of the lens member. The position of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure is determined as follows: - provide a theoretical surface characterized by a desired curvature distribution and a location of the reference positioning point on said theoretical surface; - Apply a curvature mapping function to the image acquired by the processing unit to generate a map of the curvature distribution of the lens member; and - Compare the desired curvature distribution and the generated map of the lens member curvature distribution to Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 11 / 97 5 / 35 Determine, based on the location of the reference positioning point on the theoretical surface, the location of the reference positioning point of the lens member on the fabrication apparatus structure.
[0020] According to one embodiment, at least one intrinsic optical feature includes several distinct characteristics forming a pattern. The distinct characteristics are detected by acquiring, using an image sensor, an image of the lens member. The position or orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure is determined as follows: - to process, using the processing unit, the acquired image to find the location of a plurality of distinct features; and - to deduce from this the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus.
[0021] The processing of the acquired image comprises, for example, the positioning of a predetermined geometric figure in the acquired image so that the predetermined geometric figure passes through the plurality of distinct features encountered. In this case, the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus is deduced respectively from the position or orientation of the geometric figure in the processed image.
[0022] Preferably, at least one intrinsic optical feature is a lens member rotation variant. The orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure can be determined based on the rotation variant.
[0023] The use of a rotation variant allows for certain determination of the orientation of the lens member, 360° module.
[0024] According to one embodiment, at least one intrinsic optical feature includes a polarization axis. The axis of Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 12 / 97 6 / 35 polarization is detected as follows: - determining the polarization of a light ray incident on the lens member; - determining the polarization of the light ray after refraction by the lens member; and - deducing from this the polarization axis of the lens member by comparing the polarization of the light ray before and after refraction.
[0025] In this case, the orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure is determined based on the polarization axis.
[0026] According to one embodiment, at least one intrinsic optical feature includes a hue gradient. The hue gradient is detected by acquiring, using an image sensor, an image of a lens member surface. In this case, the orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure is determined as follows: - To provide a predetermined function for varying the hue on the surface of the lens member; - Process the acquired image to calculate a function characterizing the variation in hue on the surface of the lens member; and - deduce from this the orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus by comparing the calculated function with the predetermined function.
[0027] According to one embodiment, at least one intrinsic optical feature includes a cylinder axis. In this case, the cylinder axis is detected as follows: - Place a standard image in front of the lens member; - to acquire, using an image sensor, an image Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 13 / 97 7 / 35 refracted from the standard image through the lens member; and - deduce from this the axis of the cylinder of the lens member by comparing the standard image before refraction with the refracted image of the standard image.
[0028] The orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure is determined based on the cylinder axis.
[0029] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the lens member comprises at least one optical element. The at least one intrinsic optical feature includes an optical function of the at least one optical element to prevent focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard conditions of use, so as to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction of the eye. In this case, the optical function is detected by acquiring, using an image sensor, an image of the lens member. The position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus is determined as follows: - processing, using the processing unit, the acquired image to find the location of at least one optical element; and - deducing from this the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus.
[0030] The optical element is, for example, a microlens, a diffusing element, or a π-Fresnel element.
[0031] The π-Fresnel element is described in European patent application EP 3785072 A1 and can be defined as a diffractive Fresnel lens whose phase function has π phase jumps at the nominal wavelength, as opposed to unifocal Fresnel lenses whose phase jumps are multiples of 2π values. If the lens member comprises a plurality of optical elements, a plurality of microlenses can take the form of a microlens array. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 14 / 97 8 / 35
[0032] The invention also relates to a process for manufacturing an optical lens from a lens member comprising one or more optical lens manufacturing operations implemented using at least one manufacturing apparatus. At least one optical lens manufacturing operation is performed using the method mentioned above.
[0033] The invention also relates to a computer program comprising instructions for implementing the manufacturing method or process, when the instructions are executed by at least one processor. Finally, the invention relates to a device comprising: - an optical sensor configured to detect at least one intrinsic optical feature of a lens member to be positioned in a manufacturing apparatus configured to apply an optical lens manufacturing operation to the lens member; and - a processing unit configured to determine the position or orientation of the lens member in a manufacturing apparatus structure based on at least one intrinsic optical feature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description provided for indicative and not limiting purposes, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: - FIG. 1A illustrates a device for positioning a lens member according to the invention; - FIG. 1B illustrates a device for determining the position or orientation of a lens member according to the invention; - FIG. 2 illustrates a method for positioning a lens member according to the invention; Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 15 / 97 9 / 35 - FIG. 3 illustrates the steps for detecting an intrinsic optical feature of a lens member and determining the position or orientation of the lens member using the method illustrated in FIG. 2; Figure 4 illustrates the detection of optical features in a lens member and the determination of a reference positioning point for the lens member; and Figure 5 illustrates the detection of a cylinder axis of a lens member. DETAILED REVELATION
[0035] FIG. 1A illustrates a device 1 for positioning a lens member 3 in a manufacturing apparatus.
[0036] It should be noted that FIG. 1A is schematic and only shows the structural components of device 1. Consequently, FIG. 1A is not optically accurate, particularly in the tracing of light rays.
[0037] The fabrication apparatus is not shown in FIG. 1A. In fact, the fabrication apparatus can be any apparatus configured to apply an optical lens fabrication operation to lens member 3.
[0038] For example, the manufacturing apparatus may be an apparatus for blocking, surfacing, or polishing the lens member 3. In this case, the lens member 3 is typically a lens blank or a semi-finished lens. A semi-finished lens is a lens in which only one surface is machined before the manufacturing process. The other surface, i.e., the unfinished surface, is intended to be machined according to an ophthalmic prescription.
