Ophthalmic Lens Centering Using Distributed Marking Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing centering operations for ophthalmic lenses with complex centering markings, such as round micro-engravings distributed along concentric circles, are difficult to automate due to the lack of clear optical center markings, leading to manual errors and inefficiencies in lens positioning.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize multiple centering markings to determine the optical center of the lens by processing the positions of at least three characterization points, enabling accurate automated centering and blocking operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If automated centering is attempted with complex centering markings (round micro-engravings distributed along concentric circles), then automation is pursued, but centering accuracy deteriorates because the optical center is not clearly marked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centering markings into multiple discrete points distributed along concentric circles. Instead of relying on a single optical center marking, the system divides the centering task into multiple measurable points that can be individually detected and processed to determine the optical center position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational process that uses mathematical modeling to infer the optical center position from multiple characterization points. This intermediary step bridges the gap between the detectable marking points and the undetectable optical center, enabling automated determination without direct visual marking of the optical center itself.
2Measurement precision
If multiple centering markings are processed to determine optical center, then centering accuracy improves, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the centering problem from directly detecting the optical center to detecting multiple peripheral characterization points and computing the center through parameter relationships. By changing the detection parameters from central to distributed points, the system improves accuracy while managing complexity through mathematical computation rather than direct observation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a computational model that copies the geometric relationships of the concentric circle markings to determine the optical center. Instead of directly measuring the center, the system uses the known geometric patterns of the markings to computationally reconstruct the center position, simplifying the detection task while maintaining accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If manual centering operations are performed, then centering accuracy can be maintained, but productivity decreases due to manual errors and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the centering system to serve itself by using the inherent geometric patterns of the lens markings to automatically determine the optical center. The system extracts its own reference information from the concentric circle markings without requiring manual intervention, achieving both automation and accuracy simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the detected positions of multiple characterization points are used to compute and verify the optical center position. The system uses the known geometric relationships of the markings as feedback to validate and refine the centering determination, ensuring accuracy while maintaining automation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for automatically centering an ophthalmic lens (10), comprising steps of: - positioning the ophthalmic lens on a holder, - acquiring at least one image of the ophthalmic lens received on the holder by means of a camera, and - processing said image to find the position of an optical center (P1) of said ophthalmic lens by means of a processing unit. According to the invention, said ophthalmic lens comprising several distinct centering markings (12) distributed along a geometrical figure, said step of processing comprises: - determining, for at least three of said centering markings, the position of at least one characterization point (P12) of each centering mark, and - deducing therefrom the position of the optical center of said ophthalmic lens.