Lens Coating Membrane Inflation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying a solid coating film to ophthalmic lenses face challenges such as air bubble entrapment, uneven adhesive distribution, and degradation of membrane elasticity, leading to non-uniform coating and potential clogging of the membrane.
Innovation Solution
A device with a seat for the lens, a membrane with a peripheral fixing portion and inflatable portion, and inflater means comprising two plates that allow for easy membrane replacement and pressure distribution, ensuring consistent deformation and adhesive application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the membrane is inflated repeatedly to apply coating, then the coating can be applied to multiple lenses, but the elastic deformation properties of the membrane deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a membrane replacement mechanism where the membrane is discarded after a certain number of inflation cycles when its elastic properties deteriorate, and a fresh membrane is recovered and installed. This resolves the contradiction by accepting that membrane performance degrades with use and systematically replacing it to maintain coating application quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic membrane replacement system where the membrane can be easily removed and replaced through a opening in the support structure. This dynamic accessibility allows the membrane to be refreshed when needed, maintaining reliable elastic deformation properties throughout the coating application process.
2Manufacturing precision
If the membrane is inflated to press the coating film against the lens, then the coating can be applied, but adhesive expelled from the sides adheres to the membrane causing clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful function of adhesive accumulation from the membrane surface by introducing a membrane replacement mechanism. Instead of trying to prevent adhesive from adhering to the membrane, the system accepts that adhesive will be present and replaces the membrane periodically to remove the accumulated adhesive, thereby preventing clogging and maintaining coating application quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent treats the membrane as a disposable or periodically replaceable component rather than a permanent element. By accepting that the membrane will become clogged with adhesive over time and implementing a replacement strategy, the system avoids the complexity of preventing adhesive adhesion while maintaining coating uniformity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the membrane is held firmly during inflation, then the coating can be applied, but the membrane cannot be easily replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the support structure into a main body and a replaceable membrane component with a dedicated opening. This segmentation allows the membrane to be firmly held during inflation for quality coating application, while also enabling easy removal and replacement when needed, resolving the contradiction between firm holding and ease of replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the membrane can be securely positioned during operation and easily removed when needed. The opening in the support structure allows the membrane to be accessed, removed, and replaced dynamically, maintaining both coating application quality and operational ease.
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
Enables correct and uniform application of the coating film on the lens by maintaining membrane elasticity and preventing clogging, ensuring consistent pressure distribution and bubble-free application.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic deformation properties of the membrane deteriorate
Implementation Method 2
the membrane is inflated towards the lens in order to press the coating film against the lens
Implementation Method 3
a first plate presenting a setback pressurization chamber connected to a source of compressed gas
Data Source
AI summary
A device for applying a coating film (63) on a face of a lens, the film previously being placed on the face concerned of the lens, includes a seat (40) suitable for receiving the lens, a membrane (62) including a peripheral fixing portion (62A) and an inflatable portion (62B), and an inflater element (61) for inflating the membrane towards the lens seat. The inflater element include a first plate (66) and a second plate (65) with the membrane (62) placed between them, the first plate presenting as a setback a pressurization chamber (80) connected to a source (93) of compressed gas, and the second plate presenting a protrusion opening (71), the two plates being mounted to move relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration.