Eyeglass lens edge processing device

Abstract

This invention provides a spectacle lens edge processing device that can reduce the space required for opening and closing the cover. [Solution] An eyeglass lens edge processing apparatus for processing the edges of eyeglass lenses, comprising: a chuck shaft for holding and rotating the eyeglass lens; a processing tool for processing the eyeglass lens; a processing chamber in which the chuck shaft and the processing tool are arranged; and an opening / closing cover that slides laterally relative to the opening of the processing chamber. The opening / closing cover slides in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for processing the periphery of spectacle lenses.

Background Art

[0002] The apparatus for processing the periphery of spectacle lenses is provided with a processing chamber for processing the periphery of the spectacle lenses according to the shape of the spectacle frame. And, in the processing chamber, there is provided an opening / closing cover for preventing water supplied to the periphery of the processing part of the spectacle lens and processing chips (for example, grinding powder) generated by grinding of the spectacle lens from scattering outside the processing chamber. For example, one end of the opening / closing cover of Patent Document 1 is fixed, and it can be opened and closed by moving the other end of the opening / closing cover in a predetermined direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in Patent Document 1, in order to put the spectacle lens into the processing chamber or to take out the spectacle lens from the processing chamber, a space is required such that the other end of the opening / closing cover can be moved. Therefore, when installing the apparatus for processing the periphery of spectacle lenses, the space for the opening / closing cover must be considered, and the degree of freedom is low.

[0005] In view of the above problems of the prior art, it is a technical problem of the present disclosure to provide an apparatus for processing the periphery of spectacle lenses that can save space required for opening and closing the opening / closing cover.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, this disclosure is characterized by having the following configuration.

[0007] The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of the present disclosure is a spectacle lens rim processing apparatus for processing the rim of a spectacle lens, and is characterized by comprising: a chuck shaft for holding and rotating the spectacle lens; a processing tool for processing the spectacle lens; a processing chamber in which the chuck shaft and the processing tool are arranged; and an opening / closing cover that slides laterally relative to the opening of the processing chamber. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is an external view of a spectacle lens edge processing machine. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the opening and closing unit from above. [Figure 3] This is a side view of the opening / closing unit, seen from the right. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of the opening and closing unit from below. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing the configuration of an eyeglass lens edge processing machine. [Figure 6] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the second nozzle in the fluid spraying unit. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram showing the control system for an eyeglass lens rim processing machine. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an eyeglass lens edge finishing device. [Figure 9] This is an example of rough processing of eyeglass lenses. [Figure 10] This is an example of a leaf spring, which is a mechanism for suppressing lift. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] <Overview> An overview of the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus according to this embodiment is described below. The items classified in <> below can be used independently or in relation to each other.

[0010] The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment is a device for processing the rim of a spectacle lens. The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus may include a chuck shaft (for example, a lens chuck shaft 120) for holding and rotating the spectacle lens. It may also include processing tools (for example, a grinding wheel 150, a processing tool unit 140, a roughing tool 142, etc.) for processing the spectacle lens. It may also include a processing chamber (for example, a processing chamber 180) in which the chuck shaft and processing tools are arranged. It may also include an opening / closing cover (for example, an opening / closing unit 10) positioned over the opening of the processing chamber.

[0011] Furthermore, the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus may include a housing (e.g., housing 101) that houses a spectacle lens processing mechanism (e.g., lens processing mechanism section 110) which includes at least a chuck shaft, a processing tool, and a processing chamber. The housing may also be provided with an opening / closing cover on its surface. For example, in this case, the chuck shaft and the drive unit for driving the processing tool may be located outside the processing chamber and covered by the housing.

[0012] The spectacle lens processing mechanism may be mounted on a base member (for example, base 185) whose longitudinal direction is the chuck axis direction. For example, the base member may be the bottom of the housing. Also, for example, components such as the chuck axis, processing tool, processing chamber, and various drive units may be attached to the base member. In this case, the outside of the processing chamber in the spectacle lens processing mechanism is the chuck axis direction, that is, the longitudinal direction of the base member, and the various drive units may be arranged in the chuck axis direction.

[0013] <Processing tools> The spectacle lens edge processing apparatus may perform at least one of the following processes using a processing tool: rough processing to roughly shape the spectacle lens to a target shape, finishing processing to finely shape the spectacle lens to a target shape, grooving to form grooves in the spectacle lens, or hole processing to form holes in the spectacle lens. For example, such a processing tool may be a grinding tool used to grind the spectacle lens. For example, the grinding tool may be a grinding wheel. Alternatively, such a processing tool may be a cutting tool used to cut the spectacle lens. For example, the cutting tool may be a cutter, an end mill, etc. The cutting tool may have a diameter smaller than the chuck shaft.

[0014] In this embodiment, at least one of a grinding tool and a cutting tool may be used as a roughing tool for roughing the spectacle lens. When a grinding tool is used as a roughing tool, small processing debris such as shavings and dust from the spectacle lens is generated. On the other hand, when a cutting tool is used as a roughing tool, small processing debris is generated along with large processing debris such as fragments and medium processing debris such as shavings from the spectacle lens. Of these, the large processing debris is heavy and falls to the bottom of the processing chamber, but the medium and small processing debris is light and easily scattered inside the processing chamber. Furthermore, because the medium processing debris is larger in size than the small processing debris, it is more likely to get stuck in gaps in the opening and closing cover, etc.

[0015] <Open / Close Cover> In a spectacle lens peripheral processing apparatus, the opening and closing cover is opened and closed in order to attach or detach a spectacle lens to or from a chuck shaft. The opening and closing cover can be opened and closed by a moving mechanism for sliding the opening and closing cover. For example, the moving mechanism may have a slide mechanism. For example, in this case, when an operator operates the opening and closing cover, the opening and closing cover is slid in a predetermined direction via the slide mechanism. Also, for example, the moving mechanism may have a slide mechanism and a driving unit. For example, in this case, drive control means (for example, control unit 60) for controlling the drive of the opening and closing cover controls the drive of the driving unit, whereby the opening and closing cover is slid in a predetermined direction via the slide mechanism. Of course, for example, the moving mechanism (here, the slide mechanism) and the driving unit may be provided as separate configurations.

[0016] For example, the opening and closing cover may be opened and closed by sliding vertically with respect to the opening of the processing chamber. Also, for example, the opening and closing cover may be opened and closed by sliding horizontally with respect to the opening of the processing chamber. Note that the vertical direction of the operator may be regarded as the vertical direction, and the horizontal direction of the operator may be regarded as the horizontal direction. By sliding the opening and closing cover, at least the space required for opening and closing the opening and closing cover can be made space-saving. For this reason, it is easy for an operator to perform operations such as taking in and out a spectacle lens from the processing chamber. Further, even in a configuration in which a spectacle lens is held by a transfer robot or the like and taken in and out of the processing chamber, the movement of the transfer robot is less restricted, and the movable range of the transfer robot can be widened.

[0017] The opening and closing cover may be slid in the longitudinal direction of the housing that houses the spectacle lens processing mechanism. For example, the lateral direction of the opening and closing cover may be the longitudinal direction of the housing. When the opening and closing cover is configured to be slid in the lateral direction of the housing, the size of the opening and closing cover may be restricted. For example, since the stroke (i.e., the amount of movement) from the closed state to the open state of the opening and closing cover becomes short, if the opening and closing cover is not provided small, the opening and closing cover cannot be fully opened. If the opening and closing cover is small, it leads to difficulty in the operator's work and poor visibility. On the other hand, if an attempt is made to provide a large opening and closing cover, it becomes necessary to increase the size of the housing itself. However, by sliding the opening and closing cover in the longitudinal direction of the housing while utilizing the space outside the processing chamber, the stroke of the opening and closing cover can be lengthened and a certain size can be maintained. Therefore, the operator can work easily and can confirm the inside of the processing chamber well.

