Centering device and centering program

Abstract

Provided is a centering device used in a step of processing a peripheral edge of a spectacle lens, the centering device comprising: a measurement optical system for measuring optical characteristics of the spectacle lens; a first alignment part having a holding part for holding an edge surface of the spectacle lens and executing rough alignment for positioning the spectacle lens with respect to the measurement optical system; a second alignment part having a detection part for detecting a deviation amount between the spectacle lens and an optical axis of the measurement optical system, and executing fine alignment for adjusting a relative positional relationship between an optical center position of the spectacle lens and the optical axis on the basis of the deviation amount; and a control part. The control part controls the first alignment part to execute rough alignment, and then controls the second alignment part to execute fine alignment.

Description

Centering device and centering program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a centering device used in a process of processing the periphery of an eyeglass lens, and a centering program used in the centering device.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art As an example of an alignment device used in a process of processing the periphery of an eyeglass lens, a cup attachment device that attaches a processing jig (cup) to an eyeglass lens is known.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-38268

[0004] In Patent Document 1, an operator moves the eyeglass lens to align a predetermined position of the eyeglass lens with a reference axis for attaching the cup to the eyeglass lens. However, it is time-consuming and cumbersome for the operator to manually perform the alignment in this manner.

[0005] In view of the above-described conventional techniques, the present disclosure has as its technical object to provide a centering device and a centering program that can easily and accurately align eyeglass lenses.

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure has the following configuration: (1) A centering device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a centering device used in a process of processing the periphery of a spectacle lens, and includes: a measurement optical system that measures optical characteristics of the spectacle lens; a first alignment unit that has a clamping unit that clamps the edge surface of the spectacle lens and performs coarse alignment to align the spectacle lens with the measurement optical system; a second alignment unit that has a detection unit that detects the amount of deviation between the spectacle lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system and performs fine alignment to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the spectacle lens and the optical axis based on the amount of deviation; and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the first alignment unit to perform the coarse alignment, and then controls the second alignment unit to perform the fine alignment. (2) A centering program according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is an alignment program used in an alignment device used in a process of processing the periphery of an eyeglass lens, the centering program having a measurement optical system that measures the optical characteristics of an eyeglass lens, a clamping unit that clamps the edge surface of the eyeglass lens, and a detection unit that detects the amount of deviation between the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system, and is executed by a processor of the centering device to execute a first alignment step that performs coarse alignment to align the eyeglass lens with the measurement optical system using the clamping unit, a second alignment step that performs fine alignment that adjusts the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis based on the amount of deviation detected by the detection unit, and a control step, wherein the control step performs the fine alignment by the second alignment step after performing the coarse alignment by the first alignment step.

[0007] FIG. 1 is an external view of the cup attachment device. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the cup attachment mechanism. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the eyeglass lens measurement mechanism. FIG. 4 is an example of an index plate. FIG. 5 is a view of the first alignment mechanism and the second alignment mechanism from above the cup attachment device. FIG. 6 is a view of the first alignment mechanism and the second alignment mechanism from the front of the cup attachment device. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the control system. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the control operation. FIG. 9 is a view showing a state in which a lens is placed on a cylindrical base after coarse alignment. FIG. 10 is a view showing a state in which a lens is abutted against some of the clamp pins in the clamping section after coarse alignment. FIG. 11 is a view showing a state in which a lens is clamped by each clamp pin in the clamping section after coarse alignment. FIG. 12 is a view showing a state before the lens is moved after fine alignment. FIG. 13 is a view showing a state after the lens has been moved after fine alignment.

[0008] <Overview> An overview of the centering device of this embodiment will be described. The items classified in < > below can be used independently or in conjunction with each other. In this embodiment, "match" is not limited to exact match, but also includes approximate match.

[0009] The centering device of this embodiment may be a centering device used in a process for processing the periphery of an eyeglass lens. For example, the centering device may be a cup attachment device that attaches a processing jig to an eyeglass lens. In this case, the centering device may include a cup attachment unit (e.g., cup attachment mechanism 30) that attaches a cup, which is a processing jig, to the optical surface of the eyeglass lens. For example, the cup attachment unit may attach the cup to the optical center position adjusted by fine alignment, which will be described later. For example, the centering device may be a centering position setting device that sets the attachment position of a holder (e.g., a chuck shaft of an eyeglass lens periphery processing device) that clamps and holds the eyeglass lens. In this case, the centering device may include a setting unit (e.g., control unit 60) that sets the attachment position of the holder that clamps and holds the eyeglass lens during processing, which is the attachment position relative to the optical surface of the eyeglass lens. For example, the setting unit may set the optical center position adjusted by fine alignment, which will be described later, as the attachment position.

[0010] <Measurement optical system> The centering device of this embodiment may include a measurement optical system (e.g., an illumination optical system 41, a light-receiving optical system 45, and an imaging optical system 48). For example, the measurement optical system may be an optical system that measures the optical characteristics of a spectacle lens. For example, the optical characteristics of the spectacle lens may be at least one of spherical power, cylindrical power, astigmatic axis angle, prism amount, etc. For example, the measurement optical system may also serve as an optical system that acquires lens information other than the optical characteristics of the spectacle lens. For example, the lens information of the spectacle lens may be at least one of information regarding the outer shape of the spectacle lens, the shape of the spectacle lens, and information regarding marks, printed marks, hidden marks, etc. affixed to the spectacle lens.

[0011] For example, the measurement optical system may include a light projecting optical system (e.g., illumination optical system 41) that projects a measurement light beam toward the lens surface of the eyeglass lens. For example, the light projecting optical system may include at least a light source (e.g., light source 42). For example, the light projecting optical system may include an index plate that forms an index pattern image using a light projecting unit that projects the measurement light beam from the light source and a light blocking unit that blocks the measurement light beam from the light source. For example, the measurement optical system may include a light receiving optical system (e.g., light receiving optical system 45) that detects the measurement light beam emitted by the light projecting optical system. For example, the light receiving optical system may include at least a detector (e.g., image sensor 47). For example, the detector may detect the measurement light beam that has passed through the lens surface of the eyeglass lens as an index pattern image.

[0012] <First alignment unit> The centering device of this embodiment may include a first alignment unit (e.g., a first alignment mechanism 10). For example, the first alignment unit may have a clamping unit that clamps the edge surface of the eyeglass lens, and may perform coarse alignment to align the eyeglass lens with the measurement optical system.

[0013] For example, in the first alignment unit, the clamping unit that clamps the edge surface of the eyeglass lens may be configured to clamp the eyeglass lens from the side. For example, the clamping unit may have a clamping mechanism that moves toward the eyeglass lens and abuts against the edge surface of the eyeglass lens to clamp the eyeglass lens.

[0014] For example, the clamping mechanism may be a plurality of clamp pins arranged radially from a reference position for aligning the eyeglass lens and the measurement optical system. For example, the plurality of clamp pins may be arranged equidistant from the reference position. For example, the plurality of clamp pins may be arranged equidistantly from the reference position. For example, when the clamping mechanism has such a plurality of clamp pins, the eyeglass lens may be clamped by each clamp pin being moved toward the reference position. As an example, the plurality of clamp pins may be moved in a radial direction from the reference position as a center, or in at least one of the left-right direction and the front-back direction from the reference position as a center.

