Coated Ophthalmic Lens Marking Using Electromagnetic Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for marking optical articles, such as ophthalmic lenses, result in marks that are not readily observable when the substrate is coated, making it difficult to access the information provided by the marks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using electromagnetic radiation to identify the position of a first mark on a coated optical article and mark a second mark based on this position, employing a mark identification device, imaging device, and marking device to enhance visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mark is introduced into the substrate by physical engraving, chemical etching, or molding, then the mark is permanent and can be accessed multiple times, but the mark becomes not readily observable when the substrate is coated with one or more coatings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coating layer as an intermediary medium that contains a second mark designed to be visible through the coating. This intermediary layer resolves the contradiction by allowing the permanent first mark to remain embedded in the substrate while providing a visible second mark in the coating layer that indicates the position of the first mark.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes optical properties and color/reflectivity changes to make the second mark visible. The second mark is formed in the coating layer with different optical characteristics (reflectivity, color, or texture) that make it observable through the coating, while the first mark remains permanent in the substrate.
2Length of moving object
If the mark is made of relatively small dimensions (1.0 mm to 2.0 mm), then the mark is suitable for optical articles, but the mark is difficult to locate and observe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a second mark with distinct optical properties in the coating layer at the location of the first mark. This localized change in reflectivity, color, or texture makes the small mark detectable without increasing its physical dimensions, resolving the contradiction between small size and detectability.
3Measurement precision
If electromagnetic radiation is used to identify the position of the first mark, then the position can be accurately determined, but additional equipment and process steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement methods with electromagnetic radiation-based detection. By using electromagnetic radiation to identify the position of the first mark and forming the second mark based on this identification, the system achieves high measurement precision while the complexity is managed through automated processing of the electromagnetic signal.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system ensures that the second mark is accurately positioned and visible, facilitating easy access to information on the optical article, aiding practitioners in matching lens power to a wearer's prescription and enhancing quality control.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electromagnetic radiation source configured to irradiate at least a portion of the surface of the substrate having the at least one first mark with electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
at least one imaging device configured to receive a portion of the electromagnetic radiation reflected from the surface of the substrate having the at least one first mark and determine a position of the at least one first mark on the surface of the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A system for marking a coated optical article (10) having at least one first mark (18) on a surface of a substrate (20) of the coated optical article (10) includes at least one mark (18) identification device having at least one electromagnetic radiation source (111) configured to irradiate at least a portion of the surface of the substrate (20) having the at least one first mark (18) with electromagnetic radiation (119A, 123). The at least one mark (18) identification device further includes at least one imaging device configured to receive a portion of the electromagnetic radiation (119A, 123) reflected from the surface of the substrate (20) having the least one first mark (18) and determine a position of the at least one first mark (18) on the surface of the substrate (20). The system further includes at least one marking device configured for marking the coated optical article (10) with at least one second mark (180) based on the position of the at least one first mark (18).