Abstract: An eyeglass frame shape measurement device includes an optical measurement unit, a probe unit, a holding unit that holds the optical measurement unit and the probe unit, a changing portion that integrally moves the optical measurement unit and the probe unit with respect to an eyeglass frame to change a measurement position with respect to a groove of a rim of the eyeglass frame, and a controller that controls an operation of the eyeglass frame shape measurement device. The controller controls an operation of the changing portion to measure the groove of the rim of the eyeglass frame, acquires a cross-sectional shape of the groove of the rim of the eyeglass frame based on a detection result detected by the optical measurement unit, and acquires a shape of the rim of the eyeglass frame based on a detection result detected by the probe unit.

Abstract: A device for blocking workpieces has an aligning station that includes a workpiece support for aligning a workpiece. A blocking station comprises a block piece mount and serves to block the aligned workpiece by use of a block material on a block piece, which can be mounted in the block piece mount in a centered manner in relation to a substantially vertically extending blocker axis. A workpiece carriage carries a holding head for the workpiece and is suitably guided and driven to transport the workpiece from the aligning station to the blocking station to position the workpiece along the blocker axis in a defined manner relative to the block piece held in the block piece mount, and to hold the workpiece during blocking in the defined relative position to the block piece with a gap between workpiece and body piece.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for determining location of a lens machining tool (24) having an offset location according to a first direction (Y) smaller than a first predetermined threshold, including the steps of manufacturing a calibration piece (10) according to a predetermined theoretical geometry by using the lens machining tool for providing a at least partially annular groove in a main surface of the calibration piece, the at least partially annular groove being configured to form at least one sharp edge defining a slope discontinuity on the main surface; measuring a distance between the at least one sharp edge and a turning center of the calibration piece for providing data of geometrical characteristics of the calibration piece; and deducing from the measured data a location of the lens machining tool according to a second direction (X) distinct from the first direction.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for deducing geometrical defects of an optical article turning machine, including a defect value deducing step, during which at least one geometrical defect value is deduced based at least on an indicative information of an optical and/or geometrical data related to an optical and/or geometrical characteristic of a checking piece (10).

Abstract: Method of shaping an ophthalmic eyeglass lens presenting two main optical working faces and including firstly a substrate made of a first material and presenting two main faces corresponding to the two main faces of the lens, and secondly at least one coating film made of a material distinct from that of the substrate, the coating film being previously secured on at least one of the main faces of the substrate, includes: cutting the lens by machining with a first tool over at least the thickness of the previously secured coating film, to define internally a working central portion of the coating film that presents a reduced outline; trimming the edge face of the substrate along the desired outline by machining with a second distinct tool, without machining the working central portion; and finishing the edge face of the substrate without machining the working central portion.

Abstract: A laser frame tracer (12) including a laser measuring unit (20) with a laser (36) and one or more cameras (38, 40) for optically measuring dimensions of eyeglass frames (10). A frame carrier (22) is provided for moving the eyeglass frames (10) through a laser line emitted by the laser (36). The frame carrier (22) includes a linear carriage (44) and a rotary carriage (88). Movement of the linear carriage (44) and the rotary carriage (88) are controlled by an on-board computer (116) which collects image data from the one or more cameras (38, 40). Image data is processed to determine a 3D model from which selected dimensions for the eyeglass frames (10) may be measured. The dimensions may be stored in a cloud database for access by others in cutting lenses to fit the eyeglass frames (10).

Abstract: An eyeglass frame shape measurement apparatus includes a measuring unit measuring shapes of right and left rims of an eyeglass frame. Measuring modes include a first measuring mode in which whole peripheries of both rims are measured; a second measuring mode in which the whole periphery of one of the right and left rims; and a third measuring mode in which nose side portions of the left rim and the nose side portion of the right rim are partially measured. A controller drives the measuring unit to measure the whole peripheries of both rims in the first measuring mode, for driving the measuring unit to measure the whole periphery of one of the left and right rims in the second mode, and drive the measuring unit to measure partially the nose side portions of both rims in the third mode.

Abstract: An eyeglass frame shape measurement device includes: an eyeglass frame holding unit including a first slider and a second slider for holding an eyeglass frame; a rim measuring unit including a tracing stylus for a rim of the eyeglass frame, and detecting the movement position of the tracing stylus to measure a shape of the rim; a template holder configured to attach a template and a measurement object of a demo lens; a template measuring unit including a tracing stylus shaft configured to contact an edge of the measurement object attached to the template holder, for measuring radius vector information of the measurement object; and a housing portion provided to house the template holder and provided in one of the first slider and the second slider when measurement using the template measuring unit is not being performed.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a shape of an eyeglass frame, includes: a tracing stylus to detect a position of the rim in a moving radius direction and in a vertical, a tracing stylus shaft for the tracing stylus, a holding unit movably holding the tracing stylus shaft and including a pressure applying element for pressing a tip end of the tracing stylus to the rim, a moving unit for moving the holding unit, a rotating unit for rotating the holding unit around an axis along a vertical direction; a moving radius position detection unit configured to detect a position of the tracing stylus; and a controller configured to obtain a rotating angle of the rotating unit and a position of the holding unit in the moving radius direction at a next measurement position, and control the rotating unit and the moving unit.

Abstract: A relationship between a rim shape and a position of a mounting hole is obtained based on a detection signal from the second position detector (40) by controlling a measuring element shifter (6) to move the leading end of a measuring element for a lens (36) to have contact with an refracting face of the lens (Lm) held in the lens holder.