[0018] The opening and closing cover may have an outflow suppression mechanism for suppressing the outflow of cleaning water flowing along the opening and closing cover, which can be supplied by the cleaning means described later, to the outside. When cleaning water is supplied to the opening and closing cover, there is a possibility that the cleaning water leaks from the gap between the opening and closing cover and the processing chamber. In particular, when the opening and closing cover is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, the cleaning water tends to flow toward the lowest position of the opening and closing cover and has a high possibility of leaking from the gap ahead. Therefore, by providing an outflow suppression mechanism in the opening and closing cover and, as an example, suppressing the cleaning water from reaching the gap, the possibility of the cleaning water leaking to the outside can be reduced.

[0019] The outflow suppression mechanism may have a guiding mechanism for guiding the cleaning water flowing along the opening and closing cover to the processing chamber. For example, the guiding mechanism may be a mechanism for changing the flow path of the cleaning water to the processing chamber side by changing the flowing direction of the cleaning water. For example, the guiding mechanism may have at least any one of a concave portion (as an example, a groove or the like), a convex portion (as an example, a protrusion or the like), a gradient, etc. for forming a movement path such that the cleaning water flows to the processing chamber side. Thereby, the cleaning water along the opening and closing cover flows to the processing chamber before reaching the gap between the opening and closing cover and the processing chamber.

[0020] In this embodiment, the guidance mechanism for the opening and closing cover is composed of a protrusion, which may have a projection (e.g., a rib 17) for changing the direction of the flow of the cleaning water. As a result, the cleaning water flowing along the opening and closing cover hits the projection before reaching the gap between the opening and closing cover and the processing chamber, and flows towards the processing chamber. In other words, the projection has the function of blocking the cleaning water before it reaches the gap and directing the flow of the cleaning water toward the processing chamber.

[0021] The opening / closing cover may have a lift-up suppression mechanism to prevent it from floating up due to the water pressure of the cleaning water supplied by the cleaning means described later. For example, the lift-up suppression mechanism may be a mechanism that applies stress (i.e., resistance force) to the lift-up of the opening / closing cover. As an example, the lift-up suppression mechanism may have at least one of the following: a sealing mechanism by reducing pressure or degassing the opening / closing cover, a biasing mechanism that biases the opening / closing cover, etc. When cleaning water is supplied to the opening / closing cover, the cleaning water sprayed toward the opening / closing cover may push the cover up. In this case, the gap in the opening / closing cover widens, and the possibility of cleaning water leaking out increases. Therefore, by applying a force to the opening / closing cover in the opposite direction to the direction in which the water pressure is applied, the widening of the gap can be suppressed and the possibility of cleaning water leaking out can be reduced.

[0022] In this embodiment, the mechanism for suppressing the lifting of the opening / closing cover may also be used as a moving mechanism for sliding the opening / closing cover. For example, the moving mechanism may include a guide shaft (e.g., guide shaft 12) extending laterally from the opening / closing cover and a bearing (e.g., rack 16) that can move along the guide shaft. Furthermore, these guide shafts and bearings may be provided only on the upper part of the opening / closing cover. For example, gaps may occur in the moving mechanism of the opening / closing cover due to fitting tolerances caused by variations in each component. However, if, for example, a guide shaft and bearing are provided in one location on the opening / closing cover, such gaps are less likely to occur in other locations. In particular, in a configuration where the opening / closing cover is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, by providing the moving mechanism (guide shaft and bearing) on ​​the upper part of the opening / closing cover and making the lower part of the opening / closing cover mechanism-less, gaps will not occur at the bottom. In addition, gravity always acts on the opening / closing cover, and a force is applied in the opposite direction to the direction in which water pressure is applied. Therefore, even if the cleaning water sprayed toward the opening / closing cover tries to push it up, the widening of the gap is suppressed.

[0023] In this embodiment, the mechanism for suppressing the lifting of the opening / closing cover may include a leaf spring (e.g., leaf spring 18) that applies a biasing force against the lifting of the opening / closing cover. As a result, even if the opening / closing cover tries to lift up, it will be caught on the leaf spring and pushed down, suppressing the widening of the gap.

[0024] <Cleaning methods> The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment may include a cleaning means (for example, a control unit 60). The cleaning means suppresses the adhesion of processing debris to the opening / closing cover by supplying cleaning water toward the opening / closing cover. The cleaning means may be located inside the processing chamber. This prevents, for example, the adhesion of processing debris to the opening / closing cover, or removes processing debris that has adhered to the opening / closing cover. Then, for example, the processing debris is flowed into the processing chamber along with the cleaning water.

[0025] The cleaning means may suppress the adhesion of processing debris to the opening / closing cover by supplying cleaning water to the opening / closing cover from the start to the end of the rough machining of the spectacle lens. In other words, for example, the cleaning means may suppress the adhesion of at least one of the medium-sized and small processing debris that may be generated during the rough machining of the spectacle lens. Since the amount of grinding or cutting of the spectacle lens is greatest during the rough machining, more processing debris is generated during the rough machining of the spectacle lens, making it more likely to adhere to the opening / closing cover. However, by supplying cleaning water during rough machining, even if processing debris is scattered towards the opening / closing cover, it will be washed away by the cleaning water before it can adhere to the opening / closing cover. Therefore, the cleaning means can reduce as much as possible the possibility of processing debris adhering to the opening / closing cover during rough machining.

[0026] The cleaning means may supply cleaning water at regular intervals from the start to the end of the rough processing of the spectacle lens. In other words, the cleaning means may alternate between a first timing of supplying cleaning water and a second timing of not supplying cleaning water. In this case, the first timing and the second timing may be the same time or different time. Alternatively, the cleaning means may supply cleaning water continuously from the start to the end of the rough processing of the spectacle lens. In other words, the cleaning means may continuously supply cleaning water.

[0027] In this embodiment, when using a cutting tool (e.g., a cutter) as a roughing tool for eyeglass lenses, it is effective to supply cleaning water to the opening / closing cover from the start to the end of the roughing process. Medium-sized and small-sized shavings generated during roughing with a cutting tool tend to scatter into the processing chamber, and in particular, if medium-sized shavings adhere to the opening / closing cover and are brought into the housing, they are likely to cause clogging. Therefore, when using a cutting tool, suppressing the adhesion of medium-sized shavings helps prevent clogging.

[0028] It is also possible to supply cleaning water to the opening / closing cover after all processing is complete, rather than during the rough processing of the eyeglass lens, but in this case the overall processing time will be longer. Specifically, when all processing is complete, the opening / closing cover will have a lot of processing debris attached to it, including processing debris from the rough processing, and it will take time to wash this away. In this embodiment, processing debris does not adhere to the opening / closing cover during the rough processing in the first place, so supplying cleaning water after all processing is complete is not necessarily required. Furthermore, even if cleaning water is supplied to the opening / closing cover after all processing is complete, the processing debris can be washed away in a short time. In other words, supplying cleaning water during the rough processing of the eyeglass lens also shortens the processing time.

[0029] Furthermore, the cleaning means may supply cleaning water not only during the rough machining of the spectacle lenses, but also before the opening / closing cover is opened. For example, as the opening and closing operation of the opening / closing cover occurs, machining debris attached to the cover may move into the housing. For instance, if the opening / closing cover is configured to be opened and closed by sliding it, there is a possibility that machining debris may be brought outside the machining chamber (i.e., into the housing) when the cover is opened. Also, for example, if machining debris gets stuck in the gaps of the opening / closing cover, it may become difficult to open and close the cover. For this reason, by washing away the machining debris attached to the opening / closing cover with cleaning water before opening the cover, the introduction of machining debris and clogging can be reduced.

