Method and apparatus for measuring a casting mold set for producing a lens, method and apparatus for testing a casting mold set and method and apparatus for producing at least one lens
By measuring and adjusting the gap parameters of the casting module, the lens quality problem caused by the manufacturing and assembly tolerances of the casting module was solved, achieving more efficient lens production and material utilization.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- RODENSTOCK LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-10-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-29
AI Technical Summary
In existing technologies, the manufacturing and assembly tolerances of the casting module make it difficult to control the quality of the lens, resulting in lens rework and material waste, and making it impossible to effectively detect the deviation between the actual gap and the expected gap.
By measuring the gap parameters of the casting modules, including determining the distance between the first and second casting module components, and identifying and modifying non-compliant modules before filling the casting resin, the gap is adjusted using seals to ensure that the gap meets the predefined modification standards before casting.
It improved the production quality of lenses, reduced rework rates and material waste, saved production time, and achieved a more efficient lens manufacturing process.
Smart Images
Figure CN122122003A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for measuring a casting mold used in the production of lenses, a method and apparatus for testing a casting mold, and a method and apparatus for producing at least one lens. Background Technology
[0002] When a lens is produced by filling a cavity formed between the first and second casting module components into a casting module with casting resin, the quality of the lens depends on the precision of the cavity having the desired gap.
[0003] In particular, due to manufacturing tolerances of casting module components and assembly tolerances during the casting module assembly process, the actual clearance may vary.
[0004] However, the deviation between the actual gap and the expected gap can usually only be detected by measuring the lens thickness or refractive power of manufactured and potentially processed lenses. This may result in manufactured and potentially processed lenses having to be painstakingly reworked or scrapped, thus wasting expensive materials and production time. Summary of the Invention
[0005] One objective of this invention is to improve lens production and / or to improve the measurement or testing of casting dies used in lens production.
[0006] This objective is achieved by a method having the features of claims 1, 8, and 9. Claim 16 claims an apparatus configured to perform the method described herein, and preferably for this purpose. The dependent claims relate to advantageous further embodiments.
[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for measuring a casting mold used for producing lenses; according to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for testing such a casting mold used for producing lenses; according to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for producing one or more lenses, comprising the following steps: (Each) provides a casting mold (for producing the corresponding lens), which (in each case) includes: - First casting module components; and - Second casting module component The second casting module component of the provided casting module is mounted relative to the first casting module component of the casting module, such that in one embodiment, the second casting module component is mounted on the first casting module component and / or mounted by a retainer, and in another embodiment, mounted by a seal or different or separate retaining devices as described below, such that a cavity is formed between the first and second casting module components.
[0008] The lens is preferably an ophthalmic lens, particularly a spectacle lens or a lens for spectacle lenses. This invention is particularly suitable for such lenses or casting assemblies, especially due to their corresponding requirements for precision and economical manufacturing, but the invention is not limited thereto.
[0009] In one embodiment, and in another, the first and second casting module components are arranged relative to each other, taking into account predefined one-dimensional or multi-dimensional target parameters (values) for the relative arrangement of the two casting module components. In one embodiment, the arrangement is performed using a casting module assembly device, and / or at least partially automatically and / or partially manually. Therefore, the step of providing the casting module may specifically include: preferably arranging the two casting module components relative to each other, taking into account predefined target parameters (values), and / or providing a casting module having two casting module components and a cavity formed therebetween.
[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for measuring, testing, or producing includes the following steps: - (respectively) determine one-dimensional or multi-dimensional gap parameter values (for (corresponding) casting modules), wherein the step of determining the gap parameter values includes, at a first point in the cavity, determining a first (preferably shortest) distance between (corresponding) first and second casting module components (of the provided casting module), in particular between the surfaces of the casting module components facing each other or facing the cavity, and in another embodiment, the gap parameter value depends on the first distance and increases or decreases as the first distance increases.
[0011] One embodiment of the invention is based on the concept that the gap height of the cavity is preferably determined before filling the cavity with casting resin, and the quality of the produced lens depends on this gap height. In this way, defective casting dies can be advantageously identified, and if necessary, they can be sorted out or discarded. Alternatively, if necessary, modifications can be made to the current casting die and / or subsequent (produced or supplied) casting dies before filling the cavity with casting resin, thereby reducing costly rework or scrap rates and saving expensive materials and production time.
[0012] In one embodiment, the provided casting mold, when determining a first distance, and in another embodiment (again) when determining another distance or one or more other distances, (already) includes a seal forming a cavity between the first and second casting mold components, wherein, during the determination, the cavity is preferably not yet filled with casting resin. In other words, in one embodiment, the casting mold with or including the seal is preferably measured before the cavity is filled with casting resin.
