Optical Blank Conveyance Position Correction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for holding and conveying optical blanks for lens production lack precision due to the absence of a clear position standard, particularly when using vacuum suction mechanisms, which complicates accurate alignment and positioning for high shape precision in press molding.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a robot with an actuator, movement portion, first and second position detection portions, and a controller to accurately position and hold optical blanks by detecting and correcting movement instruction values based on the difference between initial and final positions, ensuring precise alignment and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a vacuum suction mechanism is used to hold and convey the optical blank, then the optical blank can be held and conveyed, but the alignment precision between the optical blank and the vacuum suction mechanism deteriorates due to the curved surface shape of the optical blank lacking a clear position standard
Solution Approach 1:
A marker is introduced as an intermediary element that is attached to the optical blank and serves as a clear position standard for alignment. The marker provides a recognizable target for the vision system, enabling precise alignment between the optical blank and the vacuum suction mechanism despite the curved surface shape of the blank itself
Solution Approach 2:
The position information of the optical blank is captured by creating a visual copy through the vision system. The camera captures the position of the marker on the optical blank, and this visual information is processed to determine the precise location and orientation of the blank for accurate positioning
2Productivity
If the optical blank is held by a vacuum suction mechanism without a clear position standard, then the optical blank can be conveyed, but the positional precision during conveyance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A feedback loop is established where the vision system continuously monitors the position of the optical blank during conveyance, and this position information is fed back to the control system. The control system adjusts the conveyance motion based on the detected position, ensuring that the optical blank maintains high positional precision throughout the conveyance process
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical positioning system is supplemented or replaced with a vision-based positioning system. Instead of relying solely on mechanical alignment features, the system uses optical detection to identify the position of the optical blank and provides real-time position correction, achieving high precision without requiring complex mechanical alignment mechanisms
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
This approach significantly enhances the positional precision of optical blanks during conveyance and molding, leading to improved shape precision of the optical elements produced.
Implementation Method 1
the glass material, that is, an optical blank is held and conveyed by a hand including a vacuum suction mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A product conveyance apparatus includes an actuator, a movement portion, a first position detection portion, a second position detection portion, and a controller. The controller performs a process of causing the actuator not holding a product to move to a predetermined position, detecting the position of the actuator and storing the position as a first position, a process of causing the actuator to move on a basis of a movement instruction value and hold the product, causing the actuator holding the product to move to the predetermined position, detecting the position of the product held by the actuator, and storing the position as a second position, and a process of correcting and updating the movement instruction value on a basis of difference between the first position and the second position.