[0039] The manufacturing apparatus may also be a flaring apparatus used by an ophthalmologist to shape the lens member 3 into a desired shape for mounting in a frame. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 16 / 97 10 / 35 glasses. In this case, lens member 3 is typically a finished lens.
[0040] Consequently, the term “optical lens” is a generic term that can refer to a lens obtained after the application of a manufacturing operation, to a finished lens obtained after the complete manufacturing process of an ophthalmic lens, or even to a spectacle lens obtained after mounting the finished ophthalmic lens in a spectacle frame.
[0041] Furthermore, it is worth noting that the optical lens to be manufactured may typically be intended for the correction of myopia. This optical lens is, for example, manufactured to satisfy an ophthalmic prescription if at least one of the user's eyes suffers from a refractive error, so that an image seen by the user focuses on the retina of the eye. Optical elements are microstructures.
[0042] The optical lens to be manufactured may comprise one or more optical elements which are, for example, microlenses. The optical lens typically comprises an array of microlenses. The optical elements provide an optical function to prevent focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard usage conditions, so as to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction of the eye.
[0043] In this case, the optical elements induce a physical deformation of a surface of the optical lens or lens member 3. The surface of the optical lens or lens member 3 thus has an altitude (also called curvature in the literature) within the range [0.1 pm; 50 pm] and a width within the range [0.5 pm; 1.5 mm] at the level of deformations caused by the presence of one or more optical elements. The optical elements provide wavefront modification in the intensity, curvature, or deviation of light from the optical lens or lens member 3.
[0044] Optical elements, which are, for example, microlenses, Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 17 / 97 11 / 35 preferably have a periodic or pseudoperiodic layout in the optical lens or lens member 3. In contrast, the optical elements may also have random positions in the optical lens or lens member 3.
[0045] Optical elements can be diffusing microstructures configured to scatter light locally over an angle range of 1° to 30°.
[0046] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, device 1 is used to position lens member 3. However, more generally, device 1 is used to determine the position or orientation of lens member 3. Determining the position or orientation of lens member 3 has several practical applications, including positioning lens member 3 in a manufacturing apparatus, as is the case here. Furthermore, the person skilled in the art should understand here that determining the position or orientation means that device 1 can allow the determination of both the position and the orientation of lens member 3. Thus, the term “or” means “and / or”.
[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the device 1 comprises illumination means, placement means and processing means.
[0048] The illumination means comprise a light source 5 and a mirror 7. The light source 5 is configured to emit a light ray or beam towards the mirror 7. The mirror 7 is configured to reflect the light ray or beam emitted by the light source 5 towards the lens member 3. Typically, the mirror 7 is inclined at 45° with respect to an axis A1 orthogonal to a surface portion of the lens member 3.
[0049] Optionally, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the device 1 may include a filter 9 within which an image pattern may be mounted for projection onto a surface of the member of Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 18 / 97 12 / 35 lens 3.
[0050] The mounting means comprise a support plate 11, in the center of which a support 13 is provided for holding the lens member 3. Advantageously, the support plate 11 is flat and made of a transparent material. The support 13 is, for example, a rod having an enlarged head for supporting the lens member 3. Of course, the support 13 may have a different shape or may be formed by the support plate 11.
[0051] The placement means allow the lens member 3 to be positioned so as to expose it to the light rays or beams emitted by the light source 5 and reflected by the mirror 7. As mentioned earlier, the light rays or beams can also be filtered by the filter 9 according to a particular standard image. The placement means are configured to place the lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus configured to apply an optical lens manufacturing operation to the lens member 3.
[0052] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the device 1 also comprises a mirror 15. The mirror 15 is configured to reflect light rays or light beams refracted by the lens member 3 towards the processing media. As explained previously, the support plate 11 is made of a transparent material to allow the passage of light rays or light beams refracted by the lens member 3.
[0053] The processing means comprise an optical sensor 17 and a processing unit 19. The optical sensor 17 is configured to detect at least one intrinsic optical feature of the lens member 3 placed in the manufacturing apparatus. The optical sensor 17 may comprise a plurality of sensors.
[0054] The intrinsic optical features are inherent to lens member 3 and allow one or more of the following to be characterized or defined: Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 19 / 97 13 / 35 its optical properties. These intrinsic optical features may or may not result from a previous manufacturing operation. In any case, it must be understood here that this intrinsic optical feature was not specifically provided to lens member 3 to enable its positioning in the manufacturing apparatus.
[0055] One or more intrinsic optical features may comprise, for example, a curvature distribution, a pattern formed by several distinct features, a polarization axis, a hue gradient, a cylinder axis, or an optical function provided by at least one element to prevent focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard usage conditions, so as to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction of the eye.
[0056] Advantageously, at least one intrinsic optical peculiarity is a rotation variant of lens member 3.
[0057] The optical sensor 17 may comprise an image sensor, for example, a camera, arranged to acquire an image of the lens member 3. The acquired image may be processed to detect one or more intrinsic optical features of the lens member 3 placed in the manufacturing apparatus.
[0058] Processing unit 19 is configured to determine the position or orientation of lens member 3 in a fabrication apparatus structure based on at least one intrinsic optical feature. Clearly, processing unit 19 can be configured to determine both the position and orientation of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure.
