Eyeglass lens machining device and eyeglass lens machining program

Abstract

This eyeglass lens machining device comprises: a period information acquisition means which acquires period information indicating a prescribed period in which consumables are used in the eyeglass lens machining device; a machining information acquisition means which acquires machining information that an eyeglass lens has been machined by the eyeglass lens machining device in the prescribed period; a recommendation information acquisition means which acquires recommendation information for recommending the replacement of the consumables; a prediction means which predicts a replacement time for replacing the consumables on the basis of the period information acquired by the period information acquisition means, the machining information acquired by the machining information acquisition means, and the recommendation information acquired by the recommendation information acquisition means; and an output means which outputs the prediction result predicted by the prediction means.

Description

Eyeglass lens processing device and eyeglass lens processing program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an eyeglass lens processing device and an eyeglass lens processing program for processing the periphery of an eyeglass lens.

[0002] Eyeglass lens processing devices that process the periphery of eyeglass lenses are widely used in eyeglass stores and the like. For example, eyeglass lens processing devices hold eyeglass lenses by attaching a lens holding shaft to a cup attached to the eyeglass lens. Furthermore, for example, eyeglass lens processing devices can process the periphery of the held eyeglass lens using a periphery processing tool. Furthermore, for example, eyeglass lens processing devices can also form holes in the held eyeglass lens using a drilling tool (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] JP 2018-4930 A

[0004] Incidentally, eyeglass lens processing machines use many consumables (e.g., cups, grinding wheels, etc.) Currently, users (e.g., workers and managers) estimate when to replace consumables based on their experience in light of the operating status of the eyeglass lens processing machine, but it is difficult to make users properly understand when to replace consumables.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present disclosure has as its technical object to provide an eyeglass lens processing device and an eyeglass lens processing program that enable a user to know the appropriate time to replace consumables.

[0006] The eyeglass lens processing device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is an eyeglass lens processing device that processes the periphery of an eyeglass lens, and is characterized by comprising: a period information acquisition means that acquires period information indicating a predetermined period during which consumables have been used in the eyeglass lens processing device; a processing information acquisition means that acquires processing information on the eyeglass lens processed by the eyeglass lens processing device during the predetermined period; a recommendation information acquisition means that acquires recommendation information that recommends replacing the consumables; a prediction means that predicts the replacement time for the consumables based on the period information acquired by the period information acquisition means, the processing information acquired by the processing information acquisition means, and the recommendation information acquired by the recommendation information acquisition means; and an output means that outputs the prediction result predicted by the prediction means.

[0007] A spectacle lens processing program according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is a spectacle lens processing program used in a spectacle lens processing device that processes the periphery of a spectacle lens, and is characterized in that, when executed by a processor of the spectacle lens processing device, the program causes the spectacle lens processing device to execute the following: a period information acquisition step that acquires period information indicating a predetermined period during which consumables have been used in the spectacle lens processing device; a processing information acquisition step that acquires processing information on spectacle lenses processed by the spectacle lens processing device during the predetermined period; a recommendation information acquisition step that acquires recommendation information recommending replacement of the consumables; a prediction step that predicts the replacement time for the consumables based on the period information acquired by the period information acquisition step, the processing information acquired by the processing information acquisition step, and the recommendation information acquired by the recommendation information acquisition step; and an output step that outputs the prediction result predicted by the prediction step.

[0008] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a processing mechanism of the eyeglass lens processing device 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the eyeglass lens processing device 1. FIG. 3 is an example of a date and time setting screen. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a lens processing process. FIG. 5 is an example of a maintenance screen. FIG. 6 is an example of a maintenance screen displaying the degree of consumption of consumables.

[0009] <Overview> An embodiment of the eyeglass lens processing device according to this embodiment will be described. Items grouped in < > below can be used independently or in conjunction with each other.

[0010] The eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment is an eyeglass lens processing device that processes the periphery of an eyeglass lens. For example, the eyeglass lens processing device includes a processing tool and a processing drive unit. For example, the processing tool includes a peripheral processing tool that processes the periphery of the eyeglass lens. For example, the processing drive unit includes a peripheral processing drive unit that drives the peripheral processing tool. Of course, the eyeglass lens processing device may also include a processing tool different from the peripheral processing tool and a processing drive unit different from the peripheral processing drive unit.

[0011] For example, the eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes consumables. For example, consumables are components that require replacement as a result of use in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, consumables include at least one of a cup attached to an eyeglass lens, a lens holder for holding an eyeglass lens, a processing tool for processing the eyeglass lens, a processing drive unit (e.g., various motors) for driving the processing tool, and a deodorizing material of a deodorizing device connected to the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, the processing tool may be at least one of a grinding stone, a cutter, an end mill, etc. For example, the deodorizing material may be at least one of a filter, a sheet, etc.

[0012] The grinding stone of the processing tool may be composed of multiple grinding stones. For example, the multiple grinding stones may be attached to the grinding stone rotation shaft so that they can be removed one by one. Also, for example, the multiple grinding stones may be integrally formed and attached to the grinding stone rotation shaft.

[0013] <Period Information Acquisition Means> The eyeglass lens processing apparatus of this embodiment may include period information acquisition means (e.g., CPU 2). The period information acquisition means acquires period information indicating a predetermined period during which a consumable item has been used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, the predetermined period may be a predetermined period during which one consumable item has been used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. In this case, the predetermined period may be a portion of the period from when the use of one consumable item begins until it is replaced. In addition, in this case, the predetermined period may be the entire period from when the use of one consumable item begins until it is replaced.

[0014] Furthermore, for example, the predetermined period may be a predetermined period during which multiple consumables of the same type are used in the eyeglass lens processing device. That is, it may be a period spanning a period during which a first consumable is used and a period during which a second consumable, which replaces the first consumable, is used. In this case, the predetermined period may be a portion of the period from when the first consumable is started to be used, when the first consumable is replaced with the second consumable, and until the second consumable is replaced. In this case, the predetermined period may also be the entire period from when the first consumable is started to be used, when the first consumable is replaced with the second consumable, and until the second consumable is replaced.

[0015] For example, the period information may be acquired in units of at least one of time, hours, date (at least one of day, month, year, etc.), week, etc.

[0016] For example, the period information acquiring means may acquire, as the period information, first period information indicating a first period for a consumable item currently being used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, the first period may be a part or all of the period from when the eyeglass lens processing apparatus starts using the current consumable item to the present time. As an example, the present time may be the current day (today), etc. Also, for example, the first period may be a part or all of the period from when the eyeglass lens processing apparatus starts using the current consumable item to a time before now. As an example, the time before now may be the day before (yesterday), etc. In other words, a closing date different from the present time may be set.

[0017] For example, the period information acquiring means may acquire second period information indicating a second period for a consumable item previously replaced in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus as the period information. For example, the second period may be a part or all of the period from when the eyeglass lens processing apparatus started using the previous consumable item until when it was replaced.

[0018] The period information acquiring means may be configured to acquire at least one of first period information and second period information as the period information.

[0019] For example, if the eyeglass lens processing apparatus has multiple grinding wheels as consumables, the period information acquiring means may acquire period information indicating a predetermined period for each grinding wheel during which the multiple grinding wheels have been used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, for each grinding wheel, part or all of the period from the start of use of the current grinding wheel to the current time or a time before the current time may be acquired. Also, for each grinding wheel, part or all of the period from the start of use of a previous grinding wheel to replacement may be acquired.

[0020] <Processing Information Acquisition Means> The eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment may include processing information acquisition means (e.g., CPU 2). The processing information acquisition means acquires processing information obtained by processing eyeglass lenses over a predetermined period of time using the eyeglass lens processing device. For example, the processing information may be information regarding the results of using consumables when processing eyeglass lenses over a predetermined period of time, and may be expressed as at least one of information such as the "number of eyeglass lenses processed," "number of times eyeglass lenses have been processed," and "number of times consumables have been used." Furthermore, for example, the processing information may be expressed not as the direct number of eyeglass lenses and consumables, but as the period (hours) during which the eyeglass lenses were processed, the period (hours) during which the consumables were used, etc.

[0021] In this embodiment, the processing information corresponding to the period information is acquired by the period information acquiring means, which acquires period information indicating a predetermined period. Also, in this embodiment, the processing information acquiring means acquires processing information, which acquires period information corresponding to the processing information.

