Spectacle lens machining device and placement unit attached to spectacle lens machining device

Abstract

A spectacle lens machining device (1) used in a step for machining a spectacle lens that is framed in a spectacle frame comprises: a housing (3) that covers various members used when executing the step for machining the spectacle lens that is framed in the spectacle frame; and a placement unit (40) that is provided exclusively for placing a tray for storing at least one of the spectacle frame and the spectacle lens and is coupled to the housing (3) so as to be provided outside the housing (3).

Description

Eyeglass lens processing device and mounting unit attached to the eyeglass lens processing device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an eyeglass lens processing device used in a process of processing eyeglass lenses to be fitted into eyeglass frames, and a mounting unit attached to the eyeglass lens processing device.

[0002] As an example of an eyeglass lens processing device, Patent Document 1 discloses a cup attachment device that attaches a cup, which is a processing jig, to an eyeglass lens. As an example of an eyeglass lens processing device, Patent Document 2 discloses an eyeglass frame shape measuring device that measures the shape of the rim by tracing the outline of the rim of the eyeglass frame. As an example of an eyeglass lens processing device, Patent Document 3 discloses an eyeglass lens periphery processing device that has a processing tool that processes the periphery of the eyeglass lens.

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-212573 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-007536 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-198359

[0004] In eyeglass stores and the like, eyeglass frames selected by eyeglass wearers and eyeglass lenses that match the optical characteristics of the eyes are stored in trays for management, and workers place trays near eyeglass lens processing devices to perform various tasks. However, for example, there is a possibility that the eyeglass lens processing room or the like is too small to secure space to place trays, that trays in use and trays on standby are mixed up, or that eyeglass frames or eyeglass lenses are stored in the wrong tray, resulting in poor work efficiency.

[0005] In view of the above problems, the technical objective of the present disclosure is to provide an eyeglass lens processing device that can improve the work efficiency of the eyeglass lens processing process, and a mounting unit that is attached to the eyeglass lens processing device.

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure has the following configuration. (1) A spectacle lens processing device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a spectacle lens processing device used in a process of processing spectacle lenses to be framed in spectacle frames, and includes: a housing that covers various components used in performing the process of processing the spectacle lenses to be framed in the spectacle frames; and a mounting unit that is dedicated to mounting a tray that stores at least one of the spectacle frames or the spectacle lenses, and is connected to the housing to be provided outside the housing. (2) A mounting unit according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is a mounting unit that is attached to a spectacle lens processing device used in the process of processing spectacle lenses to be framed in the spectacle frames, and includes: a housing that covers various components used in performing the process of processing the spectacle lenses to be framed in the spectacle frames; and the mounting unit is attached to the housing to provide a dedicated space outside the housing for mounting a tray that stores at least one of the spectacle frames or the spectacle lenses.

[0007] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the eyeglass lens processing device. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a placement unit. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the eyeglass lens processing device as viewed from above. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a lens processing mechanism. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a control system of the eyeglass lens processing device. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the arrangement of trays. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an identifier reading unit.

[0008] <Overview> An overview of an eyeglass lens processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Items grouped in < > below can be used independently or in conjunction with each other.

[0009] The eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment may be any device used in the process of processing eyeglass lenses to be fitted into eyeglass frames. For example, the eyeglass lens processing device may be an alignment device that sets the mounting position (in other words, the alignment position) of a holder that clamps and holds the eyeglass lens to process the periphery of the eyeglass lens. For example, the eyeglass lens processing device may be a cup attachment device that attaches a cup, which is a processing jig, to the eyeglass lens. For example, the eyeglass lens processing device may be an eyeglass frame shape measuring device that traces the outline of the rim of the eyeglass frame to measure the shape of the rim. For example, the eyeglass lens processing device may be an eyeglass lens periphery processing device having a processing tool that processes the periphery of the eyeglass lens. For example, the eyeglass lens processing device may be a composite device equipped with multiple functions, such as an alignment device, a cup attachment device, an eyeglass frame shape measuring device, and an eyeglass lens periphery processing device.

[0010] The eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment may include a housing (e.g., housing 3). For example, the housing may cover various components used when performing the process of processing eyeglass lenses to be fitted into eyeglass frames. For example, the housing may be an exterior cover that forms the exterior of the eyeglass lens processing device and that houses various components. For example, the housing may house at least one of the various components, such as a holding portion that holds the eyeglass frame, a holding portion that holds the eyeglass lens (or a support portion that supports the eyeglass lens), an optical system that measures the eyeglass frame or the eyeglass lens, and a processing tool that processes the periphery of the eyeglass lens.

[0011] For example, the housing may house various components constituting an attachment position setting unit that sets the attachment position of the holder relative to the eyeglass lens. For example, the attachment position setting unit may have a lens chuck shaft that clamps the front and rear surfaces of the eyeglass lens as a holder that sandwiches and holds the eyeglass lens. For example, the attachment position setting unit may have a detection optical system that detects the attachment position of the holder relative to the eyeglass lens (for example, the optical center position, the geometric center position, etc.). For example, the housing may house at least one of the lens chuck shaft and the detection optical system.

[0012] For example, the housing may house various components constituting a cup attachment unit that attaches a cup to a spectacle lens. For example, the cup attachment unit may have a support portion (e.g., a support pin) that supports the spectacle lens by placing the spectacle lens on it. For example, the cup attachment unit may have a detection optical system that detects an attachment position (e.g., an optical center position, a geometric center position, etc.) at which the cup is attached to the surface of the spectacle lens. For example, the housing may house at least one of the support portion and the detection optical system.

[0013] For example, the housing may house various components constituting an eyeglass frame shape measuring unit that measures the shape of the rim of an eyeglass frame. For example, the cup attachment unit may have a support portion (e.g., a clamp pin) that supports the eyeglass frame by placing the eyeglass frame thereon. For example, the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit may have a probe that is inserted into a groove in the rim of the eyeglass frame. In this case, the shape of the rim may be measured by pressing the probe into contact with the groove and moving the probe along the groove. For example, the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit may have a measurement optical system that irradiates a measurement beam toward the groove in the rim of the eyeglass frame and receives a reflected beam from the groove. In this case, the shape of the rim may be measured by obtaining a cross-sectional shape based on the reflected beam from the groove in the rim. For example, the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit may have both a probe and a measurement optical system. For example, the housing may house at least one of the support portion, the probe, and the measurement optical system.

