Retainer for the Processing of Optical Workpieces, in Particular Eyeglass Lenses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for processing optical workpieces, particularly spectacle lenses, face challenges in holding and supporting the lenses during machining without causing deformations that detract from processing quality, especially when complex geometries are involved.
Innovation Solution
A retainer with a rubber-elastic membrane and a support arrangement of longitudinally displaceable pins, which allows for precise forming and support of the workpiece without engaging the edge, using a vacuum mechanism for holding and a clamping mechanism for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a block piece is used to hold the spectacle lens blank during processing, then the workpiece can be securely held and positioned, but the block piece must have a maximum diameter smaller than the finished diameter to avoid collision with milling tools, limiting the holding capability
Solution Approach 1:
The holding arrangement is segmented into multiple independent suction zones distributed across the retainer surface, allowing each zone to function independently. This enables the holding arrangement to adapt to different workpiece sizes and shapes without requiring a single large block piece, resolving the contradiction between secure holding and adaptability to different diameters
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer with distributed suction zones serves multiple functions: it can hold workpieces of various diameters, provide stable positioning during milling operations, and eliminate the need for separate block pieces. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by making the holding arrangement universally applicable to different workpiece sizes
2Reliability
If the workpiece is held by engaging the edge, then secure holding is achieved, but deformations may occur that detract from processing quality, especially with complex geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The holding force is segmented and distributed across multiple suction zones rather than concentrated at the edge. This distributed approach provides stable holding while avoiding localized deformations that would compromise surface quality, especially important for complex geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical edge engagement system is replaced with a vacuum-based holding system. The vacuum suction provides holding force through distributed pressure rather than mechanical contact at the edge, eliminating deformation risks while maintaining holding stability
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
The retainer effectively supports and holds optical workpieces during processing, preventing deformations and enabling a blockless production process, ensuring high-quality results.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum mechanism for holding
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a retainer (10) for processing an optical workpiece. The retainer comprises a holding arrangement (72) and a support assembly (73) for the workpiece. A rubber-elastic membrane (75) mounted on a housing (74) has a retaining section (76), on the outer side (77) of which one surface of the workpiece can be placed to lie flat. The membrane, together with the housing defines a chamber (78) in which a plurality of separately longitudinally movable pins (79) of the support assembly are retained. A pin end (80) of each pin can be brought to bear against an inner side (81) of the retaining portion of the membrane and can be fixed relative to one another by a clamping mechanism (82) against longitudinal movement with respect to the housing. The holding arrangement for the workpiece is provided in or on the retaining section of the membrane.