[0015] For example, the clamping mechanism may be a sliding mechanism that slides in a direction approaching the eyeglass lens. For example, the sliding mechanism may have a pair of sliders that open and close in any one direction relative to a reference position for aligning the eyeglass lens and the measurement optical system. For example, only one of the pair of sliders may be configured to open and close, or both may be configured to open and close in conjunction with each other. For example, when the clamping mechanism has such a pair of sliders, each slider may be moved toward the reference position to clamp the eyeglass lens. As an example, each slider may be moved in at least one of the left-right direction or the front-back direction around the reference position.

[0016] For example, the clamping mechanism may be configured with a clamp pin, a slide mechanism, or another different mechanism. The clamping mechanism may also be a combination of these. For example, the reference position for aligning the eyeglass lens and the measurement optical system may be the position of the optical axis of the measurement optical system.

[0017] For example, the clamping portion of the first alignment unit may be connected to an upper portion of a mounting portion (described later) of the second alignment unit. For example, the clamping portion may be connected to an upper portion of the mounting portion in the optical axis direction of the measurement optical system. In this case, the sliding mechanism of the clamping portion may abut on the left and right sides of the edge surface of the eyeglass lens. For example, the sliding mechanism may slide to abut on the left and right sides of the eyeglass lens when the eyeglass lens is placed on the mounting portion.

[0018] <Second alignment unit> The centering device of this embodiment may include a second alignment unit (e.g., second alignment mechanism 20). For example, the second alignment unit may have a detection unit that detects the amount of misalignment between the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system, and may perform fine alignment to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis based on the amount of misalignment.

[0019] For example, in the second alignment unit, the detection unit that detects the amount of misalignment between the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system may be configured to detect an arbitrary position on the eyeglass lens and to detect the amount of misalignment between the arbitrary position and the optical axis.

[0020] For example, the detection unit may capture an image of the outer shape of the eyeglass lens and perform an analysis process (e.g., circular approximation) on the captured image to detect the geometric center position of the eyeglass lens as an arbitrary position. In this case, the detection unit may detect the amount of deviation based on the position coordinates of the geometric center position and the optical axis. In this case, the detection unit may detect the amount of deviation by converting the number of pixels from the geometric center position to the optical axis into an actual distance.

[0021] For example, the detection unit may detect the optical center position calculated based on the optical characteristics of the eyeglass lens as an arbitrary position. As an example, the detection unit may detect the optical center position calculated based on a change in the interval between index pattern images projected onto the eyeglass lens as an arbitrary position. In this case, the detection unit may detect the amount of deviation based on the position coordinates of the optical center position and the optical axis. In this case, the detection unit may detect the amount of deviation by converting the number of pixels from the optical center position to the optical axis into an actual distance. When the detection unit of the second alignment unit detects the optical center position of the eyeglass lens, the second alignment unit may also serve as at least a part of the measurement optical system.

[0022] For example, a tolerance range may be set for the amount of misalignment between the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system. For example, a uniform tolerance range may be set regardless of the type of eyeglass lens, or different tolerance ranges may be set depending on the type of eyeglass lens. For example, the tolerance range may be a predetermined fixed value. For example, the tolerance range may be an arbitrary value that can be changed as needed. In this case, an operation signal for changing the tolerance range may be output by an operator operating an operation unit (e.g., monitor 2). In this case, an external storage unit (e.g., a USB memory, a server, etc.) may be used, and the operation signal for changing the tolerance range may be output by reading data stored in the external storage unit.

[0023] For example, the second alignment unit may have a placement unit (e.g., placement unit 21) on which the eyeglass lens is placed. For example, the placement unit may have an identification mechanism that identifies an area where the eyeglass lens can be placed. For example, the identification mechanism may be configured to provide an identification function by using members made of different materials for the area where the eyeglass lens can be placed and the area where the eyeglass lens cannot be placed. An example of the members made of different materials may be plastic resin and glass plate. For example, the identification mechanism may be configured to provide an identification function by attaching a mark or the like to the boundary between the area where the eyeglass lens can be placed and the area where the eyeglass lens cannot be placed, or by providing a recess or protrusion. For example, the area where the eyeglass lens can be placed may be an area larger than the maximum diameter of a typical eyeglass lens. For example, the area where the eyeglass lens can be placed may be predetermined based on the results of experiments or simulations in terms of its positional relationship with the clamping unit (e.g., a sliding mechanism).

[0024] <Controller> The centering device of this embodiment may include a controller (e.g., controller 60). For example, the controller controls the first alignment unit to perform coarse alignment, and then controls the second alignment unit to perform fine alignment (an example of a control step). For example, after controlling the first alignment unit to perform coarse alignment, the controller may control the second alignment unit to perform fine alignment if the amount of optical axis misalignment between the eyeglass lens and the measurement optical system exceeds an allowable range. For example, even if the amount of misalignment between the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system does not satisfy the conditions in the coarse alignment, a certain level of accuracy can be maintained by further fine-tuning the positional relationship through fine alignment. As a result, centering of the eyeglass lens (for example, attaching a cup) can be performed with high accuracy.

[0025] For example, the control unit may be configured with a single control unit, and the single control unit may control both the first alignment unit and the second alignment unit. For example, the control unit may be configured with multiple control units, and the multiple control units may control the first alignment unit and the second alignment unit, respectively. As an example, the control unit may include a first control unit that controls the first alignment unit and a second control unit that controls the second alignment unit.

[0026] For example, the control unit may perform coarse alignment by moving the eyeglass lens with a clamping unit (e.g., a sliding mechanism) to align the eyeglass lens with respect to the measurement optical system. For example, the control unit may control the first alignment unit to move the eyeglass lens with the clamping unit in a predetermined direction and move the eyeglass lens closer to the optical axis of the measurement optical system, thereby aligning the eyeglass lens with the optical axis. For example, the control unit may align the geometric center position of the eyeglass lens with the optical axis, or may align the optical center position of the eyeglass lens with the optical axis.

[0027] For example, the control unit may perform fine alignment by adjusting the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis by moving the measurement optical system relative to the eyeglass lens. For example, the control unit may control the drive of a measurement unit including the measurement optical system to move the optical axis of the measurement optical system closer to the eyeglass lens, thereby adjusting the relative positional relationship between the optical center position and the optical axis. For example, the control unit may perform fine alignment by moving the eyeglass lens relative to the measurement optical system to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis. For example, the control unit may control at least the second alignment unit to move the eyeglass lens closer to the optical axis of the measurement optical system, thereby adjusting the relative positional relationship between the optical center position and the optical axis. In this case, compared to a configuration in which the measurement optical system is moved relative to the eyeglass lens, no large-scale drive is required, and therefore adjustment of the positional relationship can be easily performed.

[0028] For example, the control unit may perform fine alignment by moving a mounting unit on which the eyeglass lens is mounted in order to move the eyeglass lens relative to the measurement optical system, thereby making it easier to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system.