[0030] The cleaning means may be to supply cleaning water at a timing before the opening / closing cover opens, that is, after all processing steps on the spectacle lens have been completed, and before the opening / closing cover opens to remove the spectacle lens from the chuck shaft. Spectacle lenses may undergo rough processing followed by finishing, grooving, chamfering, etc. Processing debris is generated during each of these processes on the spectacle lens, so when all processing steps are completed, there is a possibility that scattered processing debris may be adhering to the opening / closing cover. For this reason, in the processing of the peripheral edge of the spectacle lens, supplying cleaning water to wash away the processing debris before the opening / closing cover opens at the end can reduce the carrying in of processing debris and clogging.

[0031] Furthermore, the cleaning means may be supplied with cleaning water at a timing before the opening / closing cover opens, specifically after the chuck axis position has been initialized and before the opening / closing cover opens to attach the spectacle lens to the chuck axis. When processing the periphery of a spectacle lens, processing debris is generated at various timings as described above and scattered into the processing chamber. For example, in a store where a spectacle lens periphery processing device is installed, if processing debris attached to the opening / closing cover is not completely removed before closing time, it will be difficult to check the condition of the processing chamber from the opening / closing cover the next day. On the other hand, initialization of the spectacle lens periphery processing device is often performed when the power is turned on. For this reason, for example, by supplying cleaning water towards the opening / closing cover after the initialization operation, processing debris remaining from the previous day can be washed away, improving the visibility of the opening / closing cover. In addition, improved visibility of the opening / closing cover allows the device to be used in a state where it is easy to check the condition of the processing chamber from the first spectacle lens is processed.

[0032] Of course, the cleaning means may supply cleaning water at a timing before the opening / closing cover opens, specifically before the initialization operation described above. In this case, the device is powered on, cleaning water is supplied to the opening / closing cover, and the cover opens after the initialization operation is performed. Alternatively, the cleaning means may supply cleaning water simultaneously with the initialization operation described above, also at a timing before the opening / closing cover opens. In this case, the device is powered on, cleaning water is supplied to the opening / closing cover, and the cover opens after the initialization operation is performed simultaneously. For example, even with these configurations, the visibility of the opening / closing cover is improved.

[0033] This disclosure is not limited to the apparatus described in this embodiment. For example, terminal control software (program) that performs the functions of this embodiment can be supplied to the apparatus or system via a network or various storage media, and the control device (e.g., CPU) of the apparatus or system can read and execute the program.

[0034] <Examples> An embodiment of the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. The spectacle lens edge processing apparatus 100 processes the edge of a spectacle lens using a processing tool. In this embodiment, the left-right direction (horizontal direction) of the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus is represented as the X direction, the front-back direction (depth direction) as the Z direction, and the up-down direction (vertical direction) as the Y direction.

[0035] <Eyeglass lens edge finishing machine> Figure 1 is an external view of the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus 100. The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus 100 comprises a housing 101, an opening / closing unit 10, a monitor 102, etc. The housing 101 houses components such as the lens processing mechanism 110, the lens refractive surface shape measuring unit 160, and the processing chamber 180, which will be described later. The housing 101 is equipped with an opening / closing unit 10 for inserting and removing spectacle lenses into and from the lens processing mechanism 110. The monitor 102 is a display with touch panel functionality. In other words, the monitor 102 functions as an operating unit (controller). Note that the monitor 102 does not have to be a touch panel, and the monitor 102 and the operating unit may be provided separately. In this case, at least one of the following may be used as the operating unit: a mouse, joystick, keyboard, mobile terminal, etc.

[0036] <Opening / Closing Unit> Figures 2 to 4 are diagrams showing the configuration of the opening / closing unit 10. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the opening / closing unit 10 from above. Figure 3 is a side view of the opening / closing unit 10 from the right. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the opening / closing unit 10 from below. Note that in Figure 4, the base 13 (described later) and the processing chamber 180 are not shown. The opening / closing unit 10 is provided on the surface of the housing 101 and can be slid in the longitudinal direction of the housing 101 (in this case, the X direction).

[0037] The opening / closing unit 10 comprises a base 13, a guide shaft 12, a rack 16, an output shaft 11, a motor 14, a cover 20, etc. The base 13 is a member for supporting each component. The base 13 is a rectangular frame-shaped member. The base 13 is positioned to be inclined downward (more specifically, towards the operator) with respect to the horizontal plane. Furthermore, the base 13 is positioned above the processing chamber 180, with a portion of it extending outward from the processing chamber 180. The portion of the base 13 that extends outward from the processing chamber 180 is provided with a bottom surface. For example, such a bottom surface is made higher the further it is from the processing chamber 180, thereby inclining it towards the processing chamber 180.

[0038] The guide shaft 12, rack 16, output shaft 11, and motor 14 function as a moving mechanism for sliding the cover portion 20 relative to the base 13. The guide shaft 12 is fixed to the top of the base 13. The guide shaft 12 is a member for guiding the movement of the cover portion 20. The cover portion 20 is slidably connected to the guide shaft 12. One end of the rack 16 is connected to the top of the cover portion 20. The other end of the rack 16 has a rack structure. The output shaft 11 has a gear structure. The rack 16 and the output shaft 11 are in a rack-and-pinion relationship and mesh with each other. The output shaft 11 is connected to the motor 14 and rotates around its axis. For example, based on an operation signal to open or close the cover portion 20, the motor 14 is driven and the output shaft 11 is rotated, and the rack 16 that meshes with the output shaft 11 is moved. As the rack 16 moves, the cover portion 20 connected to the rack 16 slides laterally (in the X direction) on the guide shaft 12. As a result, the cover portion 20 slides laterally (in the X direction) on the same plane as the cover portion 20 (in other words, on the same plane as the base 13).

[0039] In this embodiment, cleaning water is supplied to the back surface of the cover portion 20 (details will be described later). With water on the back surface of the cover portion 20, the cover portion 20 is drawn between the housing 101 and the bottom surface of the base 13. The water that falls from the cover portion 20 is received by the bottom surface of the base 13 and flows into the processing chamber 180 due to the slope of the bottom surface of the base 13.

[0040] Furthermore, in this embodiment, fitting tolerances may occur at the upper part of the cover portion 20 because the guide shaft 12 and the rack 16 fit together. On the other hand, the lower part of the cover portion 20 is only fitted with a resin receiver (not shown), and therefore no fitting tolerances occur there. For example, when gravity acts on the cover portion 20 and presses it against the base 13, the gap at the top remains due to the fitting tolerance, but the gap at the bottom is less likely to open. Therefore, even if water is supplied to the back surface of the cover portion 20, the water is less likely to leak from the gap between the cover portion 20 and the base 13.

[0041] The cover section 20 includes a cover 21, a cover window 22, ribs 17 (see Figures 3 and 4), etc. The cover 21 is a door for inserting and removing spectacle lenses into and from the processing chamber 180. The cover window 22 is fitted into the cover 21. The cover window 22 is made of a single glass or resin panel that is colorless transparent or colored transparent (for example, gray or other colored transparent). For example, the cover window 22 allows the inside of the processing chamber 180 to be checked while spectacle lenses are being processed. The ribs 17 serve as a guide mechanism for changing the direction of the flow of cleaning water. The ribs 17 are fixed to the back surface of the cover 21. For example, the ribs 17 are positioned below the cover window 22. As described above, because the cover section 20 is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal plane, when water is supplied to the back surface of the cover section 20, the water flows from the top to the bottom of the cover 21 and cover window 22. At this time, the water reaches the rib 17 before it reaches the gap between the cover 21 and the processing chamber 180 (in other words, the gap between the cover 21 and the base 13). Furthermore, the direction of the water flow is changed by the rib 17 and guided into the processing chamber 180. As a result, even if water is supplied to the cover 21 and the cover window 22, water is less likely to leak out of the gap.

