An automated method and apparatus for detecting an optical lens

Abstract

This application relates to an automated inspection method and apparatus for optical lenses. After lens processing, it enables automated inspection of the lens surface imaging effect, quickly and accurately determining whether the lens's optical performance meets product qualification standards. Through the rotation of the rotating mechanism, multi-angle and multi-directional imaging is achieved, while the clamping mechanism enhances stability during measurement. The device automatically finds the optimal inspection position, and its four optical mechanisms and camera automatically adjust resolution, providing a high-efficiency image acquisition rate and multiple clear imaging results. This equipment can be used with complex array lenses and can capture diverse defects such as pitting, scratches, and distortion, performing image data processing and analysis. This automated inspection equipment can be connected to production equipment to achieve integrated automation of product production and inspection, enabling self-production and self-inspection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of optical lens quality inspection technology, and in particular to an automated inspection method and apparatus for optical lenses. Background Technology

[0002] Chinese patent document CN118090748B discloses an automated inspection device for optical lenses, including a worktable and a first turntable and a second turntable rotatably connected to the worktable. The periphery of the first turntable is sequentially equipped with several first fixtures, a first upward-facing optical mechanism, a concave surface inspection optical mechanism, a chamfering and side-facing inspection optical mechanism, and a lens flipping mechanism. The periphery of the second turntable is sequentially equipped with several second fixtures, a transfer and loading mechanism, a second upward-facing optical mechanism, a code reading mechanism, a concave surface inspection optical mechanism, and an optical inspection mechanism for detecting different types of defects in the optical lenses. The code reading mechanism is communicatively connected to an MES system. Through the dual turntables and optical inspection mechanisms, this device can comprehensively inspect lenses from multiple angles and directions, accurately capturing different types of defects, significantly improving the reliability of the inspection results, and greatly enhancing the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the inspection.

[0003] Conventional automated lens inspection equipment is only suitable for lenses with a single diameter and a single defect. Based on the aforementioned existing technologies, the applicant believes that the existing technologies have the following shortcomings:

[0004] 1) Limited inspection range: Different models of automated inspection equipment for optical lenses may have different inspection ranges and accuracy requirements. Some equipment may not be able to cover all types of optical lenses or all types of defects.

[0005] 2) Lack of manual inspection: For certain special or complex defect types (such as minor scratches, internal impurities, etc.), automated inspection equipment may not be able to completely replace manual inspection.

[0006] 3) Unsatisfactory imaging effect: Existing technology can only be used in single aperture, and only one image is produced.

[0007] 4) Impact of light source stability: The stability of the light source is crucial for optical detection. If the light source fluctuates significantly or is unstable, it may lead to deviations in the detection results.

[0008] 5) Limited testing items: It can only detect surface defects of the lens and cannot test the optical performance of the lens.

[0009] 6) Low testing efficiency: The lack of a self-inspection environment during the production process means that test results can often only be processed offline. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This application provides an automated inspection method and apparatus for optical lenses. After lens processing, it can automatically inspect the imaging effect on the lens surface and quickly and accurately detect whether the optical performance of the lens meets the product qualification indicators.

[0011] The automated testing method and apparatus for optical lenses provided in this application adopt the following technical solution:

[0012] An automated inspection device for optical lenses includes an inspection table with a lens inspection assembly on the inspection table. The lens inspection assembly includes an optical imaging component, a camera inspection component, a rotatable fixture, and a line-following movement mechanism.

[0013] The optical imaging component includes multiple light sources and multiple imaging screens, with each light source and imaging screen corresponding to another. The light emitted by the light source is refracted or reflected by the lens and propagates along the imaging optical axis. The imaging screen is located on the imaging optical axis and receives the light after it has been adjusted by the lens to form an image.

[0014] The camera detection component includes several cameras, which correspond to the molded screen surface. The cameras are used to capture images and convert them into digital signal data, which are then sent to a computer or image processing system to achieve automated detection.

