Rotating Lens Tinting Device for Uniform Gradient Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gradient tinting devices for optical lenses fail to produce uniform tint density gradients and often result in blemishes due to particle or air bubble adhesion, with limited control over meniscus formation and absorption rates.
Innovation Solution
A device that rotates a vertically mounted lens about its vertical axis while lowering it into a heated tint solution, using stepper motors controlled by a microprocessor to create a meniscus density gradient, agitate the fluid, and prevent blemishes by varying the rotation speed and direction, ensuring uniform tint absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the lens is lowered into a heated tint solution without rotation, then the tint absorption process is simpler, but the tint density gradient becomes non-uniform and blemishes occur due to particle or air bubble adhesion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by rotating the lens about its vertical axis during the tinting process. This rotation transforms a static immersion process into a dynamic one, creating a meniscus density gradient through centrifugal force that ensures uniform tint distribution across the lens surface while preventing particle and air bubble adhesion.
2Manufacturing precision
If the lens is rotated about the vertical axis during tinting, then the uniformity of tint density gradient improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional rotation mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing the lens holder to serve dual functions: holding the lens during immersion and rotating it about the vertical axis. This multi-functionality integrates the rotation mechanism into the existing lens holder structure, achieving uniform tint density gradient without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Productivity
If the lens is rotated during tinting, then the absorption rate of tint increases, but the control of meniscus formation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the parameter changes principle by varying the rotation speed of the lens about its vertical axis to control meniscus formation and optimize tint absorption rate. By adjusting this rotational parameter, the system achieves rapid and uniform tint absorption while maintaining controllable meniscus characteristics.
4Manufacturing precision
If the rotation speed is varied to alter meniscus shape, then the cosmetic coloration improves, but the ease of operation decreases due to need for speed adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the feedback principle by using a microprocessor to control the rotation speed of the lens. The microprocessor monitors and adjusts the rotational parameters to maintain optimal meniscus formation and uniform tint density gradient, thereby achieving superior cosmetic coloration while simplifying operator interaction through automated control.
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 solution achieves a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing meniscus density gradient on lenses, reducing blemishes and enhancing absorption, resulting in a visually appealing and cosmetically superior product with improved cosmetic coloration and rapid tinting.
Implementation Method 1
The rotating lens acts as an impeller, the centrifugal force exerted on the liquid tinting solution causes a meniscus to form on the surface of the tint
Implementation Method 2
lowering it into a heated tint solution
Implementation Method 3
the lens's surface being in contact with more tint molecules as a result of its rotation through the tint solution
Data Source
AI summary
A device for imparting a curved gradation of tint density on an ophthalmic or optical lens is described. This gradient-tinting device utilizes both vertical movement and rotation about the vertical axis of the lens as it moves into a tinting solution.