[0014] For example, the housing may house various components constituting a peripheral edge processing unit that processes the peripheral edge of an eyeglass lens. For example, the peripheral edge processing unit may have a holding portion (e.g., a lens chuck shaft) that clamps and holds the eyeglass lens. For example, the peripheral edge processing unit may have a processing tool (e.g., a grinding wheel, a cutter, an end mill, etc.) that processes the peripheral edge of the eyeglass lens while the eyeglass lens is held by the lens chuck shaft. For example, the housing may house at least one of the lens chuck shaft and the processing tool.

[0015] For example, in the case of a composite device comprising multiple units such as an attachment position setting unit, a cup attachment unit, an eyeglass frame shape measuring unit, and a periphery processing unit, the housing may house at least one of these units.

[0016] <Placement Unit> The eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment may include a placement unit (e.g., placement unit 40). For example, the placement unit may be provided exclusively for placing a tray for storing at least one of eyeglass frames or eyeglass lenses, and may be connected to the housing and provided outside the housing. For example, by providing the eyeglass lens processing device with a placement unit, space for placing a tray is ensured even in a small processing chamber, etc. Furthermore, by placing a tray on the placement unit, the operator of the eyeglass lens processing device can easily grasp the tray being worked on. This reduces the possibility that the operator will mistakenly place eyeglass frames or eyeglass lenses, and improves work efficiency.

[0017] For example, the mounting unit may be integrally formed with the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device, thereby being connected to the housing, and provided outside the housing. For example, the mounting unit may be an attachment that is detachable from the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device, and may be attached to the housing, thereby being connected to the housing, and provided outside the housing. For example, since the working environment within the processing room (for example, the number of devices, the presence or absence of working space, etc.) differs depending on the eyeglass store, etc., having the mounting unit as an attachment makes it easier to create an appropriate environment according to the situation.

[0018] When the mounting unit is provided as an attachment, the eyeglass lens processing device may include a mounting portion for mounting the attachment. That is, the attachment may be connected to the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device via the mounting portion.

[0019] For example, the mounting unit of the eyeglass lens processing device may be capable of fixing the attachment to the housing. For example, the mounting unit may have a coupling mechanism that couples the housing and the attachment. In this case, the coupling mechanism may be a fitting mechanism, and the mounting unit may have either a convex or concave structure, and the attachment may have the other structure. Furthermore, the coupling mechanism may be a magnetic mechanism, and the mounting unit and the attachment may include ferromagnetic materials and attract each other by magnetic force. The mounting unit may have a coupling mechanism that combines the fitting mechanism and the magnetic mechanism, or may have a mechanism that is different from the fitting mechanism and the magnetic mechanism.

[0020] For example, the mounting unit may be located anywhere outside the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device. For example, the housing surface (front surface) facing the operator who operates the eyeglass lens processing device is referred to as the front of the housing. The housing surface (right surface) located to the right as seen from the operator is referred to as the right side of the housing. The housing surface (left surface) located to the left as seen from the operator is referred to as the left side of the housing. The housing surface (top surface) located above as seen from the operator is referred to as the top of the housing. The housing surface (rear surface) facing the front of the housing is referred to as the rear of the housing. In these cases, the mounting unit may be located at any of the front, right, left, top, or rear of the housing.

[0021] For example, the mounting unit may be disposed in front of the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device. In this case, the mounting unit may be disposed so as to be in contact with the front surface of the housing, or may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from the front surface of the housing.

[0022] For example, the mounting unit may be arranged on the side of the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device. In this case, the mounting unit may be arranged so as to be in contact with the side surface of the housing, or so as to be spaced apart from the side surface of the housing. For example, the mounting unit may be arranged so as to be in contact with the right side surface of the housing, or so as to be spaced apart from the right side surface of the housing. For example, the mounting unit may be arranged so as to be in contact with the left side surface of the housing, or so as to be spaced apart from the left side surface of the housing. The mounting unit may be arranged on the side and above the housing (for example, at the top right or top left of the housing).

[0023] For example, the mounting unit may be disposed above the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device. In this case, the mounting unit may be disposed so as to be in contact with the upper surface of the housing, or so as to be spaced apart from the upper surface of the housing. The mounting unit may be disposed above and to the side of the housing (for example, at the upper right or upper left of the housing). The mounting unit may also be disposed above and behind the housing. For example, if the height of the housing dimensions of the eyeglass lens processing device is low, the space above the housing is likely to be empty relative to the space of the processing chamber in which the eyeglass lens processing device is installed. Therefore, for example, by disposing the mounting unit above the housing, the empty space can be effectively utilized even if it is difficult to secure space to place a tray next to the device.

[0024] <Fall Suppression Mechanism> In the present embodiment, the mounting unit may include a fall suppression mechanism. For example, the fall suppression mechanism may be a mechanism that suppresses the tray from falling from the mounting unit. For example, the fall suppression mechanism may be a mechanism that, by being provided on the mounting unit, is able to restrict the movement of the tray on the mounting unit compared to when the fall suppression mechanism is not provided on the mounting unit. As an example, the fall suppression mechanism may be a mechanism that is able to restrict the movement of the tray in the left-right or front-back direction on the mounting unit. For example, an eyeglass lens processing device may vibrate during the process of processing eyeglass lenses, and even in such a case, the possibility of the tray slipping off the mounting unit and falling can be suppressed.