[0015] The rotatable clamp can rotate and be positioned freely to clamp and fix the lens at different angles;

[0016] The line-following moving mechanism is connected to the rotatable clamp, which enables the rotatable clamp and the lens on it to move back and forth along a preset transport path. Multiple sets of light sources and imaging screens are arranged sequentially along the transport path, and the imaging optical axis intersects with the transport path. Imaging is achieved when the lens passes through the imaging optical axis.

[0017] Further improvements include the use of a laser light source for imaging.

[0018] To further improve the system, the laser source and a corresponding camera are fixedly mounted on the testing platform using the same bracket.

[0019] Further improvements include positioning the laser light source and its corresponding imaging screen further back, offset from the light sources and imaging screens of other groups.

[0020] Further improvements include a line-following movement mechanism that is a first linear module, with the first linear module, light source, and imaging screen being parallel to each other.

[0021] Further improvements include the addition of multiple cameras fixedly mounted on a movable support, with a second linear module positioned between the movable support and the testing platform, the second linear module being parallel to the first linear module.

[0022] Further improvements include the rotatable fixture comprising a rotating mechanism and a clamping mechanism, wherein the rotating mechanism is fixedly mounted on the line-following moving mechanism, and the clamping mechanism is fixedly mounted on the rotating mechanism.

[0023] An automated inspection method for optical lenses, comprising the following steps:

[0024] Step 1, Product Transfer: The mold containing the lens is transferred to the robotic arm via the discharge conveyor belt;

[0025] Step 2, Mold Positioning: Place the mold on the positioning rotary table and measure the mold height;

[0026] Step 3, Mold Separation: Place the mold on the mold separation platform to perform the mold separation operation;

[0027] Step 4, Lens Placement: After the mold separation operation is completed, if the previous lens inspection is not completed, the new lens is temporarily placed on the inspection table. If the previous lens inspection is completed, the lens on the mold or inspection table is clamped and placed on the rotatable fixture.

[0028] Step 5, lens fixation: The lens is clamped and fixed on a rotatable fixture, with the reference plane of the lens parallel to the light source;

[0029] Step 6, front optical performance test of the lens: The lens is imaged sequentially through three light sources, and the light spots imaged by the three light sources are photographed sequentially by a camera to achieve three tests. Then, the lens is moved to a laser light source for laser imaging, and the light spot imaged by the laser light source is photographed by a camera to achieve laser imaging test of the product's optical performance. Finally, the above imaging results are transmitted to a computer for optical image processing, including PCA, ICA and distortion correction, and defect images are fed back in a timely manner.

[0030] Step 7, Optical performance test of the reverse side of the lens: After the laser imaging is completed, the rotatable fixture automatically rotates the lens 180 degrees to the reverse side for laser imaging detection, and then returns to the first three light sources for imaging detection again.

[0031] Step 8, Lens Removal: After the lens inspection is completed, the robotic arm removes the good lenses to the next process; if there are defective lenses, the robotic arm automatically picks them up, places them in the isolation area, and activates the alarm to remind the user.

[0032] In summary, the beneficial technical effects of this application are as follows:

[0033] This invention provides an automated inspection device that can be integrated with production equipment to achieve self-production and self-inspection. It enables unmanned operation, reduces manpower usage, and improves production and inspection efficiency. Through the rotation of the rotating mechanism, multi-angle and multi-directional imaging is achieved, while the clamping mechanism enhances stability during measurement. The device automatically finds the optimal inspection position. Its four optical mechanisms and cameras automatically adjust resolution, providing a high image acquisition rate and multiple clear imaging results, which can be input into a computer for excellent algorithm processing. This device can be used in complex array lenses to address and detect numerous and complex defects within them. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the device (ordinary light source omitted).

[0035] Figure 2 This is a top view of the structural layout of this device.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the device when the lens moves to the end to perform laser imaging.

