Automated Lens Separation from Shell Molds
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for separating a cast lens from shell molds are unreliable and prone to damaging either the lens or the molds, often requiring manual handling due to the complexity of the separation process.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a separating tool to guide a force along the interface between the lens and the shell mold, with adjustable forces and rotations to ensure the tool presses against the lens rather than the mold, using a control unit to adjust the height of the tool to follow the interface, and optionally applying parting compounds to aid separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a separating device with force transmitters is used to separate the lens from shell molds, then automation is improved, but the risk of damaging the lens or molds increases
Solution Approach 1:
A separating tool is introduced as an intermediary element between the lens and the shell mold. The tool is pressed against the lens by a force transmitter and guided along the interface to facilitate separation. This intermediary approach allows automated separation while controlling the interaction forces to prevent damage to either the lens or the mold.
Solution Approach 2:
The separating tool is designed with adjustable pressing force and position, allowing dynamic adaptation during the separation process. The force transmitter can adjust the pressure applied to the tool, and the tool can be positioned at different locations along the interface, enabling the system to respond to varying separation requirements and prevent damage.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual separation methods are used, then damage to lens or molds is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The separating device is designed to perform the separation function automatically without requiring manual intervention. The holding device secures the lens, the force transmitter applies controlled force through the separating tool, and the control system coordinates the entire process, enabling the system to serve itself and eliminate the need for manual separation operations.
3Reliability
If the separating tool presses strongly against the lens, then separation reliability is improved, but the risk of lens damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system monitors the separation process and adjusts the pressing force of the separating tool based on real-time conditions. This feedback mechanism ensures that sufficient force is applied to maintain reliable separation contact with the lens while preventing excessive force that could cause damage. The system adapts the force level to the specific requirements of each separation operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for separating a cast lens from shell molds, whereby a separating tool exerts pressure on the lens but a height of the separating tool is guided along the interface between the lens and the shell mold to be separated from the lens. In a preferred embodiment the composite consisting of the lens and the shell molds is fixed on a holding device that can be rotated on an axis of rotation. The holding device is rotated by means of a first motor and the height of the separating tool is tracked by means of a second motor in relation to the height of the interface depending on the angle of rotation.