[0029] For example, the control unit may perform fine alignment by adjusting the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis by moving the eyeglass lens or the measurement optical system and moving an arbitrary position of the eyeglass lens. For example, the control unit may indirectly adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position and the optical axis by moving the eyeglass lens or the measurement optical system and changing the positional relationship between the geometric center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis. For example, the control unit may directly adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position and the optical axis by moving the eyeglass lens or the measurement optical system and changing the positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis.

[0030] For example, the control unit may perform coarse alignment by moving the slide mechanism of the clamping unit in the first alignment unit at least in the left-right direction to align at least the left-right direction of the eyeglass lens with respect to the measurement optical system. For example, the control unit may integrally move the clamping unit in the first alignment unit and the mounting unit in the second alignment unit at least in the front-to-rear direction. Furthermore, the control unit may perform fine alignment by adjusting the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system at least in the front-to-rear direction. For example, by positioning the slide mechanisms on the left and right of the eyeglass lens, it becomes easier to place the eyeglass lens on the mounting unit, and by moving the clamping unit and the mounting unit integrally with respect to the eyeglass lens, it becomes easier to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system. Therefore, with this configuration, coarse alignment and fine alignment can be performed more easily.

[0031] <Mode Switching Unit> The centering device of this embodiment may include a mode switching unit (e.g., the control unit 60). For example, the mode switching unit outputs a switching signal for switching between a first mode in which only coarse alignment is performed and a second mode in which coarse alignment and fine alignment are performed. For example, the mode switching unit may output the mode switching signal based on an operation signal input by an operator from an operation unit (e.g., the monitor 2). In other words, the operator may be able to manually switch between the first mode and the second mode. For example, the mode switching unit may automatically output the mode switching signal based on any signal generated in a process prior to the start of eyeglass lens alignment.

[0032] For example, the centering device may include an acquisition unit that acquires the type of eyeglass lens, and the mode switching unit may output a switching signal that switches between the first mode and the second mode depending on the type of eyeglass lens. For example, the type of eyeglass lens may be a single-focus lens, a bifocal lens, a progressive lens, etc. For example, the type of eyeglass lens may include whether or not it has a prism, whether or not it is decentered, etc.

[0033] For example, when acquiring the type of eyeglass lens, the acquisition unit may acquire the type of eyeglass lens based on an operation signal input from the operation unit by an operator. For example, the acquisition unit may acquire the type of eyeglass lens by receiving data from a device different from the centering device. For example, the acquisition unit may acquire the type of eyeglass lens by using a detection unit that detects the type of eyeglass lens. For example, the detection unit may irradiate the eyeglass lens with a patterned measurement beam and detect the type based on the spacing between the pattern images. The detection unit may also serve as at least a part of the measurement optical system.

[0034] <Switching Control Unit> The centering device of this embodiment may include a switching control unit (e.g., the control unit 60). For example, the switching control unit executes predetermined control in response to a switching signal from the mode switching unit. For example, by appropriately switching between the execution of coarse alignment in the first mode and the execution of coarse alignment and fine alignment in the second mode, it is possible to easily and accurately center the eyeglass lens.

[0035] For example, the switching control unit may automatically start either the first mode or the second mode as a predetermined control in response to a switching signal for the first mode or the second mode. For example, the switching control unit may output guide information that guides the operator's next action as a predetermined control in response to the switching signal for the first mode or the second mode. For example, the switching control unit may output the guide information by at least one of displaying a message on the display unit, generating a voice announcement on the audio generation unit (e.g., a speaker), notifying the operator (e.g., a lamp), etc.

[0036] 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.

[0037] An example of the present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this example, a cup attachment device will be used as an example of the centering device.

[0038] 1 is an external view of a cup attachment device 1. For example, the cup attachment device 1 includes a monitor 2, a first alignment mechanism 10, a second alignment mechanism 20, a cup attachment mechanism 30, and an eyeglass lens measurement mechanism 40 (see FIG. 3 ).

[0039] In this embodiment, a touch panel function is added to the monitor 2, and the monitor 2 functions as an operation unit (controller). The monitor 2 and the operation unit may be provided separately, in which case at least one of a mouse, joystick, keyboard, mobile terminal, etc. may be used as the operation unit. In this embodiment, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is used for the monitor 2. An organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, a plasma display, etc. may also be used for the monitor 2.

[0040] For example, the monitor 2 displays various information including at least one of information about a cup to be attached to the eyeglass lens, optical property information about the eyeglass lens (first information), and information different from the optical property information about the eyeglass lens (second information). As an example, the information about the cup to be attached to the eyeglass lens may be the outer shape of the cup. As an example, the first information about the eyeglass lens may be at least one of spherical power, cylindrical power, astigmatic axis angle, prism amount, decentering amount, and the like. As an example, the second information about the eyeglass lens may be at least one of the outer shape of the eyeglass lens, lens shape, printed marks, hidden marks, printed dots, hole shapes, hole positions, and the like.

[0041] For example, the monitor 2 displays various operation screens including at least one of an axis setting screen for attaching a cup to an eyeglass lens, a layout screen for inputting the processing layout of the eyeglass lens, a processing condition setting screen for inputting the processing conditions of the eyeglass lens, etc.

[0042] 2 is a schematic diagram of the cup attachment mechanism 30. The cup attachment mechanism 30 attaches a cup to a spectacle lens. For example, the cup attachment mechanism 30 includes a mounting portion 31, an arm 32, an arm holding base 33, a motor 34, an X-direction movement mechanism 35, a Y-direction movement mechanism 36, a Z-direction movement mechanism 37, and the like.

[0043] For example, a cup Cu is attached to the attachment portion 31. For example, the attachment portion 31 has an uneven portion 31a that fits into an uneven portion Cua formed on the cup Cu. For example, the attachment portion 31 is fixed to an arm 32. For example, the arm 32 includes a rotation transmission mechanism (not shown) that variably maintains the horizontal rotation angle of the attachment portion 31. For example, the arm 32 is fixed to an arm holding base 33. For example, the arm holding base 33 houses a motor 34. For example, the rotation of the motor 34 is transmitted to the attachment portion 31 via the rotation transmission mechanism (not shown) of the arm 32. This causes the attachment portion 31 to rotate around the attachment center axis C1 of the cup Cu.

[0044] For example, the X-direction movement mechanism 35, the Y-direction movement mechanism 36, and the Z-direction movement mechanism 37 each include a motor (not shown). For example, the X-direction movement mechanism 35 moves in the left-right direction (X direction) of the cup attachment device 1. For example, the Y-direction movement mechanism 36 is installed above the X-direction movement mechanism 35. For example, the Y-direction movement mechanism 36 moves in the up-down direction (Y direction) of the cup attachment device 1. For example, the Z-direction movement mechanism 37 is installed above the Y-direction movement mechanism 36. For example, the Z-direction movement mechanism 37 moves in the front-rear direction (Z direction) of the cup attachment device 1. For example, the Z-direction movement mechanism 37 holds the arm 32, the arm holding base 33, and the motor 34 housed in the arm holding base 33.