[0037] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Detection platform; 2. Imaging screen; 3. Camera; 4. Laser light source; 5. Fixed bracket; 6. First linear module; 7. Second linear module; 8. Rotation mechanism; 9. Clamping mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-2 This application will be described in further detail.

[0039] This application discloses an automated testing method and apparatus for optical lenses.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 An automated testing method and apparatus for optical lenses, comprising:

[0041] An automated inspection device for optical lenses includes an inspection table 1, on which a lens inspection assembly is provided. The lens inspection assembly includes an optical imaging component, a camera inspection component, a rotatable fixture, and a line-following movement mechanism.

[0042] The optical imaging component includes multiple light sources and multiple imaging screens 2, with each light source and imaging screen 2 corresponding to one another. The light emitted by the light source is refracted or reflected by the lens and propagates along the imaging optical axis. The imaging screen 2 is located on the imaging optical axis and receives the light after it has been adjusted by the lens to form an image.

[0043] The camera detection component includes several cameras 3, which correspond to the molded screen surface. The cameras 3 are used to capture images and convert them into digital signal data, which are then sent to a computer or image processing system to achieve automated detection.

[0044] The rotatable clamp can rotate and be positioned freely to clamp and fix the lens at different angles; its rotation axis is perpendicular to the imaging optical axis; the rotatable clamp is flexibly designed and can rotate and be positioned freely to clamp and fix the lens at different angles, and its rotation axis is perpendicular to the imaging optical axis, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the lens during the detection process.

[0045] The line-following moving mechanism is connected to a rotatable clamp, enabling the rotatable clamp and the lens on it to move back and forth along a preset transport path. Multiple sets of light sources and imaging screens 2 are arranged sequentially along the transport path and positioned on both sides to ensure that the lens can pass between the light sources and imaging screens 2. The imaging optical axis intersects the transport path, achieving precise imaging when the lens passes through the imaging optical axis. The last light source uses a laser light source 4 for imaging, enabling high-definition imaging. The first three light sources are located next to the camera lens and can move with the camera lens. (The lenses of the first three cameras 3 can be moved as a whole.)

[0046] The advantages of this device layout lie in its modularity, simplicity, and flexibility, enabling it to adapt to the inspection needs of lenses of different shapes and sizes. Through automated path planning and precise light source control, the optical performance of lenses can be inspected efficiently. Meanwhile, the rotatable fixture design ensures lens stability at different inspection angles, improving inspection accuracy and repeatability. Furthermore, the automated image capture and processing workflow reduces human error, enhancing inspection efficiency and reliability.

[0047] This equipment can be used in complex array lenses and can capture a variety of defects in array lenses, such as pitting, scratches, and distortion (the main defect types detected by the first three light sources), and perform image data processing and analysis. This automated inspection equipment can be connected to production equipment to achieve integrated automation of automatic production and automatic inspection, realizing self-production and self-inspection.

[0048] To optimize the spatial layout of the detection device, the laser source 4 and its corresponding camera 3 are fixedly mounted on the detection table 1 via the same bracket 5. The bracket 5 makes the entire detection assembly more compact, reducing space occupation and facilitating maintenance and adjustment. The use of the bracket 5 reduces alignment errors caused by equipment movement or vibration, improving the reliability of the detection process. The co-mounting of the laser source 4 and camera 3 ensures their relative positions remain constant, thereby guaranteeing the accuracy and consistency of obtaining the optimal detection angle for laser imaging.

[0049] Although the laser source 4 and camera 3 are fixedly mounted, their use in conjunction with the rotatable fixture and the line-following mechanism still provides the necessary flexibility to adapt to different inspection needs. If a position adjustment mechanism is provided between the fixed bracket 5 and the inspection table, then when adjustments to the laser source or camera are needed, only the fixed bracket 5 needs to be adjusted to change the position and angle of both simultaneously, simplifying the operation process.