[0059] It is worth noting that the position of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure can be characterized by the location of a reference positioning point in the fabrication apparatus structure. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 20 / 97 14 / 35
[0060] In particular, the processing unit 19 is arranged to analyze data acquired by the optical sensor 17. For example, when the optical sensor 17 comprises an image sensor, the processing unit 19 is arranged to analyze the image of the lens member 3 acquired by the image sensor. The processing unit 19 can obviously also be arranged to analyze light rays or beams of light refracted by the lens member 3 and captured by the optical sensor 17. As detailed previously, the light rays or beams of light refracted by the lens member 3 are, for example, reflected by the mirror 15 towards the optical sensor 17.
[0061] In the particular case where the optical sensor 17 comprises an image sensor and where one or more images of the lens member 3 are transmitted by the optical sensor 17 to the processing unit 19, the latter may be arranged to apply image processing to the received images. Image processing techniques are conventional techniques widely known to the expert in the art for modifying, for example, the definition, resolution or bit rate of the received images and, more generally, any type of parameters related to image quality.
[0062] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the processing unit 19 comprises a memory 21 and a processor 23.
[0063] The memory 21 is configured to store instructions whose implementation by the processor 23 results in the operation of the processing unit 19. Furthermore, the memory 21 is also configured to store measurements or data collected by the optical sensor 17. The memory 21 can be volatile or non-volatile, and the stored measurements or data can be erased after the use of these measurements or data to determine the position or orientation of the lens member 3. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 21 / 97 15 / 35
[0064] Furthermore, memory 21 can be configured to store information received by processing unit 19. This information can be received by a communication interface of processing unit 19. The received information comprises, for example, a desired position or orientation of lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus. In this case, processing unit 19, and more particularly processor 23, can be configured to estimate a difference between the desired position and the determined position of lens member 3, or between the desired orientation and the determined orientation of lens member 3.
[0065] According to one embodiment, the device 1 comprises positioning means arranged to adjust the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus. The positioning means are, for example, configured to move the lens member 3 in a translational manner from the determined position or in a rotational manner from the determined orientation of the lens member 3. In the particular embodiment where the processing unit 19 receives information related to a desired position or a desired orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus, the positioning means can be used to compensate for the estimated difference between the desired position and the determined position of the lens member 3 or between the desired orientation and the determined orientation of the lens member 3.
[0066] Furthermore, device 1 may also comprise locking means (not shown in FIG. 1A) arranged to lock the lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus in the adjusted position or orientation.
[0067] Alternatively, FIG. 1B illustrates a device 2 for determining the position or orientation of the lens member 3. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 22 / 97 16 / 35
[0068] In this embodiment, the lens member 3 is not necessarily placed in a manufacturing apparatus. Consequently, the device 2 is configured to determine the position and orientation of the lens member 3 in a known structure, which may be a structure fixed to the device 2. However, the transition from one structure, for example, the structure of the device 2, to another structure, for example, the structure of a manufacturing apparatus, is known so that determining the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure fixed to the device 2 is equivalent to determining the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of a manufacturing apparatus.
[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the device 2 comprises a display unit 4, a support 6, an image capture unit 8 and a processing unit 10.
[0070] The display unit 4 is configured to display one or more images that can be refracted by the lens member 3. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, the display unit 4 takes the form of a flat screen positioned so that the screen is orthogonal to axis A1, which is orthogonal to a surface portion of the lens member 3.
[0071] The display unit 4 is configured, for example, to illuminate the lens member 3 according to a plurality of successive specific patterns comprising a light area and a dark area. The display unit 4 may also be suitable for displaying at least one scrolling pattern and for making that pattern scroll in at least one predetermined scrolling direction with respect to the support 6. Of course, the display unit 4 may also be suitable for displaying one or more stationary patterns, for example, a Hartmann matrix.
[0072] Display unit 4 is, for example, an LCD screen. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 23 / 97 17 / 35 backlit which acts as the light source for device 2. This light source can be compared to the light source 5 of device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1A. This LCD screen is then suitable for making this scrolling pattern roll in the predetermined scrolling direction with respect to the support 6.
[0073] Support 6 illustrated in FIG. 1B can be compared with the means of placing device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1A, namely the support plate 11 and the support 13.
[0074] Advantageously, the support 6 is flat and made of a transparent material. The support 6 allows the lens member 3 to be positioned so as to expose it to the image displayed by the display unit 4.
[0075] The image capture unit 8 of device 2 can be compared with the optical sensor 17 of device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1A. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, the image capture unit 8 is arranged to acquire an image of the lens member 3. The acquired image can be processed to detect one or more intrinsic optical features of the lens member 3 held by the support 6, in order to determine the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure fixed to device 2. The image capture unit 8 is, for example, a digital camera or a digital video camera.
[0076] As previously detailed, intrinsic optical features are inherent to lens member 3 and allow one or more of its optical properties to be characterized or defined. These intrinsic optical features may or may not result from a previous manufacturing operation. In any case, it must be understood here that this intrinsic optical feature was not specifically provided to lens member 3 to enable its positioning in the manufacturing apparatus. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 24 / 97 18 / 35
[0077] Finally, processing unit 10 is configured to determine the position or orientation of lens member 3 in a structure attached to device 2 based on at least one intrinsic optical feature. Of course, processing unit 10 can be configured to determine both the position and orientation of lens member 3 in the structure of device 2.
[0078] The position of lens member 3 in the device structure can be characterized by the location of a reference positioning point in the device structure 2.
[0079] In particular, processing unit 10 is arranged to analyze the image acquired by image acquisition unit 8.