[0013] This enables, in one embodiment, the detection of incorrect clearance height caused by or (similarly) due to the seal, and the taking of appropriate measures, particularly by modifying or sorting the corresponding casting mold that already contains the seal, and / or modifying subsequent (produced or supplied) casting molds. Therefore, providing a casting mold may specifically include applying a seal.
[0014] In one embodiment, the casting module includes a seal for forming a cavity between the first and second casting module components, wherein the seal is formed only after a first distance has been determined; in another embodiment, the seal is formed (again) after another distance or one or more other distances have been determined, and during the determination, the cavity is preferably not yet filled with casting resin. In other words, in one embodiment, the casting module is provided and measured before the seal is set or included, preferably before the cavity is filled with casting resin.
[0015] This enables the detection of incorrect gap heights particularly early in one embodiment, allowing for appropriate action, especially before or after adding seals to the provided casting mold, to modify or sort the corresponding casting mold.
[0016] These two embodiments can also be combined as follows: first, a first distance is determined, then another distance or one or more other distances are determined in the next step, and then if the casting module needs to be modified, the seals are arranged or applied only after this, then the first distance is determined again, and one or more gaps are determined in the next step, and then the casting module is modified again if necessary.
[0017] In one embodiment, the seal comprises a single or multiple sealing strips that are at least temporarily bonded to the first and second casting module components during production, preferably by means of a material bonding method, preferably by means of an adhesive.
[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the testing method includes the following steps: - Test casting modules based on (determined) gap parameter values. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the production method includes the following steps: - If the gap parameter value meets the predefined modification criteria, then modify the casting module; and - Preferably, after determining the gap parameter value, testing the casting mold, and if necessary modifying the casting mold, the cavity of the casting mold is filled with casting resin, the casting mold preferably including a seal; The produced lenses contain cured casting resin. Therefore, in one embodiment, if the gap parameter value meets predefined acceptance criteria, and in particular if it does not meet modification criteria, the cavity of the casting module is filled with casting resin without such modification. Modifications to the casting module are made before and / or after the placement of the seal. In other words, in one embodiment, the casting module is modified before the placement of the seal if necessary, and / or a casting module that may have been modified once or more before the placement of the seal already includes the seal when the gap parameter value is determined (if necessary to be modified again), and if necessary to be modified (again). Modifying the casting module before the placement of the seal allows for earlier and / or simpler modifications, while modifying the casting module after the placement of the seal allows for correction or compensation of any incorrect gap height caused by or related to the seal.
[0019] In one embodiment, this can improve the quality of the produced lenses(s) and / or reduce rework and / or scrap rates, thereby saving materials and / or production time. Specifically, testing may include comparing determined gap parameter values with predefined target values and / or tolerance ranges, and / or evaluating and / or classifying the casting module based on the determined gap parameter values, particularly based on the comparison results of the determined gap parameter values with predefined target values and / or tolerance ranges.
[0020] In one embodiment, the casting resin used to fill the cavity is cured; in another embodiment, the casting resin is cured, particularly by temperature regulation and / or light exposure. Therefore, in one embodiment, the method according to the invention may include curing the casting resin used to fill the cavity. The casting resin used to fill the cavity is particularly advantageous if it is a high-viscosity fluid and / or contains at least one polymer, particularly photochromic and / or UV-curable polymers, and especially such polymers.
[0021] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the cured casting resin forms a coating, and in another preferred embodiment, this coating is most preferably a self-coloring or photochromic coating, an anti-fouling coating, an anti-reflective coating, an anti-scratch coating, etc. Preferably, the cured casting resin is separated from the second casting module component before, simultaneously with, or after the removal of the seal, and the produced lens includes a first casting module component connected to the cured casting resin, particularly by material bonding or casting. For this type of casting coating, the present invention is particularly advantageous because the coating is typically very thin. Thus, the first casting module component may particularly include a body, preferably a glass body, particularly preferably a plastic glass body, and / or the second casting module component may particularly include a mold housing, and the cured casting resin may form a coating on the lens or the body.
[0022] In another advantageous embodiment, the cured casting resin is preferably separated from the first and second casting module components before, simultaneously with, or after the removal of the seal; in particular, the casting resin can form the aforementioned plastic glass body, or a so-called semi-finished product or blank used for the production of eyeglass lenses or similar products. Therefore, the first and second casting module components can each include a mold housing, particularly a mold housing.
[0023] In another advantageous embodiment, the seal is optionally removed, and the produced lens includes a first casting module component connected to the cured casting resin (particularly by material bonding or casting), and a second casting module component connected to the cured casting resin (particularly by material bonding or casting). Thus, the cured casting resin can form the intermediate layer of the lens.