[0050] The laser source 4 and its corresponding imaging screen 2 are installed at a rearward position, offset from other groups of light sources and imaging screens 2. This offset layout reduces mutual interference between the laser source and other light sources, ensuring that the imaging quality of the laser source is not affected by other light sources. Offsetting the laser source 4 and imaging screen 2 from other groups of light sources and imaging screens 2 also facilitates their integration with other detection components (such as cameras, mounting brackets, and fixtures) to form a coordinated detection system. The high collimation of the laser source 4 results in clearer imaging. Placing the laser source 4 and imaging screen 2 at the end of the detection process allows the lens to undergo high-precision laser detection after a series of tests. The rearward position helps avoid stray light effects from other light sources, thereby improving imaging quality and ensuring the accuracy of the detection results. The laser source 4 typically has high energy; installing it at a rearward position also reduces the possibility of operators coming into contact with the laser during the detection process, thus improving safety.

[0051] The line-following movement mechanism is the first linear module 6, which is represented in the attached diagram by a simplified diagram of a slide table and a slide rail. The linear motion characteristics of the first linear module 6 ensure that the lens moves along a preset linear path during the inspection process. The high precision of the linear motion control reduces errors caused by the movement mechanism, which helps to achieve a standardized and repeatable inspection process and improves the accuracy of the inspection results. The linear motion structure of the first linear module 6 is simple, easy to maintain and adjust, and helps to reduce maintenance costs and improve equipment reliability.

[0052] Furthermore, the parallel arrangement of the first linear module 6, the light source, and the imaging screen 2 ensures that the lens remains precisely aligned with the light source and imaging screen 2 throughout its movement, resulting in high-quality imaging. This parallel layout maximizes the use of the space on the inspection stage 1, allowing the light source and imaging screen 2 to be closely arranged along the inspection path, minimizing wasted space. The parallel layout also facilitates future expansion, such as adding more light sources and imaging screens 2 to accommodate more complex inspection needs.

[0053] To enable rapid adjustment of camera positions to adapt to different inspection tasks, shorten equipment setup time, and improve production efficiency, multiple cameras 3 (and corresponding light sources) are fixedly mounted on a movable support. A second linear module 7 is provided between the movable support and the inspection table 1. This structure is represented in the attached diagram by a simplified diagram of another slide rail. The second linear module 7 allows the cameras 3 to cover a wider inspection area, improving the adaptability of the inspection device to different light sources and imaging screens 2. Through the second linear module 7, the movable support of the cameras 3 can be dynamically adjusted along the length of the inspection table 1, allowing the cameras to flexibly align with the imaging screen 2 at different positions and capture lens images under different light sources. The second linear module 7 is parallel to the first linear module 6, ensuring that the movement and adjustment of the cameras 3 remain parallel to the lenses on the rotatable fixture, achieving precise image capture.

[0054] The rotatable fixture includes a rotating mechanism 8 and a clamping mechanism 9. The rotating mechanism 8 is fixedly mounted on the line-following moving mechanism, and the clamping mechanism 9 is fixedly mounted on the rotating mechanism 8. The rotating mechanism 8 and clamping mechanism 9 are fixedly mounted on the line-following moving mechanism, forming a compact structure that reduces space occupation and improves the overall stability of the device. The combination of the rotating mechanism 8 and clamping mechanism 9 provides the rotatable fixture with multi-directional rotation and clamping capabilities, allowing lenses to be inspected at multiple angles and improving inspection flexibility. The rotating mechanism 8 is designed with a lens rotating stage capable of 360 degrees. The lens rotating stage is used to mount the clamping mechanism and is generally an electric turntable structure controlled by a servo motor. The servo motor provides precise speed and position control, suitable for driving the rotating mechanism 8 to achieve precise lens positioning. In actual production, at least 180-degree rotation capability is required to meet the needs of double-sided lens inspection. The clamping mechanism 9 is generally a combination design of a clamping cylinder and a lens-specific clamp, usually designed adaptively by the operator according to the shape and structure of the lens to be clamped.