[0022] For example, the processing information acquisition means may acquire, as the processing information, first processing information obtained by processing a spectacle lens within a first period. That is, for a consumable item currently being used in the spectacle lens processing device, first processing information obtained by processing a spectacle lens within a first period may be acquired. This makes it possible to accurately predict the replacement timing of a currently used consumable item, for example, by taking into account the operational status of the currently used consumable item.

[0023] For example, the processing information acquisition means may acquire second processing information for processing a spectacle lens during a second period as the processing information. That is, for a consumable item previously replaced by the spectacle lens processing device, second processing information for processing a spectacle lens during a second period may be acquired. This makes it possible to easily grasp trends in the replacement timing of consumable items, taking into account the operating status of consumable items previously replaced.

[0024] For example, if the eyeglass lens processing device has multiple grinding wheels as consumables, the processing information acquisition means may acquire processing information for each processing step of the eyeglass lens, which is processing information obtained by processing the eyeglass lens with the multiple grinding wheels over a predetermined period of time. For example, different grinding wheels are used depending on the processing step of processing the eyeglass lens (e.g., rough processing, finishing, chamfering, mirror finishing, etc.). Therefore, rather than simply acquiring processing information for the eyeglass lens, processing information for each processing step of the eyeglass lens can be easily acquired by acquiring processing information for each grinding wheel.

[0025] <Recommendation Information Acquisition Means> The eyeglass lens processing apparatus of this embodiment may include recommendation information acquisition means (e.g., CPU 2). The recommendation information acquisition means acquires recommendation information that recommends replacing consumables of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, the recommendation information may be information that serves as a guide for recommending replacement of consumables. For example, the recommendation information may be information that indicates a guide for how long the consumables can be used without problems. Note that the recommendation information may be expressed as a predetermined period for using the consumables, or as the number of times eyeglass lenses can be processed (or the number of eyeglass lenses that can be processed).

[0026] As an example, the recommended information may be information indicating the service life (or the number of times it can be used) of the consumable due to deterioration over time, etc. In this case, the service life (the number of times it can be used) may be set as a fixed value in advance. Also, as another example, the recommended information may be information indicating a limit period (or a limit number of times) based on the past usage record of the consumable. In this case, the limit period (limit number of times) may be set to an arbitrary value, or may be automatically updated when the consumable is replaced.

[0027] For example, the recommendation information acquisition means may acquire the recommendation information based on the second processing information acquired by the processing information acquisition means. That is, the recommendation information acquisition means may acquire the recommendation information based on the second processing information in which eyeglass lenses were processed within a second period using consumables that were previously replaced in the eyeglass lens processing device. For example, in this case, the recommendation information acquisition means may acquire, as the limit period (limit number of times) for the past consumable, the limit period (limit number of times) in which eyeglass lenses were processed from the start of use of the past consumable until the consumable could no longer be used to process eyeglass lenses (i.e., until replacement). For example, by acquiring recommendation information recommending replacement of the consumable using actual processing information of the consumable in this way, it becomes possible to predict the appropriate replacement time for the consumable.

[0028] <Prediction Means> The eyeglass lens processing apparatus of this embodiment may include a prediction means (e.g., CPU 2). The prediction means predicts the replacement time for the consumables based on the period information acquired by the period information acquisition means, the processing information acquired by the processing information acquisition means, and the recommendation information acquired by the recommendation information acquisition means. For example, the replacement time may be a replacement time that reflects the operating conditions that differ for each eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, the replacement time may be a replacement time determined based on performance information of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus (e.g., the operating rate of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus). The replacement time may be expressed in at least one unit, such as time, hour, date, week, etc. For example, a table or an arithmetic formula for obtaining the replacement time for the consumables may be stored in a storage means based on experiments or simulations conducted in advance.

[0029] For example, the prediction unit may directly predict the replacement time of the consumable based on the period information, the processing information, and the recommendation information. Alternatively, for example, the prediction unit may calculate performance information indicating the performance of the consumable based on the period information and the processing information, and predict the replacement time of the consumable based on the performance information and the recommendation information. For example, the performance information of the consumable may be information indicating the frequency of use of the consumable over a predetermined period. As an example of the information indicating the frequency of use of the consumable over a predetermined period, the performance information may be expressed as the usage results of the consumable per unit period. In this case, for example, the usage results of the consumable over a unit period may be expressed as at least one of the number of times the consumable is used per unit number of days, the number of times the consumable is used per unit time, etc. Alternatively, as an example of the information indicating the frequency of use of the consumable over a predetermined period, the performance information may be expressed as a unit period per usage result of the consumable. In this case, for example, the unit period per usage result of the consumable may be expressed as at least one of the number of days required for one use of the consumable, the time required for one use of the consumable, etc. The performance information may be expressed as information different from the result of use of the consumables per unit period and the unit period per result of use of the consumables.

[0030] For example, the prediction means may predict the replacement time of the consumables using the performance information and recommendation information described above. For example, if the performance information is expressed as the usage results of the consumables per unit period and the recommendation information is expressed as the period for using the consumables, the performance information and recommendation information of the consumables may be integrated to determine the total number of times (number of lenses) that eyeglass lenses can be processed using the consumables from the start of use of the consumables until the period set as the recommendation information is reached. Furthermore, for example, the remaining number of times (number of lenses) that eyeglass lenses can be processed before the consumables need to be replaced may be determined by comparing the number of times (number of lenses) that eyeglass lenses have been processed since the start of use of the consumables to the present with the total number of times (number of lenses). Note that the remaining number of times (number of lenses) that eyeglass lenses can be processed may be converted into the period during which the remaining number of eyeglass lenses can be processed. For example, the replacement time of the consumables may be predicted using this.

[0031] Furthermore, for example, if the performance information is expressed as the results of using the consumable per unit period, and the recommendation information is expressed as the number of times (number of lenses) that the consumable can process eyeglass lenses, the overall period until the number of times (number of lenses) that the consumable can process eyeglass lenses may be set as the recommended information may be calculated by dividing the recommendation information by the performance information of the consumable. Furthermore, for example, the remaining period until the consumable needs to be replaced may be calculated by comparing the period from the start of use of the consumable to the present with the overall period. For example, this may be used to predict when the consumable should be replaced.

[0032] For example, if the performance information is expressed as a unit period per use result of the consumable, and the recommendation information is expressed as a period for using the consumable, the total number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed with the consumable from the start of use of the consumable until the period set as the recommendation information is reached may be calculated by dividing the recommendation information by the performance information of the consumable. Furthermore, for example, the remaining number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed before the consumable needs to be replaced may be calculated by comparing the number of times (number of lenses) that have been processed since the start of use of the consumable to the present with the total number of times (number of lenses). The remaining number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed may be converted into the period during which the remaining number of times of processing of the spectacle lenses can be performed. For example, this may be used to predict the time to replace the consumable.

[0033] Furthermore, for example, if the performance information is expressed as a unit period per use result of the consumable, and the recommendation information is expressed as the number of times (number of lenses) that the consumable can process eyeglass lenses, the overall period until the number of times (number of lenses) that the consumable can process eyeglass lenses with the consumable reaches the number (number) set as the recommendation information may be calculated by integrating the performance information and recommendation information of the consumable. Furthermore, for example, the remaining period until the consumable needs to be replaced may be calculated by comparing the period from the start of use of the consumable to the present with the overall period. For example, this may be used to predict when the consumable should be replaced.

[0034] In the above description, the replacement time of the consumables is predicted by adding up or dividing the actual information and the recommended information of the consumables, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is sufficient if the replacement time of the consumables is calculated using the actual information and the recommended information of the consumables.

[0035] For example, the prediction means may predict the replacement time taking into account performance information of consumables previously replaced in the eyeglass lens processing device, based on at least one of the first period information or the first processing information, the second period information, the second processing information, and the recommendation information. For example, the prediction means may predict the current replacement time of consumables based on at least one of the first period information or the first processing information, performance information of past consumables based on the second period information and the second processing information, and the recommendation information. In other words, the replacement time of the current consumables may be predicted taking into account the actual period information and processing information trends of past consumables.