[0025] For example, the mounting unit may include a height adjustment mechanism (e.g., height adjustment mechanism 42) as a tray fall prevention mechanism. For example, the height adjustment mechanism may be a mechanism that adjusts the angle of the tray with respect to the ground surface of the eyeglass lens processing device. For example, the height adjustment mechanism may be a mechanism that adjusts the angle of the tray so that it is horizontal with respect to the ground surface of the eyeglass lens processing device. Horizontal may be approximately horizontal. For example, the height adjustment mechanism may be a mechanism that adjusts the angle of the tray so that it is inclined with respect to the ground surface of the eyeglass lens processing device. For example, the height adjustment mechanism may include a member (e.g., an adjuster) that changes the distance from the mounting unit to the housing. For example, the housing of eyeglass lens processing devices has a variety of shapes, and if the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device has a curved shape, it may be difficult to stably attach the mounting unit. However, by adjusting the mounting unit using the height adjustment mechanism, the tray placed on the mounting unit can be maintained at a desired angle, reducing the possibility of the tray falling from the mounting unit.

[0026] For example, the mounting unit may include a wall mechanism (e.g., wall mechanism 43) as a mechanism for preventing the tray from falling. For example, the wall mechanism may be a wall mechanism that contacts the side surface of the tray. For example, the wall mechanism may contact at least one surface of the side surface of the tray. For example, this restricts movement of the tray in at least one direction in the left-right or front-back direction, thereby reducing the possibility of the tray falling from the mounting unit.

[0027] For example, the mounting unit may include an anti-slip mechanism (e.g., anti-slip mechanism 44) as a mechanism for preventing the tray from falling. For example, the anti-slip mechanism may be an anti-slip mechanism that contacts at least the bottom surface of the tray. For example, the anti-slip mechanism may have a member that generates friction between the bottom surface of the tray and the mounting surface of the tray. For example, the anti-slip mechanism may have a member having an elastic body (e.g., rubber), a member with an uneven shape, etc.

[0028] For example, the fall suppression mechanism included in the mounting unit may be any one of a height adjustment mechanism, a wall mechanism, an anti-slip mechanism, etc., or may be a combination of these. For example, the fall suppression mechanism may have a mechanism different from the height adjustment mechanism, the wall mechanism, and the anti-slip mechanism.

[0029] <Identifier Reading Unit> The eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment may include an identifier reading unit (e.g., identifier reading unit 51). For example, the identifier reading unit may read an identifier attached to a tray when the tray is placed on the placement unit. For example, the identifier may be at least one of a character string, an identification hole formed according to a predetermined rule, a one-dimensional code (e.g., a barcode), a two-dimensional code (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark) or a color code), etc. For example, the identifier may be at least one of an electronic tag that uses radio waves or a magnetic field (e.g., an RFID (radio frequency identifier) ​​tag or an IC tag), etc. For example, the identifier reading unit may be an identifier reader that supports various identifiers (e.g., an identification hole reader, a barcode reader, a QR code reader, an RFID reader, an IC tag reader, etc.).

[0030] For example, the identifier reading unit may be configured to automatically read the identifier attached to the tray when the tray is placed on the placement unit. For example, the reading range (in other words, the scanning range) of the identifier reading unit may be set to include the position of the identifier when the tray is placed on the placement unit.

[0031] For example, the identifier reading unit may be arranged so that the position of the identifier faces the reading unit that scans the identifier, so that a reading range is set that includes the position of the identifier on the tray. As an example, if a barcode is used as the identifier and a barcode reader is used as the identifier reading unit, the barcode reader may be arranged so that the position of the barcode is included in the scanning range. As another example, if an RFID tag is used as the identifier and an RFID reader is used as the identifier reading unit, the RFID reader may be installed so that the position of the RFID tag is included in the scanning range.

[0032] Electronic tags such as RFID tags can be scanned over longer distances than codes such as barcodes. Furthermore, unlike codes such as barcodes, electronic tags such as RFID tags do not require direct scanning. Therefore, for example, the entire tray may be set as the scanning range of the RFID tag. For example, with this configuration, the RFID tag does not necessarily need to be positioned opposite the RFID reader, and information associated with the RFID tag can be obtained regardless of the orientation of the tray placed on the placement unit.

[0033] For example, the identifier reading unit may be provided in the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device or in the mounting unit. For example, the identifier reading unit may be fixedly disposed relative to the housing or the mounting unit. In this case, the operator can be spared the trouble of searching for and reading the identifier attached to the tray, thereby improving work efficiency. For example, the identifier reading unit may be movably disposed relative to the housing or the mounting unit. In this case, even if the operator changes the type of tray used, the positional relationship between the identifier attached to the tray and the identifier reader can be appropriately set.

[0034] <Acquisition Unit> The eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment may include an acquisition unit (e.g., a control unit 80). For example, the acquisition unit may acquire eyeglass lens processing data corresponding to an identifier based on the identifier read by the identifier reading unit. For example, the eyeglass lens processing data may be data including information about the eyeglass wearer's eyes (e.g., the eyeglass wearer's eye refractive power data, interpupillary distance, eye point position, etc.). For example, the eyeglass lens processing data may be data including a layout such as the optical center position relative to the lens shape. For example, the eyeglass lens processing data may be data including various processing conditions such as the material of the eyeglass lens, the type of eyeglass frame, and the processing mode of the eyeglass lens (beveling, grooving, drilling, etc.).

[0035] Although the technology of the present disclosure has been described using an eyeglass lens processing device as an example, at least a part of the technology of the present disclosure can be applied to a mounting unit attached to an eyeglass lens processing device. For example, a mounting unit attached to an eyeglass lens processing device used in a process of processing eyeglass lenses to be framed in eyeglass frames, the eyeglass lens processing device may include a housing that covers various components used in executing the process of processing eyeglass lenses to be framed in eyeglass frames, and the mounting unit may be attached to the housing to provide a dedicated space outside the housing for mounting a tray that stores at least either eyeglass frames or eyeglass lenses.