[0045] For example, in this embodiment, movement of the X-direction movement mechanism 35 causes the Y-direction movement mechanism 36, the Z-direction movement mechanism 37, the arm 32, etc. to move left and right relative to the cup attachment device 1. For example, in this embodiment, movement of the Z-direction movement mechanism 37 causes the arm 32, etc. to move forward and backward relative to the cup attachment device 1. This causes the attachment unit 31 to move to above the first alignment mechanism 10 and the second alignment mechanism 20.

[0046] For example, in this embodiment, when the Y-direction moving mechanism 36 is moved, the Z-direction moving mechanism 37, the arm 32, etc. move vertically relative to the cup attachment device 1. As a result, the cup Cu attached to the attachment portion 31 is centered on the eyeglass lens.

[0047] 3 is a schematic diagram of the eyeglass lens measurement mechanism 40. For example, the eyeglass lens measurement mechanism 40 in this embodiment serves both as a measurement optical system that acquires the optical characteristics of the lens and as a measurement optical system that acquires lens information other than the optical characteristics of the lens. The measurement optical system that acquires the optical characteristics of the lens and the measurement optical system that acquires lens information other than the optical characteristics of the lens may each be provided separately.

[0048] For example, the eyeglass lens measurement mechanism 40 includes an illumination optical system 41, a light-receiving optical system 45, an imaging optical system 48, etc. For example, the illumination optical system 41 includes a light source 42, a half mirror 43, a concave mirror 44, etc. For example, the light source 42 irradiates the lens with a measurement light beam. For example, the light source 42 may be an LED (light emitting diode). For example, the measurement light beam emitted from the light source 42 is reflected by the half mirror 43 arranged on the optical axis N2 and coincides with the optical axis N2. For example, the concave mirror 44 reflects the measurement light beam from the optical axis N2 toward the optical axis N1 and shapes the measurement light beam into a parallel light beam (approximately parallel light beam) with a diameter larger than that of the lens LE arranged on the optical axis N1. Although a lens can be used instead of the concave mirror, using a concave mirror is advantageous in order to prevent the device from becoming too large.

[0049] For example, the light receiving optical system 45 includes an index plate 46, an image sensor 47, etc. For example, the index plate 46 detects the optical center of the lens LE, etc. Details of the index plate 46 will be described later. For example, the image sensor 47 captures an image of the measurement light beam that is irradiated from the light source 42 and passes through the lens LE, a cylindrical base 24 (described later), and the index plate 46. For example, the image sensor 47 may be a charge coupled device (CCD), a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), etc. Note that the light receiving optical system 45 in this embodiment may have a configuration in which a lens is disposed between the index plate 46 and the image sensor 47.

[0050] For example, the imaging optical system 48 includes a concave mirror 44, an aperture 49, an imaging lens 50, an imaging element 51, etc. For example, the imaging magnification of the imaging optical system 48 is set so that the entire lens LE is imaged by the imaging element 51. For example, the concave mirror 44 in the imaging optical system 48 is also used as the concave mirror 44 in the illumination optical system 41. For example, the aperture 49 is disposed at the focal position (approximate focal position) of the concave mirror 44. For example, the aperture 49 is positioned conjugate (approximately conjugate) with the light source 42. For example, the imaging element 51 captures an image of a light beam emitted from the light source 42 and reflected by a retroreflective member 52 (described later). For example, the imaging element 51 may be a charge-coupled device (CCD), a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), etc. For example, the focal position of the imaging element 51 is adjusted to be near the surface of the lens LE by the imaging lens 50 and the concave mirror 44. This allows the imaging element 51 to capture images of marks marked on the surface of the lens, hidden marks formed on the lens, etc. in a nearly focused state.

[0051] <Index Plate> Figure 4 shows an example of the index plate 46. For example, the index plate 46 has a large number of openings (light beam passage openings) 55 formed in a predetermined pattern. For example, in this embodiment, the openings 55 are formed by attaching a retroreflective member 52 (described later) to an area other than the openings 55. For example, in this embodiment, circular openings 55 are arranged at equal intervals. Note that the index plate 46 only needs to have a pattern formed thereon that allows the optical center position and optical characteristics of the lens LE to be detected, and the shape and intervals of the openings 55 are not limited to those in this embodiment.

[0052] For example, the opening 55 is made up of a central hole 56 formed in the center of the index plate 46 and peripheral holes 57 formed around the central hole 56. For example, the central hole 56 coincides with the optical axis N1. For example, the central hole 56 in this embodiment is a different size from the peripheral holes 57, making it possible to distinguish the central hole 56 from the peripheral holes 57. Note that the size, number, shape, position, etc. of the central holes 56 may be different from those in this embodiment, as long as they can be distinguished from the peripheral holes 57. This makes it possible to identify the correspondence between the peripheral holes 57 when the image of the opening 55 captured by the imaging element 47 (hereinafter referred to as the aperture image) is displaced due to the optical characteristics of the lens LE.

[0053] For example, the retroreflecting member 52 is used to reflect the measurement light beam in the same direction (approximately the same direction) as the incident direction. For example, the retroreflecting member 52 is attached to the upper surface of the index plate 46 and the upper surface of a disk member 54 having an opening 53 in the center. For example, the disk member 54 may be rotated around an axis centered on the optical axis N1 by a rotation mechanism (not shown). For details about the retroreflecting member 52 and its rotation mechanism, see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-299140.

[0054] 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating the first alignment mechanism 10 and the second alignment mechanism 20. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the first alignment mechanism 10 and the second alignment mechanism 20 as viewed from above (Y direction) of the cup attachment device 1. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the first alignment mechanism 10 and the second alignment mechanism 20 as viewed from the front (Z direction) of the cup attachment device 1. Note that Figs. 5 and 6 show a state in which the lens LE is placed on a placement unit 21 (described below) so that the geometric center position L1 of the lens LE coincides with the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system.

[0055] <First Alignment Mechanism> The first alignment mechanism 10 performs coarse alignment to align the lens LE with the measurement optical system. For example, the first alignment mechanism 10 includes a clamping unit 11, a motor 12, and the like.

[0056] For example, the clamping unit 11 is configured with a slide mechanism that contacts the edge surface of the lens LE. For example, the slide mechanism of the clamping unit 11 is provided with various members so as to come into contact with regions of the lens LE that have predetermined radius vector angles (regions α1 and α2, and regions β1 and β2, which will be described later). In this embodiment, the slide mechanism comes into contact with the regions of the predetermined radius vector angles by means of left and right sliders and clamp pins that the left and right sliders each have.

[0057] For example, the clamping unit 11 includes a pair of left and right sliders 11a and 11b that are symmetrically arranged with respect to the center line M1 in the left-right direction of the cup attachment device 1, the center line M1 passing through the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the left and right sliders 11a and 11b open and close in conjunction with each other in directions toward and away from the optical axis N1. For example, the left and right sliders 11a and 11b slide so that the distance by which the left slider 11a approaches the optical axis N1 and the distance by which the right slider 11b approaches the optical axis N1 are always the same. For example, the left and right sliders 11a and 11b slide so that the distance by which the left slider 11a moves away from the optical axis N1 and the distance by which the right slider 11b moves away from the optical axis N1 are always the same.

[0058] For example, the left slider 11a includes two clamp pins (clamp pins 13a and 13b) and a recess 14. For example, the right slider 11b includes two clamp pins (clamp pins 13c and 13d) and a recess 15.