[0055] The rotating mechanism 8 is a horizontal rotating mechanism, capable of rotating and positioning the lens 360 degrees around its axis. It uses a motor-driven horizontal rotary table or turntable as its base, enabling continuous 360-degree rotation and precise positioning on a horizontal plane. The clamping mechanism 9 clamps the lens, aligning it parallel to the light source. A precision positioning platform can be used in conjunction with the rotary table to provide precise vertical movement and positioning. Alternatively, a laser calibration system can be used to ensure precise alignment of the lens with the light source during rotation. The clamping mechanism 9 can employ a pneumatic or electric clamp. A pneumatic clamp provides rapid response and gripping, suitable for applications requiring frequent clamping and release. An electric clamp offers more precise control, suitable for applications requiring fine adjustment of clamping force.

[0056] See attached document Figure 2 An automated inspection method for optical lenses, the operation steps of which are as follows:

[0057] Step 1, Product Transfer: The mold containing the lens is transferred to the robotic arm via an output conveyor belt. The output conveyor belt is connected to the production equipment, and the transferred product is the mold containing the lens. Furthermore, the production and testing times are roughly controlled at a 1:1 ratio, effectively reducing the problem of product accumulation that prevents testing due to production efficiency exceeding testing efficiency.

[0058] Step 2, Mold Positioning: The mold is picked up by a multi-head suction PF cylinder, and the robot places the mold on the positioning rotary table and measures the mold height; the position of the mold and lens is determined by measuring the mold height.

[0059] Step 3, mold separation: Place the mold on the mold separation platform for mold separation operation; clamp and fix it next to the mold separation platform and separate the mold with the help of the mold separation cylinder.

[0060] Step 4, Lens Placement: After the mold separation operation is completed, if the previous lens inspection is not finished, the new lens is temporarily placed on the inspection table to improve work efficiency. If the previous lens inspection is completed, the lens on the mold or inspection table is clamped and placed on the rotatable fixture; during the process, the lens is picked up by the lens cylinder and placed on the platform (if the previous lens has not been inspected, it is placed on the inspection table), and the robot arm clamps and moves the lens through the suction cylinder gripper.

[0061] Step 5, Lens Fixing: The lens is clamped and fixed on the rotatable fixture, and the reference plane of the lens is parallel to the light source (for example, when the lens is placed on the lens rotating stage of the rotating mechanism on the rotatable fixture, the mirror surface must be perpendicular to the lens rotating stage. The platform surfaces of the lens rotating stage and the inspection stage can be regarded as horizontal planes. When the lens rotating stage is in the initial angle position, one of the mirror surfaces must be parallel to the light source. The lens rotating stage is equipped with a clamping mechanism to fix the lens, improve the stability during inspection, and avoid deviations in the inspection results due to instability); the lens is placed vertically to ensure that the center of the lens is aligned with the rotation axis.

[0062] Lenses typically have a reference plane to determine their position and orientation. This reference plane is crucial in the fabrication, testing, and application of optical components. Ideally, the lens should have a central plane, a perpendicular reference plane, and a calibration plane to ensure precise alignment and performance of the optical system. Technicians can select the appropriate plane based on the specific lens structure.

[0063] Central plane of a lens: Also known as the optical central plane or the optical center of the lens, this is a specific plane on the lens that is perpendicular to the lens's optical axis and passes through the lens's geometric center. For lenses with symmetrical curvature, the optical center is usually located at the lens's physical center. However, for lenses with asymmetrical designs or special purposes, the optical center may not be located at the physical center. Calibration plane: During lens inspection, the calibration plane is used to align with the inspection equipment to ensure inspection accuracy. Vertical reference plane: For lenses that need to be placed vertically, the vertical reference plane ensures the correct alignment of the lens in the vertical direction.

