Automated Optical Verification of Trimmed Ophthalmic Lens Geometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for verifying the geometric and optical characteristics of trimmed ophthalmic lenses are manual, time-consuming, and imprecise, leading to potential defects in the final product.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that automatically and systematically verify the geometric and optical characteristics of trimmed ophthalmic lenses using an image capture device and a display device with a scrolling pattern, allowing for precise control and recording of defects, thereby improving manufacturing efficiency and quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual visual inspection is used to verify lens characteristics, then the inspection can be performed with simple equipment, but the inspection is lengthy, tedious, and imprecise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection precisionVSAvoidinspection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated optical measurement system. An image capture device captures images of the lens, and a processing unit automatically analyzes geometric and optical characteristics, eliminating the need for manual measurement while improving both precision and speed of inspection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a digital copy of the lens through image capture. The image capture device captures an image of the lens, and the processing unit processes this digital copy to extract and verify geometric and optical characteristics, enabling automated analysis without physical contact with the lens

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If automated verification system is implemented, then inspection speed and precision are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing efficiencyVSAvoidverification system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The verification device is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing images, processing images, extracting geometric characteristics, verifying optical characteristics, and generating reports. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated device, improving productivity while managing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The processing unit automatically analyzes the captured images to extract and verify lens characteristics without requiring manual intervention. The system performs self-verification by comparing measured characteristics against specified parameters, reducing the need for complex external verification equipment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If comprehensive verification of geometric and optical characteristics is performed, then product quality is ensured, but inspection time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct qualityVSAvoidverification time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The verification process continuously captures and processes images to verify multiple characteristics simultaneously. Rather than performing sequential inspections for different characteristics, the system captures one image and processes it to extract multiple geometric and optical characteristics in continuous operation, ensuring comprehensive quality verification without proportionally increasing inspection time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system verifies geometric and optical characteristics before the lens is mounted in the frame. By performing comprehensive verification in advance, the patent ensures product quality while preventing defects from reaching the mounting stage, ultimately reducing rework time and improving overall manufacturing efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 method enables quick and precise verification of lens characteristics, ensuring the quality of trimmed lenses before mounting, reducing manufacturing time, and enhancing traceability through statistical databases.

Implementation Method 1

a display device adapted to display said scrolling pattern

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight: Light

Implementation Method 2

an image capture device adapted to capture at least one image of this contoured ophthalmic lens

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotography: Photography

Data Source

PatentEP3329240B1Method for checking a shape and an optical characteristic of a trimmed ophthalmic lens and associated device
Publication Date: 2021.04.14 ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL(COMPAGNIE GENERALE D OPTIQUE)
  • EP3329240B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3329240B1 patent drawingFigure 3~13
  • EP3329240B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention concerns a method for checking at least one geometric characteristic and one optical characteristic of a trimmed ophthalmic lens (10) comprising the following steps: a) arranging the trimmed ophthalmic lens on a support (110), b) capturing at least one image of said trimmed ophthalmic lens, c) determining, from said image, a measured geometric characteristic of said trimmed ophthalmic lens, d) determining at least one measured optical characteristic of said trimmed ophthalmic lens in a reference frame of the image captured in step b), e) comparing said measured geometric characteristic associated with the measured optical characteristic to a predefined desired ophthalmic lens model, comprising at least one desired geometric characteristic and one associated desired optical characteristic. The invention also concerns an associated checking device.