[0036] More specifically, for example, by using at least one of the first period information and the first processing information for the currently used consumable and referring to performance information for previously replaced consumables, it is possible to determine whether the frequency of use of the currently used consumable is higher, lower, or the same as the frequency of use of the consumable in the past. Therefore, the performance information and recommendation information for the past consumable may be used to predict the replacement time of the current consumable. This allows for accurate prediction of the replacement time of the currently used consumable, taking into account the operational status of the previously replaced consumables.

[0037] Furthermore, for example, if the performance information is expressed as the usage results of the consumables per unit period and the recommendation information is expressed as the period for using the consumables, the total number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed with the current consumables from the start of use of the current consumables until the period set as the recommendation information is reached may be calculated by integrating the past performance information and recommendation information of the consumables. Furthermore, for example, the remaining number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed before the current consumables need to be replaced may be calculated by comparing the number of times (number of lenses) that have been processed with the current consumables from the start of use of the current consumables to the current time with the total number of times (number of lenses). The remaining number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed may be converted into the period during which the remaining number of times of processing of the spectacle lenses can be performed. For example, this may be used to predict the replacement time for the current consumables.

[0038] Furthermore, for example, if the performance information is expressed as the results of using the consumable per unit period, and the recommendation information is expressed as the number of times (number of lenses) that the consumable can process eyeglass lenses, the recommendation information may be divided by the past performance information of the consumable to determine the total period until the number of times eyeglass lenses will be processed with the current consumable reaches the number (number) set as the recommendation information. Furthermore, for example, the remaining period until the current consumable needs to be replaced may be determined by comparing the period from the start of use of the current consumable to the present time with the total period. For example, this may be used to predict when the current consumable needs to be replaced.

[0039] Furthermore, for example, if the performance information is expressed as a unit period per consumable use result and the recommendation information is expressed as a period for using the consumable, the total number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed with the current consumable from the start of use of the current consumable until the period set as the recommendation information is reached may be calculated by dividing the recommendation information by the past performance information of the consumable. Furthermore, for example, the remaining number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed before the current consumable needs to be replaced may be calculated by comparing the total number of times (number of lenses) that have been processed since the start of use of the current consumable. The remaining number of times (number of lenses) that can be processed may be converted into the period during which the remaining number of times of processing of the spectacle lenses can be performed. For example, this may be used to predict the replacement time for the current consumable.

[0040] Furthermore, for example, if the performance information is expressed as a unit period per use result of the consumable, and the recommendation information is expressed as the number of times (number of lenses) that the consumable can process eyeglass lenses, the total period until the number of times (number of lenses) that the current consumable will process eyeglass lenses can reach the number (number of lenses) set as the recommendation information can be calculated by integrating the past performance information and recommendation information of the consumable. Furthermore, for example, the remaining period until the current consumable needs to be replaced can be calculated by comparing the period from the start of use of the current consumable to the present time with the total period. For example, this can be used to predict when the current consumable needs to be replaced.

[0041] For example, if the eyeglass lens processing device has multiple grinding wheels as consumables, the prediction means may predict the replacement time for each grinding wheel based on the period information for each grinding wheel, the processing information for each grinding wheel, and the recommendation information. This makes it possible to easily obtain the replacement time for each grinding wheel based on the operating status of each grinding wheel. Note that the more frequently used the multiple grinding wheels are, the earlier the replacement time is predicted. Therefore, for example, if multiple grinding wheels are integrally formed, the same grinding wheel (group of grinding wheels) can be used for a long period of time by, for example, limiting the use of grinding wheels that require early replacement. Furthermore, for example, if multiple grinding wheels can be replaced individually, it is possible to prepare for future grinding wheel replacement by, for example, preparing spare grinding wheels that require early replacement in advance.

[0042] <Output Means> The eyeglass lens processing apparatus of this embodiment may include an output means (e.g., CPU 2). The output means outputs the prediction result predicted by the prediction means. For example, the output means outputs the replacement time of the consumable predicted by the prediction means as the prediction result. For example, the prediction result may be configured to indicate to the user the replacement time taking into account the operation status of the consumable. As an example, the prediction result may be expressed as the entire period from the start of use of the consumable until replacement becomes necessary. As another example, the prediction result may be expressed as the remaining period from the present time until replacement becomes necessary (i.e., the period from the start of use of the consumable to the present time minus the entire period). Of course, the prediction result may be expressed as a period different from the entire period or the remaining period. This allows the user to easily understand the appropriate replacement time of the consumable, and allows them to prepare spare consumables in advance or adjust the operating status of the apparatus.

[0043] For example, the output means may control a display means and cause the display means to display the prediction result. Alternatively, for example, the output means may control a sound generation means (for example, a speaker) and cause the sound generation means to generate the prediction result as sound. Alternatively, for example, the output means may control an informing means (for example, a lamp) and cause the informing means to light or blink to indicate the prediction result. Alternatively, for example, the output means may control a printing means (for example, a printer) and cause the printing means to print the prediction result. Alternatively, for example, the output means may control an external storage means (for example, a memory or a server) and transmit the prediction result to the external storage means. Of course, for example, the output means may execute a combination of these controls, or may execute a different control.

[0044] In addition, when the output means controls the display means, the output means may display a message on the display means as the prediction result. Also, for example, the output means may display the prediction result by highlighting the screen on the display means. As an example, this may be at least one of reversing or changing the color of the screen, flashing the screen, changing the display size, etc. Also, for example, the output means may display the prediction result by displaying a sign (for example, at least one of a window, mark, icon, letter, number, symbol, etc.) on the display means. Of course, for example, the output means may further highlight such a sign.

[0045] The present disclosure is not limited to the devices described in the present embodiment. For example, terminal control software (programs) that perform the functions of the above embodiments may be supplied to a device or system via a network or various storage media, and a control device (e.g., a CPU) of the device or system may read and execute the program.

[0046] <Example> An example of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. The eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 in this embodiment processes the lens LE and processes various information related to the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 itself. In other words, the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 in this embodiment also serves as an information processing apparatus that processes information related to the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. However, a device different from the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 (for example, a personal computer, a server, a mobile terminal, or a smartphone) may be used as the information processing apparatus.

[0047] <Device Configuration> Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of the processing mechanism of an eyeglass lens processing device 1. The eyeglass lens processing device 1 includes a lens holding unit 100, a lens shape measuring unit 200, a first processing tool unit 300, and a second processing tool unit 400. The lens holding unit 100 includes lens holding shafts (lens chuck shafts) 102R and 102L that clamp and hold a lens LE. Furthermore, the lens holding unit 100 includes a lens rotation unit 100a, a holder shaft moving unit 100b, and an axis distance variation unit 100c.

[0048] The lens rotation unit 100a rotates a pair of lens holder shafts 102R, 102L around their axes. The holder shaft moving unit 100b moves the lens holder shafts 102R, 102L in the axial direction (this is referred to as the X direction). The center-to-center distance varying unit 100c moves the lens holder shafts 102R, 102L in a direction (this is referred to as the Y direction) toward or away from the rotation axes of the processing tools (details will be described later) provided on each of the first processing tool unit 300 and the second processing tool unit 400. The center-to-center distance varying unit 100c also varies the distance between the lens shape measuring unit 200 and the lens holder shafts 102R, 102L.

[0049] The following provides a detailed description of specific examples of the components of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. The lens holding unit 100 is mounted on a base 170 of the main body of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1.

[0050] The lens rotation unit 100a will now be described. A lens holding shaft 102R is held on the right arm 101R of the carriage 101 of the lens holder 100, and a lens holding shaft 102L is held on the left arm 101L, both of which are rotatable and coaxial with each other. When the lens holding shaft 102R is moved toward the lens holding shaft 102L by a motor 110 attached to the right arm 101R, the lens LE is sandwiched and held between the two lens holding shafts 102R and 102L. The two lens holding shafts 102R and 102L are rotated synchronously by a motor 120 attached to the right arm 101R. In this embodiment, a cup is attached to a predetermined position on the lens LE. One of the lens holding shafts 102R and 102L is attached to a cup attached to the lens LE.