[0036] <Example> An example of an eyeglass lens processing device according to this embodiment will be described. In this example, an eyeglass lens processing device (hereinafter referred to as processing device) will be described as an example of an eyeglass lens processing device that holds an eyeglass lens with a lens chuck shaft and processes the periphery of the eyeglass lens with a processing tool while the eyeglass lens is held by the lens chuck shaft. In this example, the left-right direction (horizontal direction) of the processing device will be represented as the X direction, the up-down direction (vertical direction) will be represented as the Y direction, and the front-rear direction will be represented as the Z direction.

[0037] 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the processing device 1. The processing device 1 includes a housing 3, a window 4, a monitor 5, an eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20, a blocker unit 30, a mounting unit 40, an identifier reading unit 50, a lens processing mechanism 10 (see FIG. 4), etc.

[0038] The housing 3 is an exterior cover that houses various components such as the lens processing mechanism 10, the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20, the blocker unit 30, etc. The window 4 can be opened and closed and is used to insert and remove eyeglass lenses into and from the lens processing mechanism 10. The monitor 5 is a display with a touch panel function. That is, the monitor 5 functions as an operation unit (controller). The monitor 5 does not have to be a touch panel type, and the monitor 5 and the operation unit may be provided separately. In this case, at least one of a mouse, a joystick, a keyboard, a mobile terminal, etc. may be used as the operation unit. A signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from the monitor 5 is output to a control unit 80, which will be described later.

[0039] <Eyeglass frame shape measuring unit> The eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20 has a contact-type structure that has a probe that can be brought into contact with the rim of the eyeglass frame, and measures the lens shape (in this case, the inner shape of the rim) by pressing the probe against the rim and moving the probe along the rim. For details of the structure of the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20, see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-52222.

[0040] The eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20 may have a non-contact configuration that measures the lens shape by capturing an image of the rim of the eyeglass frame. In this case, the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20 may have a measurement optical system that includes a light projecting optical system that irradiates a measurement light beam toward the rim, and a light receiving optical system that receives a reflected light beam of the measurement light beam reflected by the rim.

[0041] <Blocker Unit> The blocker unit 30 includes a lens support mechanism, a cup attachment mechanism, and a lens measurement mechanism. For example, the lens support mechanism includes support pins on which a spectacle lens (e.g., an unprocessed lens or a demo lens) is placed with its front surface facing up. For example, the cup attachment mechanism attaches (centers) a cup to the front surface of the spectacle lens while the spectacle lens is supported by the lens support mechanism. For example, the lens measurement mechanism includes an optical system that combines a measurement optical system that measures the optical characteristics of the spectacle lens and a measurement optical system that acquires information other than the optical characteristics of the spectacle lens (e.g., outer shape, markings, hidden marks, etc.). For detailed configuration of the blocker unit 30, see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-212573.

[0042] In this embodiment, the blocker unit 30 can also measure the target shape (in this case, the outer shape of the demo lens or template) by capturing an image of the shape of the demo lens or template using the optical system described above.

[0043] <Placement Unit> FIGS. 2 and 3 are diagrams illustrating the placement unit 40. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the external configuration of the placement unit 40. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the processing apparatus 1 as viewed from above, showing the placement unit 40 attached to the processing apparatus 1. For example, the placement unit 40 is an attachment that can be attached to and detached from the housing 3 of the processing apparatus 1. For example, by being attached to the housing 3 of the processing apparatus 1, the placement unit 40 is placed in a predetermined area 60 on the housing 3 that does not interfere with various operations by the operator. As an example, the placement unit 40 is placed in an area that does not interfere with operations by the operator, such as operation of the monitor 5, operation of the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20, operation of the blocker unit 30, operation of the lens processing mechanism section 10, etc.

[0044] For example, the predetermined area 60 on the housing 3 may be an area where the operator's hand does not pass when operating the processing device 1. In other words, the predetermined area 60 on the housing 3 may be an area excluding the window 4, the monitor 5, and various members of each unit and mechanism that are exposed on the housing 3.

[0045] In this embodiment, the loading unit 40 is arranged on the rear side of the top surface of the housing 3, taking into consideration the operator's removal of eyeglass frames from the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20 and removal of eyeglass lenses from the lens processing mechanism 10 (i.e., the window 4).

[0046] For example, the mounting unit 40 includes a mounting space 41, a connecting portion 45, a height adjustment mechanism 42, a wall mechanism 43, an anti-slip mechanism 44, etc. The mounting space 41 is a mounting surface on which a tray 70 (see FIG. 6 ) for storing eyeglass frames, eyeglass lenses, etc. is placed. For example, the mounting space 41 may have any shape that can support the bottom surface of the tray. For example, the mounting space 41 may have an area that can support the bottom surface of the tray. In this embodiment, the mounting space 41 is rectangular and has an area that contacts more than half of the bottom surface of the tray. As a result, the bottom surface of the tray is placed in the area within the dotted line in FIG. 2 .

[0047] The connecting portion 45 connects the mounting unit 40 to the housing 3. For example, the connecting portion 45 is formed integrally with the mounting space 41 and is fixed to the rear surface (back surface) 6 of the housing 3 with screws or the like. For example, such connecting portion 45 supports the rear portion of the mounting space 41 even if the rear portion of the mounting space 41 does not come into contact with the housing 3.

[0048] The height adjustment mechanism 42 is provided to adjust the angle of the tray with respect to the ground surface of the processing device 1. For example, the height adjustment mechanism 42 is attached to at least one location on the underside of the mounting space 41. In this embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism 42 is attached to only one location among the four corners of the underside of the mounting space 41, the front left location where the curved shape of the housing 3 located below the mounting space 41 has a large inclination in the left-right and front-back directions. For example, the front portion of the mounting space 41 is supported by bringing the front portion of the mounting space 41 into contact with the housing 3 via the height adjustment mechanism 42.

