Lens Shaping Tool Assembly with Multi-Axis Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lens shaping machines lack a comprehensive solution for efficiently finishing the peripheral edge of corrective lenses, as previous technologies do not provide a unified system for multi-axis positioning and tool management to achieve precise edge finishing.
Innovation Solution
A tool operating assembly with a multi-axis lens positioning system, a multi-station tool support assembly, and a clutch assembly, which includes a turret driven by a step motor to selectively position and rotate tools for precise finishing of the lens edge, utilizing a tool drive assembly and clutch positioning device for efficient edge finishing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-station tool support assembly with turret is used to selectively position multiple tools, then tool versatility and finishing capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool support assembly is segmented into multiple stations arranged on a turret, with each station dedicated to a specific tool. This segmentation allows versatile tool positioning while maintaining manageable complexity through modular organization of tools and their associated drive mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The turret structure serves multiple functions: it positions different tools, rotates to bring selected tools to the working position, and coordinates with the lens positioning system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby managing complexity while enhancing versatility.
2Manufacturing precision
If a multi-axis lens positioning assembly is used to move the corrective lens during finishing operation, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lens positioning assembly incorporates multiple axes of movement (X, Y, and rotational axes) to position the lens precisely in three-dimensional space. By adding dimensional degrees of freedom, the system achieves high positioning precision while maintaining a coordinated control approach that manages overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If a clutch assembly is used to operatively couple the selected tool and tool drive assembly, then tool rotation control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the tool holder and the tool drive assembly. It selectively engages and disengages the drive connection, providing reliable tool rotation control while isolating the complexity of the engagement mechanism from both the tool mounting and drive systems.
4Productivity
If a turret is rotated to selectively position tools at the finishing station, then tool selection speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The turret rotates in discrete periodic steps to bring different tool stations to the working position. This periodic rotational action enables rapid tool selection through indexed positioning, while the repetitive nature of the rotation mechanism simplifies control and reduces overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool operating assembly for a lens shaping machine to finish the peripheral edge of a corrective lens wherein the tool operating assembly is disposed in operative relationship relative to a lens operating assembly comprising a lens support assembly to support the corrective lens to be finished and a multi-axis lens positioning assembly to move the corrective lens relative to the tool operating assembly during the finishing operation to finish the peripheral edge of the corrective lens, the tool operating assembly comprising a multi-station tool support assembly to selectively position one of a plurality of tools in operative position to engage the peripheral edge of the corrective lens to be finished and a tool drive assembly to rotate the selected tool during the finishing operation to finish the peripheral edge of the corrective lens.