[0051] The holder shaft moving unit 100b will now be described. An X-axis moving support base 140 is provided on shafts 103 and 104 that extend parallel to the lens holder shafts 102R and 102L and the grindstone rotation shaft 161a. The X-axis moving support base 140 can move in the X-axis direction along the shafts 103 and 104 by the power of an X-axis moving motor 145. The carriage 101 is mounted on the X-axis moving support base 140. An encoder 146 (see FIG. 2) is provided on the rotation shaft of the X-axis moving motor 145. In this embodiment, the positions of the lens holder shafts 102R and 102L in the X direction detected by the encoder 146 are used to measure the shapes of the front and rear surfaces of the lens LE.

[0052] The axis-to-axis distance varying unit 100c will now be described. A shaft 156 extending in a direction connecting the lens holding shafts 102R, 102L and the grindstone rotation shaft 161a is fixed to the X-axis movement support base 140. When the Y-axis movement motor 150 rotates, a ball screw 155 extending in the Y direction rotates. As a result, the carriage 101 moves in the Y-axis direction along the shaft 156. An encoder 158 that detects the position of the carriage 101 in the Y direction is provided on the rotation shaft of the Y-axis movement motor 150.

[0053] The lens shape measuring unit 200 will now be described. The lens shape measuring unit 200 of this embodiment is fixed to the base 170 at a position opposite the first processing tool unit 300 via the carriage 101. The lens shape measuring unit 200 includes a lens edge position measuring unit 200F and a lens edge position measuring unit 200R. The lens edge position measuring unit 200F has a stylus that contacts the front surface of the lens LE. The lens edge position measuring unit 200R has a stylus that contacts the rear surface of the lens LE. With the stylus of each of the lens edge position measuring units 200F and 200R in contact with the front and rear surfaces of the lens LE, the carriage 101 is moved in the Y-axis direction based on target lens shape data, and the lens holding shafts 102R and 102L are rotated, thereby simultaneously measuring the edge positions of the front and rear surfaces of the lens LE. The lens edge position measuring units 200F and 200R may be configured as described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-145328.

[0054] The first processing tool unit 300 will now be described. The first processing tool unit 300 includes a lens edge processing tool 168, which is one of the lens processing tools. The lens edge processing tool 168 in this embodiment includes a rough grindstone 162 for glass, a finishing grindstone 164 having a V-groove (bevel groove) for forming a bevel on the lens and a flat processing surface, a flat mirror-finishing grindstone 165, a finishing grindstone 166 for high-curve lenses, and a rough grindstone 167 for plastics. The multiple grindstones of the lens edge processing tool 168 are coaxially attached to a grindstone rotation shaft (grindstone spindle) 161a. The grindstone rotation shaft 161a is rotated by a motor (edge ​​processing drive unit) 160. The lens LE held by the lens holding shafts 102L and 102R has its edge pressed against the lens edge processing tool 168 and processed.

[0055] The second processing tool unit 400 will be described. The second processing tool unit 400 includes a finishing tool, a drilling tool, a motor 421, a motor 471, and the like. The finishing tool rotates around a rotation axis to perform finishing on the peripheral edge of the lens LE (for example, at least one of grooving, bevel forming, step forming, etc.). The drilling tool forms a hole in the lens LE. The drilling tool of this embodiment moves axially while rotating around the rotation axis to form a hole extending in the axial direction in the lens LE. The motor 421 rotates the finishing tool and the drilling tool. The motor 471 pivots the finishing tool and the drilling tool.

[0056] <Control Unit> Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the control system of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus (information processing device) 1. The eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 includes a CPU (processor) 2 that controls the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. The CPU 2 is connected to a RAM 3, a ROM 4, a non-volatile memory 5 (hereinafter referred to as memory 5), an operation unit 6, a display unit (display) 7, and an external communication I / F 8 via a bus. Furthermore, the CPU 2 is connected to various devices such as the motors mentioned above (motor 110, motor 120, X-axis movement motor 145, Y-axis movement motor 150, motor 160, motor 421, motor 471, encoder 146, and encoder 158) via a bus.

[0057] The RAM 3 temporarily stores various information. The ROM 4 stores various programs, initial values, etc. The memory 5 is a non-transitory storage medium (e.g., flash ROM, hard disk drive, etc.) that can retain its stored contents even when power is cut off. The memory 5 may also store a control program (e.g., an eyeglass lens processing information processing program, etc.) for controlling the operation of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus (information processing device) 1. The operation unit 6 accepts various instructions input from an operator. For example, a touch panel or operation buttons provided on the surface of the display unit 7 may be used as the operation unit 6. The display unit 7 can display various information such as the shape of the lens LE and the shape of the frame. The eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 can also display (output) a predicted replacement time (described later) on the display unit 7. The external communication I / F 8 connects the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 to external devices.

[0058] The eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 of this embodiment is connected to a deodorizing device 9 via an external communication I / F 8. The deodorizing device 9 operates its deodorizing function in conjunction with the processing operation by the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 (specifically, the processing operation by the periphery processing tool 168). The deodorizing device 9 is provided with activated carbon material for deodorizing. The deodorizing effect of the activated carbon material decreases depending on the operating time of the deodorizing function. When the deodorizing effect of the activated carbon material decreases, the user needs to replace the activated carbon material with a new one.

[0059] <Control Operation> The control operation in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 having the above-described configuration will be described.

[0060] <Setting the Start Date of Use> The eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a plurality of consumables. As an example, the consumables may be at least any of the peripheral processing tools 168 of the first processing tool unit 300 (i.e., the rough grindstone for glass 162, the finishing grindstone 164, the flat mirror-finishing grindstone 165, the finishing grindstone 166, the rough grindstone for plastic 167, etc.), the finishing tools and drilling tools of the second processing tool unit 400, the cup, the motor 160 of the first processing tool unit 300, the activated carbon material of the deodorizing device 9, etc.

[0061] For example, a user of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 sets the use start date for these consumables. For example, the user operates the display unit 7 of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 and operates a button for setting the use start date of the consumables (the use start date field in the consumables list 510 described below). For example, the CPU 2 causes the display unit 7 to display a date and time setting screen 520 based on an input signal from the display unit 7. For example, the use start date of the consumables may be the date and time when the consumables were first used, the date and time when the consumables were replaced, etc.

[0062] 3 is an example of the date and time setting screen 520. For example, the date and time setting screen 520 includes a setting item button 521, a date and time set button 522, etc. The setting item button 521 is a button for each unit used to specify the start date of use of the consumable. For example, the setting item button 521 is provided for at least one unit such as year, month, day, hour, minute, second, etc. The date and time set button 522 is a button for setting the start date of use of the consumable. In other words, it is a button for confirming the start date of use specified by the setting item button 521.

[0063] For example, the user operates the setting item button 521 on the date and time setting screen 520. For example, when the user presses each unit field of the setting item button 521, a numeric keypad pops up. For example, the user uses the numeric keypad to input numbers corresponding to each unit. This allows the user to input the start date of use for each consumable. Also, for example, after the user has finished inputting the start dates of use for the consumables, the user operates the date and time set button 522. For example, the CPU 2 sets (confirms) the start date of use for each consumable based on the input signal from the date and time set button 522 and stores it in the memory 5.

[0064] For example, the start date of use of the consumables may be automatically set by a timing mechanism (e.g., a calendar timer, etc.) not shown provided in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. In this case, for example, the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 may have a date and time acquisition button or the like for acquiring the current date and time. The CPU 2 may automatically set the start date of use based on an input signal from the date and time acquisition button.

[0065] <Storage of Processing Information> For example, the user processes the lens LE after setting the start date of use of the consumables in the eyeglass lens processing device 1. For example, the user measures in advance a demo lens (or a template) that has been fitted into an eyeglass frame using the lens shape measuring unit 200, and stores the outer shape data of the demo lens in the memory 5 as the contour shape of the lens LE.

[0066] Also, for example, the user inputs layout data indicating the positional relationship between the optical center of the lens LE and the lens shape data, and processing conditions for the lens LE, from the display unit 7. As an example, the layout data may be at least one of the distance between the geometric centers of the left and right lens shape data, the height distance of the optical center position relative to the geometric center position of the lens shape data, the interpupillary distance of the spectacle wearer, etc. Also, as an example, the processing conditions may be at least one of the type of spectacle frame, the material of the lens LE, the processing type of the lens LE (beveling, flat processing, groove processing, etc.), whether or not to perform mirror processing, whether or not to perform chamfering, etc. Here, an example is given in which the lens LE is made of plastic and is subjected to beveling.