[0024] In one embodiment, lenses produced in this manner (particularly coated lenses, blanks, or substrates (Grundglas) or lenses with an intermediate layer) are further processed, for example, based on a prescription, and / or further processed by means of (further) coating and / or material removal and / or separation. Therefore, in one embodiment, the method according to the invention may include processing the produced lens, which comprises a cured casting resin.
[0025] In one embodiment, the step of determining the gap parameter value includes determining, at another point in the cavity, another (preferably shortest) distance or multiple other (preferably shortest) distances between the first and second casting module components (of the respective casting modules), particularly between the surfaces of the casting module components facing each other or facing the cavity, wherein the gap parameter also depends on this other distance or these other distances, and in another embodiment, the gap parameter increases or decreases as one or more of the other distances increase. As a result, the accuracy and / or reliability of the test can be improved. It is particularly advantageous to determine the distances at three or more points in the cavity, which are particularly advantageously non-collinear, because this allows for 3D mapping, or (simultaneously) detection of prism tilt or distance changes particularly relevant to the lens.
[0026] In one embodiment, if the first distance (or the deviation of the first distance from a predefined target value) is not within a predefined (allowed) range, or if the modification criterion is predefined in this manner, then the gap parameter value meets the predefined modification criterion. This allows for particularly rapid testing.
[0027] In one embodiment, the gap parameter value satisfies the predefined modification criterion if a first distance (or the deviation of the first distance from a predefined target value) is not within a predefined (allowed) range, or if another distance (or the deviation of another distance from a predefined target value) is not within a predefined (allowed) range, or if the modification criterion is predefined in this manner. This allows for (more) reliable and / or (more) meaningful testing.
[0028] In one embodiment, if a first distance (or the deviation of the first distance from a predefined target value) or at least one other distance (or the deviation of at least one other distance from a predefined target value) is not within a predefined (permitted) range, or if the modification criterion is predefined in this manner, then the gap parameter value satisfies the predefined modification criterion. This allows for (more) reliable and / or (more) meaningful testing.
[0029] Different target values and / or permissible deviations or ranges can be predefined for the first distance and one or more other distances, which makes it particularly good to account for different (more)complex geometries. Therefore, the gap parameter (value) can be a multidimensional parameter or value, and the modification standard can be a multidimensional standard. In particular, the gap parameter (value) can indicate the distance measured at different points.
[0030] Similarly, the gap parameter (value) can also indicate, for example, the average or maximum value of the measured distance, or the average or maximum value of the deviation of the measured distance from the target value. This allows for particularly rapid testing while providing exceptionally valuable information.
[0031] Allowable ranges can also be predefined, particularly by specifying corresponding (complementary) disallowable ranges. For example, a modification criterion can be predefined such that if the deviation of the first distance from the predefined target value is not within the predefined allowable range [a, b], the gap parameter value meets the modification criterion, or if the deviation is within the predefined disallowable range. If the gap parameter value meets the modification standard, then the gap parameter value is correct.
[0032] In one embodiment, at least one distance between the first and second casting module components is determined at a point in the central region of the cavity, specifically a first distance, another distance, or at least one other distance. Such distances may be particularly important.
[0033] Alternatively or supplementarily, at least one distance between the first and second casting module components is determined at a point in the edge region of the cavity, particularly a first distance or another distance or (in each case) one or more other distances. In an advantageous embodiment, more than two such distances are determined at different points in the edge region of the cavity. Preferably, two or more adjacent points in the edge region (in each case) are offset from each other by at least 45° and / or at most 135°. Such distances can be determined particularly easily and / or are highly sensitive to assembly tolerances and / or manufacturing tolerances.
[0034] In one embodiment, a point in the cavity according to the invention may include (in particular) a radial distance and / or a shortest distance through the longitudinal and / or optical (principal) axis passing through the center of the lens, and / or an angle between a perpendicular line to the longitudinal and / or optical (principal) axis passing through the center of the lens and a reference perpendicular line of that axis, or a Cartesian coordinate in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal and / or optical (principal) axis passing through the center of the lens and / or located in the cavity.
[0035] In the central region of the cavity described herein, the radial and / or shortest distance from all points or locations to the longitudinal and / or optical (principal) axis passing through the center of the lens is at most one-third of the maximum (radial) distance between the cavity circumference and that axis.
[0036] In the edge region of the cavity described herein, the radial and / or shortest distance from all points or locations to the longitudinal and / or optical (principal) axis passing through the center of the lens is at least two-thirds of the maximum (radial) distance between the cavity circumference and that axis. In other words, for an annular cavity with an outer diameter of R, its outer region is a concentric annular cavity with an outer diameter of R and an inner diameter of 2R / 3, while its central region is a concentric circular region with an outer diameter of R / 3.