[0080] Regarding processing unit 19 of device 1, processing unit 10 of device 2 can be arranged to apply image processing to the received images. Image processing techniques are conventional techniques widely known to those skilled in the art for modifying, for example, the definition, resolution, or bit rate of received images and, more generally, any type of parameters related to image quality.
[0081] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, the processing unit 10 comprises a memory (not shown in FIG. 1B) and a processor 12.
[0082] The memory is configured to store instructions whose implementation by processor 12 results in the operation of processing unit 10. Furthermore, the memory of processing unit 10 is also configured to store images captured by image capture unit 8. The memory of processing unit 10 may be volatile or non-volatile memory. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 25 / 97 19 / 35 volatile, and the stored images can be deleted after using those images to determine the position or orientation of the lens member 3.
[0083] Furthermore, the memory of processing unit 10 can be configured to store information received by processing unit 10. This information can be received by a communication interface of processing unit 10. The received information may comprise formulas for changing the structure, for example, from the structure of device 2 to the structure of a manufacturing apparatus. Processor 12 is thus configured to determine, based on the position or orientation of lens member 3 in the structure attached to device 2, the corresponding position or orientation of lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus.
[0084] It is clear that the operation of processing unit 10 of device 2 is comparable with the operation of processing unit 19 of device 1, and the information that can be received by processing unit 19 can also be received by processing unit 10, in particular a desired position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of a manufacturing apparatus.
[0085] Furthermore, the device 2 illustrated in FIG. 1B may also include a mechanical system, including, for example, an articulated arm, for positioning the lens member 3 in a manufacturing apparatus. The mechanical system is configured to grasp the lens member 3 placed in the holder 6 and move it to the manufacturing apparatus. This mechanical system is well known to those skilled in the art and is widely described in the literature regarding the movement of a lens member from one piece of equipment to another.
[0086] A further description will be given below below. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 26 / 97 20 / 35 method for positioning a lens member with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.
[0087] In general, the method illustrated in FIG. 2 can be considered as a method for positioning a lens member, such as lens member 3. However, a person skilled in the art understands from the various steps or operations described below that the method can be a method for determining the position or orientation of lens member 3, but also a method for positioning lens member 3 or even a method for applying an optical lens manufacturing operation to lens member 3. The nature of the method depends on which of the steps illustrated in FIG. 2 is performed last. The same considerations also apply to device 1 described above.
[0088] In the context of the method, lens member 3 is intended to be positioned in a manufacturing apparatus configured to apply an optical lens manufacturing operation to lens member 3.
[0089] If lens member 3 is a lens blank or a semi-finished lens, the manufacturing apparatus may be an apparatus for blocking, surfacing, coloring, etching, or polishing the lens member 3. Conversely, if lens member 3 is a finished lens, the manufacturing apparatus may be a flaring apparatus used by an ophthalmologist to shape the lens member 3 into a desired form for mounting in an eyeglass frame.
[0090] It should be noted that the method is described below essentially with reference to device 1 shown in FIG. 1A. It is clear that a person skilled in the art understands that the same method can also be performed with device 2 illustrated in FIG. 1B. Some minor differences remain. For example, device 2 determines the position or orientation of the lens member 3 first in Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 27 / 97 21 / 35 device structure 2 and then determines the corresponding position or orientation in the manufacturing apparatus structure in which the lens member 3 will be placed. Furthermore, the images or patterns displayed by the display unit 4 are refracted directly by the lens member 3 without using a mirror to reflect the light rays or beams emitted by the display unit 4.
[0091] More specifically, in the following description of the method, it appears that device 1 can be replaced by device 2. Thus, the light source 5, possibly combined with the filter 9, can be replaced by the display unit 4. The optical sensor 17 can be replaced by the image capture unit 8. Finally, the processing unit 19 can be replaced by the processing unit 10, while the processor 23 can be replaced by the processor 12.
[0092] In a step S1, lens member 3 is placed in the fabrication apparatus configured to apply an optical lens fabrication operation to lens member 3.
[0093] In the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 1A, the lens member is placed in the manufacturing apparatus using placement means of the device 1. More particularly, the lens member 3 is held by the support 13 provided in the center of the support plate 11. Typically, the support plate 11 is flat and made of a transparent material.
[0094] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the lens member 3 is placed in the holder 6 of the device 2 and not in the manufacturing apparatus. In fact, the lens member 3 is only placed in the manufacturing apparatus after the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of the device 2 has been determined.
[0095] In an S2 step, a desired position or orientation of lens member 3 is provided in the fabrication apparatus structure. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 28 / 97 22 / 35 It is clear that both the desired position and orientation of the lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure can be provided.
[0096] The desired position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure is, for example, received by the processing unit 19 and can be stored in the memory 21 of the processing unit 19.
[0097] In an S3 step, the optical lens 17 of device 1 detects at least one intrinsic optical feature of lens member 3. The optical sensor 17 can detect a single intrinsic optical feature as well as a plurality of intrinsic optical features of lens member 3.
[0098] As explained above, the optical sensor 17 may comprise an image sensor arranged to acquire an image of the lens member 3. More generally, the optical sensor 17 acquires data or measurements relating to the light rays or beams of light refracted by the lens member 3.
[0099] In a step S4, the processing unit 19 determines the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure based on at least one intrinsic optical feature.
[00100] Processing unit 19 can determine both the position and orientation of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure. It is clear that processing unit 19 can use a single intrinsic optical feature or multiple intrinsic optical features of lens member 3.