[0059] For example, the left slider 11a is provided with two clamp pins 13a and 13b that are arranged symmetrically in the front-rear direction with respect to the center line M2 of the cup attachment device 1 in the front-rear direction, which passes through the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the clamp pins 13a and 13b may be arranged at a predetermined interval based on the maximum and minimum diameters of a typical lens. For example, the clamp pin 13a may be arranged so as to contact the lens LE in a range α1 of a radius vector angle of 30 to 60 degrees, with the position of the center line M2 relative to the lens LE being the position of a radius vector angle of 0 degrees. More preferably, for example, the clamp pin 13a may be arranged so as to contact the lens LE in a range α2 of a radius vector angle of 40 to 50 degrees relative to the lens LE. For example, the clamp pin 13b may be arranged so as to contact the lens LE in a range α2 of a radius vector angle of 300 to 330 degrees (more preferably, a radius vector angle of 310 to 320 degrees) relative to the lens LE.

[0060] For example, the right slider 11b is provided with two clamp pins 13c and 13d that are arranged symmetrically in the front-to-rear direction with respect to a center line M2 that passes through the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the clamp pins 13c and 13d may be arranged at a predetermined interval based on the maximum and minimum diameters of a typical lens. For example, the clamp pin 13c may be arranged so as to contact the lens LE in a region β1 where the radius vector angle relative to the lens LE is 120 degrees to 150 degrees (more preferably, 130 degrees to 140 degrees). For example, the clamp pin 13d may be arranged so as to contact the lens LE in a region β2 where the radius vector angle relative to the lens LE is 210 degrees to 240 degrees (more preferably, 220 degrees to 230 degrees).

[0061] For example, clamp pins 13a and 13b of left slider 11a and clamp pins 13c and 13d of right slider 11b are arranged symmetrically with respect to center line M1 of lens LE, and correspond to areas α1 and α2, and areas β1 and β2, respectively. For example, by appropriately limiting the area where each clamp pin can come into contact with lens LE, it is possible to move lens LE closer to optical axis N1 (details will be described later).

[0062] For example, the tip of the clamp pins 13a to 13d is formed in a semicircular shape. For example, the tip of each clamp pin may be triangular, rectangular, or the like. For example, the inside of the clamp pins 13a to 13d is provided with a spring (not shown). For example, when each clamp pin abuts against the lens LE, it is pressed by the lens LE, compressing the spring, and the spring's biasing force acts on the lens LE. This allows the lens LE to be clamped evenly.

[0063] For example, in the left slider 11a, a recess 14 is provided between the two clamp pins 13a and 13b. Similarly, in the right slider 11b, a recess 15 is provided between the two clamp pins 13c and 13d. For example, the recesses 14 and 15 are provided to prevent the edge surface of the lens LE from abutting against the side surface of the slider, thereby preventing the lens LE from abutting against only one of the two clamp pins, or against neither of them.

[0064] For example, if the lens diameter of the lens LE is small, the lens LE will abut against each clamp pin at a position closer to the radius vector angles of 90 degrees and 270 degrees, and a larger portion of the lens LE will get between each clamp pin. For example, if the left slider 11a does not have the recess 14, the clamp pins 13a and 13b will not abut against the lens LE depending on the lens LE, and the lens LE will not be properly clamped. The same is true for the right slider 11b. However, if the recess 14 and recess 15 are provided as in this embodiment, a portion of the lens LE will fit into each recess, and all of the clamp pins 13a to 13d will abut against the lens LE, allowing the lens LE to be properly clamped.

[0065] For example, the motor 12 moves the clamping unit 11. For example, the motor 12 opens and closes the left slider 11a and the right slider 11b of the clamping unit 11 in the left-right direction, and slides the left slider 11a and the right slider 11b.

[0066] <Second Alignment Mechanism> The second alignment mechanism 20 is used to perform fine alignment to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the second alignment mechanism 20 includes a mounting unit 21, a motor 22, a detection unit 23, etc.

[0067] For example, the lens LE is placed with its surface (front surface) facing upward on the placement unit 21. For example, the placement unit 21 is disposed between the concave mirror 44 and the index plate 46 in the measurement optical system. For example, the clamping unit 11 is disposed on the placement unit 21 and connected thereto.

[0068] For example, the mounting portion 21 has a cylindrical base 24. For example, the cylindrical base 24 is disposed so that a center position B1 of the cylindrical base 24 coincides with an optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the cylindrical base 24 is formed of a light-transmitting material (e.g., acrylic resin). Therefore, the cylindrical base 24 can transmit the measurement light beam refracted by the lens LE and the measurement light beam reflected by the retroreflective member 52.

[0069] For example, the cylindrical base 24 is configured with a predetermined diameter based on the maximum and minimum diameters of a typical lens. For example, when the lens LE is placed on the cylindrical base 24 so that part of the diameter of the lens LE is aligned with the diameter of the cylindrical base 24, the diameter is configured so that the clamp pins 13a to 13d abut against the regions α1 and α2 and the regions β1 and β2 of the lens LE. As an example, the diameter of the cylindrical base 24 may be φ100.

[0070] In this embodiment, the cylindrical base 24 of the mounting unit 21 also serves to identify an area on the mounting unit 21 where the lens LE can be mounted. For example, the portion of the mounting unit 21 that is different from the cylindrical base 24 is formed of a light-blocking material. Therefore, the boundary between the portion that is different from the cylindrical base 24 and the cylindrical base 24 can be easily identified.

[0071] For example, the motor 22 moves the placing unit 21. For example, the motor 22 moves the clamping unit 11 connected to the placing unit 21 together with the placing unit 21. For example, the motor 22 moves the placing unit 21 (and the clamping unit 11) in the left-right direction and the front-back direction.

[0072] For example, the detection unit 23 detects the amount of misalignment between the lens LE and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the detection unit 23 detects the amount of misalignment between the optical center position L2 calculated based on the optical characteristics of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the detection unit 23 may also serve as part of the measurement optical system, capture an image of the lens LE using the image sensor 47, and detect the optical center position L2 using the interval between pattern images formed by the index plate 46 projected onto the lens LE. For example, the detection unit 23 may detect the amount of misalignment by converting the number of pixels from the optical center position L2 of the lens LE to the optical axis N1 into an actual distance.

[0073] <Controller> Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the control system in the cup attachment device 1. For example, the controller 60 is electrically connected to the monitor 2, a non-volatile memory 65 (hereinafter referred to as memory 65), etc. For example, the controller 60 is electrically connected to the motor 12 of the first alignment mechanism 10, the motor 22 of the second alignment mechanism 20, the motor 34 of the cup attachment mechanism 30, a motor (not shown) of the X-direction movement mechanism 35, a motor (not shown) of the Y-direction movement mechanism 36, a motor (not shown) of the Z-direction movement mechanism 37, etc. For example, the controller 60 is electrically connected to the light source 42 of the eyeglass lens measurement mechanism 40, the image sensor 47, a motor (not shown) that rotates the retroreflective member 52, etc.