[0037] In one embodiment, determining at least two distances involves measuring using the same measuring device, preferably by moving and / or rotating the measuring device relative to the casting mold, and / or by scanning (particularly raster scanning) the corresponding points using the measuring device. This allows for (more) reliable measurements in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the measuring device is adjusted, particularly by rotating and / or moving, to determine at least two distances, particularly either solely or simultaneously. This allows for particularly advantageous positioning of the measuring device in one embodiment. Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the casting mold is adjusted, particularly by rotating and / or moving, to determine at least two distances, particularly solely or simultaneously. This allows for particularly advantageous positioning of the measuring device relative to the casting mold in one embodiment.
[0038] Alternatively or supplementally, determining at least two distances includes measuring at least one distance using a (first) measuring device, and in particular, simultaneously or subsequently measuring at least one other distance using a (other) measuring device, preferably spaced apart from the said or first measuring device. This means that, in one embodiment, measurements can be performed (more) quickly and / or (more) accurately.
[0039] In one embodiment, a confocal sensor is used, preferably the same one or more confocal sensors, to measure a first distance and / or another distance or one or more other distances (in each case). Therefore, the measuring device described herein (at least one) may preferably include a confocal sensor (in each case), and in particular, may be a confocal sensor. This means that, in one embodiment, measurements can be performed (more) quickly and / or (more) accurately.
[0040] In one embodiment, determining a distance (particularly a first distance and / or another distance or one or more other distances) includes a measurement, preferably a sensor-based measurement, wherein, in another embodiment, the measurement is an optical and / or non-contact measurement, and / or a measurement of the distance between a measuring device and the surface of a first casting module component (preferably facing the cavity), and a measurement of the distance between another measuring device (or particularly preferably the same measuring device located in the same position) and the surface of a second casting module component (preferably facing the cavity). This allows, in one embodiment, distances to be measured particularly quickly, reliably, and / or accurately.
[0041] In one embodiment, the first casting module component is arranged between the cavity and the measuring device for measuring the distance between the measuring device and the surface of the first casting module component. This arrangement may be particularly advantageous if the first casting module component is a body on which a coating is formed by curing casting resin, because such a body is easily transmitted or penetrated by the optical measuring device, and / or if the second casting module component is opaque or only partially transparent (e.g., a metal mold housing).
[0042] In one embodiment, the second casting mold component is arranged between the measuring device for measuring the distance between the measuring device and the surface of the first casting mold component and the cavity. This arrangement may be particularly advantageous if the second casting mold component is preferably a transparent mold housing, because such a housing is very thin and therefore easily transmitted or penetrated by the measuring device.
[0043] In one embodiment, modification of the casting module includes changing the arrangement of the first and second casting module components relative to each other, particularly changing the distance between the first and second casting module components in the optical (principal) axis direction of the lens; in another preferred embodiment, modification of the casting module includes changing a predefined one-dimensional or multi-dimensional target parameter for the arrangement of the first and second casting module components relative to each other, and / or changing it based on a predefined correspondence between the change and determined gap parameter values; in one embodiment, this correspondence is in tabular form, as a calculation rule, or implemented using a database, etc. In one embodiment, the casting module is at least partially disassembled and reassembled; in another embodiment, if a seal is already present, it is removed, and a new seal is applied or replaced after the arrangement of the first and second casting module components relative to each other is changed, or a seal is formed or applied only after (successful) modification, if it is necessary to form or apply a seal only after retesting the modified casting module, which in one embodiment does not yet contain a seal at least when the first distance or another distance or one or more other distances are determined. Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, modifications to the casting module include replacing first casting module components and / or second casting module components, particularly replacing the entire casting module. This enables a particularly simple and / or effective response to test results or determined gap parameter values in one embodiment.
[0044] In another embodiment, the gap parameter value is determined for the modified casting mold, preferably in the same manner as for the original casting mold. The modified casting mold is then tested based on this (newly)determined gap parameter value, and if the (newly)determined gap parameter value (again) meets the predefined modification criteria, the modified casting mold is modified again if necessary before applying a seal and / or before filling the cavity of the modified casting mold (possibly multiple times) with casting resin. In other words, modification and (re)testing can be repeated once or multiple times until the gap parameter value of the (possibly multiple) modified casting mold meets the modification criteria. As described elsewhere herein, it may also be useful to: first determine the gap parameter value of the casting mold without a seal, modify it once or multiple times if necessary, particularly based on the newly determined gap parameter value, then apply a seal, and subsequently determine the gap parameter value of the casting mold now with a seal, modifying it once or multiple times if necessary, particularly based on the newly determined gap parameter value. Alternatively or supplementally, in one embodiment, an error message may be generated if the gap parameter value determined for the modified casting module (still) meets predefined modification criteria. This may, in one embodiment, improve the quality of the produced lens(s) and / or reduce rework and / or scrap rates, thereby saving materials and / or production time.