[00101] Step S3 of detecting one or more intrinsic optical features of lens member 3 and step S4 of determining the position or orientation of lens member 3 will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 3, which describes different modes corresponding to different features. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 29 / 97 23 / 35 intrinsic optics.
[00102] In a first case where the optical sensor 17 comprises an image sensor, for example, a camera, the S3 step corresponds to a single S31 substep.
[00103] In substage S31, the image sensor acquires an image of lens member 3. In this case, the intrinsic optical feature may be a curvature distribution, several distinct optical characteristics, a hue gradient, or an optical function provided by at least one element to prevent focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard usage conditions, so as to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction of the eye.
[00104] Of course, device 2 illustrated in FIG. 1B can also be used. In this mode, the image of the lens member 3 is acquired by the image capture unit 8.
[00105] For example, an intrinsic optical feature of lens member 3 is a curvature distribution. The curvature distribution is detected by acquiring, using the image sensor, an image of lens member 3.
[00106] When the intrinsic optical feature considered is the curvature distribution of lens member 3, step S4 corresponds to determining the position of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure and is implemented according to a set of substeps S41, S42, S43, S44 and S47.
[00107] In substage S41, processing unit 19 receives information related to both the reference positioning point and the theoretical curvature of lens member 3. The received information can be stored in memory 21.
[00108] According to one embodiment, the information includes a theoretical surface that is provided to processing unit 19. The theoretical surface is characterized by a curvature distribution. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 30 / 97 24 / 35 desired. This curvature distribution was determined prior to the implementation of the method to satisfy a prescription and correct a vision disorder. Furthermore, the information received by processing unit 19 includes the location of the reference positioning point on the theoretical surface. This location can be defined as a set of coordinates.
[00109] Additionally, or alternatively, the information may include a predetermined curvature value at the reference positioning point, particularly when that predetermined curvature value is achieved by the theoretical surface only at the reference positioning point.
[00110] In substep S42, a curvature mapping function is applied to the image acquired by the optical sensor image sensor 17 to generate a curvature distribution map of lens member 3.
[00111] In sub-step S43, processing unit 19 determines the location of the reference positioning point on the manufacturing apparatus structure.
[00112] In the embodiment where the information includes the desired curvature distribution and the location of the reference positioning point on the theoretical surface, processing unit 19 determines the position and orientation of the generated curvature distribution of lens member 3 that best coincides with or matches the desired curvature distribution. In other words, processing unit 19 compares the desired curvature distribution and the generated curvature distribution map of lens member 3 to determine, based on the location of the reference positioning point on the theoretical surface, the location of the reference positioning point of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 31 / 97 25 / 35
[00113] Processing unit 19 applies successive translations and rotations to the generated curvature distribution map of lens member 3 and calculates, after each displacement, a deviation of the generated curvature distribution of lens member 3 from the desired curvature distribution of the theoretical surface. This calculation may include a least squares method, i.e., the sum of the squares of the curvature differences between the generated curvature distribution of lens member 3 and the desired curvature distribution.
[00114] Thus, after processing unit 19 determines a position and orientation of the generated map of the curvature distribution of lens member 3 that minimizes the deviation from the desired curvature distribution of the theoretical surface, the location of the reference positioning point on the fabrication apparatus structure can be determined.
[00115] Next, reference is made to the mode in which the information includes the predetermined curvature value at the reference positioning point. In this case, it is sufficient to determine at what point on the generated map of the curvature distribution this predetermined curvature value is reached by the surface of lens member 3 to deduce the location of the reference positioning point by unique matching.
[00116] The generated map allows, for example, associating each point on a surface of lens member 3 with the corresponding measured curvature value. Each point on a surface of lens member 3 can be characterized by three-dimensional coordinates on the structure of the manufacturing apparatus, while the curvature is characterized by a value corresponding to the inverse of the radius of curvature at the associated point. Since the curvature of the reference positioning point is predetermined and is achieved, in a particular case, by the surface of lens member 3 only at Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 32 / 97 26 / 35 reference positioning point, this curvature value can be found on the generated map and the three-dimensional coordinates of the reference positioning point are then directly determined.
[00117] Finally, in substep S47, processing unit 19 determines the position of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure based on the location of the reference positioning point.
[00118] As mentioned above, the intrinsic optical peculiarity can correspond to several distinct characteristics forming a pattern. Again here, the distinct characteristics are detected by acquiring, using the image sensor, an image of lens member 3.
[00119] An example of the embodiment in which the intrinsic optical particularity considered corresponds to several distinct characteristics forming a lens member pattern 3 is illustrated in greater detail in FIG. 4.
[00120] More particularly, FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of lens member 3 having a plurality of distinct features (CH). The cross-section of lens member 3 shown is, for example, orthogonal to axis A1 shown in FIG. 1A. In the context of the invention, the optical features (CH) are intrinsic, meaning that the optical features (CH) were not intentionally etched or engraved on lens member 3 for the specific purpose of determining the position or orientation of lens member 3. This embodiment aims here to exploit intrinsic optical features (CH) that correspond to diffusing elements.
[00121] In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the image sensor detects the optical features (CH) by acquiring an image of lens member 3 in substep S31. More particularly, the image sensor Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 33 / 97 27 / 35 detects three optical features of lens member 3.
[00122] Still in relation to the modality in which the intrinsic optical particularity considered corresponds to several distinct optical characteristics (CH), step S4 corresponds to the determination of both the position and orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus and is implemented according to a set of substeps S44, S47 and S48.