[0049] For example, the height adjustment mechanism 42 includes an adjustment knob 42a, legs 42b, and a connecting screw (not shown). For example, the adjustment knob 42a changes the height of the legs 42b. For example, the adjustment knob 42a is provided on one end of the connecting screw. For example, the legs 42b are fixed to one end of the connecting screw. For example, by rotating the adjustment knob 42a, the lengths of the connecting screw and the legs 42b can be changed, and the legs 42b can be brought into contact with the housing 3. For example, the height adjustment mechanism 42 may be a screw-type adjuster, etc., and by using the adjuster, the angle of the mounting space 41 can be maintained horizontal or tilted, making it easier to prevent the tray from falling.

[0050] The wall mechanism 43 is formed integrally with the mounting space 41. For example, the wall mechanism 43 is provided so as to contact a side surface of a tray placed in the mounting space 41. For example, the wall mechanism 43 may be provided so as to contact at least one surface of the side surface of the tray. For example, the wall mechanism 43 may be a plate-shaped member extending upward relative to the mounting space 41.

[0051] In this embodiment, the wall mechanisms 43 are provided so that the right side and front side of the tray placed in the placement space 41 come into contact with each other when viewed from the front of the processing device 1. In other words, they are provided on the right side and front side of the placement space 41, respectively. For example, since an operator works while standing in front of the processing device 1, the operator's hands are likely to touch the tray when removing eyeglass frames or eyeglass lenses from the tray or when putting eyeglass lenses into or taking them out of the lens processing mechanism unit 10. For this reason, providing the wall mechanism in the direction in which the operator pulls their hand makes it easier to prevent the tray from falling.

[0052] The anti-slip mechanism 44 is provided so as to come into contact with at least the bottom surface of the tray placed in the mounting space 41. For example, the anti-slip mechanism 44 is fixed to the upper surface of the mounting space 41. For example, the anti-slip mechanism 44 is arranged in at least one location on the upper surface of the mounting space 41. For example, the anti-slip mechanism 44 may be arranged on the wall mechanism 43 as well as on the upper surface of the mounting space 41. For example, the anti-slip mechanism 44 may be a member capable of generating frictional force between the mounting space 41 and the tray. In this embodiment, the anti-slip mechanism 44 is provided by anti-slip rubber at the four corners of the upper surface of the mounting space 41. This makes it easier to prevent the tray from falling.

[0053] In this embodiment, the loading unit 40 may be provided with at least one of the height adjustment mechanism 42, the wall mechanism 43, and the anti-slip mechanism 44 as a fall prevention mechanism for preventing the tray from falling.

[0054] <Identifier Reading Unit> The identifier reading unit 50 (see FIG. 2) detects and reads the identifier attached to the tray 70 when the tray 70 is placed on the mounting unit 40. For example, the identifier reading unit 50 is provided in the mounting unit 40. For example, the identifier reading unit 50 is fixedly disposed on the wall mechanism 43 of the mounting unit 40.

[0055] For example, the identifier reading unit 50 includes an identifier reading unit 51. For example, the identifier reading unit 51 reads an identifier attached to a tray to acquire various data associated with the identifier. For example, the identifier reading unit 51 incorporates an illumination light source and an image sensor (e.g., a line sensor) and can read the identifier by emitting an illumination light beam from the illumination light source to illuminate the identifier and receiving a reflected light beam of the illumination light beam with the image sensor. For example, the identifier reading unit 51 is disposed at a predetermined position on the wall mechanism 43 so that the position of the identifier of a tray placed on the mounting unit 40 is included in the reading range (scanning range) of the image sensor. For example, in this embodiment, a barcode is attached as an identifier at a predetermined position on the right side of the tray, and a barcode reader is disposed as the identifier reading unit 51 at a position on the wall mechanism 43 that faces the identifier when the tray is placed in the mounting space 41 (see FIG. 6 ).

[0056] 4 is a schematic diagram of the lens processing mechanism 10. For example, the lens processing mechanism 10 includes a group of grindstones 100, a carriage unit 200, a lens shape measuring unit 400, a lens processing unit 500, and the like.

[0057] <Grinding Stone Group> The grinding stone group 100 is used as a processing tool for grinding eyeglass lenses. The grinding stone group 100 includes a roughing stone 100a for plastics, a finishing stone 100b for high-curve lenses, a grinding stone 100c for flat mirror finishing, a finishing stone 100d for beveling and flat processing, and a roughing stone 100e for glass. The grinding stone group 100 is attached to a grinding stone rotation shaft 101. The grinding stone rotation shaft 101 is rotated by a motor 102. The peripheral edge of a lens clamped by a lens chuck shaft 202 (described later) is machined by being pressed against the grinding stone group 100, which is rotated by the drive of the motor 102.

[0058] <Carriage Unit> The carriage unit 200 includes a carriage 201, a lens chuck shaft 202, a moving support base 203, motors (motors 210 and 220), etc. The carriage 201 holds the lens chuck shaft (lens rotation shaft) 202. The carriage 201 is made up of a left arm 201L and a right arm 201R. The lens chuck shaft 202 holds a lens. The lens chuck shaft 202 is made up of a left chuck shaft 202L and a right chuck shaft 202R.

[0059] A left chuck shaft 202L is rotatably and coaxially held by the left arm 201L of the carriage 201. A right chuck shaft 202R is rotatably and coaxially held by the right arm 201R of the carriage 201. A motor 220 is attached to the right arm 201R, and when the motor 220 is driven, a rotation transmission mechanism such as a gear (not shown) rotates. The left and right chuck shafts 202L and 202R rotate synchronously with each other via this rotation transmission mechanism. A motor 210 is attached to the right arm 201R, and when the motor 210 is driven, the right chuck shaft 202R moves toward the left chuck shaft 202L. As a result, the lens is held by the left and right chuck shafts 202L and 202R.