[0045] In one embodiment, a signal is used to notify (respectively) the determined gap parameter value, and / or the satisfaction of the modification standard and / or subsequent modification standards described below; in another embodiment, the signal is issued visually, preferably via a screen, indicator light, etc., and / or notifies the operator, who then, if necessary, initiates and / or performs modifications or sorting of the casting module.
[0046] In one embodiment, a method for producing a plurality of lenses includes the following steps: - To produce at least one first lens according to the method described herein; and - Producing at least one other lens, preferably also produced according to the method described herein, wherein the steps of producing the other lens (in each case) include: - Provide another casting mold including a first casting mold component and a second casting mold component, the second casting mold component being mounted relative to the first casting mold component such that a cavity is formed between the first and second casting mold components; and - Fill the cavity of another casting mold with casting resin, the other casting mold preferably including a seal for forming the cavity between the first and second casting mold components; In one embodiment, if the gap parameter value determined for at least one first lens meets a predefined subsequent modification criterion, then based on the predefined correspondence with the gap parameter value determined for at least one first lens, the predefined one-dimensional or multi-dimensional target parameter values of the first and second casting module components used to arrange the at least one other casting module are changed. Preferably, the first lens and(a plurality of) other lenses belong to the same production batch or the same production batch number, and / or have the same structure.
[0047] The basic concept is that if a deviation in the gap parameter value is detected during testing of at least one first casting module, then corresponding (compensatory) measures are already taken when providing at least one other casting module. Therefore, in one embodiment, providing one or more other casting modules (in each case) includes arranging two casting module components relative to each other, taking into account the changed target parameter value (for this arrangement), using a casting module assembly device in one embodiment, and / or at least partially automatically and / or at least partially manually. Thus, providing (corresponding) other casting modules may specifically include arranging two casting module components relative to each other, taking into account the changed target parameter value, and / or applying a seal, wherein, as described elsewhere herein, the seal may also be applied after determining a first distance or one or more other distances.
[0048] The correspondence between the gap parameter values determined for (multiple) first lenses and the changed target parameter values of other lenses can be predefined, especially in tabular form, as calculation rules, using a database, etc., and / or predefined in a way that the gap parameter values of other casting modules are expected (from the beginning) not to meet the modification criteria or can be tested.
[0049] The modification criterion and the subsequent modification criterion can be the same. Therefore, if the (subsequent) modification criterion is met, both the current casting module and the target parameter value of at least one other casting module will be modified. In another embodiment, the two criteria are different and are preferably predefined in such a way that a set of gap parameter values that have (already) met the subsequent modification criterion does not (yet) meet the modification criterion, or does not simultaneously meet the modification criterion, thereby triggering or executing a change in the target parameter value of another casting module, but not modifying the first casting module. In particular, the subsequent modification criterion can be predefined such that if one or more distances or their deviations from the predefined target value are respectively within a predefined first range, the gap parameter value meets the subsequent modification criterion. Furthermore, the modification criterion can be predefined such that if one or more distances or their deviations from the predefined target value are respectively within a predefined larger second range, which preferably includes the first range, the gap parameter value meets the modification criterion.
[0050] In one embodiment, target distance values and / or predefined modification criteria and / or (permitted) ranges for these distances or deviations between target values and distances are predefined differently for different optical values and / or dimensions (particularly thickness, diameter and / or curvature) of the lens, body and / or cured casting resin.
[0051] This makes it particularly advantageous to consider (more) complex geometries and / or manufacture boundary conditions and / or optical boundary conditions.
[0052] Subsequent modification criteria may also specifically include the following requirement: the gap parameter values determined for two or more first lenses must each satisfy a (preferably the same) subsequent modification sub-criteria. In other words, changes to the target parameter values of one or more other casting modules are initiated or executed only when the subsequent modification sub-criteria are satisfied not only during the production of the first lenses but also during the production of a predefined minimum number of first lenses. This allows for more reliable changes to the target parameter values.
[0053] In one embodiment, a first distance and / or another distance, or one or more other distances, of the casting module are determined before filling with casting resin, and tests are performed based on this. This can save on expensive casting resin in particular.