[00123] In substage S44, processing unit 19 processes the image acquired by the optical sensor 17 image sensor to find the location of a plurality of distinct features (CH).
[00124] Advantageously, the processing of the acquired image involves positioning a predetermined geometric figure in the acquired image so that the predetermined geometric figure passes through the plurality of distinct features encountered.
[00125] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, three optical features (CH) were detected by the image sensor of optical sensor 17. In substep S44, processing unit 19 positions a predetermined geometric figure (GF) which corresponds here to a rectangle. This rectangle passes through the three optical features (CH), as well as other optical features that were potentially not detected by the image sensor.
[00126] Advantageously, processing unit 19 determines the location of a reference positioning point (RPP) based on the position of the predetermined geometric figure. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the reference positioning point (RPP) corresponds to the geometric center of the geometric figure (GF), which here is a rectangle.
[00127] In substage S47, processing unit 19, and more precisely processor 23, deduce the position of the lens member. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 34 / 97 28 / 35 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus from the position of the geometric figure in the processed image. The position of lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus is, for example, determined based on the location of the reference positioning point (RPP). In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, in which the intrinsic optical particularity corresponds to several distinct optical characteristics (CH) and in which the processing unit 19 processes the acquired image to position a geometric figure (GF) corresponding to a rectangle, the position of lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus is based on the location of the reference positioning point (RPP).
[00128] In substep S48, processing unit 19 can also deduce the orientation of lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus structure from the orientation of the geometric figure in the processed image.
[00129] Furthermore, an intrinsic optical feature may be a tonal gradient. The tonal gradient is also detected by acquiring, using the image sensor, an image of a lens member surface 3.
[00130] When the intrinsic optical feature is a hue gradient, step S4 corresponds to determining the orientation of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure and is implemented according to a set of substeps S45, S46 and S48.
[00131] In substage S45, a predetermined hue variation function is provided on the surface of lens member 3. The predetermined hue variation function is, for example, received by processing unit 19 and then stored in memory 21.
[00132] In substage S46, processing unit 19 processes the image acquired by the optical sensor 17 to Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 35 / 97 29 / 35 Calculate a function characterizing the variation in hue on the surface of lens member 3.
[00133] In substep S48, processing unit 19 deduces the orientation of lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus structure by comparing the calculated function with the predetermined function of variation of the surface hue of lens member 3.
[00134] Lastly, as previously mentioned, an intrinsic optical feature of lens member 3 may be an optical function provided by at least one element to prevent focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard usage conditions, so as to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction of the eye. In this case, each optical element is, for example, a microlens. The optical function is detected by acquiring, using the image sensor, an image of lens member 3.
[00135] As explained above, when the device used to implement the method is device 2 illustrated in FIG. 1B, the image of lens member 3 is acquired by image capture unit 8.
[00136] When the intrinsic optical feature considered is the optical function of lens member 3, step S4 corresponds to the determination of both the position and orientation of lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus and is implemented according to a set of substeps S44, S47 and S48. Consequently, this modality is similar to that in which the intrinsic optical particularity corresponds to several distinct optical characteristics (CH).
[00137] In substage S44, processing unit 19 processes the image acquired by the optical sensor 17 to find the location of one or more optical elements.
[00138] Advantageously, processing unit 19 determines Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 36 / 97 30 / 35 the location of a reference positioning point (RPP) based on the location of the optical elements found.
[00139] In substage S47, processing unit 19, and more precisely, processor 23, deduce the position of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure from the location of the optical elements in the processed image. The position of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure is, for example, determined based on the location of the reference positioning point (RPP).
[00140] Image processing is particularly effective when each optical element is a microlens, so that lens member 3 has a microlens array.
[00141] In substage S48, processing unit 19 can also deduce the orientation of lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus structure from the orientation of the optical elements in the processed image.
[00142] In a second case where an intrinsic optical feature of lens member 3 is a polarization axis, step S3 corresponds to a set of substeps S32, S33 and S34.
[00143] In substage S32, the polarization of a light ray incident on lens member 3 is determined. Information about the polarization of the incident light ray is known, for example, from light source 5 of device 1. This information is then transmitted to processing unit 19 and can be stored in memory 21 for use by processor 23.
[00144] In substep S33, the polarization of the same light ray is determined, but after refraction by lens member 3. Typically, the polarization of the refracted light ray is measured by optical sensor 17. In fact, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, the refracted light ray can be reflected by mirror 15 towards optical sensor 17.
[00145] Finally, in substage S34, the axis of Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 37 / 97 31 / 35 polarization of lens member 3 comparing the polarization of the light ray before and after refraction by lens member 3. This comparison is, for example, performed by processing unit 19 and, more precisely, by processor 23, after receiving information about the polarization of the light ray emitted by light source 5 and after receiving the measured polarization of the light ray refracted by lens element 3 of optical sensor 17.
[00146] When the intrinsic optical feature is a polarization axis, step S4 corresponds to determining the orientation of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure and is implemented according to a single substep S48.
[00147] In substep S48, processing unit 19 determines the orientation of lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus structure based on the polarization axis.
[00148] In a third case where an intrinsic optical feature of lens member 3 is a cylinder axis, step S3 corresponds to a set of substeps S35, S36 and S37.
[00149] An example of the embodiment in which the intrinsic optical feature considered is a cylinder axis of lens member 3 is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 5.
