Eyeglass Frame Lens Lock via Split End Piece Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing eyeglass frames lack an efficient mechanism for easily removing and replacing lenses without tools, limiting the ability to switch between different frames or lenses optimized for various conditions or styles.

Innovation Solution

The eyeglass frame lens lock system, featuring split end pieces and locks on the temples or bridge, allows for manual lens removal and replacement by disengaging the end pieces from the locks, enabling seamless transition between frames and lenses with different coatings or styles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional eyeglass frame design is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the lens cannot be easily removed or replaced without tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens removal and replacementVSAvoidframe structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The end piece is divided into a first portion and a second portion that can be separated from each other. The lock is configured to receive both portions and secure them together, allowing the lens to be removed by separating the portions and resecured by engaging them in the lock. This segmentation enables easy lens exchange while maintaining frame integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The end piece is received within the lock structure, with the lock containing both portions of the end piece. The lock acts as a nested container that secures the end piece portions together, enabling tool-free lens removal and replacement through a simple separating and re-engaging action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If a secure lens retention mechanism is used, then the lens is firmly held in place, but the mechanism becomes complex and requires tools for lens exchange

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens retention securityVSAvoidlens exchange process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The end piece is segmented into separable portions that can be easily divided and re-engaged. The lock is designed to receive and secure both portions, providing reliable lens retention when engaged and easy removal when the portions are separated, thus resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism transitions between a locked state (when end piece portions are engaged) and an unlocked state (when portions are separated). This dynamic design allows the system to provide secure retention during normal wear and easy access during lens exchange, adapting to different operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a tool-free lens removal mechanism is implemented, then the lens can be exchanged easily, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool-free lens exchangeVSAvoidlock and end piece structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The end piece is divided into two separable portions that can be easily separated by hand. The lock is configured to receive both portions and secure them together through a simple engagement action, enabling tool-free lens exchange while keeping the overall mechanism relatively simple despite the added locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12066693B2Eyeglass frame lens lock
Publication Date: 2024.08.20 CARRIER AMANDA
  • US12066693B2 patent drawing
  • US12066693B2 patent drawing
  • US12066693B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An eyeglass frame is disclosed comprising a bridge and two rims connected by the bridge. Each rim is configured to contain a lens. The eyeglass frame also comprises two split end pieces. Each split end piece comprises a first portion and a second portion. Each split end piece is coupled to and extends outward from a corresponding rim of the two rims on a side of the corresponding rim opposite the bridge. The eyeglass frame further comprises two temples. Each temple comprises a lock on an end of the temple. The lock is configured to at least partially contain both the first portion and the second portion of the split end piece and secure the temple to the corresponding rim and secure the lens within the corresponding rim.