[0054] In one embodiment, after the casting mold is provided, particularly after the two (corresponding) casting mold components are arranged relative to each other, and in one embodiment after the (corresponding) seal is arranged or formed, and / or, if necessary, before the (corresponding) seal is arranged or formed, a first distance and / or another distance or one or more other distances of the casting mold are determined, and tests are performed based on this distance. By determining this distance after the (corresponding) seal is arranged or formed, any movement and / or rotation of the casting mold components caused by the arrangement or formation of the (corresponding) seal can be taken into account; by determining this distance before the (corresponding) seal is arranged or formed, appropriate measures can be advantageously taken at an early stage, particularly for modification or classification of the corresponding casting mold.
[0055] In addition or alternatively, in one embodiment, when providing the casting modules, particularly when arranging two casting module components relative to each other, and / or before and / or during the arrangement or formation of the seals, a first distance and / or another distance or one or more other distances between the casting modules or one or more casting modules can be determined, and testing can be performed based on this distance. This allows for modifications to be made early (even earlier), and therefore easier.
[0056] The gap parameter values determined in the manner described herein can be advantageously used to determine the amount of shrinkage of the casting resin filling or being filled in the cavity after or as a result of the curing of the casting resin. This shrinkage can then be advantageously taken into account when determining the dimensions of other casting modules, particularly the distances between them or the dimensions of the cavities formed between them. This is particularly advantageous for polymerizable casting resins used to form additional layers on the body, in order to determine the amount of shrinkage during polymerization. In this way, the shrinkage can be taken into account, which enables the production of lenses in an improved manner, particularly reducing material usage, and thus advantageously producing them in a (more) cost-effective manner, because without knowing the actual shrinkage (especially due to polymerization), a casting gap larger than actually required is often chosen as a precaution to ensure a sufficiently thick layer is formed after curing or polymerization. Knowing the shrinkage allows for the selection of a narrower tolerance range for the casting gap.
[0057] Therefore, in one embodiment, after determining the gap parameter value (which in this embodiment is at least one (preferably the shortest) distance between the first and second casting module components (particularly between the surfaces of the casting module components facing each other or facing the cavity) at a point in the cavity, and in another embodiment, the gap parameter value is multiple (preferably the shortest in each case) distances between the first and second casting module components (particularly between the surfaces of the casting module components facing each other or facing the cavity) at different points in the cavity), a method for measuring a casting module for producing a lens includes the following further steps: - Compare the wall strength or wall thickness determined (preferably measured) at multiple points of the cured casting resin corresponding to multiple points of the casting resin at one or more distances between the first and second casting module components; and - In one embodiment, the maximum and / or average shrinkage of the casting resin is determined based on the difference between (corresponding) distance and (corresponding) wall strength or thickness; In one embodiment, when determining the dimensions of other casting modules, particularly the distances between them or the dimensions of the cavities formed between them, the shrinkage determined in this manner (if corresponding tolerances need to be considered) is taken into account. In another embodiment, the shrinkage determined in this manner is added to the target wall strength or target thickness of the cured casting resin, and the target gap size of the cavity between the first and second casting module components of the (corresponding) other casting modules is determined based on this. Determining the wall strength or thickness may also specifically include, and / or may constitute a step of the method, measuring the total wall strength or total thickness of the composite of the cured casting resin and the casting module components, and subtracting the determined (preferably measured) wall strength or thickness of the (multiple) casting module components.
[0058] According to one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for measuring a casting mold (for producing lenses); in another embodiment, an apparatus for testing a casting mold; in one embodiment, an apparatus for producing one or more lenses, particularly configured in terms of hardware and / or software or programming techniques to perform the methods described herein, and including means for determining a first distance (optionally also determining one or more other distances) between first and second casting mold components of the (corresponding) casting mold, in one embodiment, the apparatus includes (a plurality of) measuring means. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes mechanisms for supplying or providing the (corresponding) casting mold and / or for further conveying or removing the measured or tested casting mold or produced lens, particularly operating mechanisms. In one embodiment, the production apparatus includes means for filling the (corresponding) cavity with casting resin, in another embodiment, the production apparatus further includes casting mold assembly means.