[0060] The carriage 201 is mounted on a movable support base 203. The movable support base 203 moves the carriage 201 along the lens chuck shaft 202 and shafts (shafts 208 and 209) parallel to the grinding wheel rotation axis 101. A ball screw (not shown) extending parallel to the shaft 208 is attached to the rear of the movable support base 203. The ball screw is attached to the rotation shaft of a motor 230. When the motor 230 is driven, the carriage 201 moves linearly in the X-axis direction (i.e., the axial direction of the lens chuck shaft 202) together with the movable support base 203. An encoder (not shown) is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor 230 to detect the movement of the carriage 201 in the X-axis direction. A shaft 205 extending in the Y-axis direction (i.e., the direction that varies the inter-axial distance between the left chuck shaft 202L and the right chuck shaft 202R and the grinding wheel rotation shaft 101) is fixed to the movable support base 203. A motor 240 is fixed to the movable support base 203, and the drive of the motor 240 is transmitted to a ball screw 207 extending in the Y-axis direction. The carriage 201 moves in the Y-axis direction by rotation of the ball screw 207. An encoder (not shown) that detects the movement of the carriage 201 in the Y-axis direction is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor 240.

[0061] <Lens Shape Measuring Unit> The lens shape measuring unit 400 may be configured to measure the lens shape (in this case, the outer shape of the demo lens) by bringing a contact point with the demo lens and moving the contact point along the outer periphery of the demo lens. For example, the contact point is moved rearward (in the direction in which the contact point moves away from the lens chuck shaft 202) according to the outer shape of the demo lens, and the outer shape of the demo lens can be measured by detecting the movement position of the contact point.

[0062] The lens shape measuring unit 400 can be used not only as a measuring unit for measuring the outer shape of a demo lens, but also as a measuring unit for measuring the lens surface shape (at least one of the front surface shape and the rear surface shape) of an eyeglass lens. For example, when measuring the lens surface shape of an eyeglass lens, the eyeglass lens is clamped by the lens chuck shaft 202, and the eyeglass lens is rotated with the tip of the probe in contact with the front or rear surface of the eyeglass lens. At this time, the movement of the lens chuck shaft 202 in the Y-axis direction is controlled based on the lens shape. By detecting the position of the lens chuck shaft 202 in the X-axis direction corresponding to the lens shape of the front and rear surfaces of the eyeglass lens, the lens surface shape of the eyeglass lens (e.g., the edge position corresponding to the lens shape of the lens surface, the curve value of the lens surface, the inclination angle of the edge surface, the thickness of the edge surface, etc.) can be measured.

[0063] <Lens Processing Unit> The lens processing unit 500 is used to perform at least one of hole drilling, groove digging, and chamfering on eyeglass lenses. The lens processing unit 500 may be equipped with an end mill as a processing tool for drilling holes in eyeglass lenses, a groove digging cutter as a processing tool for grooving eyeglass lenses, and a chamfering grindstone. For detailed configuration of the lens processing unit, see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-177234.

[0064] <Controller> Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a control system of the processing device 1. The controller 80 is realized by a general CPU (processor), RAM, ROM, etc. For example, the CPU controls the driving of each part in the processing device 1. For example, the RAM temporarily stores various types of information. For example, the ROM stores various programs executed by the CPU. The controller 80 may be configured by multiple controllers (i.e., multiple processors).

[0065] For example, the control unit 80 is electrically connected to the monitor 5, the identifier reader 51, each encoder, each motor (motors 102, 210, 220, 230, 240, etc.), a non-volatile memory 85 (hereinafter, memory 85), etc. The memory 85 may be a non-transitory storage medium that can retain its contents even when the power supply is cut off. For example, the memory 85 may be a hard disk drive, a flash ROM, a USB memory, etc.

[0066] The memory 85 may store the outer shape of the lens measured by the blocker unit 30, the outer shape of the lens measured by the lens shape measuring unit 400, the inner shape of the frame measured by the eyeglass frame shape measuring unit 20, etc.

[0067] <Control Operation> The control operation of the processing device 1 having the above-described configuration will be described.

[0068] <Placing the tray> Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the tray 70 and how the tray 70 is placed on the placement unit 40. For example, the operator stores and manages the eyeglass frames selected by the eyeglass wearer and the eyeglass lenses that fit the eyeglass wearer's eyes in the tray 70. For example, the operator places the eyeglass frames and the eyeglass lenses in the placement frames 71 of the tray 70, respectively. For example, the operator places the eyeglass frames in the placement frame at the back of the tray 70, and places the eyeglass lenses in pairs in the placement frames at the front of the tray 70. At this time, an identifier 72 is placed on the right side of the tray 70.

[0069] Next, for example, the operator places the tray 70 on the placement space 41 of the placement unit 40. For example, the operator places the tray 70 on the placement space 41 so that the corner formed by the wall mechanism 43 of the placement unit 40 and the corner of the tray 70 are aligned. This causes the tray 70 to catch on the wall mechanism 43, making it less likely for the tray 70 to fall. This brings the upper surface of the placement space 41 and the lower surface of the tray 70 into contact via the anti-slip mechanism 44, making it less likely for the tray 70 to fall.

[0070] For example, the operator may operate the height adjustment mechanism 42 of the mounting unit 40 to adjust the height of the mounting space 41 so that the mounting space 41 and the tray 70 remain horizontal with respect to the ground surface of the processing apparatus 1. For example, the operator may operate the height adjustment mechanism 42 of the mounting unit 40 to adjust the height of the mounting space 41 so that the mounting space 41 and the tray 70 are inclined toward the front with respect to the ground surface of the processing apparatus 1. In this case, the tray 70 leans against the wall mechanism 43, making it more difficult for the tray 70 to fall.

[0071] For example, when an operator places the tray 70 in the placement space 41 of the placement unit 40, the identifier 72 attached to the tray 70 is positioned opposite the identifier reading unit 51 provided on the wall mechanism 43. For example, the control unit 80 automatically detects and reads the identifier 72 when the identifier 72 is placed in front of the identifier reading unit 51. For example, the control unit 80 may start reading the identifier 72 based on an operation signal transmitted when the operator presses a read button (not shown).

[0072] For example, the control unit 80 may call up eyeglass lens processing data that is associated in advance with the identifier 72 and display it on the monitor 5. For example, the identifier 72 may store a layout such as the optical center position relative to the lens shape of the eyeglass lens, and the control unit 80 may display a setting screen for the layout data on the monitor 5. For example, the identifier 72 may store various processing conditions such as the material of the eyeglass lens, the type of eyeglass frame, and the processing mode of the eyeglass lens (beveling, grooving, drilling, etc.), and the control unit 80 may display a setting screen for the processing conditions on the monitor 5.