[0064] Step 6, Lens Front Optical Performance Test: The lens is sequentially imaged by three light sources, and the light spots imaged by these three light sources are photographed sequentially by a camera, achieving three tests. The rotatable fixture moves back and forth via a line-following mechanism. The lens first passes through the three light sources and imaging screen 2 sequentially, and the light spots on the three imaging screens 2 are photographed sequentially by three cameras 3. Performing three tests can avoid random errors. Then, the lens is moved to a laser light source for laser imaging, and the light spot imaged by the laser light source is photographed by a camera, achieving laser imaging to test the product's optical performance. The fourth camera 3 photographs the laser image on the fourth imaging screen 2 (the lens rotation stage moves to the laser location via a linear slide rail of the line-following mechanism, as shown in the attached diagram). Figure 3 (As shown). These four light sources will automatically turn on sequentially as the program runs. Finally, the imaging results are transmitted to the computer for optical image processing, including PCA, ICA, and distortion correction, and the defect image is fed back in a timely manner. During the process of passing through the four cameras 3, the lens will automatically increase the resolution, reduce the viewing window, and take multiple pictures of each light spot. The light spot pictures obtained from the multiple pictures are transmitted to the computer for stitching, and then optical image processing is performed to achieve defect detection. The process of stitching pictures can be performed on multiple pictures of a single light spot, or on pictures of four different light spots. The specific method used depends on the detection needs and objectives.

[0065] Stitching multiple images of a single light spot: When high-resolution, detailed inspection of a single light spot is required, multiple images of the same spot can be stitched together to obtain an image with a wider field of view. Method: Ensure the light spot is centered or at a predetermined location in each shot. Use conventional image processing algorithms, such as feature matching and image registration, to align and stitch these images. Image rotation, scaling, and color correction may be necessary to ensure stitching consistency.

[0066] Stitching of images from four different light sources: When a comprehensive optical performance evaluation of the entire lens is required, images of light spots from four different light sources can be stitched together. Method: Individual light spot images from each light source are first stitched together separately to ensure high resolution and sharpness for each spot. Then, these multiple stitched images of the four light spots are combined to form a complete lens image. During the overall stitching, the position and relative relationship of each light spot must be considered to ensure that the stitched image reflects the true optical performance of the lens.

[0067] Comprehensive stitching: In practice, multiple images of a single light spot are first stitched together, and then these stitched images are combined with images of other light spots to obtain the most comprehensive detection results. During the stitching process, high-quality image processing algorithms should be used to minimize stitching artifacts and ensure natural transitions and consistency of the images. The stitched images undergo quality assessment to ensure they meet the requirements for defect detection.

[0068] The final choice of which splicing method to use depends on the specific testing requirements, equipment capabilities, and expected testing accuracy.

[0069] Step 7, Optical Performance Test of the Reverse Side of the Lens: After laser imaging is completed, the rotatable fixture automatically rotates the lens 180 degrees to the reverse side for laser imaging, and then returns to the first three light sources for imaging and testing again. (In actual operation, you can choose to set the time interval for lens shooting, and capture the image while the lens is rotating at a constant speed. The program will process the image automatically and find the best observation position. During the return trip, it will rotate 180 degrees from the initial position to start observing from the other side.) The test is completed; each lens will go back and forth at least once, and during this round trip, both the front and back sides will undergo multiple imaging and photography.

[0070] At the laser source, by rotating the lens, the camera can continuously capture images of the lens from different angles, and the computer analyzes the images to determine the optimal observation angle. Laser imaging is a high-precision optical inspection technology, often used to evaluate the surface quality, refractive index distribution, and other characteristics of lenses. In laser imaging experiments, the lens captures and records the imaging effects at different observation angles, and the optimal observation angle is determined by comparison. The front of the lens first passes through three light sources, then through the laser, finding the optimal observation angle during this process. After the first surface is measured, the lens is rotated back to its initial angle—the initial angle at which the robotic arm initially placed the lens—and then rotated 180 degrees to the reverse side, making the reverse side perpendicular to the laser. Fine adjustments are then made to find the optimal observation angle for the second surface. This process is repeated, first through the laser, then through the three light sources, completing one round trip to observe two surfaces.