[0074] For example, the control unit 60 includes a CPU (processor), RAM, ROM, etc. For example, the CPU may control the driving of each part in the cup attachment device 1. For example, the RAM may temporarily store various pieces of information. For example, the ROM may store various programs executed by the CPU.

[0075] <Control Operation> The control operation of the cup attachment device 1 having the above-described configuration will be described.

[0076] For example, when making eyeglasses, an operator attaches a cup to a lens LE using the cup attachment device 1. Conventionally, the operator manually moves the lens LE and attaches the cup in a state where the optical center position L2 of the lens LE is aligned with the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. However, in this embodiment, by using the first alignment mechanism 10, the operator can automatically move the lens LE toward the optical axis N1 (centrifugation) simply by placing the lens LE on the mounting unit 21. Furthermore, by using the second alignment mechanism 20, the relative positional relationship between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 can be automatically fine-tuned.

[0077] For example, in a single-focus lens, the optical center L2 is often located at the geometric center L1, but these positions do not necessarily coincide due to individual differences in the lens and the presence or absence of decentering. For this reason, not only is the centering of the lens important, but subsequent fine adjustments are also important. Below, the procedure for attaching a cup to the lens LE will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 8, taking the lens LE as an example.

[0078] <Acquisition of Lens Shape (S1)> First, the lens shape of the lens LE is acquired. For example, the lens shape of the lens LE may be the outer peripheral shape of a demo lens, the inner peripheral shape of a frame, or the like. For example, when acquiring the outer peripheral shape of the demo lens as the lens shape of the lens LE, an entire image of the demo lens may be captured using the eyeglass lens measuring mechanism 40, and the outer peripheral shape may be detected. For example, when acquiring the inner peripheral shape of the frame as the lens shape of the lens LE, data on the inner peripheral shape of the frame may be received from an eyeglass frame shape measuring device or the like. For example, the control unit 60 stores the lens shape of the lens LE in the memory 65. Note that the lens shape of both the left lens and the right lens may be acquired. The lens shape of either the left lens or the right lens may be acquired, and the lens shape of the other lens may be acquired by flipping it horizontally.

[0079] <Acquisition of Refractive Index (S2)> Next, the refractive index of the lens LE is acquired. For example, the refractive index of the lens LE may be acquired by the operator operating the monitor 2 to input a value. For example, the refractive index of the lens LE may be acquired by receiving data on the refractive index measured using another device. For example, the control unit 60 stores the refractive index of the lens LE in the memory 65.

[0080] <Setting Processing Conditions and Layout (S3)> Next, the processing conditions and layout of the lens LE are set. The operator may operate the monitor 2 to set the processing conditions of the lens LE for each of the left and right lenses. For example, the processing conditions of the lens LE may be at least one of the following: the type of lens LE (e.g., single-focus lens, bifocal lens, progressive lens, etc.), the material of the lens LE, the material of the frame, the presence or absence of various processing (e.g., the presence or absence of mirror finishing, chamfering, grooving, etc.), the attachment position of the cup Cu relative to the lens LE (e.g., the optical center position or geometric center position of the lens LE), etc. The operator may also operate the monitor 2 to set the layout of the lens LE. For example, the layout of the lens LE may be at least one of the distance between the frame centers, the interpupillary distance of the spectacle wearer, the astigmatic axis angle of the spectacle wearer, etc.

[0081] <Placing the Lens (S4)> After the operator has finished setting the processing conditions and layout of the lens LE, the operator places the lens LE on the placement unit 21. For example, the operator places the lens LE on the cylindrical base 24 of the placement unit 21. At this time, the lens LE may be placed at any position that fits within the range of the cylindrical base 24.

[0082] <Performing Coarse Alignment (S5)> After placing the lens LE on the mounting unit 21, the operator operates the monitor 2 to operate a start switch for performing coarse alignment. For example, based on an input signal from the start switch, the control unit 60 controls the motor 12 in the first alignment mechanism 10 to move each slider of the clamping unit 11 in the left-right direction. The execution of coarse alignment is an example of a first alignment step.

[0083] 9 to 11 are diagrams illustrating the coarse alignment of the lens LE. FIG. 9 shows the lens LE placed on the cylindrical base 24. FIG. 10 shows the lens LE abutting against some of the clamp pins in the clamping unit 11. FIG. 11 shows the lens LE clamped by the clamp pins in the clamping unit 11. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, if the lens LE is placed so that the position of the radius vector angle of 90 degrees is aligned near the upper end of the cylindrical base 24, some of the clamp pins will abut against the edge surface of the lens LE when the left slider 11a and the right slider 11b close in the direction toward the lens LE. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the clamp pin 13a of the left slider 11a and the clamp pin 13c of the right slider 11b will abut against the edge surface of the lens LE first. For example, the clamp pin 13a abuts on a region α1 of the lens LE, and the clamp pin 13c abuts on a region β1 of the lens LE that is bilaterally symmetrical to the region α1.

[0084] For example, when the sliders are further closed from the state shown in Fig. 10, the lens LE is gradually pushed forward by the clamp pins 13a and 13c abutting against the edge surfaces of the lens LE. Then, as shown in Fig. 11, the lens LE comes into contact with the clamp pin 13b of the left slider 11a and the clamp pin 13c of the right slider 11b while remaining in contact with the clamp pin 13b of the left slider 11a and the clamp pin 13d of the right slider 11b. At this time, the lens LE is stably held between the four clamp pins, and a load is generated by the lens LE, which stops the movement of the sliders.

[0085] 11, the lens LE moves toward the front, and the edge surface of the lens LE is clamped at a position symmetrical left and right with respect to the center line M1, and at a position symmetrical front and back with respect to the center line M2, so that the geometric center position L1 of the lens LE coincides with the center position B1 of the cylindrical base 24 and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. In this way, the geometric center position L1 of the lens LE is centered on the optical axis N1, and rough alignment of the lens LE is completed.

[0086] For example, no matter where the lens LE is placed within the range of the cylindrical base 24, the clamp pins will first come into contact with at least one of regions α1, α2, β1, and β2 on the edge surface of the lens LE. As a result, the lens LE is pushed out toward the center position B1 of the cylindrical base 24 (i.e., the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system), completing rough alignment of the lens LE.

[0087] <Performing Fine Alignment (S6)> When the coarse alignment of the lens LE is completed, the control unit 60 starts fine alignment of the lens LE as necessary. The execution of fine alignment is an example of a second alignment step.

[0088] <Detection of Optical Center Position (S6-1)> First, the control unit 60 detects the optical center position L2 of the lens LE. For example, the control unit 60 uses the image sensor 51 in the measurement optical system to capture an image of the lens LE, including an aperture image (pattern image). For example, the control unit 60 determines the position coordinates of the aperture image, and detects the optical center position L2 and optical characteristics of the lens LE based on the position coordinates. For details on detecting the optical center position L2 and optical characteristics of the lens LE, please refer to Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-241694.

[0089] <Detection of deviation between optical center position and optical axis (S6-2)> Next, the control unit 60 detects the deviation between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, the control unit 60 uses the image of the lens LE to detect these deviations based on the pixel position of the optical center position L2 detected in step S6-1 and the pixel position of the optical axis N1.

