Composite Lens Block Piece for Torque-Proof Precision Holding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing block pieces for eyeglass lenses are inadequate for precise and stable holding during processing and coating, particularly under high forces, and lack efficient handling and cost-effective solutions.

Innovation Solution

A block piece design with a metal bottom part and plastic upper part, connected in a torque-proof manner, allowing for precise orientation and handling of lenses without deformation, featuring interchangeable upper parts for various curvatures and markings for identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a single-material block piece is used, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot provide both high precision holding and torque-proof connection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding precisionVSAvoidblock piece structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The block piece is constructed from two different materials: a rigid bottom part (metal or hard plastic) that provides torque-proof connection and structural stability, and a softer upper part (elastomeric material) that ensures precise holding of the lens through elastic deformation and conformal contact. This composite structure resolves the contradiction by combining materials with complementary properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The block piece is divided into two functional segments: a bottom part for mechanical connection and torque resistance, and an upper part for lens contact and precise positioning. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function, achieving both precision and structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If a rigid block piece structure is used, then torque-proof connection is achieved, but deformation under high forces cannot be adequately absorbed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque resistanceVSAvoiddeformation absorption
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The combination of rigid bottom part and elastomeric upper part creates a composite structure where the rigid portion provides torque resistance while the elastomeric portion absorbs deformation through elastic deformation, resolving the contradiction between strength and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The elastomeric upper part changes its physical parameters (shape, volume) through elastic deformation under load, allowing it to absorb high forces while maintaining the overall structural integrity provided by the rigid bottom part.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple upper parts with different curvatures are provided, then adaptability to various lenses is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens curvature compatibilityVSAvoidkit composition
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric upper part is made deformable, allowing it to adapt dynamically to different lens curvatures through elastic deformation. This eliminates the need for multiple rigid upper parts with different fixed curvatures, reducing kit complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The upper part's physical parameters (shape, curvature) can change in response to different lens geometries, allowing a single upper part to accommodate multiple lens types. This parameter adaptability resolves the contradiction between versatility and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12594642B2Block piece for blocking a lens
Publication Date: 2026.04.07 SCHNEIDER GMBH & CO KG
  • US12594642B2 patent drawing
  • US12594642B2 patent drawing
  • US12594642B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A block piece (1) for blocking a lens (2), in particular an eyeglass lens, by means of a block material (3), wherein the block piece (1) has a bottom part (4) for holding the block piece (1) and an upper part (5) for a fastening of the lens (2) for processing and/or coating of an optically active surface of the lens (2). Additionally, the block piece (1) is used in a method for blocking a lens (2), in particular an eyeglass lens, and the bottom part (4) and multiple upper parts (5) for blocking a lens (2) provided as part of a kit.