[0067] Furthermore, for example, the user attaches a cup to the lens LE, clamps the lens LE between the lens holding shafts 102R and 102L, and then operates a processing start button (not shown) to start processing the lens LE. Based on a processing start signal from the processing start button, the CPU 2 stores in the memory 5 the fact that processing of the lens LE has been completed once. In response to the processing start signal from the processing start button, the CPU 2 processes the periphery of the lens LE using the periphery processing tool 168 according to the flowchart of FIG. 4.

[0068] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing step for the lens LE. First, the CPU 2 acquires eyeglass data for the lens LE (S1). For example, the eyeglass data for the lens LE includes lens shape data, layout data, etc. For example, the CPU 2 acquires the lens shape data and layout data by calling these data from the memory 5.

[0069] Next, the CPU 2 acquires lens shape data of the lens LE (S2). For example, the lens shape data of the lens LE includes position information corresponding to the target lens shape data on the front and rear refractive surfaces of the lens LE, curve information on the front refractive surface of the lens LE, and the thickness of the edge of the lens LE. For example, the CPU 2 brings the lens LE into contact with the lens edge position measuring sections 200F and 200R of the lens shape measuring unit 200, and controls the movement of the carriage 101 and the rotation of the lens holding shafts 102R and 102L based on the target lens shape data. For example, this allows the lens shape data on the front and rear refractive surfaces of the lens LE to be acquired.

[0070] Next, the CPU 2 roughly processes the periphery of the lens LE to remove unnecessary portions of the lens LE (S3). For example, the CPU 2 generates processing control data for driving each component in the rough processing based on the eyeglass data acquired in step S1 and the lens shape data acquired in step S2. For example, the rough processing control data is generated so as to remove a predetermined distance (e.g., 1 mm) outside the target lens shape data and ensure a finishing allowance for subsequent finishing processing. For example, the CPU 2 controls the driving of the X-axis movement motor 145 based on the rough processing control data to position the lens LE on the plastic roughing grindstone 167. Also, for example, the CPU 2 controls the driving of the Y-axis movement motor 150 while rotating the lens LE (lens holding shaft) by the motor 120. For example, the periphery of the lens LE is roughly processed by rotating the lens LE multiple times.

[0071] For example, when the rough processing (S3) of the lens LE is completed, the CPU 2 outputs a processing end signal. For example, based on such a processing end signal, the CPU 2 stores in the memory 5 the fact that the rough processing has been performed once.

[0072] Next, the CPU 2 finishes the periphery of the lens LE to form a bevel for framing the lens LE in an eyeglass frame (S4). For example, the CPU 2 generates beveling control data for driving each component in the beveling process based on the eyeglass data acquired in step S1 and the lens shape data acquired in step S2 (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-212661 for details). For example, the CPU 2 controls the drive of the X-axis movement motor 145 based on the beveling control data to position the lens LE on the V-groove (bevel groove) of the finishing grindstone 164. Also, for example, the CPU controls the drive of the Y-axis movement motor 150. For example, the periphery of the lens LE is beveled by rotating the lens LE multiple times.

[0073] For example, when the finishing process (S4) for the lens LE is completed, the CPU 2 outputs a processing end signal. For example, based on such a processing end signal, the CPU 2 stores in the memory 5 the fact that the beveling has been performed once.

[0074] In the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the number of times the lens LE has been processed is measured each time the peripheral edge of the lens LE is processed. For example, upon receiving a processing start signal that is generated each time processing of one lens LE is started, the number of times the lens LE has been processed is incremented by one count and stored in the memory 5. In other words, the number of lenses LE processed by the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 is stored in the memory 5.

[0075] Furthermore, in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the number of times that each processing step is performed when processing the periphery of the lens LE is measured. For example, upon receiving a processing end signal generated each time each processing step is completed, the number of times that the lens LE has been processed using each grindstone is incremented by one count and stored in the memory 5. In other words, the number of lenses LE processed by each grindstone is stored in the memory 5. Note that the number of lenses LE processed by the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 does not necessarily match the number of lenses LE processed by each grindstone. This is because the grindstones used differ depending on the processing conditions of the lens LE.

[0076] <Replacement Time for Consumables> Here, the user may want to check when the consumables currently being used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 will need to be replaced. For example, in this case, the user operates the display unit 7 and presses a button (not shown) to determine when the consumables will need to be replaced. For example, the CPU 2 causes the display unit 7 to display a maintenance screen 500 based on an input signal from the display unit 7. For example, the maintenance screen 500 is a screen that displays a status related to maintenance of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1.

[0077] 5 is an example of a maintenance screen 500. The maintenance screen 500 includes a consumables list 510. The consumables list 510 is a list in which various statuses are associated with consumables held by the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. For example, the consumables list 510 includes a name 511, recommended information 512, processing information 513, a start date of use 514, a number of days elapsed 515, a predicted replacement time 516, and the like.

[0078] For example, the name 511 is the name of a consumable used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. For example, in this embodiment, the names of all consumables are displayed in a list, but the display or non-display of each consumable name may be switched. For example, the recommendation information 512 is information that serves as a guideline for recommending replacement of a consumable. For example, the recommendation information 512 may be information that indicates a guideline for the safe use of a consumable. In this embodiment, the recommendation information 512 may be displayed as a guideline for the maximum number of lenses LE that can be processed with each consumable. For example, the processing information 513 is information on the lenses LE processed with the consumable. For example, the processing information 513 may be the total number of lenses LE processed with the consumable. For example, the start date of use 514 is the date on which the use of the consumable began. For example, the date entered by the user on the date and time setting screen 520 is displayed. For example, the number of elapsed days 515 is the number of days from the start of use of the consumable to the present. For example, the predicted replacement time 516 is the date when the replacement time for the consumable item is predicted.

[0079] For example, when the CPU 2 transitions the screen of the display unit 7 to the maintenance screen 500, it processes various data related to each consumable item to obtain a predicted replacement time 516 for the consumable item and displays it in the consumable item list 510. For example, the predicted replacement time 516 for the consumable item is calculated based on period information indicating a predetermined period during which the consumable item was used, processing information 513 on which the lens LE was processed during the predetermined period, and recommendation information 512 recommending replacement of the consumable item. Hereinafter, the acquisition of the predicted replacement time 516 for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 will be described in detail, taking the plastic roughing grindstone 167 as an example of a consumable item.

[0080] <Acquisition of Period Information> First, the CPU 2 acquires the predetermined period during which the plastic roughing grindstone 167 has been used. For example, the CPU 2 acquires the number of days since the start of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 until the present as the predetermined period. For example, the CPU 2 retrieves from the memory 5 the date on which the use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 was started, which was set in advance by the user. Also, for example, the CPU 2 acquires the current date using a timing mechanism (not shown) provided in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. Also, for example, the CPU 2 acquires the number of days since the plastic roughing grindstone 167 has been used, based on the start date of use and the current date. Note that the number of days since elapsed 515 on the maintenance screen 500 is displayed as the number of elapsed days calculated in this manner.

[0081] For example, if the start date of use of the plastic rough grinding wheel 167 is January 1, 2022, and the current date is June 30, 2022, the number of days since the plastic rough grinding wheel 167 was used will be "180 days."

[0082] <Acquisition of Processing Information> Next, the CPU 2 acquires processing information on the lens LE processed using the plastic roughing grindstone 167 during the aforementioned predetermined period (here, the number of elapsed days). For example, the CPU 2 acquires, as processing information, the total number of lenses LE processed with the plastic roughing grindstone 167 from the start of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 to the present. For example, in this embodiment, the number of times roughing has been performed using the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is accumulated in the memory 5. For example, the number of times roughing has been performed using the plastic roughing grindstone 167 can be considered as the number of lenses LE processed using the plastic roughing grindstone 167. Therefore, the CPU 2 can acquire the total number of lenses LE processed using the plastic roughing grindstone 167 by calling up the number of times roughing has been performed using the plastic roughing grindstone 167 from the memory 5. Note that the processing information 513 on the maintenance screen 500 displays the processing information obtained in this manner.

[0083] For example, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the number of times that rough processing has been performed using the plastic rough grindstone 167 is acquired as "1800 times." In other words, it is assumed that the total number of lenses LE processed using the plastic rough grindstone 167 is acquired as "1800 pieces."