[0059] In one embodiment, one or more steps of the method are performed fully or partially automatically, particularly by means of the device, and these steps include, in particular, supplying or providing the casting module and / or determining gap parameter values and / or testing the casting module and / or filling the cavity with casting resin and / or modifying the casting module and / or changing the target parameter values and / or further conveying or removing the casting module or lens. Attached Figure Description
[0060] Other advantages and features are available in the dependent claims and exemplary embodiments. For this purpose, they are shown in part schematically in the accompanying drawings:
[0061] Figure 1 The illustration shows an apparatus for producing lenses according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus including equipment for measuring and testing casting molds according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0062] Figure 2The present invention illustrates a method for producing lenses according to an embodiment of the invention, the method comprising a method for measuring and testing a casting mold according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed Implementation
[0063] Figure 1 An apparatus for producing lenses according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the apparatus including a device for measuring and testing casting molds according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0064] The equipment includes: a supply and casting module assembly device 1; a device for determining the distance between a first casting module component 11 and a second casting module component 12 of the casting module to be measured or tested, the device having a measuring device in the form of a confocal sensor 21, a holder 22 for the casting module, and a processing and display device 23; a device 3 for filling a cavity 14 formed between the first and second casting module components 11, 12 with casting resin; and a device 4 for removing the casting module.
[0065] In the casting mold assembly device 1, casting molds are provided sequentially. Each casting mold includes a first casting mold component 11, a second casting mold component 12, and a sealing member 13 in a cavity 14 formed between the first and second casting mold components 11 and 12. Figure 2 Step S10).
[0066] During and / or after the provision of the respective casting mold, particularly during and / or after the arrangement of its first and second casting mold components relative to each other, and / or before, during and / or after the application or formation of the seal 13, the distance between the confocal sensor 21 and the cavity-facing surface 11a of the first casting mold component is measured at four points in the edge region and one point in the central region of the casting mold (in each case), while the distance between the confocal sensor 21 and the cavity-facing surface 12a of the second casting mold component is also measured; thereby, the distance between the first and second casting mold components at the corresponding points is determined using the processing and display device 23. Figure 2 Step S20), and test whether the corresponding distance is within the first allowed range ( Figure 2 Step S30).
[0067] If all five gaps of the casting module are within the allowable first range (step S30: "Y"), then it does not meet the predefined subsequent modification criteria and the predefined modification criteria, or the casting gap between the two casting module parts is acceptable and the cavity is filled with casting resin. Figure 2 Step S45).
[0068] If at least one distance is no longer within the permissible first range (S30: "N"), but all distances are still within the (still) permissible, larger second range (S35: "Y"), then the modified criteria are not met, or the casting gap between the two casting module components remains acceptable but meets the subsequent modified criteria. Therefore, the cavity is still filled with casting resin. Figure 2 (Step S45), and in addition, the predefined target parameter values for other casting modules are changed accordingly for compensation. Figure 2 (Step S40). In a variation, this situation occurs only when at least one distance in a specific minimum number of distances greater than 1 is no longer within the first allowed range, but still within the second allowed range.
[0069] If at least one distance is no longer within the allowed second range (S35: "N"), then the predefined modification criteria are met, or the casting gap between the two casting module components is no longer acceptable. In this case, the casting module currently being tested is modified first. Figure 2 (Step S55), and then test again in the manner described above, after which, if necessary, fill its cavity with casting resin ( Figure 2 Step S45). Furthermore, the predefined target parameter values used for other casting modules can be changed accordingly for compensation. Figure 2 (Step S50). In a variant example not shown, if the modified casting mold still meets the modification criteria, an error message will be generated.
[0070] The processing and display device 23 uses signals to notify the compliance status of the modified standard and / or subsequent modified standard.
[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, the modification criteria and subsequent modification criteria are predefined as follows: if at least one distance is no longer within the corresponding allowed predefined range, then these criteria are met. Various variations are possible; for example, instead of distance, the deviation of the measured distance from a predefined target value can be used, or the maximum or average value of the distance or deviation can be used, etc.
[0072] Similarly, measurements can be taken at more or fewer points, and in particular, measurements can be taken at only one point, where that distance is used as the gap parameter value.
[0073] Alternatively or supplementally, in a modified example, the confocal sensor 21 may be integrated into the casting module assembly 1.
[0074] After filling with casting resin, in step S45, the casting resin can be cured, and / or the cured casting resin can be separated from the first and / or second casting module components.
[0075] In this disclosure, “including” generally does not mean an exhaustive list; rather, it is an abbreviation for “including at least one X” and also covers “including two or more X” and “including Y in addition to X”.
[0076] Although exemplary embodiments have been described above, it should be noted that the present invention may have multiple variations.
[0077] In particular, one or more additional sensors can be used, preferably confocal sensors or other sensors, and / or the confocal sensor 21 can also be arranged in... Figure 1 The second casting module component 12 is positioned on the lower side of the casting module or on the second casting module component 12, thereby positioning the second casting module component 12 between the cavity and the confocal sensor 21 to measure the distance between the confocal sensor 21 and the surface 11a of the first casting module component 11.