[0073] For example, the operator operates the monitor 5 to change parameters as needed from each setting screen. For example, the control unit 80 acquires processing control data for processing the periphery of the eyeglass lens, taking into account the layout data and processing conditions of the eyeglass lens. As an example, the control unit 80 calculates processing control data for controlling the rotation and movement of the lens chuck shaft 202, etc., based on the layout data and processing conditions of the eyeglass lens.

[0074] <Processing of Spectacle Lenses> For example, an operator removes one of the spectacle lenses from the tray 70, clamps the spectacle lens between the lens chuck shafts 202 (the right chuck shaft 202R and the left chuck shaft 202L) of the lens processing mechanism 10, and presses a processing start switch (not shown). For example, the control unit 80 processes the periphery of the spectacle lens based on an operation signal from the processing start switch. For example, the control unit 80 moves the lens chuck shaft 202 in at least one of the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction based on the processing control data described above, and processes the periphery of the spectacle lens by adjusting the relative positional relationship of the spectacle lens with respect to the grinding wheel (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-177234 for details).

[0075] The processing device 1 vibrates as the edges of the eyeglass lenses are cut by the grindstone, which can cause the tray 70 to gradually slip off the mounting unit 40. However, in this embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism 42, wall mechanism 43, and anti-slip mechanism 44 make it difficult for the tray to slip off, reducing the possibility of the tray falling.

[0076] For example, when the operator has finished peripheral processing of one eyeglass lens, he or she returns the eyeglass lens to the tray 70, clamps the other eyeglass lens by the lens chuck shaft 202, and performs peripheral processing in the same manner. For example, when the operator has finished peripheral processing of both eyeglass lenses, he or she moves the tray 70 placed on the mounting unit 40 to perform the next process. For example, the operator uses the processing device 1 to place the next tray to be processed on the mounting unit 40.

[0077] As described above, for example, the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment includes a housing that covers various components used in the process of processing eyeglass lenses to be framed into eyeglass frames, and a dedicated mounting unit for mounting a tray containing at least one of eyeglass frames or eyeglass lenses, which is connected to the housing and installed outside the housing. For example, when manufacturing eyeglasses, an operator of the eyeglass lens processing device uses trays to store eyeglass frames, eyeglass lenses, etc., to manage these items. However, if the eyeglass lens processing room, etc., is small, there is a possibility that space for the trays cannot be secured, or that trays in operation and standby trays may be mixed, making work difficult, resulting in low productivity and inefficiency. In this embodiment, the eyeglass lens processing device is configured to mount trays, so that at least space for the trays in operation is secured and it is easy to identify the trays in operation. Therefore, the operator can improve the work efficiency of the process of processing eyeglass lenses.

[0078] For example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the placement unit on which the tray is placed is an attachment that can be attached to and detached from the housing. For example, since the working environment in the processing room (for example, the number of devices, the presence or absence of working space, etc.) varies depending on the eyeglass store, etc., by using the placement unit as an attachment, it becomes easier to create an appropriate environment according to the situation.

[0079] For example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the mounting unit is provided with a fall prevention mechanism that prevents the tray from falling from the mounting unit. For example, the eyeglass lens processing device may vibrate during the eyeglass lens processing process, but even in such a case, the possibility of the tray slipping off the mounting unit and falling can be reduced.

[0080] For example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the mounting unit is equipped with a height adjustment mechanism as a fall prevention mechanism, which adjusts the angle of the tray with respect to the ground surface of the eyeglass lens processing device. For example, eyeglass lens processing devices have various housings, and the mounting location of the mounting unit is not necessarily horizontal. For example, if the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device has a curved shape, it may be difficult to stably mount the mounting unit. However, in this embodiment, by adjusting the mounting unit using the height adjustment mechanism, the angle of the tray placed on the mounting unit can be maintained, reducing the possibility of the tray falling from the mounting unit.

[0081] For example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the mounting unit includes a wall mechanism that contacts the side surface of the tray as a fall prevention mechanism. For example, by contacting at least a part of the side surface of the tray (for example, at least one surface) to restrict the movement of the tray in the left-right or front-back direction, the possibility of the tray falling from the mounting unit can be reduced.

[0082] For example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the mounting unit is provided with an anti-slip mechanism that contacts at least the bottom surface of the tray as a fall prevention mechanism. For example, even if the eyeglass lens processing device vibrates during the eyeglass lens processing process, the frictional force of the anti-slip mechanism can reduce the possibility of the tray falling from the mounting unit.

[0083] For example, in the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment, the placement unit is positioned above the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device. For example, in eyeglass stores, the processing room where eyeglasses are processed is often small, and it can be difficult to secure space to place the tray. This problem is particularly likely to occur when there are multiple devices, as space is even less. However, for example, if the height of the housing of the eyeglass lens processing device is low, there may be space above the housing relative to the space of the processing room. Therefore, by positioning the tray placement unit above the housing, as in this embodiment, the space in the processing room can be effectively utilized.

[0084] For example, the eyeglass lens processing device of this embodiment includes an identifier reading unit that reads an identifier attached to a tray when the tray is placed on the placement unit, and an acquisition unit that acquires eyeglass lens processing data corresponding to the identifier based on the identifier read by the identifier reading unit. For example, the tray that stores eyeglass lenses may be labeled with an identifier that identifies various data required for processing the eyeglass lenses (e.g., the eyeglass wearer's eye refractive power data, interpupillary distance, eyepoint position, etc.), data indicating the type of eyeglass frames and eyeglass lenses stored in the tray, etc. This embodiment eliminates the need for an operator to search for and read the identifier attached to the tray, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0085] <Modifications> In the processing device of this embodiment, the configuration in which the mounting unit 40 is arranged so that at least a portion of it contacts the housing 3 of the processing device 1 has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. More specifically, the configuration in which the mounting unit 40 is arranged so that the legs 42b contact the housing 3 of the processing device 1 has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the mounting unit 40 may be arranged above the housing 3 of the processing device 1, and may be arranged so that the mounting unit 40 does not contact the housing 3 of the processing device 1. In this case, a space may be formed between the housing 3 and the mounting space 41 by making the connecting portion 45 of the mounting unit 40 longer.