[00150] In substep S35, a standard image (PI) is placed in front of lens member 3. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the standard image can be mounted on filter 9. Filter 9 received the light rays or beams emitted by light source 5 and reflected by mirror 7. Filter 9 is arranged between mirror 5 and lens member 3. Filter 9 is, for example, orthogonal to axis A1, which is orthogonal to a surface portion of lens member 3.
[00151] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the standard image (PI) has the shape of a circle. Of course, multiple other patterns can be used. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 38 / 97 32 / 35
[00152] In substage S36, an image sensor of the optical sensor 17 acquires a refracted image of the standard image (PI) through the lens member 3. As illustrated in the example shown in FIG. 5, the standard image (PI) is refracted due to the cylinder axis of the lens member 3. The circle thus appears as an inclined ellipse, i.e., the circle seen at a certain angle, due to the cylinder axis of the lens member 3. The inclination of the ellipse axis makes it possible to determine the cylinder axis.
[00153] In substep S37, processing unit 19 deduces the cylinder axis of lens member 3 by comparing the standard image (PI) before refraction with the refracted image of the standard image (PI). The standard image (PI) before refraction is typically known to processing unit 19. For example, information related to the standard image (PI) can be transmitted to processing unit 19 and stored in memory 21 for use by processor 23.
[00154] When the intrinsic optical feature is a cylinder axis, step S4 corresponds to determining the orientation of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure and is implemented according to a single substep S48.
[00155] In substep S48, processing unit 19 determines the orientation of lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus structure based on the cylinder axis.
[00156] The expert in the art understands that several intrinsic optical features can be detected to determine both the position and orientation of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure. By exploiting an additional intrinsic optical feature, the determined position or orientation can be corrected. Alternatively, if an intrinsic optical feature is used to determine only the position of lens member 3 in the structure of the Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 39 / 97 33 / 35 manufacturing apparatus, another intrinsic optical feature may be used to determine the orientation of lens member 3. Accordingly, the previously described methods may be combined.
[00157] For example, the optical sensor 17 can detect the cylinder axis of the lens member 3 to determine the orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus and can detect the curvature distribution of the lens member 3 to also determine the position of the lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus.
[00158] Below, reference is again made to FIG. 2 to describe the rest of the method. At this point in the method, the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus structure is determined. Advantageously, both the position and orientation are determined by the processing unit 19.
[00159] If the device used is device 1 shown in FIG. 1A, the position or orientation of the lens member 3 is determined in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus in which the lens member 3 is placed. However, if the method is performed using device 2 shown in FIG. 1B, the position or orientation of the lens member 3 is determined in the structure of device 2. This position or orientation is then converted in the structure of device 2 using the processing unit 10.
[00160] Furthermore, according to one embodiment, a desired position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus was provided in step S2. It should be noted that step S2 of providing the desired position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus can be provided after step S4 of determining the position or orientation of the lens member 3 in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 40 / 97 34 / 35
[00161] In a step S5, processing unit 19 estimates a difference between the desired position and the determined position of lens member 3 or between the desired orientation and the determined orientation of lens member 3.
[00162] Advantageously, processing unit 19 estimates the difference between the desired position and the determined position of lens member 3 and the difference between the desired orientation and the determined orientation of lens member 3.
[00163] In step S6, the position of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus is adjusted by moving lens member 3 translationally from the determined position of lens member 3 to compensate for the estimated difference between the desired position and the determined position of lens member 3. Alternatively, or additionally, the orientation of lens member 3 in the fabrication apparatus is adjusted by moving lens member 3 rotationally from the determined orientation of lens member 3 to compensate for the estimated difference between the desired orientation and the determined orientation of lens member 3.
[00164] As previously explained, device 1 may comprise positioning means arranged to adjust the position or orientation of lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus. The positioning means are, for example, configured to move lens member 3 translationally from a determined position or rotationally from a determined orientation of lens member 3. In step S6, the positioning means may be used to position lens member 3 in the manufacturing apparatus.
[00165] Optionally, in an S7 step, lens member 3 is locked in the manufacturing apparatus in the adjusted position or orientation using locking means. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 41 / 97 35 / 35
[00166] The locking means prevent movement of lens member 3 during the manufacturing operation applied by the manufacturing apparatus to lens member 3.
[00167] The locking means may comprise a locking accessory to be attached to the lens member 3, so that the lens member 3 can be removablely attached to the manufacturing apparatus. After the manufacturing operation, the locking accessory, still attached to the lens member 3, can be removed from the manufacturing apparatus and placed in another manufacturing apparatus.
[00168] Finally, in an S8 step, the manufacturing apparatus in which the lens member is locked applies a manufacturing operation to the lens member.
[00169] The manufacturing apparatus is, for example, an apparatus for blocking, surfacing, or polishing the lens member 3, especially when the lens member 3 is a lens blank or a semi-finished lens. The manufacturing apparatus may also be a re-flashing apparatus used by an ophthalmologist to shape the lens member 3 into a desired form for mounting in an eyeglass frame, when the lens member is a finished lens. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 42 / 97
Claims
1 / 6 CLAIMS 1.A method characterized by comprising: - detecting (S3), using an optical sensor (17, 8), at least one intrinsic optical feature of a lens member (3) to be positioned in a manufacturing apparatus configured to apply an optical lens manufacturing operation to said lens member; and - determining (S4), using a processing unit (19, 10), the position or orientation of the lens member in a structure of the manufacturing apparatus based on said at least one intrinsic optical feature, wherein the at least one intrinsic optical feature comprises at least one of a curvature distribution, a pattern formed by several distinct features, a polarization axis, a hue gradient, a cylinder axis or an optical function by at least one element to prevent focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard usage conditions, in order to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction in the eye.