[0090] For example, the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system and the imaging optical axis of the imaging element 51 are aligned, and the optical axis N1 is located at the center of the image of the lens LE. For example, the control unit 60 calculates the number of pixels by which a pixel position corresponding to the optical center position L2 of the lens LE is separated in the left-right direction and the front-back direction from a pixel position corresponding to the center of the image of the lens LE. For example, the control unit 60 calculates the amount of deviation δx in the left-right direction and the amount of deviation δz in the front-back direction based on the actual distance corresponding to one pixel. For example, the control unit 60 stores the amount of deviation δx and the amount of deviation δz in the memory 65.

[0091] <Detecting Whether the Amount of Misalignment is Within the Tolerance Range (S6-3)> Here, the control unit 60 detects whether the amounts of misalignment δx and δz between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system are both within the tolerance range A. For example, such a tolerance range may be set to a range within which a certain level of accuracy can be maintained for the measurement of the optical center position L2 and optical characteristics by the measurement optical system. For example, if the amount of misalignment between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 is within the tolerance range (step S6-3: YES), the control unit 60 proceeds to step S7 and attaches a cup to the lens LE. For example, if the amount of misalignment between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 is outside the tolerance range (step S6-3: NO), the control unit 60 adjusts the relative positional relationship between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1.

[0092] <Adjusting the Positional Relationship Between the Lens and the Optical Axis (S6-4)> In this example, a case is illustrated in which the optical center position L2 of the lens LE is located to the left of the geometric center position L1, causing a misalignment between the optical center position L2 and the optical axis N1, as shown in Fig. 11. That is, a case is illustrated in which only a misalignment amount δx occurs between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 in the left-right direction, and no misalignment amount δz occurs (is zero) in the front-to-rear direction.

[0093] 12 and 13 are diagrams illustrating the adjustment of the positional relationship between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. FIG. 12 shows the state before the lens LE is moved, and FIG. 13 shows the state after the lens LE has been moved. For example, the control unit 60 moves the lens LE left and right relative to the optical axis N1 so that the deviation δx between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 falls within an allowable range. More specifically, the motor 22 is driven to move the mounting unit 21 and the clamping unit 11 together, thereby moving the lens LE left and right relative to the optical axis N1 so that the optical center position L2 of the lens LE coincides with the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system. For example, in this manner, the optical center position L2 of the lens LE is aligned with the optical axis N1, completing fine alignment of the lens LE.

[0094] Note that the control unit 60 may again detect the optical center position L2 and perform fine alignment after completing fine alignment of the lens LE. For example, the optical center position L2 calculated during coarse alignment of the lens LE is a position detected outside the tolerance range where a certain level of accuracy cannot be maintained. Based on this, the deviation amounts δx and δz are calculated and the positional relationship with the optical axis N1 is adjusted. For example, since the measurement optical system has higher detection accuracy the closer it is to the optical axis N1 (in other words, the closer it is to the periphery of the optical axis N1), when the optical center position L2 is redetected after fine alignment of the lens LE, it may not be within the tolerance range. Therefore, fine alignment of the lens LE may be performed multiple times to further improve the accuracy of the optical center position L2.

[0095] <Attaching the Cup (S7)> When the fine alignment of the lens LE is completed, the control unit 60 displays various information on the monitor 2. For example, the control unit 60 displays the optical center position L2 and the target lens shape superimposed on an image of the lens LE. For example, the control unit 60 displays a message indicating that it is possible to attach a cup to the lens LE on the monitor 2. For example, the operator attaches the cup Cu to the attachment portion 31 of the cup attachment mechanism 30 and operates the monitor 2 to operate a start switch that executes cup attachment. For example, the control unit 60 controls the motor 34 based on an input signal from the start switch to attach the cup Cu to the optical center position L2 of the lens LE.

[0096] As described above, for example, the centering device of this embodiment includes a measurement optical system for measuring the optical characteristics of an eyeglass lens, a first alignment unit having a clamping unit for clamping the edge surface of the eyeglass lens and performing coarse alignment to align the eyeglass lens with the measurement optical system, a second alignment unit having a detection unit for detecting the amount of misalignment between the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system and performing fine alignment to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis based on the amount of misalignment, and a control unit. The control unit controls the first alignment unit to perform coarse alignment and then controls the second alignment unit to perform fine alignment. For example, if the eyeglass lens is placed in a predetermined position and then moved toward the measurement optical system (by so-called centration), the operator's work is simplified, but the alignment accuracy may not be maintained. In particular, due to individual differences in eyeglass lenses, the farther the optical center position is from the center of the eyeglass lens, the more likely this problem is to occur. Therefore, if the amount of misalignment between the spectacle lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system does not satisfy the condition, a certain level of accuracy can be maintained for alignment by further fine-tuning their positional relationship, which results in accurate alignment of the spectacle lens (for example, attachment of a cup).

[0097] For example, in the centering device of this embodiment, the control unit adjusts the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis by moving the eyeglass lens relative to the measurement optical system, thereby performing fine alignment. This makes it easier to adjust the positional relationship compared to when the measurement optical system is configured to move relative to the eyeglass lens.

[0098] For example, in the centering device of this embodiment, the second alignment unit has a mounting unit on which the eyeglass lens is mounted, and the control unit performs fine alignment by moving the mounting unit to move the eyeglass lens relative to the measurement optical system, which makes it easier to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system.

[0099] For example, in the centering device of this embodiment, the clamping portion of the first alignment unit has a slide mechanism that slides toward the eyeglass lens and abuts against the edge surface of the eyeglass lens. The control unit aligns the eyeglass lens with the measurement optical system by moving the eyeglass lens with the slide mechanism, thereby performing coarse alignment. This allows the eyeglass lens to be moved while pressing the edge surface of the eyeglass lens so that the optical center position of the eyeglass lens is as close as possible to the optical axis of the measurement optical system.

[0100] For example, in the centering device of this embodiment, the clamping portion of the first alignment unit is connected to and positioned above the mounting portion of the second alignment unit. The slide mechanism of the clamping portion abuts the left and right edges of the eyeglass lens. The control unit performs coarse alignment by moving the slide mechanism at least in the left-right direction to align at least the left-right direction of the eyeglass lens with respect to the measurement optical system. Furthermore, the control unit performs fine alignment by integrally moving the clamping portion and the mounting portion at least in the front-to-back direction to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system at least in the front-to-back direction. For example, by positioning the slide mechanisms on the left and right sides of the eyeglass lens, it is easier to mount the eyeglass lens on the mounting portion, and by integrally moving the clamping portion and the mounting portion relative to the eyeglass lens, it is easier to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system. Therefore, this configuration makes it easier to perform coarse alignment and fine alignment.

[0101] In the present embodiment, the left slider 11 a and the right slider 11 b of the clamping unit 11 in the first alignment mechanism 10 are each provided with two clamp pins, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the left slider 11 a and the right slider 11 b may each be provided with three or more clamp pins.

[0102] In this embodiment, the left slider 11a and the right slider 11b slide in unison to open and close the sliders 11a and 11b, but this is not limiting. For example, the left slider 11a and the right slider 11b may slide independently. In this case, the left slider 11a and the right slider 11b may be opened and closed by their respective motors. In this case, each motor may be controlled to be driven by the same amount of drive.