[0042] Figure 5 is a diagram of the configuration of the spectacle lens rim processing device 100. The spectacle lens rim processing device 100 has a lens processing mechanism 110. Furthermore, the spectacle lens rim processing device 100 is connected to a large processing waste separation device 200 via a drain hose 190. The large processing waste separation device 200 is connected to a grinding water treatment device 300 via a drain hose 301 and is also connected to a dust box 400 via a processing waste discharge port 206.

[0043] <Lens Processing Mechanism> The lens processing mechanism 110 includes a base 185, a lens chuck shaft (lens rotation shaft) 120, a carriage 130, a processing tool unit 140, a grinding wheel 150, a lens refractive surface shape measuring unit 160, a fluid spraying unit 170, and the like. Each unit and component is attached to the base 185. The lens chuck shaft 120, the processing tool unit 140, the grinding wheel 150, and the lens refractive surface shape measuring unit 160 are arranged inside the processing chamber 180. In addition, a portion of the fluid spraying unit 170 is also arranged inside the processing chamber 180.

[0044] The lens chuck shaft 120 holds the lens LE. The lens chuck shaft 120 includes a left chuck shaft 120L and a right chuck shaft 120R.

[0045] The carriage 130 holds the lens chuck shaft 120. The carriage 130 moves the lens chuck shaft 120 relative to the workpiece unit 140 and the grinding wheel 150 by driving the motor 131. The carriage 130 consists of a left arm 132L and a right arm 132R. The left chuck shaft 120L of the lens chuck shaft 120 is rotatably and coaxially held on the left arm 132L of the carriage 130. The right chuck shaft 120R of the lens chuck shaft 120 is rotatably and coaxially held on the right arm 132R of the carriage 130. A motor 133 is attached to the right arm 132R, and when the motor 133 is driven, a rotation transmission mechanism such as gears (not shown) rotates. The left and right chuck shafts 120L and 120R rotate synchronously with each other via the rotation transmission mechanism. Additionally, a motor (not shown) is attached to the right arm 132R. When this motor is driven, the right chuck shaft 120R moves towards the left chuck shaft 120L. As a result, the lens LE is held by the left and right chuck shafts 120L and 120R.

[0046] The tool unit 140 processes the periphery of the lens held by the lens chuck shaft 120. For example, the tool unit 140 is positioned behind the carriage section 130. The tool unit 140 includes a motor 141, a roughing tool 142, a grooving tool 143, a holding section 144, a rotating shaft 145, a first tool rotating shaft 146, a second tool rotating shaft 147, etc. The motor 141 moves the tool unit 140 to a processing position for processing the periphery of the lens LE. The roughing tool 142 roughly processes the periphery of the lens LE. For example, a cutter is used for the roughing tool 142 in this embodiment, but an end mill may also be used. The grooving tool 143 cuts grooves into the edge of the lens LE. For example, a grinding wheel is used for the grooving tool 143. The holding section 144 is connected to the roughing tool 142, the grooving tool 143, and the rotating shaft 145, and holds the roughing tool 142 and the grooving tool 143. The rotating shaft 145 rotates the holding section 144 by a motor (not shown). The first tool rotating shaft 146 is connected to the grooving tool 143. The first tool rotating shaft 146 is rotatably held inside the rotating shaft 145. The grooving tool 143 rotates as the first tool rotating shaft 146 is rotated by a motor (not shown). The grooving tool 143 may also be used as a chamfering tool. The second tool rotating shaft 147 is connected to the roughing tool 142. The second tool rotating shaft 147 is connected to a motor (not shown) of the first tool rotating shaft 146 via a connecting member (not shown). In this embodiment, the second workpiece rotation shaft 147 is positioned differently from the drive shaft of the motor (not shown) of the first workpiece rotation shaft 146. That is, the rotation of the drive shaft of the motor (not shown) of the first workpiece rotation shaft 146 is transmitted to the second workpiece rotation shaft 147 via a one-way clutch (not shown), a bearing (e.g., a bearing), etc. As a result, the rotation of the motor (not shown) of the first workpiece rotation shaft 146 is transmitted to the second workpiece rotation shaft 147, and the roughing tool 142 is rotated.

[0047] The grinding wheel 150 is used as a tool for grinding the lens LE after rough machining is complete. The grinding wheel 150 is attached to the grinding wheel rotation shaft 151. The grinding wheel rotation shaft 151 is rotated by the motor 152. The periphery of the lens LE, which is held in place by the lens chuck shaft 120, is machined by being pressed against the grinding wheel 150, which is rotated by the motor 152.

[0048] The lens refractive surface shape measuring unit 160 measures the shape of the refractive surfaces (front and rear surfaces) of the lens LE held on the lens chuck shaft 120. For example, the lens refractive surface shape measuring unit 160 is located behind the carriage unit 130.

[0049] Furthermore, the configuration of the lens processing mechanism 110 and the lens refractive surface shape measuring unit 160 can be adopted from the configuration described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-177234, so please refer to that publication for details.

[0050] The fluid spraying unit 170 sprays water inside the processing chamber 180. The fluid spraying unit 170 includes a water supply pipe 171, a first nozzle 172, a second nozzle 173, etc. The water supply pipe 171 supplies water from the grinding water treatment device 300. The water supply pipe 171 is divided into two branches, one end of which is connected to the first nozzle 172 and the other end of which is connected to the second nozzle 173. The first nozzle 172 is divided into two branches, allowing water to be sprayed toward the respective processing positions of the tool unit 140 and the grinding wheel 150. The second nozzle 173 is divided into two branches, allowing water to be sprayed toward the cover portion 20 of the opening / closing unit 10.

[0051] The fluid spraying unit 170 may be movable so as to spray water toward the processing position where the spectacle lens is processed by each processing tool. For example, it may move in conjunction with the movement of the lens chuck shaft 120. Similarly, the fluid spraying unit 170 may be movable so as to spray water evenly onto the cover portion 20. For example, the second nozzle 173 may be provided with a swivel mechanism.

[0052] In this embodiment, when machining the periphery of the lens LE, water is sprayed from the first nozzle 172 onto the lens LE and the grinding portion of the machining tool. This washes away machining debris adhering to the machining tool and reduces clogging of the machining tool (such as a grinding wheel). In particular, when machining spectacle lenses of a type that produces powdery machining debris (for example, CR39 or high-refractive index plastics), it is preferable to machine while spraying water. The water can also be used to cool the grinding portion of the machining tool. In addition, in this embodiment, at least during the rough machining of the lens LE, water is sprayed from the second nozzle 173 onto the opening / closing unit 10. This suppresses the adhesion of machining debris to the cover portion 20 and reduces the amount of machining debris brought into the housing 101 (details will be described later). The machining debris generated during the machining of the lens LE is washed away by water to the bottom of the machining chamber 180. The bottom of the machining chamber 180 is connected to a drain hose 190, which is a drainage path through which wastewater containing machining debris is discharged.

[0053] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the second nozzle 173 in the fluid spraying unit 170. The second nozzle 173 includes a water supply pipe 31, a cleaning nozzle 32, etc. The water supply pipe 171, which is connected to the grinding water treatment device 300, branches into two water supply pipes 31 in the left and right directions within the processing chamber 180. A cleaning nozzle 32 is provided at the end of each water supply pipe 31. The cleaning nozzles 32 are directed towards the upper part of the cover section 20 (for example, the cover window 22). In this embodiment, one end of the cleaning nozzle 32 is directed towards the upper left side of the cover section 20 (cover window 22), and the other end of the cleaning nozzle 32 is directed towards the upper right side of the cover section 20 (cover window 22).