2. Method according to claim 1, further characterized by comprising: - providing (S2) a desired position or orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus; - estimating (S5) a difference between the desired position and the determined position of the lens member or between the desired orientation and the determined orientation of the lens member; and - adjusting (S6) the position or orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus by moving the lens member translationally from the determined position or rotationally from the determined orientation of the lens member to compensate for said difference. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 43 / 97 2 / 6 3. Method according to claim 2, characterized by further comprising locking (S7) the lens member in the manufacturing apparatus in the position or orientation set using locking means.
4. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by the position of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure being characterized by the location of a reference positioning point (RPP) in the fabrication apparatus structure.
5. Method according to claim 4, said, at least one, intrinsic optical feature including a curvature distribution, characterized in that the curvature distribution is detected by acquiring (S31), using an image sensor, an image of the lens member, and by the position of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure being determined as follows: - providing (S41) a theoretical surface characterized by a desired curvature distribution and a location of the reference positioning point on said theoretical surface; - applying (S42) a curvature mapping function to the image acquired by the processing unit to generate a map of the curvature distribution of the lens member;e - compare (S43) the desired curvature distribution and the generated map of the lens member curvature distribution to determine, based on the location of the reference positioning point on the theoretical surface, the location of the lens member reference positioning point on the fabrication apparatus structure.; 6. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, said at least one intrinsic optical feature including several distinct features (CH) forming a pattern, Petition 870260018391, dated 2 / 27 / 2026, p. 44 / 97 3 / 6 characterized in that said distinct features are detected by acquiring (S31), using an image sensor, an image of said lens member, and by the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus being determined as follows: - processing (S44), using the processing unit, the acquired image to find the location of a plurality of distinct features; and - deducing (S47, S48) therefrom the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus.
7. A method according to claim 6, characterized in that the processing of the acquired image comprises the positioning of a predetermined geometric figure (GF) in the acquired image such that said predetermined geometric figure passes through the plurality of distinct features encountered, and in that the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus is deduced respectively from the position or orientation of said geometric figure in the processed image.
8. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, said at least one intrinsic optical feature being a lens member rotation variant, characterized in that the orientation of the lens member in the fabrication apparatus structure is determined based on said rotation variant.
9. Method according to claim 8, said at least one intrinsic optical feature including a polarization axis, characterized in that the polarization axis is detected as follows: - determine (S32) a polarization of a light ray incident on the lens member; Petition 870260018391, dated 2026-02-27, p. 45 / 97 4 / 6 - determine (S33) a polarization of said light ray after refraction by the lens member; and - deduce (S34) therefrom the polarization axis of the lens member by comparing the polarization of said light ray before and after refraction; wherein the orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus is determined (S48) based on the polarization axis.
10. Method, according to any one of claims 8 or 9, said, at least one, intrinsic optical feature including a hue gradient, characterized in that the hue gradient is detected by acquiring (S31), using an image sensor, an image of a surface of said lens member, and by the orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus being determined as follows: - providing (S45) a predetermined function of hue variation on said lens member surface; - processing (S46) the acquired image to calculate a function characterizing the hue variation on said lens member surface; and - deducing (S48) therefrom the orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus by comparing the calculated function with the predetermined function.
11. Method, according to any one of claims 8 to 10, said, at least one, intrinsic optical particularity including a cylinder axis, characterized in that the cylinder axis is detected as follows: - placing (S35) a standard image (PI) in front of the lens member; - acquiring (S36), using an image sensor, a refracted image of the standard image through the lens member; and - deducing (S37) thereafter the cylinder axis of the lens member by comparing the standard image before refraction with the refracted image of said standard image; wherein the orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus is determined (S48) based on the cylinder axis.
12. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lens member comprises at least one optical element, said at least one intrinsic optical feature including an optical function of said at least one optical element for preventing focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard conditions of use, so as to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction of the eye, said optical function being detected by acquiring (S31), using an image sensor, an image of said lens member, and the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus being determined as follows: - processing (S44), using the processing unit, the acquired image to find the location of the at least one optical element; and - deducing (S47, S48) therefrom the position or orientation of the lens member in the structure of the manufacturing apparatus.
13. A manufacturing process for an optical lens from a lens member comprising one or more optical lens manufacturing operations implemented using at least one manufacturing apparatus, characterized in that at least one optical lens manufacturing operation (S8) is performed using the method as defined in any of the preceding claims.
14. Storage medium, characterized by Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, page 47 / 97 6 / 6 comprising instructions for implementing the method, as defined in any of claims 1 to 12, or the manufacturing process, as defined in claim 13, when said instructions are executed by at least one processor (23, 12).
15. Device (1, 2), characterized by comprising: - an optical sensor (17, 8) configured to detect at least one intrinsic optical feature of a lens member (3) to be positioned in a manufacturing apparatus configured to apply an optical lens manufacturing operation to said lens member;and - a processing unit (19, 10) configured to determine the position or orientation of the lens member in a manufacturing apparatus structure based on said at least one intrinsic optical feature, wherein the at least one intrinsic optical feature comprises at least one of a curvature distribution, a pattern formed by several distinct features, a polarization axis, a hue gradient, a cylinder axis or an optical function by at least one element to prevent focusing on the retina of a user's eye under standard usage conditions, so as to reduce the progression of an abnormal refraction in the eye. Petition 870260018391, dated 27 / 02 / 2026, p. 48 / 97;