[0103] In this embodiment, the configuration in which coarse alignment is performed using the first alignment mechanism 10 and fine alignment is performed using the second alignment mechanism 20 has been described as an example, but this is not limiting. For example, both coarse alignment and fine alignment may be performed using the first alignment mechanism 10. In this case, the first alignment mechanism 10 may be configured so that each slider of the clamping unit 11 can move in the left-right direction as well as the front-back direction. As an example, a motor 12 that moves each slider in the left-right direction in unison and another motor that moves each slider in the front-back direction in unison may be provided. In this way, after the lens LE is centered, the optical center position L2 of the lens LE may be adjusted to coincide with the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system.

[0104] In this embodiment, the configuration for detecting the amount of deviation between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system has been described as an example, but this is not limiting. For example, the center position of the lens LE may be detected based on the outer shape of the lens LE, and the amount of deviation between the center position of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 may be detected. For example, a marking on the surface of the lens LE may be detected, and the amount of deviation between the marking and the optical axis N2 may be detected. In these cases, the relative positional relationship between the optical center position L2 of the lens LE and the optical axis N1 may be adjusted based on the amount of deviation between the center position or marking and the optical axis N1 of the lens LE, thereby adjusting the relative positional relationship between the center position or marking and the optical axis N1 of the lens LE.

[0105] In this embodiment, a configuration in which fine alignment is performed following coarse alignment of the lens LE has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in this embodiment, the configuration may be such that it is possible to switch between a first mode in which only coarse alignment of the lens LE is performed, and a second mode in which coarse alignment and fine alignment of the lens LE are performed.

[0106] For example, an operator may operate a selection switch to select the first mode or the second mode, which outputs a switching signal and switches between the modes. For example, the first mode and the second mode may be automatically switched between when the lens LE is a single-focus lens and when the lens LE is a lens other than a single-focus lens (for example, a bifocal lens or a progressive lens). For example, a switching signal may be output and one of the modes may be automatically set depending on the type of lens input by the operator when setting the processing conditions for the lens LE (step S3). Alternatively, for example, when detecting the optical center position of the lens LE (step S6-1), the type of lens may be determined based on a change in the aperture image (pattern image), which may output a switching signal and automatically set one of the modes.

[0107] For example, if the lens LE is a lens other than a fixed-focus lens, the first mode may be set and executed. For example, after the lens LE is centered on the optical axis N1 of the measurement optical system by coarse alignment, at least one of a small ball, a printed mark, a hidden mark, etc. may be detected from the image of the lens LE, and the cup Cu may be attached based on the detection results. For example, if the lens LE is a fixed-focus lens, the second mode may be set, and coarse alignment and fine alignment may be executed sequentially. For example, guide information may be output to the operator informing them of whether the first mode or the second mode is set.

[0108] For example, the cup attachment device of this embodiment includes a mode switching unit that outputs a switching signal for switching between a first mode that performs only coarse alignment and a second mode that performs coarse and fine alignment, and a switching control unit that executes predetermined control in response to the switching signal from the mode switching unit. For example, by appropriately using the first mode and the second mode depending on the type of eyeglass lens, etc., it is possible to easily and accurately attach the cup to the eyeglass lens.

[0109] In this embodiment, the centering device is a cup attachment device 1, and the device that attaches a cup to a lens LE performs coarse and fine alignment of the lens LE. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the centering device may be a centering position setting device that sets the attachment position of a chuck shaft that clamps and holds the lens LE in an eyeglass lens peripheral processing device, and the centering position setting device may perform coarse and fine alignment of the lens LE. For example, the centering position setting device may set the optical center position L2 adjusted by the coarse and fine alignment of the lens LE as the attachment position of the chuck shaft.

[0110] This application claims priority based on Japanese Application No. 2023-170666, filed September 29, 2023, and incorporates by reference all of the contents of said Japanese application.

Claims

1. An alignment device used in a process of processing the periphery of a spectacle lens, comprising: a measurement optical system that measures the optical characteristics of the spectacle lens; a first alignment unit having a clamping unit that clamps the edge surface of the spectacle lens and performs coarse alignment to align the spectacle lens with respect to the measurement optical system; a second alignment unit having a detection unit that detects the amount of deviation between the spectacle lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system and performs fine alignment to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the spectacle lens and the optical axis based on the amount of deviation; and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the first alignment unit to perform the coarse alignment, and then controls the second alignment unit to perform the fine alignment.

2. An alignment device as described in claim 1, wherein the control unit adjusts the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis by moving the eyeglass lens relative to the measurement optical system, thereby performing the fine alignment.

3. A centering device as described in claim 2, wherein the second alignment section has a mounting section for mounting the eyeglass lens, and the control section performs the fine alignment by moving the mounting section so as to move the eyeglass lens relative to the measurement optical system.

4. An alignment device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the clamping portion of the first alignment unit is a sliding mechanism that slides in a direction approaching the eyeglass lens and abuts against the edge surface of the eyeglass lens, and the control unit aligns the eyeglass lens with respect to the measurement optical system by moving the eyeglass lens using the sliding mechanism, thereby performing the rough alignment.

5. An alignment device as described in claim 4, wherein the clamping portion of the first alignment unit is connected to the upper part of the mounting portion of the second alignment unit, the sliding mechanism of the clamping portion abuts the left and right sides of the edge surface of the eyeglass lens, and the control portion performs the coarse alignment by moving the sliding mechanism at least in the left-right direction to align at least the left-right direction of the eyeglass lens with respect to the measurement optical system, and performs the fine alignment by moving the clamping portion and the mounting portion integrally at least in the front-to-back direction to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system at least in the front-to-back direction.

6. An alignment device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: a mode switching unit which outputs a switching signal for switching between a first mode in which only the coarse alignment is performed and a second mode in which the coarse alignment and the fine alignment are performed; and a switching control unit which executes a predetermined control in response to the switching signal from the mode switching unit.

7. An alignment device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a cup attachment section for attaching a cup, which is a processing jig, to the optical surface of the eyeglass lens, the cup attachment section attaching the cup to the optical center position adjusted by the fine alignment.

8. An alignment device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a setting section which sets an attachment position relative to the optical surface of the eyeglass lens, the attachment position of a holding section which clamps and holds the eyeglass lens during processing of the eyeglass lens, and the setting section sets the optical center position adjusted by the fine alignment as the attachment position.

9. An alignment program for use in an alignment device used in a process of processing the edge of an eyeglass lens, the alignment program having: a measurement optical system for measuring the optical characteristics of an eyeglass lens; a clamping unit for clamping the edge surface of the eyeglass lens; and a detection unit for detecting the amount of misalignment between the eyeglass lens and the optical axis of the measurement optical system, the alignment program being executed by a processor of the alignment device to execute: a first alignment step for performing coarse alignment to align the eyeglass lens with respect to the measurement optical system using the clamping unit; a second alignment step for performing fine alignment to adjust the relative positional relationship between the optical center position of the eyeglass lens and the optical axis based on the amount of misalignment detected by the detection unit; and a control step, the control step for performing the fine alignment by the second alignment step after performing the coarse alignment by the first alignment step.

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