Variable Reference Blocking Apparatus for Ophthalmic Lenses
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current blocking systems for ophthalmic lenses are cumbersome, require multiple rings and inserts, and lack control over the amount of anchoring material, leading to inefficiency and waste.
Innovation Solution
A variable reference blocking apparatus with an adjustable ring unit and base, allowing for dynamic adjustment of the insert height and position, enabling the use of a single adjustable ring and insert to optimize the amount of blocking material used, reducing the need for multiple rings and inserts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple blocking rings and inserts are used to accommodate different lens products, then the system can handle various lens shapes and sizes, but the device complexity increases and requires frequent exchange of components
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking ring is designed with a variable reference mechanism that can be adjusted to different positions, allowing a single ring to perform the function of multiple fixed rings. The reference can be moved along the blocking ring to accommodate different lens products, making the blocking ring universal for various lens shapes and sizes without requiring frequent exchange of components
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking ring transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The reference position can be varied along the ring, and the blocking ring itself can be adjusted to different heights and positions, enabling adaptability without increasing device complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple inserts with different thicknesses are used to produce desired blocking material thickness, then the manufacturing precision can be maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insert thickness is made variable through an adjustable mechanism rather than requiring multiple fixed inserts of different thicknesses. The insert can be adjusted to different positions and heights, allowing the desired blocking material thickness to be achieved with a single adjustable insert, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The thickness parameter of the blocking material is controlled by adjusting the position and height of the insert rather than by selecting from multiple fixed inserts. This parameter change approach allows precise control of blocking material thickness with a single adjustable component
3Ease of manufacture
If blocking material is applied without control, then the blocking process is simple, but material waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable reference mechanism provides a controlled reference point that guides the application of blocking material. By adjusting the reference position, the system provides feedback control over the amount of material applied, ensuring that only the necessary amount is used while maintaining ease of the blocking process
Solution Approach 2:
The amount of blocking material applied is controlled by adjusting parameters such as reference position, blocking ring height, and insert position. These parameter changes allow precise control over material usage, reducing waste while keeping the process simple and manageable
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 solution simplifies and automates the blocking process, reducing operator errors, minimizing material waste, and allowing for efficient use of blocking material, while accommodating various lens shapes and sizes with a single adjustable ring unit.
Implementation Method 1
a block is secured onto one of the main faces of the lens blank by casting thereon a fusible molten anchoring material having a low melting temperature
Implementation Method 2
casting thereon a fusible molten anchoring material having a low melting temperature (or a polymeric material) in order to enable the lens blank to be subsequently mounted or anchored
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Described is a variable reference blocking apparatus for blocking an optical article (5). The apparatus comprises an adjustable ring unit (11) having a plurality of concentric members (19,19c,19i) positioned about a central axis. Each concentric member (19,19c,19i) generally comprises a lip region (17) on its upper end that is capable of receiving at least a portion of a front face of the optical article (5). The apparatus further comprises a moveable base (13) in which its upper portion is coupled with a removable insert (7). The removable insert (7) is generally positioned to be centered about the front face of the optical article (5).