[0086] In the processing apparatus of this embodiment, the identifier reading unit 50 has been described as being arranged on the wall mechanism 43 provided on the mounting unit 40, but this is not limiting. For example, the identifier reading unit 50 may be arranged in a position where it can automatically detect and read the identifier 72 attached to the tray 70. For example, the identifier reading unit 50 may be arranged in a position where the position of the identifier 72 attached to the tray on the mounting space 41 is included within the reading range (scanning range) of the identifier reading section 51. As an example, the identifier reading unit 50 may be arranged on the housing 3 of the processing apparatus 1 to read the identifier 72 on the tray 70.

[0087] In the processing apparatus of this embodiment, the identifier reading unit 50 has been described as being fixed to the wall mechanism 43 provided on the mounting unit 40, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the identifier reading unit 50 may be configured to be movably disposed on the wall mechanism 43 provided on the mounting unit 40. For example, the identifier reading unit 50 may be configured to be able to move appropriately to match the position of the identifier 72 attached to the tray 70 when the tray 70 is placed on the mounting unit 40.

[0088] 7 is a diagram showing an example of an identifier reading unit. For example, the identifier reading unit 90 may include an identifier reading unit 91 and a drive mechanism 92 that moves the identifier reading unit 91. For example, the drive mechanism 92 may have a rail or the like that slides the identifier reading unit 91 along the wall mechanism 43.

[0089] For example, when placing the tray 70 on the mounting unit 40, the operator checks the position of the identifier 72 attached to the tray 70 and moves the identifier reading unit 90 using the drive mechanism 92. This allows the identifier 72 on the tray 70 to face the identifier reading unit 91, and the identifier 72 can be read by the identifier reading unit 91. For example, the shapes of the trays 70 that store eyeglass frames, eyeglass lenses, etc. vary depending on the manufacturer, and the position of the identifier 72 attached to the tray may differ. For this reason, providing the drive mechanism 92 to the identifier reading unit 90 and making it possible to change the identifier reading unit 91 to match the position of the identifier 72 makes it easier to create an appropriate environment for processing the periphery of eyeglass lenses.

[0090] In the processing apparatus of this embodiment, the mounting unit 40 has been described as an attachment that is detachable from the housing 3, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the mounting unit 40 may be integrally formed with the housing 3. In this case, the mounting unit 40 may be integrally formed within a predetermined area 60 (see FIG. 3 ) on the housing 3 that does not interfere with various operations performed by the operator.

[0091] In the processing apparatus of this embodiment, the mounting unit 40 is described as being configured to mount one tray 70, but this is not limiting. For example, the mounting unit 40 may be configured to mount multiple trays 70. In this case, the mounting space 41 may be provided with a large area so that multiple trays 70 can be arranged side by side. In this case, the trays 70 may be provided with fittings or the like that allow the trays to be stacked on top of each other, and multiple trays may be stacked on the mounting space 41. For example, when multiple trays are stacked on the mounting unit 40, the wall mechanism 43 (see FIG. 2) may be enlarged in the vertical direction relative to the mounting unit 40 to prevent the multiple trays from falling. For example, when multiple trays are stacked on the mounting unit 40, the identifier reading unit 50 may be configured to read the identifiers corresponding to the multiple trays.

[0092] This application claims priority based on Japanese Application No. 2023-125337, filed on August 1, 2023, and incorporates by reference all of the contents of the aforementioned Japanese application.

Claims

1. An eyeglass lens processing device used in a process of processing eyeglass lenses to be framed into eyeglass frames, comprising: a housing that covers various components used when performing the process of processing the eyeglass lenses to be framed into the eyeglass frames; and a mounting unit that is provided exclusively for placing a tray that stores at least one of the eyeglass frames or the eyeglass lenses, the mounting unit being provided outside the housing by being connected to the housing.

2. The eyeglass lens processing device according to claim 1, wherein the mounting unit is an attachment that is detachable from the housing.

3. An eyeglass lens processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the placement unit is provided with a fall prevention mechanism for preventing the tray from falling from the placement unit.

4. An eyeglass lens processing device according to claim 3, wherein the loading unit is provided with a height adjustment mechanism as the fall prevention mechanism for adjusting the angle of the tray relative to the contact surface of the eyeglass lens processing device.

5. An eyeglass lens processing device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the loading unit is provided with a wall mechanism that contacts a side surface of the tray as the fall prevention mechanism.

6. An eyeglass lens processing device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the loading unit is provided with an anti-slip mechanism that contacts at least the bottom surface of the tray as the fall prevention mechanism.

7. The eyeglass lens processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the mounting unit is disposed above the housing.

8. An eyeglass lens processing device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: an identifier reading unit which reads an identifier attached to the tray when the tray is placed on the placement unit; and an acquisition unit which acquires eyeglass lens processing data corresponding to the identifier based on the identifier read by the identifier reading unit.

9. An eyeglass lens processing device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the various members covered by the housing comprise: a holding section which holds the eyeglass lens with a lens chuck shaft; and a processing tool which processes the periphery of the eyeglass lens while the eyeglass lens is held by the lens chuck shaft.

10. A mounting unit that is attached to an eyeglass lens processing device used in a process of processing eyeglass lenses to be framed into eyeglass frames, the eyeglass lens processing device having a housing that covers various components used when carrying out the process of processing the eyeglass lenses to be framed into the eyeglass frames, the mounting unit being attached to the housing to provide a dedicated space outside the housing for placing a tray that stores at least one of the eyeglass frames or the eyeglass lenses.

Images