[0071] Step 8, Lens Removal: After the lenses have completed inspection, the robotic arm removes the good lenses for the next process; if there are defective lenses, the robotic arm automatically picks them up, places them in an isolation area, and activates an alarm. Alarms include, but are not limited to, audible and visual alarms, wireless communication alarms, and computer monitor alarms.

[0072] The aforementioned testing apparatus and method are primarily applied to the production of microlens arrays. For the testing of microlens arrays, the design of the rotating mechanism 8 and the clamping mechanism 9 requires special consideration of the size, shape, and optical characteristics of the microlens array. The following are some design requirements that should be considered during actual production use of the apparatus:

[0073] 1. Rotating mechanism 8:

[0074] Precision servo motor: A high-precision servo motor is used to drive the rotating mechanism, ensuring the precise positioning and stability of the microlens array during rotation.

[0075] Encoder feedback: Equipped with a high-precision encoder, it provides real-time feedback on the rotation angle, ensuring the precise alignment and repeatability of the microlens array.

[0076] Low vibration design: The rotating mechanism should be designed to minimize vibration in order to avoid unnecessary image blurring during the inspection process.

[0077] 360-degree continuous rotation: Ensures that the rotating mechanism can achieve 360-degree continuous rotation, which is convenient for detecting the microlens array from different angles.

[0078] 2. Clamping mechanism 9:

[0079] Fine-tuning capability: The clamping mechanism should have a fine-tuning function, which can precisely adjust the position and angle of the microlens array to adapt to different detection needs.

[0080] Soft contact materials: Use soft materials (such as silicone or rubber) as the contact surface to avoid damage to the surface of the microlens array.

[0081] Multi-directional clamping: The design features a multi-directional adjustable clamping mechanism that can clamp the microlens array from different directions, ensuring comprehensive detection.

[0082] Automatic calibration: The integrated automatic calibration system automatically adjusts the clamping force and position according to the testing requirements, thereby improving testing efficiency.

[0083] 3. Optical imaging components:

[0084] High-resolution light source: Using a high-resolution light source ensures clear imaging of the microlens array, facilitating the detection of its optical properties.

[0085] Multi-angle light source: Consider using a multi-angle light source to illuminate the microlens array from different directions to test its optical performance.

[0086] 4. Camera detection component:

[0087] High-resolution camera: Use a high-resolution camera to capture images of the microlens array to ensure that the image quality meets the detection requirements.

[0088] Zoom function: The camera should have a zoom function, which can adjust the focal length according to the detection requirements and obtain images at different magnifications.

[0089] 5. Control system:

[0090] Integrated control software: Dedicated control software should be developed to integrate the control of the rotating mechanism, clamping mechanism and camera detection components to achieve automated detection process.

[0091] Real-time data processing: The control system should be able to process the detection data in real time and quickly provide feedback on the detection results.

[0092] 6. Environmental control:

[0093] Temperature control: The detection of microlens arrays is sensitive to ambient temperature, and temperature control should be considered within the detection area.

[0094] Clean environment: To avoid dust and contaminants affecting the test results, the testing area should be kept clean.

[0095] It should be noted that the order of the embodiments described above is merely for descriptive purposes and does not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments. Furthermore, specific embodiments have been described above. Other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the actions or steps described in the claims can be performed in a different order than that shown in the embodiments and still achieve the desired result. Additionally, the processes depicted in the drawings do not necessarily require a specific or sequential order to achieve the desired result. In some embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing are also possible or may be advantageous.

[0096] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

[0097] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or server that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or modules not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0098] This specification and accompanying drawings are merely illustrative examples of this application and are intended to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from its scope. Therefore, if such modifications and modifications fall within the scope of this application and its equivalents, this application intends to include such modifications and modifications.

