Lens Processing Apparatus Using Color-Coded Cup Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for processing eyeglass lenses, such as marking and using cup designs with recesses or holes, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and ineffective for distinguishing between left and right lenses, especially when water-repellant coatings are applied, and do not facilitate easy identification.
Innovation Solution
An eyeglass lens processing apparatus that uses a detection optical system with CCD cameras and color-coded cups to accurately identify and differentiate between left and right lenses by calculating the optical center and axial angle, reducing the risk of mistaking lenses through visual cues and automated alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If marks are applied on lens surfaces by pen, then left and right lenses can be identified, but the operation takes time and labor and marks cannot be applied on water-repellant coated lenses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical marking system (pen) with an optical identification system. The cup holder includes an identification mark that is optically detectable, and a detection apparatus captures images to identify left and right lenses automatically, eliminating the need for manual marking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical imaging to create a digital copy of the lens and its associated identification mark. The detection apparatus captures an image of the cup holder's identification mark, which serves as a copy that can be analyzed by the control apparatus to determine lens handedness without physically marking the lens.
2Reliability
If recess portion or hole is formed at base portion of cup for identification, then left and right lenses can be distinguished, but the shapes of cups cannot be significantly changed and the recess or hole is small making identification difficult at a glance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color or pattern changes to the identification mark on the cup holder. The mark can be designed with distinct visual characteristics (such as different colors, patterns, or orientations) that make it easily distinguishable at a glance, improving identification ease while maintaining cup shape consistency.
3Productivity
If automated detection system with CCD cameras is used, then identification accuracy and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection apparatus with CCD camera serves multiple functions: it captures images of the lens, identifies the cup holder's identification mark, determines lens handedness, and provides alignment information. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by consolidating multiple operations into a single integrated system.
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
Significantly reduces the likelihood of mistakes during lens processing by providing clear visual identification and automated alignment, improving efficiency and reducing labor costs by using color-coded cups and a detection system to accurately determine lens orientation.
Implementation Method 1
a detection optical system with CCD cameras
Data Source
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AI summary
An eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing a peripheral edge of an eyeglass lens, includes: data inputting means for inputting a target lens shape data and a layout data; a cup for a left eye and a cup for a right eye to which identifying information for identifying the cup for the left eye and the cup for the right eye, which can be visually identified by a processor, is applied; and displaying means for displaying identifying information the same as the identifying information applied to the cup for the left eye or the right eye based on data inputted to the data inputting means.