[0084] <Acquisition of Recommended Information> Next, the CPU 2 acquires recommendation information recommending replacement of the plastic roughing grindstone 167. For example, the CPU 2 acquires, as the recommendation information, the maximum number of lenses LE that can be processed by the plastic roughing grindstone 167, that is, the maximum number of lenses LE that can be processed by the plastic roughing grindstone 167. As an example, the maximum number of lenses LE may be set in advance based on experiments or simulations using the plastic roughing grindstone. As another example, the total number of lenses LE processed by plastic roughing grindstones previously used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 may be set in advance. More specifically, the total number of lenses LE processed by the previous plastic roughing grindstones during the period from when the previous plastic roughing grindstones were first used until they were replaced may be set in advance. Therefore, the CPU 2 retrieves and acquires the maximum number of lenses LE that can be processed by the plastic roughing grindstone 167 from the memory 5. The recommendation information 512 on the maintenance screen 500 displays the recommendation information obtained in this manner.

[0085] For example, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the maximum number of lenses LE that can be processed by the rough grindstone for plastic 167 is acquired as "5000 lenses," which is the initial setting at the time of shipment.

[0086] <Acquisition of Estimated Replacement Time> After acquiring the period information (number of elapsed days 515), processing information 513, and recommendation information 512 for the plastic roughing grindstone 167, the CPU 2 acquires the estimated replacement time for replacing the plastic roughing grindstone 167. For example, the CPU 2 calculates performance information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 based on the period information and processing information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167. For example, the performance information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 may be the frequency with which the plastic roughing grindstone 167 has been used. For example, the performance information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is expressed as processing information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 per unit period. For example, in this embodiment, this is expressed as the number of lenses LE processed per day. In other words, in this embodiment, the frequency of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is expressed as the number of lenses LE processed per day.

[0087] For example, the CPU 2 calculates the number of lenses LE processed per day based on the number of days since the plastic roughing grindstone 167 was used and the total number of lenses LE processed with the plastic roughing grindstone 167. In this embodiment, the number of days since the plastic roughing grindstone 167 was used is 180 days, and the number of lenses LE processed with the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is 1,800, so by dividing the number of lenses processed by the number of days since the use, the performance information of "10 lenses / day" is calculated. For example, because the operational status of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 (the number of lenses LE processed, the operating hours of the apparatus, etc.) varies from day to day, obtaining averaged performance information makes it possible to more appropriately obtain the total number of days described below.

[0088] Next, the CPU 2 calculates the total number of days from when the use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 begins until the replacement of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 based on the recommendation information 512 and the performance information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167. For example, the CPU 2 calculates the total number of days from when the use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 begins until the replacement of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 by using the performance information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 and reflecting the current frequency of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167. For example, if the use frequency of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is high, the total number of days from when the use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 begins until the replacement is calculated to be low. Also, for example, if the use frequency of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is low, the total number of days from when the use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 begins until the replacement is calculated to be high. In this embodiment, the recommended information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is 5,000 sheets, and the performance information for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is 10 sheets per day, so the total number of days is calculated as "500 days" by dividing the recommendation information by the performance information.

[0089] Furthermore, the CPU 2 acquires a predicted replacement time for the plastic roughing grindstone 167 based on the start date of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 and the total number of days. As described above, the total number of days from the start of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 until replacement reflects the frequency of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167. Therefore, for example, if the frequency of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is high, a predicted replacement time closer to the current time is acquired. Also, for example, if the frequency of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is low, a predicted replacement time further from the current time is acquired. In this embodiment, the start date of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is January 1, 2022, and the total number of days until replacement of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 is 500 days. Therefore, by adding the total number of days to the start date of use, a predicted replacement time of "May 16, 2023" is acquired.

[0090] In this embodiment, the predicted replacement time is acquired by calculating the performance information and the total number of days using the period information (number of elapsed days 515), processing information 513, and recommendation information 512 of the roughing grindstone for plastics 167, but this is not limiting. For example, the predicted replacement time may be acquired directly using the period information, processing information 513, and recommendation information 512 of the roughing grindstone for plastics 167. In this case, a calculation formula, lookup table, or the like for acquiring the predicted replacement time may be created in advance and stored in memory 5.

[0091] <Output of Predicted Replacement Date> The CPU 2 displays the predicted replacement date for the plastic roughing grinding wheel 167 in the predicted replacement date 516 on the maintenance screen 500. For example, the predicted replacement date for "Grinding wheel: rough plastic" in the consumables list 510 is displayed as "May 16, 2023." While the above example uses the plastic roughing grinding wheel 167, predicted replacement dates are similarly displayed for other consumables. For example, the user can properly understand the predicted replacement date for each consumable by checking the maintenance screen 500, without having to infer the status of each consumable from the operating status of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. For example, being able to properly understand the predicted replacement date for each consumable can allow the user to prepare spare consumables in advance or adjust the operating status of the apparatus.

[0092] For example, when a user replaces a consumable item, the user changes the start date of use 514 in the consumable item list 510 (see FIG. 5 ). For example, the user can call up the date and time setting screen 520 (see FIG. 3 ) by long-pressing the start date of use field corresponding to each consumable item. The CPU 2 changes the start date of use 514 in response to an input signal from the date and time set button 522 on the date and time setting screen 520. The CPU 2 may also reset the processing information 513, the number of elapsed days 515, the predicted replacement time 516, and the like, in response to the change in the start date of use 514. For example, in this embodiment, multiple grinding wheels are attached to the grinding wheel rotation shaft 161a of the peripheral processing tool 168, but these grinding wheels can be replaced individually. Therefore, for example, if only the rough grinding wheel for plastic 167 is replaced, the start date of use 514 corresponding to "Grinding wheel: rough plastic" can be changed. When the CPU 2 detects that the start date of use 514 corresponding to "Grinding stone: rough plastic" has been changed, it may reset the processing information 513, number of days elapsed 515, predicted replacement time 516, etc. corresponding to "Grinding stone: rough plastic."

[0093] As described above, for example, the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment includes a period information acquisition means for acquiring period information indicating a predetermined period during which consumables have been used; a processing information acquisition means for acquiring processing information on eyeglass lenses processed by the eyeglass lens processing device during the predetermined period; a recommendation information acquisition means for acquiring recommendation information recommending replacement of consumables; a prediction means for predicting the replacement timing of consumables based on the period information acquired by the period information acquisition means, the processing information acquired by the processing information acquisition means, and the recommendation information acquired by the recommendation information acquisition means; and an output means for outputting the prediction result predicted by the prediction means. For example, the operational status of eyeglass lens processing devices (number of eyeglass lenses processed, operating time of the device, etc.) varies depending on the eyeglass store, so the replacement timing of consumables may vary. For example, if the eyeglass lens processing device is used frequently, the consumables will wear out quickly (for example, if the consumable is a grinding wheel, the grinding wheel will wear out more quickly the more eyeglass lenses are processed). However, if the eyeglass lens processing device is used infrequently, the consumables will wear out slowly (for example, the grinding wheel will wear out more slowly). Therefore, even if two identical consumables have the same wear rate, the more frequently used consumable will need to be replaced sooner. For this reason, for example, by predicting and outputting the replacement times of consumables taking into account the operating status of the eyeglass lens processing device, the user can easily understand the appropriate replacement times of consumables. Therefore, the user can maintain consumables at the appropriate time.

[0094] Furthermore, for example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the period information acquisition means acquires, as period information, first period information indicating a first period for a consumable item currently in use in the eyeglass lens processing device, and the processing information acquisition means acquires, as processing information, first processing information for processing an eyeglass lens during the first period. This makes it possible to accurately predict the replacement time for a currently used consumable item, for example, taking into account the operational status of the currently used consumable item. For example, by acquiring processing information for processing an eyeglass lens within a predetermined period using a grinding wheel currently in use in the eyeglass lens processing device, it is possible to accurately predict the replacement time based on the operational status of the grinding wheel.

[0095] Furthermore, for example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the consumables are a plurality of grinding wheels, and the processing information acquisition means acquires processing information for each eyeglass lens processing step, which is processing information obtained by processing an eyeglass lens with the plurality of grinding wheels over a predetermined period of time. For example, different grinding wheels are used depending on the processing step for processing the eyeglass lens (e.g., rough processing, finishing, chamfering, mirror finishing, etc.). Therefore, rather than simply acquiring the processing information for the eyeglass lens, by acquiring processing information for each eyeglass lens processing step, processing information for each grinding wheel can be easily acquired. Therefore, the replacement time for each grinding wheel can be easily acquired.

[0096] Furthermore, for example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the period information acquisition means acquires period information indicating a predetermined period for each grindstone during which multiple grindstones were used in the eyeglass lens processing device, the processing information acquisition means acquires processing information for each grindstone during which eyeglass lenses were processed with the grindstones during the predetermined period, and the prediction means predicts the replacement time for each grindstone based on the period information for each grindstone, the processing information for each grindstone, and the recommendation information. This makes it possible to easily acquire the replacement time for each grindstone based on the operating status of each grindstone. Note that the more frequently used the multiple grindstones are, the earlier the replacement time is predicted. Therefore, for example, if multiple grindstones are integrally formed, the same grindstone (grindstone group) can be used for a long period of time by, for example, limiting the use of grindstones that require early replacement. Furthermore, for example, if multiple grindstones can be replaced individually, spare grindstones that require early replacement can be prepared in advance to prepare for future grindstone replacement.

[0097] <Modifications> In the present embodiment, the number of days elapsed from the start date of use of a consumable item currently being used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 to the present has been acquired as the predetermined period (first period information) of the consumable item, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the number of days (e.g., 15 days) included in the start date of use of a consumable item currently being used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 may be acquired. Furthermore, for example, the number of days elapsed from the start date of use to the replacement of a consumable item previously replaced in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1, or the number of days included in the start date of use to the replacement, may be acquired. Note that the predetermined period of a consumable item may be acquired not in units of days, but in units of at least one of years, months, weeks, hours, minutes, etc.

[0098] For example, when acquiring a predetermined period (second period information) for consumables replaced in the past by the eyeglass lens processing device 1, processing information (second processing information) for eyeglass lenses processed during the second period may be acquired. As an example, when the number of days elapsed from the start date of use of the past consumable until replacement is acquired as the second period information, the number of eyeglass lenses processed using the past consumable from the start date of use of the past consumable until replacement may be acquired as the second processing information. Also, as an example, when the predetermined number of days elapsed from the start date of use of the past consumable until replacement is acquired as the second period information, the number of eyeglass lenses processed using the past consumable within the predetermined number of days may be acquired as the second processing information. Of course, the number of times eyeglass lenses have been processed may also be acquired as the second processing information.

[0099] For example, in this embodiment of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus, the period information acquisition means acquires, as period information, second period information indicating a second period for a consumable item previously replaced in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus, and the processing information acquisition means acquires, as processing information, second processing information for processing an eyeglass lens during the second period. This makes it possible to easily grasp, for example, trends in the replacement times of consumable items, taking into account the operational status of the previously replaced consumable items. For example, by acquiring processing information for processing eyeglass lenses within a predetermined period using a grinding wheel previously used and replaced in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus, it is possible to easily grasp trends in the replacement times of the grinding wheels based on the operational status of the grinding wheels.

[0100] In this embodiment, the use of each grindstone is detected by counting the number of times each grindstone has been used in the lens LE processing step. However, this is not limiting. For example, the lens LE processing step may involve the use of consumables other than grindstones. As an example, in rough processing using the plastic rough grindstone 167, in addition to the plastic rough grindstone 167, the motor 160 that rotates the grindstone rotation shaft 161a, the activated carbon material of the deodorizing device 9, and the like are also used. For this reason, the CPU 2 may receive a processing end signal generated each time rough processing of the lens LE is completed, and may increment the number of times the plastic rough grindstone 167, the motor 160, the activated carbon material, and the like have been used by one count, and store the count in the memory 5.

[0101] In this embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the number of lenses LE processed by each grinding wheel is acquired as processing information based on a processing end signal generated each time a processing step for a lens LE is completed, but this is not limiting. For example, a configuration may be used in which processing information is acquired based on a drive signal generated by driving the motor 160 or the like to execute a predetermined processing step for the lens LE. Also, for example, a configuration may be used in which processing information is acquired using a record of the current supply to the motor 160 or the like. Note that such grinding wheel processing information is not limited to being expressed as the number of lenses LE processed, but may also be expressed as a processing time based on the grinding time taken to grind the lens LE with the grinding wheel, the current supply time to the motor 160 that rotates the grinding wheel, etc.

[0102] In the present embodiment, the recommended information 512, which serves as a guide for replacing each consumable item, is preset before shipping the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the recommended information 512 may be configured to be changeable to any value based on the operational status of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. For example, the frequency of processing lenses LE using the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 and the operating time of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 vary depending on the eyeglass store. Therefore, the user may be able to change the recommended information 512 as needed based on the replacement frequency of the consumable items tailored to the eyeglass store. This allows the predicted replacement times of the consumable items to be calculated, reflecting the operational status of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1, thereby enabling the consumable items to be used at more appropriate intervals. Of course, the CPU 2 may automatically calculate and change the recommended information 512 based on the operational status of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1.

[0103] The recommendation information 512 in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 may be set based on the number of times eyeglass lenses have been processed (or the number of lenses processed) using consumables that have been replaced in the past in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1. For example, in this case, the number of times eyeglass lenses have been processed from the start of use of the consumables in the past until they are replaced may be automatically set as the recommendation information 512. The number of times that a predetermined number of times has been added or subtracted from the number of times eyeglass lenses have been processed from the start of use of the consumables in the past until they are replaced may also be automatically set as the recommendation information 512. Of course, the number of times that eyeglass lenses have been processed using consumables in the past, or the number of times that a predetermined number of times has been added or subtracted from the number of times eyeglass lenses have been processed, may also be set manually.

[0104] For example, in this way, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the recommendation information acquisition means acquires recommendation information based on the second processing information acquired by the processing information acquisition means. For example, processing information indicating that eyeglass lenses have been processed within a predetermined period using consumables that have been replaced in the eyeglass lens processing device in the past is processing information based on facts about the consumables. For example, by using such processing information based on facts to acquire recommendation information recommending the replacement of consumables, it is possible to predict the appropriate replacement time for the consumables. More specifically, for example, by acquiring processing information regarding eyeglass lenses processed from the start of use of a grinding wheel in the past until the grinding wheel was replaced, it is possible to predict the appropriate replacement time for the grinding wheel.

[0105] In this embodiment, the configuration in which the multiple grinding wheels of the peripheral processing tool 168 can be replaced individually has been described as an example, but this is not limiting. For example, the multiple grinding wheels of the peripheral processing tool 168 may be replaced as a single unit. For example, multiple grinding wheels may be attached to the grinding wheel rotation shaft 161a as an integrally formed grinding wheel. Furthermore, for example, multiple grinding wheels may be individually fixed to the grinding wheel rotation shaft 161a. In this case, if one grinding wheel of the peripheral processing tool 168 becomes unusable due to wear or the like (i.e., it can no longer process the lens LE), the entire peripheral processing tool 168 must be replaced. However, since the grinding wheels other than the one that needs replacement can continue to be used, the peripheral processing tool 168 can be used to its limit by taking measures such as refraining from using the grinding wheels that need replacement. In other words, by calculating and displaying the predicted replacement time for each grinding wheel, the peripheral processing tool 168 can be used until all grinding wheels need to be replaced.

[0106] In this embodiment, the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 has been described with reference to an example in which the replacement time of a consumable item currently in use is predicted by acquiring first period information and first processing information for the consumable item. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 may be configured to predict the replacement time of a consumable item currently in use by acquiring second period information and second processing information for consumable items previously replaced. As an example, past performance information of the plastic roughing grinding wheel 167 may be obtained based on a predetermined period from the start of use of the plastic roughing grinding wheel 167 until replacement (second period information) and the number of eyeglass lenses processed with the plastic roughing grinding wheel 167 (second processing information). Furthermore, the replacement time until the recommended information is reached may be predicted by comparing the predetermined period from the start of use of the plastic roughing grinding wheel 167 (first period information) with the performance information. Alternatively, the number of eyeglass lenses processed with the plastic rough grinding wheel 167 currently in use (second processing information) may be compared with the performance information to predict the replacement time until the recommended information is reached.