[0078] It should also be noted that the embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, application, or structure of protection in any way. Rather, the foregoing description provides guidelines for those skilled in the art to implement at least one embodiment, and various changes, particularly regarding the function and arrangement of the components, can be made without departing from the scope of protection defined by the claims and equivalent combinations of these features.
[0079] List of reference numerals 1. Supply and casting module assembly device 11 First Casting Module Components 11a Surface 12 Second casting module components 12a surface 13. Seals 14. Cavity 21 Confocal Sensor 22 Cage 23 Processing and display devices 3. Resin filling device for casting 4. Removal device
Claims
1. A method for measuring a casting mold used in the production of lenses, comprising the following steps: - Provide (S10) a casting mold, the casting mold comprising: - First casting module component (11); and - A second casting mold component (12), mounted relative to the first casting mold component, such that a cavity (14) is formed between the first casting mold component and the second casting mold component; and - Determine (S20) the gap parameter value, wherein the step of determining the gap parameter value includes determining a first distance between the first casting module component and the second casting module component at a first point of the cavity of the provided casting module, and the gap parameter value depends on the first distance.
2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The provided casting module includes a seal (13) forming the cavity (14) between the first casting module component and the second casting module component when determining the first distance.
3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The casting module includes a seal (13) formed in the cavity (14) between the first casting module component and the second casting module component, the seal being formed after the first distance is determined.
4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, - The step of determining the gap parameter value includes determining at least one other distance between the first casting module component and the second casting module component at another point in the cavity, and the gap parameter also depends on said other distance; and / or - Determining the distance includes a measurement, wherein the measurement is an optical and / or non-contact measurement, and / or a measurement of the distance between the measuring device (21) and the surface (11a) of the first casting module component, and a measurement of the distance between the measuring device or another measuring device and the surface (12a) of the second casting module component.
5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first casting module component is arranged between the cavity and the measuring device used to measure the distance between the measuring device and the surface of the first casting module component.
6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second casting module component is arranged between the cavity and the measuring device used to measure the distance between the measuring device and the surface of the first casting module component.
7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Determine at least one distance between the first casting module component and the second casting module component at a location in the central region of the cavity, and / or determine at least one distance between the first casting module component and the second casting module component at a location in the edge region of the cavity, and / or determine at least two of the distances by measuring them using the same measuring device.
8. A method for testing a casting mold used in the production of lenses, comprising the following steps: - Measure the casting mold according to the method according to any one of the preceding claims; as well as - The casting module is tested based on the determined gap parameter values (S30, S35).
9. A method for producing at least one lens, comprising the following steps: - The casting mold is tested according to the method described in the preceding claim; - If the gap parameter value meets the predefined modification criteria, then the casting module is modified (S55); and - Fill the cavity with casting resin (S45) The produced lens contains cured casting resin.
10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cured casting resin is separated from the second casting module component, and the produced lens includes the first casting module component connected to the cured casting resin.
11. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, Separate the cured casting resin from the first casting module component and the second casting module component.
12. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The produced lens includes a first casting module component and a second casting module component connected to the cured casting resin.
13. The method according to any one of claims 9-12, characterized in that, Modifications to the casting module include altering the arrangement of the first and second casting module components relative to each other, particularly changing predefined target parameters and / or based on a predefined correspondence with determined gap parameter values, and / or replacing the seals and / or the first and / or second casting module components; and / or - Determine the gap parameter value for the modified casting module, test the modified casting module based on the determined gap parameter value, and if the determined gap parameter value meets the predefined modification criteria, modify the modified casting module again and / or issue an error message.
14. The method according to any one of claims 9-13, comprising the following steps: - Produce at least one first lens according to the method of any one of claims 9-13; as well as - Producing at least one other lens, wherein the steps of producing said at least one other lens include: - Provide another casting mold including a first casting mold component and a second casting mold component, the second casting mold component being mounted relative to the first casting mold component such that a cavity is formed between the first casting mold component and the second casting mold component; and - Fill the cavity with casting resin. If the gap parameter value determined for the at least one first lens meets a predefined subsequent modification criterion, then the predefined target parameter values of the first casting module component and the second casting module component used for arranging the at least one other casting module are changed, in particular based on a predefined correspondence with the gap parameter value determined for the at least one first lens.
15. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The signal notifies the determined gap parameter value, and / or the satisfaction of the modification standard and / or the subsequent modification standard.
16. An apparatus for measuring a casting mold used in the production of spectacle lenses, particularly an apparatus for testing said casting mold, especially an apparatus for producing at least one spectacle lens, wherein, The device is configured to perform the method according to any one of the preceding claims and includes means (21, 23) for determining the first distance between the first and second casting module components (11, 12).