[0054] Water from the grinding water treatment device 300 is discharged from the cleaning nozzle 32 via the water supply pipe 171 and water supply pipe 31. This sprays water over the entire cover section 20 (cover window 22). If machining debris is attached to the cover section 20, the debris is washed away with the water flowing from the top to the bottom of the cover section 20. The water that reaches the bottom of the cover section 20 is then directed into the machining chamber 180 by the aforementioned rib 17.

[0055] <Large processing waste separator> The large-size processing debris separator 200 separates large processing debris, which is larger than the small processing debris that flows into the grinding water treatment device 300, from the wastewater before the wastewater reaches the grinding water treatment device 300. For example, large processing debris discharged when the periphery of a lens LE is processed by a processing tool is discharged through the processing debris discharge port 206 into the dust box 400, which is a box for collecting large processing debris. For example, wastewater containing medium-sized and small processing debris is discharged to the grinding water treatment device 300 through the discharge port 205 and the drain hose 301.

[0056] <Grinding water treatment equipment> The grinding water treatment device 300 separates the processing debris (in this embodiment, the small processing debris mentioned above) and water contained in the wastewater discharged from the large processing debris separation device 200, and pumps the filtered water up to the spectacle lens rim processing device 100. In this embodiment, the wastewater containing the small processing debris discharged from the large processing debris separation device 200 is fed into the tank 303 via the drain hose 301. At this time, the small processing debris is collected by the filter 302. The water stored in the tank 303 is then sent to the water supply hose 308 via the filter 306 and the water supply hose 305 by the drive of the water intake pump 307. Furthermore, the water is guided to the first nozzle 172 and the second nozzle 173 of the spectacle lens rim processing device 100 via the water supply pipe 171 connected to the water supply hose 308. The first nozzle 172 sprays the water into the processing chamber 180, and the second nozzle 173 sprays the water onto the cover portion 20. For example, in the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus 100, water is circulated in this manner.

[0057] Furthermore, the configuration of the large-scale processing waste separation device 200 and the grinding water treatment device 300 can be adopted from the configuration described in Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-015240, so please refer to that for details.

[0058] <Department Head> Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the control system of the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus 100. The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus 100 is equipped with a control unit 60 for controlling the operation of the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus 100, a large processing waste separation device 200, and a grinding water treatment device 300. Of course, separate control units may be provided for controlling the operation of the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus 100, the operation of the large processing waste separation device 200, and the operation of the grinding water treatment device 300. The control unit 60 controls the drive of motors and other components of each component. The control unit 60 may be implemented using a general-purpose CPU (processor), ROM, RAM, etc. The control unit 60 is also equipped with a memory 70 as a storage unit. The memory 70 may be a non-transient storage medium that can retain its contents even when the power supply is cut off. For example, a hard disk drive, flash ROM, removable USB memory, etc. can be used as the memory 70.

[0059] <Control operation> The operation of the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus 100, which has the above configuration, will be explained based on the flowchart shown in Figure 8.

[0060] <Powering on and initialization> First, the operator turns on the power to the spectacle lens rim processing device 100 (step S1). When the power to the device is turned on, the control unit 60 starts initializing the device (step S2). The control unit 60 drives the motors to move each component of the device to its origin position (initial position). For example, at least the motor 131 is driven to move the lens chuck shaft 120 to a predetermined origin position. Of course, the motors may also be driven to move or rotate the carriage 130, the processing tool unit 140, the grinding wheel 150, etc. Through this initialization operation, each component is placed in its initial position. This initialization operation also verifies whether there are any problems in detecting the origin position of each component. Alternatively, the operator may operate the monitor 102 and press an initialization button (not shown) to perform the initialization operation.

[0061] <Cleaning the opening / closing cover> When processing the edges of eyeglass lenses, processing debris is generated at various times and scattered into the processing chamber 180. For example, if a store where the device is installed closes for the day without completely removing the processing debris adhering to the cover 20, it will be difficult to check the condition of the processing chamber 180 from the cover 20 the next day. In particular, the processing debris dries and turns white over time, making the dirt more noticeable. For this reason, once initialization is complete, the control unit 60 sprays water from the second nozzle 173 of the fluid spraying unit 170 toward the cover 20 (step S3). For example, the control unit 60 draws water from the tank 303 by driving the water intake pump 307 of the grinding water treatment device 300. The water is sent to the cleaning nozzle 32 via the water supply pipe 171 and sprayed onto the cover 21 and cover window 22. As a result, any processing debris that has been adhering to the cover 20 since the previous day is washed away with the water. Consequently, the visibility of the cover window 22 is improved.

[0062] <Opening and closing of the cover and holding of eyeglass lenses> Once the cleaning of the cover portion 20 is complete, the operator opens the cover portion 20 to hold the lens LE on the lens chuck shaft 120 (step S4). For example, the operator operates the monitor 102 to press a cover open / close button (not shown). Based on the operation signal from the cover open / close button (not shown), the control unit 60 drives the motor 14 and rotates the output shaft 11 clockwise, thereby sliding the cover portion 20 laterally (to the left). The cover portion 20 is then retracted between the housing 101 and the base 13.

[0063] Next, the operator places the lens LE into the processing chamber 180 and holds it on the lens chuck shafts 120 (120L, 120R) (step S5). The operator also operates the monitor 102 and presses a chuck shaft open / close button (not shown). Based on the operation signal from the chuck shaft open / close button, the control unit 60 moves the right chuck shaft 120R towards the left chuck shaft 120L. As a result, the lens LE is held between the left and right chuck shafts.

[0064] Next, once the lens LE is secured, the operator closes the cover 20 (step S6). For example, the operator operates the monitor 102 and presses the cover open / close button. Based on the operation signal from the cover open / close button, the control unit 60 drives the motor 14 and rotates the output shaft 11 counterclockwise, causing the cover 20 to slide laterally (to the right). The cover 20 is then ejected from between the housing 101 and the base 13.

[0065] <Setting the processing conditions and layout of eyeglass lenses> The operator sets the processing conditions and layout for the lens LE (step S7). For example, the operator retrieves the contour shape of the rim of the eyeglass frame (i.e., lens shape data), which has been measured in advance using an eyeglass frame shape measuring device, from the memory 70, etc. Also, for example, the operator inputs the processing conditions for the lens LE, such as the type of lens LE (e.g., single-vision lens, bifocal lens, progressive lens, etc.), the material of the lens LE, the material of the frame, and whether or not various processing is performed (e.g., whether or not mirror polishing, chamfering, grooving, etc. is performed). The operator also inputs the layout of the lens LE, such as the distance between the centers of the frames and the interpupillary distance. The control unit 60 stores these processing conditions and layout in the memory 70.

[0066] <Measuring the shape of eyeglass lenses> Once the operator has completed setting the processing conditions and layout of the lens LE, they begin measuring the shape of the lens LE (step S8). For example, the operator operates the monitor 102 and presses a measurement start button (not shown). Based on the operation signal from the measurement start button, the control unit 60 controls the lens refractive surface shape measuring unit 160 to measure the outer shape of the lens LE.

[0067] <Processing of the edges of eyeglass lenses> Furthermore, once the shape measurement of the lens LE is complete, the operator starts machining the periphery of the lens LE (step S9). For example, the operator operates the monitor 102 and presses a machining start button (not shown). Based on the operation signal from the machining start button, the control unit 60 controls the machining tool unit 140 and the grinding wheel 150 to machine the periphery of the lens LE. In this embodiment, rough machining, finishing machining, and grooving are performed sequentially as periphery machining of the lens LE.