[0107] For example, in this embodiment of the eyeglass lens processing apparatus, the prediction means predicts the replacement time based on performance information for consumables previously replaced in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus, using at least one of the first period information or the first processing information, the second period information, the second processing information, and the recommendation information. This allows for accurate prediction of the replacement time for currently used consumables, taking into account the operational status of previously replaced consumables, for example. For example, it is possible to grasp the trend of grinding wheel replacement times based on the operational status of grinding wheels in the past from processing information for eyeglass lenses previously used and replaced in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus. Taking into account the predetermined period during which the grinding wheel currently in use in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus was used, it is possible to accurately predict the replacement time for the currently used grinding wheel. Alternatively, taking into account processing information for the predetermined period for the grinding wheel currently in use in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus, it is possible to accurately predict the replacement time for the currently used grinding wheel.

[0108] In this embodiment, the configuration for outputting the predicted replacement time 516 based on the period information (number of days elapsed 515), processing information 513, and recommendation information 512 for each consumable item has been described as an example, but this is not limiting. For example, if each consumable item is used infrequently, it will not be replaced at long intervals, which may result in a decrease in the processing accuracy of the lens LE due to deterioration over time of each consumable item. For this reason, for example, the predicted replacement time for each consumable item may be compared with the replacement time based on the useful life of each consumable item, and the date with the shortest replacement time (in other words, the earliest replacement time) may be output as the predicted replacement time 516 for each consumable item. Note that the replacement time based on the useful life of each consumable item may be set in advance, taking into account deterioration over time, etc.

[0109] More specifically, for example, the replacement period based on the useful life of the plastic roughing grindstone 167 may be set to five years from the start date of use. In other words, in the above-described embodiment, the replacement period based on the useful life may be set to January 1, 2027, five years after January 1, 2022, the start date of use of the plastic roughing grindstone 167. For example, when transitioning to the maintenance screen 500, the CPU 2 calculates the predicted replacement period 516 (here, May 16, 2023) for the plastic roughing grindstone 167. If this predicted replacement period is shorter than the replacement period based on the useful life (here, January 1, 2027), the CPU 2 displays the predicted replacement period; if it is longer, the CPU 2 displays the replacement period based on the useful life. For example, by comparing the predicted replacement period based on the consumable period information, processing information, and recommendation information with the replacement period based on the useful life and displaying either one, the user can determine the more appropriate replacement period for the consumable.

[0110] In this embodiment, the maintenance screen 500 is described as displaying the predicted replacement time 516 for each consumable item, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the degree of consumption of each consumable item (the percentage of how much it has been used) may be displayed along with the predicted replacement time 516 for each consumable item.

[0111] FIG. 6 shows an example of a maintenance screen displaying the wear levels of consumables. For example, the wear level 517 displays the wear level of each consumable as a percentage and a graph. For example, the wear level of a consumable can be obtained based on the processing information 513 and the recommendation information 512. For example, in this embodiment, the processing information 513 for "Grinding Stone: Rough Plastic" is 1,800 sheets, and the recommendation information 512 is 5,000 sheets. Therefore, by dividing the processing information 513 by the recommendation information 512 and displaying the result as a percentage (%), the wear level of the rough plastic grinding stone 167 is obtained as 36%. This allows the predicted replacement time to be output in a more easily understandable manner.

[0112] In the present embodiment, the predicted replacement time 516 is displayed in the consumables list 510 on the maintenance screen 500 to allow the user to understand when to replace the consumables. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the predicted replacement time of a consumable approaches, the CPU 2 may output an alert to the display unit 7 to prompt the user to replace the consumable. More specifically, when the CPU 2 detects that the current date is approaching the predicted replacement time 516 of each consumable, the CPU 2 may output an alert (e.g., a pop-up message or an alert mark) to the display unit 7 when the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 is started, for example. For example, the number of days when the current date is considered to be approaching the predicted replacement time 516 may be set in advance to any number of days (e.g., 14 days).

[0113] In the above-described embodiment, the total number of days from the start of use of the roughing grindstone for plastics 167 until replacement is 500 days. For example, the number of days (i.e., two weeks) until the current date approaches the predicted replacement date 516 is set to 14 days. In this case, the CPU 2 outputs an alert when it detects that 486 days have passed since the start of use of the roughing grindstone for plastics 167. For example, an alert mark may be displayed in the predicted replacement date column of the consumables list 510, or the date indicating the predicted replacement date may be highlighted (e.g., in bold, underlined, or with a different text color).

[0114] Note that such an alert is not limited to being displayed on the display unit 7. For example, the alert may be output by at least one of lighting or blinking a lamp, issuing a voice announcement, printing a message or transferring the message to an external device, and the like. In other words, the alert may be configured to warn the user that the time to replace the consumable is approaching. This allows the user to check the predicted replacement time for the consumable based on the alert and prepare spare consumables as necessary, thereby enabling smooth replacement of the consumables.

[0115] Furthermore, for example, when the degree of consumption of a consumable approaches 100%, the CPU 2 may output an alert to the display unit 7 to urge the user to replace the consumable. For example, the CPU 2 may output a first alert when the degree of consumption of the consumable exceeds 90%, and output a second alert different from the first alert when the degree of consumption reaches 100%.

[0116] In the present embodiment, a configuration has been described in which various data related to each consumable item is processed at the timing of transition to the maintenance screen 500, and the predicted replacement time 516 is displayed in the consumable item list 510, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the CPU 2 may process various data at a predetermined timing different from the transition to the maintenance screen 500. As an example, the timing may be when the eyeglass lens processing apparatus 1 is started, or at a preset date, time, day of the week, etc. Furthermore, for example, the CPU 2 may process various data related to each consumable item each time the number of times each processing step of the lens LE has been performed is counted.

[0117] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 eyeglass lens processing device 2 CPU 7 display unit 9 deodorizing device 100 subjective ophthalmoscope device 167 rough grinding stone for plastics

Claims

1. An eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing the periphery of eyeglass lenses, The aforementioned eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes a period information acquisition means for acquiring period information indicating a predetermined period during which consumables have been used, Processing information acquisition means for acquiring processing information obtained by the aforementioned eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing eyeglass lenses during the predetermined period, A means for obtaining recommendation information that recommends the replacement of the aforementioned consumables, A prediction means predicts the replacement time for the consumables based on the period information acquired by the period information acquisition means, the processing information acquired by the processing information acquisition means, and the recommendation information acquired by the recommendation information acquisition means. The output means outputs the prediction result predicted by the prediction means, An eyeglass lens processing apparatus characterized by comprising the following features.

2. In the eyeglass lens processing apparatus of claim 1, The aforementioned period information acquisition means acquires, as the period information, first period information indicating a first period for consumables used in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus, The spectacle lens processing apparatus is characterized in that the processing information acquisition means acquires first processing information of the spectacle lens processed during the first period as the processing information.

3. In the eyeglass lens processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned period information acquisition means acquires, as the period information, second period information indicating a second period for consumables that have been replaced in the eyeglass lens processing apparatus in the past, The spectacle lens processing apparatus is characterized in that the processing information acquisition means acquires second processing information, which is the processing information of the spectacle lens processed during the second period.

4. In the eyeglass lens processing apparatus of claim 1, The aforementioned consumables are a plurality of grinding wheels, The processing information acquisition means is a spectacle lens processing apparatus characterized by acquiring processing information obtained by processing the spectacle lens with the plurality of grinding wheels over a predetermined period of time, for each processing step of the spectacle lens.

5. A spectacle lens processing program for use in a spectacle lens processing apparatus for processing the periphery of spectacle lenses, This is executed by the processor of the aforementioned eyeglass lens processing apparatus, A period information acquisition step in which period information indicating a predetermined period during which consumables are used in the aforementioned eyeglass lens processing apparatus is acquired, A processing information acquisition step involves acquiring processing information obtained by the aforementioned eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing eyeglass lenses during the predetermined period, A recommendation information acquisition step to obtain recommendation information recommending the replacement of the aforementioned consumables, A prediction step predicts the replacement timing for the consumables based on the period information acquired in the period information acquisition step, the processing information acquired in the processing information acquisition step, and the recommendation information acquired in the recommendation information acquisition step. The output step outputs the prediction result predicted by the prediction step, A spectacle lens processing program characterized by causing the spectacle lens processing apparatus to execute the following.