Method and apparatus for handling an ophthalmic lens at a transfer station of a lens inspection module

The method and apparatus for handling ophthalmic lenses at a transfer station in a lens inspection module address the challenge of lens position deviations by using image analysis to ensure proper alignment before transfer, resulting in improved production yield and packaging accuracy.

WO2025068829A1 Publication Date: 2025-04-03ALCON INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/IB2024/059109
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-09-26
Filing Date
2024-09-19
Publication Date
2025-04-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the automated mass production of ophthalmic lenses, particularly contact lenses, there is a challenge in accurately transferring lenses from inspection cuvettes to primary packaging containers due to deviations in lens position, leading to reduced production yield and unwanted lens placement.

Method used

A method and apparatus that utilize a camera and processor to determine the deviation of the lens's actual position from the set transfer position within the inspection cuvette. Based on this determination, the system decides whether to transfer the lens to the packaging container or not, ensuring proper alignment and transfer only when the deviation is within a predetermined threshold.

Benefits of technology

This solution significantly increases the rate of successful lens transfers, prevents lenses from ending up at unwanted locations, and maintains the integrity of the packaging process, thereby enhancing production yield and reducing waste.

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Abstract

In a method of handling an ophthalmic lens contained in an inspection cuvette and immersed in an inspection liquid the lens is arranged at an actual position relative to a concave inner surface of a bottom glass of the inspection cuvette; The method comprises the steps of: - positioning the inspection cuvette in a handling position without pivoting the inspection cuvette; - through the viewing glass obtaining an image of the lens; - from the obtained image determining a deviation of the actual position of the lens from a set transfer position; - comparing the deviation with a predetermined maximum deviation; - determining that the lens is arranged at a proper transfer position when the deviation is less than the maximum deviation, - in case of the proper transfer position, transferring the lens from the inspection cuvette to the primary packaging container.
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