[0068] <Rough processing> The control unit 60 determines a rough machining trajectory based on the external shape and layout data of the lens LE based on the operation signal from the machining start button, and starts rough machining (step S9). For example, the control unit 60 drives the motor 141 of the machining tool unit 140 to move the rough machining tool 142 of the machining tool unit 140 to the rough machining position. For example, the control unit 60 brings the lens LE and the rough machining tool 142 closer together by driving the motor 131 of the carriage 130. For example, the control unit 60 rotates the lens LE with the motor 133 of the carriage 130, controls the driving of the motor 131 based on the rough machining trajectory, and rough machines the lens LE by changing the positional relationship of the lens LE with respect to the rough machining tool 142.

[0069] Figure 9 shows an example of rough machining of a lens LE. In Figure 9, the rough machining tool 142 is described as moving relative to the lens LE. First, the rough machining tool 142 moves along path M1, and after reaching the rough machining trajectory L2, the rough machining tool 142 moves along path M2 which is parallel to the rough machining trajectory L2. When the rough machining tool 142 has moved halfway around the lens LE, the rough machining tool 142 moves along path M3. This cuts off the lens LE on the path M2 side. Next, the rough machining tool 142 moves along path M3 again, and then moves along path M4 which is parallel to the rough machining trajectory L2. This cuts off the remaining halfway around the lens LE, and the lens LE is machined along the rough machining trajectory L2.

[0070] In the rough machining of the lens LE, a cutter is used as the rough machining tool 142, which generates large, medium, and small machining debris 40. For example, large machining debris 40 consists of fragments that are cut off when the lens LE is machined. For example, medium machining debris consists of relatively large shavings generated when the lens LE is machined. One example is shavings. For example, small machining debris consists of small shavings generated when the lens LE is machined or ground. One example is shavings, dust, etc. For example, fragments have a large mass and fall to the bottom of the machining chamber 180 due to their own weight, so there is almost no possibility of them adhering to the cover part 20. On the other hand, shavings and dust have a small mass, so they are easily scattered into the machining chamber 180 and are likely to adhere to the cover part 20. Furthermore, when the cover 20 opens and is pulled between the housing 101 and the base 13, the shaved bonito flakes and dust are brought into the housing 101 along with the cover 20, but the shaved bonito flakes are large in size and therefore prone to clogging.

[0071] Therefore, in this embodiment, water is continuously sprayed toward the cover portion 20 from the start to the end of the rough machining of the lens LE, in order to prevent shavings from adhering to the cover portion 20 (step S9). Based on the operation signal from the machining start button, the control unit 60 drives the water intake pump 307 and sprays water drawn up from the tank 303 from the cleaning nozzle 32. The cleaning nozzle 32 causes the water to flow from the top to the bottom of the cover portion 20. As a result, even if shavings generated during the rough machining of the lens LE are scattered toward the cover portion 20, they are washed away by the water before they can adhere to the cover portion 20. Similarly, dust generated during the rough machining of the lens LE is also washed away by the water before it can adhere to the cover portion 20. Therefore, the possibility of shavings and dust adhering to the cover portion 20 is reduced as much as possible. The control unit 60 stops driving the water intake pump 307 in conjunction with the end of the rough machining of the lens LE. As a result, the spraying of water from the cleaning nozzle 32 stops.

[0072] Furthermore, fragments generated during the rough machining of the lens LE fall to the bottom of the machining chamber 180. Shavings, shavings, and dust are mixed with water and flow to the bottom of the machining chamber 180. These are led to the large machining debris separator 200 and the grinding water treatment device 300, where they are separated into fragments, shavings and dust, and water, respectively.

[0073] <Finishing process> When the rough machining of the lens LE is complete, the control unit 60 starts the finishing process (step S10). For example, the control unit 60 drives the motor 131 of the carriage 130 to move the left chuck axis 120L and the right chuck axis 120R, bringing the lens LE closer to the grinding wheel 150. For example, while the lens LE is rotated by the motor 133 of the carriage 130, the control unit 60 controls the drive of the motor 131 based on the machining conditions stored in the memory 70, and finishes the lens LE by changing the positional relationship of the lens LE with respect to the grinding wheel 150.

[0074] In the finishing process of the lens LE, a grinding wheel 150 is used, so no fragments or shavings are generated, but shavings and dust are produced. For example, even if the shavings and dust adhere to the cover part 20 and are brought into the housing 101, their small size makes them unlikely to cause clogging. Therefore, in the finishing process of the lens LE, it is not always necessary to spray water towards the cover part 20 during the finishing process. The control unit 60 maintains a state in which the drive of the water intake pump 307 is stopped. Furthermore, not spraying water on the cover part 20 during the finishing process also leads to water conservation.

[0075] <Groove machining> When the finishing of the lens LE is complete, the control unit 60 starts grooving (step S11). For example, the control unit 60 drives the motor 131 of the carriage 130 to move the left chuck axis 120L and the right chuck axis 120R, bringing the lens LE closer to the grooving tool 143. For example, while the lens LE is rotated by the motor 133 of the carriage 130, the control unit 60 controls the drive of the motor 131 based on the processing conditions stored in the memory 70, and changes the positional relationship of the lens LE with respect to the grooving tool 143, thereby grooving the lens LE.

[0076] In the grooving process of the lens LE, a grinding wheel 150 is used as the grooving tool 143. Therefore, similar to the finishing process, no fragments or shavings are generated, but only chips and dust. For this reason, it is not always necessary to spray water towards the cover 20 during the grooving process of the lens LE. The control unit 60 maintains the state in which the water intake pump 307 is stopped. Not spraying water onto the cover 20 during grooving also contributes to water conservation.

[0077] <Cleaning the opening / closing cover> When the grooving of the lens LE is complete, the control unit 60 sprays water from the second nozzle 173 (cleaning nozzle 32) toward the cover part 20 (step S12). The control unit 60 drives the water intake pump 307 to spray water drawn up from the tank 303 through the cleaning nozzle 32. Here, any shavings and dust that have adhered to the cover part 20 during the finishing and grooving of the lens LE are washed away. As mentioned above, these are unlikely to cause clogging inside the housing 101, but by lightly rinsing with water, the amount of debris brought in when the cover part 20 is opened can be reduced. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 60 sends a control signal to the water intake pump 307 to stop the water drawing up.

[0078] When the cleaning of the cover portion 20 is complete, the control unit 60 opens the cover portion 20 (step S13). The control unit 60 rotates the output shaft 11 to slide the cover portion 20 laterally. In this embodiment, water is continuously sprayed toward the cover portion 20 during the rough machining of the lens LE, so the cover portion 20 is less likely to accumulate shavings. Furthermore, even before all machining of the lens LE is completed and the cover portion 20 is opened, water is sprayed toward the cover portion 20, so any shavings that have adhered during rough machining, as well as shavings and dust generated after rough machining, are washed away. Therefore, even when the cover portion 20 is opened to remove the lens LE from the machining chamber 180, there is a low possibility that shavings, shavings, dust, etc. will be brought into the housing 101.

[0079] As described above, the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of this embodiment comprises a chuck shaft for holding and rotating spectacle lenses, a processing tool for processing spectacle lenses, a processing chamber in which the chuck shaft and processing tool are arranged, and an opening / closing cover that slides laterally relative to the opening of the processing chamber. This makes it possible to save space for the opening / closing cover in the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus. Furthermore, since the opening / closing cover does not protrude when it slides, it is easy for the operator to move spectacle lenses in and out of the processing chamber. In addition, even when the spectacle lenses are held by a transport robot and moved in and out of the processing chamber, the movement of the transport robot is not easily restricted, and the range of motion of the transport robot can be widened.

