Invisible Data Matrix Marking for Spectacle Lens Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for storing information on spectacle lenses, such as progressive power lenses, often interfere with vision and are cumbersome to align, especially when the lenses are inserted into or removed from frames, as they require additional markings that can be confusing and difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
A method for permanently marking spectacle lenses with a data matrix code using an excimer laser, which creates invisible markings that define a local coordinate system for the lens, allowing unique identification and alignment without exceeding the standard number of markings, and can be read using a device with a light source and camera for decoding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If permanent markings are added to spectacle lenses for information storage and alignment, then identification and alignment precision are improved, but the number of markings increases and becomes confusing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single marking: the data matrix code serves both as unique identification information and as the alignment reference marking. This eliminates the need for separate alignment markings, reducing the total number of markings while maintaining precise alignment capability through the coordinate system embedded in the data matrix structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The data matrix code marking is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides unique lens identification, stores manufacturing information, and serves as the alignment reference for positioning the lens in the frame. This multi-functional approach resolves the contradiction by eliminating redundant markings while preserving all necessary functions.
2Loss of information
If multiple permanent markings are placed on spectacle lenses, then information storage capacity increases, but the markings interfere with vision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses markings that are invisible or minimally visible to the human eye, employing refractive index differences or phase objects rather than visible pigments. The data matrix code is created through localized changes in the lens material that do not absorb or reflect visible light significantly, thus storing information without interfering with vision.
3Ease of operation
If traditional alignment markings are used, then alignment process is simple, but automated tracking and quality control are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of all lens information within the data matrix code, which can be automatically read and processed by computers. This enables automated tracking of each lens through its unique identifier and facilitates quality control by allowing verification of lens specifications and alignment parameters without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from simple 2D alignment markings to a data matrix code that encodes information in both spatial arrangement and data content. The coordinate system within the data matrix provides alignment information while the encoded data enables automated identification and tracking, bridging the gap between manual alignment simplicity and automated tracking capability.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If visible markings are used for identification, then reading and decoding is easy, but the markings affect aesthetics and vision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs invisible or minimally visible markings that utilize optical properties such as refractive index variations rather than visible color changes. The data matrix code can be detected and read by specialized equipment that senses these subtle optical variations, maintaining aesthetic appearance while enabling identification.
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
This solution enables efficient and precise identification of spectacle lenses, preventing mix-ups and errors during manufacturing and frame assembly, while ensuring the markings do not affect vision and provide protection against forgery, allowing for automated tracking and improved quality control.
Implementation Method 1
A method for permanently marking spectacle lenses with a data matrix code using an excimer laser
Implementation Method 2
using an excimer laser, which creates invisible markings that define a local coordinate system
Implementation Method 3
which can be read using a device with a light source and camera for decoding
Implementation Method 4
a device with a light source and camera for decoding
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
On a glass- or plastic body embodied as spectacles lens (4), spectacles lens blank or spectacles lens semi-finished product, information in the form of data on or in the glass- or plastic body (4) is stored by creating at least one marking (32), which can be read by a reader, by means of a marking system. The marking system has an interface for reading information individualizing this glass- or plastic body (4). The at least one marking (32) is created permanently by the marking system on or in the glass- or plastic body (4) at a definition point (18) of a local body-specific glass- or plastic body coordinate system (20) set by two points (16, 18) on or in the glass- or plastic body (4). In this local glass- or plastic body coordinate system (20), the manufacturer specifies the position of the lens horizontal (24) and/or the distance and/or the near and/or the prism reference point (16, 11, 18).