Claims

1. An automated inspection method for optical lenses, characterized in that: An automated inspection device for optical lenses is adopted, including an inspection table (1), on which a lens inspection assembly is provided. The lens inspection assembly includes an optical imaging component, a camera inspection component, a rotatable fixture, and a line-following movement mechanism. The optical imaging component includes multiple light sources and multiple imaging screens (2). The light sources and imaging screens (2) correspond one-to-one. The light emitted by the light source is refracted or reflected by the lens and propagates along the imaging optical axis. The imaging screen (2) is located on the imaging optical axis and receives the light after it has been adjusted by the lens to form an image. The camera detection component includes several cameras (3), which are corresponding to the imaging screen. The cameras (3) are used to capture images and convert them into digital signal data, which are then sent to a computer or image processing system to achieve automated detection. The rotatable clamp can rotate and be positioned freely to clamp and fix the lens at different angles; The line-following moving mechanism is connected to the rotatable clamp, which enables the rotatable clamp and the lens on it to move back and forth along the preset transport path. Multiple sets of light sources and imaging screens (2) are arranged in sequence along the transport path. The imaging optical axis intersects with the transport path. The lens achieves imaging when it passes through the imaging optical axis. One of the light sources uses a laser light source (4) for imaging; the laser light source (4) and a corresponding camera (3) are fixedly mounted on the detection table (1) through the same fixed bracket (5); The laser light source (4) and the corresponding imaging screen (2) are installed at the rear, offset from the light sources and imaging screens (2) of other groups; The operation steps of the method are as follows: Step 1, Product Transfer: The mold containing the lens is transferred to the robotic arm via the discharge conveyor belt; Step 2, Mold Positioning: Place the mold on the positioning rotary table and measure the mold height; Step 3, Mold Separation: Place the mold on the mold separation platform to perform the mold separation operation; Step 4, Lens Placement: After the mold separation operation is completed, if the previous lens inspection is not completed, the new lens is temporarily placed on the inspection table. If the previous lens inspection is completed, the lens on the mold or inspection table is clamped and placed on the rotatable fixture. Step 5, lens fixation: The lens is clamped and fixed on a rotatable fixture, with the reference plane of the lens parallel to the light source; Step 6, front optical performance test of the lens: The lens is imaged sequentially through three light sources, and the light spots imaged by the three light sources are photographed sequentially by a camera to achieve three tests. Then the lens is moved to a laser light source for laser imaging, and the light spot imaged by the laser light source is photographed by a camera to achieve laser imaging test of the product's optical performance. Finally, the above imaging results are transmitted to a computer for optical image processing, including PCA, ICA and distortion correction, and defect images are fed back in a timely manner. Step 7, Optical performance test of the reverse side of the lens: After the laser imaging is completed, the rotatable fixture automatically rotates the lens 180 degrees to the reverse side for laser imaging detection, and then returns to the first three light sources for imaging detection again. Step 8, Lens Removal: After the lens inspection is completed, the robotic arm removes the good lenses to the next process; if there are defective lenses, the robotic arm automatically picks them up, places them in the isolation area, and activates the alarm to remind the user.

2. The automated inspection method for optical lenses according to claim 1, characterized in that: The type of lens is a microlens array.

3. The automated inspection method for optical lenses according to claim 1, characterized in that: The line-following movement mechanism is a first linear module (6), and the first linear module (6), the light source, and the imaging screen (2) are parallel to each other.

4. The automated inspection method for optical lenses according to claim 3, characterized in that: Multiple cameras (3) are fixedly installed on a mobile support. A second linear module (7) is provided between the mobile support and the detection table (1). The second linear module (7) is parallel to the first linear module (6).

5. The automated inspection method for optical lenses according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotatable clamp includes a rotating mechanism (8) and a clamping mechanism (9). The rotating mechanism (8) is fixedly installed on the line-following moving mechanism, and the clamping mechanism (9) is fixedly installed on the rotating mechanism (8).

Images