[0080] Furthermore, the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment comprises a housing that accommodates a spectacle lens processing mechanism including at least a chuck shaft, a processing tool, and a processing chamber, and the housing has an opening / closing cover on its surface, the opening / closing cover slides in the longitudinal direction of the housing. If the opening / closing cover is configured to slide in the short direction of the housing, the size of the opening / closing cover may be limited. For example, because the stroke (i.e., the amount of movement) from the closed state to the open state of the opening / closing cover becomes shorter, the opening / closing cover must be made small in order to fully open it. If the opening / closing cover is small, it will lead to difficulty in operation and poor visibility. On the other hand, if the opening / closing cover is made large, the housing itself will need to be made larger. However, in the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment, the carriage, motor, and other components are housed outside the processing chamber in the longitudinal direction of the housing. By sliding the opening / closing cover in the longitudinal direction of the housing while utilizing the space outside the processing chamber, the stroke of the opening / closing cover can be increased and a constant size can be maintained. Therefore, it is easier for workers to work and they can clearly see inside the processing room.

[0081] Furthermore, the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment is equipped with a cleaning means that supplies cleaning water to the opening / closing cover to suppress the adhesion of processing debris to the opening / closing cover, and the opening / closing cover has an outflow suppression mechanism to suppress the outflow of cleaning water along the opening / closing cover to the outside. In this embodiment, since cleaning water is supplied to the opening / closing cover, there is a possibility that cleaning water may leak out from the gap between the opening / closing cover and the processing chamber. In particular, if the opening / closing cover is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, there is a higher possibility that cleaning water will leak out from the gap at the lowest position of the opening / closing cover. For this reason, by providing an outflow suppression mechanism on the opening / closing cover, for example, by suppressing the reach of cleaning water to the gap, the possibility of cleaning water leaking out to the outside can be reduced.

[0082] Furthermore, in the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment, the outflow suppression mechanism of the opening / closing cover guides the cleaning water into the processing chamber by changing the direction of the cleaning water flow. As a result, the cleaning water along the opening / closing cover flows into the processing chamber before reaching the gap between the opening / closing cover and the processing chamber. For example, if the outflow suppression mechanism is a projection, the cleaning water hits the projection and is blocked before reaching the gap, and as the cleaning water flows along the projection, the direction of the cleaning water flow is directed towards the processing chamber. Therefore, the possibility of cleaning water leaking out from the gap can be reduced.

[0083] Furthermore, in the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment, the opening and closing cover has a lift-up suppression mechanism to prevent the opening and closing cover from floating up due to the water pressure of the cleaning water. In this embodiment, since cleaning water is supplied to the opening and closing cover, the cleaning water sprayed toward the opening and closing cover may push the cover up. In this case, the gap of the opening and closing cover widens, and the possibility of cleaning water leaking out becomes higher. However, the lift-up suppression mechanism can suppress the widening of the gap and reduce the possibility of cleaning water leaking out by properly pressing down on the opening and closing cover (i.e., by applying force in the opposite direction to the direction in which the water pressure is applied).

[0084] Furthermore, in the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment, the mechanism for suppressing the lifting of the opening / closing cover is also used as a moving mechanism for sliding the opening / closing cover. The moving mechanism has a guide shaft extending laterally and a bearing that can move along the guide shaft, and the guide shaft and bearing are provided only on the upper part of the opening / closing cover. For example, the moving mechanism of the opening / closing cover may have gaps due to fitting tolerances caused by variations in each component. However, if the guide shaft and bearing are provided in one place on the opening / closing cover, such gaps are less likely to occur in other places. In particular, in a configuration where the opening / closing cover is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, by providing the moving mechanism (guide shaft and bearing) on ​​the upper part of the opening / closing cover and making the lower part of the opening / closing cover without a moving mechanism, gaps will not occur at the bottom. Also, gravity always acts on the opening / closing cover, and a force is applied in the opposite direction to the direction in which water pressure is applied. Therefore, even if the cleaning water sprayed toward the opening / closing cover tries to push it up, the widening of the gap is suppressed.

[0085] Furthermore, the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of this embodiment comprises a chuck shaft for holding and rotating spectacle lenses, a roughing tool for rough processing of spectacle lenses, a processing chamber in which the chuck shaft and roughing tool are arranged, an opening / closing cover positioned over the opening of the processing chamber, and a cleaning means that supplies cleaning water towards the opening / closing cover to suppress the adhesion of processing debris to the opening / closing cover. The cleaning means supplies cleaning water from the start to the end of the rough processing. Since the amount of grinding of spectacle lenses is greatest during rough processing, more processing debris is generated during rough processing, making it more likely to adhere to the opening / closing cover. However, by continuously supplying cleaning water during rough processing, even if processing debris is scattered towards the opening / closing cover, it is washed away by the cleaning water before it can adhere to the cover. Therefore, the possibility of processing debris adhering to the opening / closing cover can be reduced as much as possible. It is also possible to supply cleaning water to the opening / closing cover after all processing is completed, rather than during the rough processing of the spectacle lenses, but in this case, the overall processing time will be longer. In detail, when all processing is complete, the opening / closing cover is covered with a lot of processing debris, including processing debris from the rough processing stage, and it takes time to wash it away. In this embodiment, processing debris does not adhere to the opening / closing cover in the first place, so supplying cleaning water after all processing is complete is not necessarily required. Furthermore, even if cleaning water is supplied to the opening / closing cover after all processing is complete, the processing debris can be washed away in a short time. In other words, supplying cleaning water during the rough processing of eyeglass lenses can also lead to a reduction in processing time.

[0086] Furthermore, in the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment, the cleaning means supplies cleaning water to the opening / closing cover before the cover is opened. For example, processing debris attached to the opening / closing cover may move into the housing as the opening and closing operation of the cover occurs. For example, if the opening / closing cover is configured to be opened and closed by sliding it laterally, when the opening / closing cover is opened, the cover is positioned outside the processing chamber, so there is a possibility that processing debris may be brought outside the processing chamber (i.e., into the housing). Also, for example, if processing debris gets stuck in the gaps of the opening / closing cover, it may become difficult to open and close the cover. For this reason, by washing away the processing debris attached to the opening / closing cover with cleaning water before the cover is opened, the introduction of processing debris and clogging can be reduced.

[0087] Furthermore, in the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of this embodiment, the cleaning means supplies cleaning water to the opening / closing cover at a timing before the opening / closing cover opens, that is, after all processing steps on the spectacle lens have been completed, and before the opening / closing cover opens to remove the spectacle lens from the chuck shaft. Spectacle lenses may undergo processing such as rough processing, finishing processing, grooving, and chamfering. Processing debris is generated during each of these processes on the spectacle lens, so when all processing steps are completed, there is a possibility that scattered processing debris may be adhering to the opening / closing cover. For this reason, in the processing of the spectacle lens edge, by supplying cleaning water to wash away the processing debris before the opening / closing cover opens at the end, the carrying in of processing debris and clogging can be reduced.

[0088] Furthermore, in the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus of this embodiment, the cleaning means supplies cleaning water to the opening / closing cover at a timing before the opening / closing cover opens, that is, after the position of the chuck shaft has been initialized, and before the opening / closing cover opens to attach the spectacle lens to the chuck shaft. When processing the rim of a spectacle lens, as mentioned above, processing debris is generated at various timings and scattered into the processing chamber. For example, in a store or other place where a spectacle lens rim processing apparatus is installed, if processing debris attached to the opening / closing cover is not completely removed before closing time, it will be difficult to check the condition of the processing chamber from the opening / closing cover the next day. On the other hand, initialization of the spectacle lens rim processing apparatus is often performed when the power is turned on. For this reason, for example, by supplying cleaning water to the opening / closing cover after the initialization operation, processing debris remaining from the previous day can be washed away, and the visibility of the opening / closing cover is improved. In addition, because the visibility of the opening / closing cover is improved, the apparatus can be used in a state where it is easy to check the condition of the processing chamber from the time the first spectacle lens is processed.

[0089] Furthermore, in the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of this embodiment, the roughing tool for roughing the spectacle lens is a cutting tool for cutting the spectacle lens (for example, a cutter, an end mill, etc.). When the roughing tool is a grinding tool (for example, a grinding wheel), the processing debris generated when the spectacle lens is scraped from the edge will be shavings and dust (corresponding to small processing debris in this embodiment). On the other hand, for example, when the roughing tool is a cutting tool, the processing debris generated when the spectacle lens is cut will include fragments (corresponding to large processing debris), shavings (corresponding to medium processing debris), shavings and dust (corresponding to small processing debris). Here, of the processing debris of the spectacle lens, the fragments fall to the bottom of the processing chamber by their own weight, so there is almost no possibility of them getting stuck in the opening / closing cover. Shavings and dust tend to scatter into the processing chamber, but even if they adhere to the opening / closing cover and are brought into the housing, they are particles and therefore unlikely to cause clogging. However, the shaved bonito flakes do not fall off by their own weight and may adhere to the opening / closing cover. Furthermore, when brought into the casing, their large size makes them prone to clogging. For this reason, especially when a cutting tool is used as a roughing tool, it is effective to supply cleaning water to the opening / closing cover from the start to the end of the roughing process.

[0090] <Example of transformation> The technologies disclosed in the above embodiments are merely examples. Therefore, it is possible to modify the technologies exemplified in the above embodiments. For example, it is possible to implement only some of the technologies exemplified in the above embodiments.

[0091] In this embodiment, the cover portion 20 of the opening / closing unit 10 is configured to slide laterally (X direction), but the invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the cover portion 20 may be configured to slide in the depth direction (Z direction). This also makes it possible to save space at least on the upper part of the cover portion 20. However, considering the size of the cover portion 20 and the amount of movement during opening and closing, it is preferable to slide it laterally. Furthermore, in this embodiment, even if the cover portion 20 is configured to slide in the depth direction, water may be continuously supplied to the cover portion 20 at least during the rough machining of the lens LE to suppress the adhesion of machining debris. Of course, water may also be supplied after the initialization of the device, or after all machining is completed.

[0092] In this embodiment, we have given an example of a configuration in which water is supplied to the cover portion 20 at three timings: after the initialization of the device, during the rough machining of the lens LE, and after all machining of the lens LE is completed, but we are not limited to this. In this embodiment, the configuration may be such that water is supplied to the cover portion 20 only during the rough machining. As mentioned above, rough machining generates a lot of shavings that may adhere to the cover portion 20 and may cause clogging when brought into the housing 101. However, by continuously supplying water during rough machining, shavings are less likely to adhere to the cover portion 20 during rough machining in the first place, and as a result, clogging problems are less likely to occur. Note that since no shavings are generated during machining after rough machining, it is not necessarily required to supply water to the cover portion 20.

[0093] In this embodiment, a configuration in which rough machining is performed on the lens LE using a rough machining tool 142 is given as an example, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, rough machining may be performed using a grinding wheel 150. In this case, since the lens LE is gradually ground by the grinding wheel 150, it is less likely to generate shavings, but on the other hand, the amount of shavings and dust increases. Therefore, even when using a grinding wheel 150 for rough machining, supplying water to the cover portion 20 at least during rough machining can reduce the amount of shavings and dust brought in when the cover portion 20 is opened and closed.

[0094] In this embodiment, when rough machining the lens LE, a configuration in which water is sprayed only from the second nozzle 173 toward the cover portion 20 was described as an example, but the embodiment is not limited to this. During rough machining of the lens LE, heat is generated due to friction between the lens LE and the rough machining tool 142. For this reason, water may be sprayed from the first nozzle 172 toward the machining position to cool the heat generated when rough machining the lens LE and the grinding portion of the rough machining tool 142. Of course, during finishing and grooving of the lens LE, heat is also generated due to friction with the machining tool, so water may be sprayed from the first nozzle 172 toward the machining position to cool it.

[0095] In this embodiment, the guide shaft 12 and rack 16, which are the movement mechanisms of the cover portion 20, are described as being used as a lift-up suppression mechanism to suppress the lifting of the cover portion 20, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, a leaf spring 18 may be provided as a biasing mechanism to suppress the cover portion 20 from lifting off the base 13 due to water pressure. Figure 10 shows an example of a leaf spring 18. The leaf spring 18 is positioned at two locations on the left and right sides of the cover portion 20 when the cover portion 20 is closed. One end of the leaf spring 18 is fixed to the lower part of the base 13, and the other end extends so as to cover a part of the cover 21. For example, if the cover portion 20 tries to lift off the base 13 due to water pressure, the leaf spring 18 acts as a resistance force against the water pressure on the cover portion 20. As a result, the cover portion 20 is pressed against the base 13. Therefore, gaps are less likely to form between the base 13 and the cover portion 20, and the possibility of water running down the cover portion 20 leaking through the gaps is reduced. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 10 Opening / Closing Unit 13 Bass 17 Ribs 18. Leaf spring 20 Cover section 21 Cover 22 Cover window 100 Eyeglass lens edge processing machine 140 Tool Units 142 Roughing tools 150 whetstones 170 Fluid spraying units 172 Nozzle No. 1 173 No. 2 Nozzle 180 Processing room

Claims

1. An apparatus for processing the edges of eyeglass lenses, A chuck shaft for holding and rotating the aforementioned eyeglass lens, A processing tool for processing the aforementioned eyeglass lens, A machining chamber in which the chuck shaft and the machining tool are arranged, An opening / closing cover that slides laterally relative to the opening of the processing chamber, A spectacle lens edge processing apparatus characterized by comprising the following features.

2. In the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of claim 1, A housing for an eyeglass lens processing mechanism, comprising at least the chuck shaft, the processing tool, and the processing chamber, the housing having the opening / closing cover on its surface, The spectacle lens edge processing apparatus is characterized in that the opening and closing cover slides in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

3. In the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The system includes a cleaning means that supplies cleaning water to the opening / closing cover to suppress the adhesion of processing debris to the opening / closing cover, The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus is characterized in that the opening and closing cover has an outflow suppression mechanism for suppressing the outflow of the cleaning water along the opening and closing cover to the outside.

4. In the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of claim 3, The spectacle lens edge processing apparatus is characterized in that the outflow suppression mechanism of the opening and closing cover guides the cleaning water into the processing chamber by changing the direction of the flow of the cleaning water.

5. In the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of claim 3 or 4, The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus is characterized in that the opening and closing cover has a floating suppression mechanism to prevent the opening and closing cover from floating up due to the water pressure of the cleaning water.

6. In the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of claim 5, The lift-up suppression mechanism of the opening / closing cover is also used as a moving mechanism for sliding the opening / closing cover. The aforementioned moving mechanism includes a guide shaft extending in the lateral direction and a bearing that is movable along the guide shaft. An eyeglass lens edge processing apparatus characterized in that the guide shaft and the bearing are provided only on the upper part of the opening / closing cover.

7. In the spectacle lens edge processing apparatus of claim 5, The spectacle lens rim processing apparatus is characterized in that the lifting suppression mechanism of the opening and closing cover is a leaf spring that applies a biasing force against the lifting of the opening and closing cover.

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