Abstract: The correction method includes searching for one or more anomalous zones (S1, S2), if any, of the sensed curve (19), and if one or more anomalous zones are found, correcting the shape of each anomalous zone of the sensed curve.

Abstract: An arithmetic control circuit (52) is configured to bring the measuring element (38) for a lens into contact with at least two points (measurement points P1, P2) of one of two refracting surfaces of the lens Lm held in the lens holder by controlling the measuring element shifter (driving motor 6), obtain the coordinates of the two points according to the detection signal from the position detector (linear scales 24, 40), and obtain a curve value Cv of one refracting surface of the lens from the difference of the coordinates of the two points.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a shape of an eyeglass frame, includes: a tracing stylus moving unit that includes a tracing stylus detecting a position of a rim of the frame in a moving radius direction and in a vertical direction, a tracing stylus shaft for the tracing stylus, a holding unit configured to vertically-movably hold the tracing stylus shaft, a vertical direction moving unit for moving the holding unit in the vertical direction, and a moving radius direction moving unit for moving the holding unit in the moving radius direction so that the tracing stylus traces the rim; a vertical position detection unit for detecting a position of the tracing stylus in the vertical direction; and a controller for obtaining a next measurement position of the holding unit in the vertical direction based on the detecting result of the vertical position detection unit, and controls the vertical direction moving unit.

Abstract: A spectacle measuring tool (1) includes a front plate (2) attached to a spectacle frame, and a pair of left and right side plates (40A, 40B) formed on the two, left and right edges of the front plate (2) to extend backward. The front plate (2) includes an interpupillary distance measuring portion (A) and a fitting point height measuring portion (B), and is attached to the spectacle frame such that a height adjusting device (30) can adjust its height. The side plates (40A, 40B) include a pair of left and right pressing/adjusting devices (60) which adjust the side plates (40A, 40B) to be parallel to the temples of the spectacle frame. The pressing/adjusting devices (60) press against the face side portions of a subject using threaded rods (62).

Abstract: Systems and methods for displaying three-dimensional (3D) images are described. In particular, the systems can include a display block made from a transparent material with optical elements three -dimensionally disposed therein. Each optical element becomes luminous when illuminated by a light ray. The systems can also include a computing device configured to generate two-dimensional (2D) images formatted to create 3D images when projected on the display block, by a video projector coupled to the computing device. The video projector is configured to project the 2D images on the block to create the 3D images by causing a set of the passive optical elements to become luminous. Various other systems and methods are described for displaying 3D images.

Abstract: A lens shape measuring method includes: bringing a feeler into contact with an outer peripheral surface of a spectacle lens, the outer peripheral surface corresponding to a lens shape of spectacles, the feeler being rotatable about a rotation axis and movable forward and backward relative to the rotation axis in a radial direction, and, while keeping the contact state, moving the feeler along a contact surface of the feeler with the lens shape in a circumferential direction, to measure radii ?i (i=0, 1, 2, . . . n) of the lens shape over an entire circumference of thereof, the radii ?i representing change in distance from a geometric center of the lens shape to the feeler, a measurement region of the lens shape being divided into multiple sub-regions, and within each of the sub-regions, the rotation axis line being moved to a position to cause the feeler to measure the lens shape within the sub-region.

Abstract: A shape measuring apparatus for eyeglasses which measures a contour shape of an eyeglass element includes: a holder which holds the eyeglass element; a holder swing mechanism which swings the holder around a virtual rotational axis which is set outside of the shape measuring apparatus for eyeglasses; a measuring element which traces a surface of the eyeglass element; a driver which drives the measuring element; a position detector which detects a position of the measuring element; and a controlling-calculating section which controls the driver and obtains and processes position information of the measuring element by the position detector, wherein, in a state of holding the eyeglass element by the holder, the controlling-calculating section controls the driver to slide the measuring element on the surface of the eyeglass element, so that the measuring element traces a three-dimensional shape of the eyeglass element and the three-dimensional shape of eyeglass element is obtained based on information of a drivi

Abstract: A method of reading the outline of the bezel of a rim of an eyeglass frame, includes contacting the bottom of the bezel and a feeler finger (9) belonging to a feeler (8) and pointing along a feeler axis (C) or with a feeler blade belonging to a feeler and extending in a feeler plane, and moving the feeler along the bezel In order to feel the bottom of the bezel by turning about an axis of rotation. The invention, the feeler blade or finger, at least when located in a temple zone of the rim of the frame, points obliquely towards the rim of the frame and towards its rear side that is to be placed facing the eyes of a wearer, such that its feeler axis or its feeler plane forms a non-zero feeler angle (A1) with a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the feeler.

Abstract: An eyeglass frame measurement apparatus includes: a measurement unit which includes a tracing stylus to be inserted into a groove of a rim of an eyeglass frame, a moving mechanism for moving the tracing stylus along the groove of the rim, and a detector for detecting movement of the tracing stylus, and obtains three-dimensional shape of the rim based on a detected result by the detector; and a holding unit which includes upper and lower sliders for positioning the frame, left and right clamp pins for clamping the rim and left and right contact portion to be contacted with the rim which is clamped by the clamp pins, and holds the frame fixedly. The left and right clamp pins and the contact portions protrude from each of the upper and lower sliders. Each of the contact portions is formed at the periphery of each of the clamp pins.

Abstract: Contour reading device, in particular for eyeglass frame rims, including a carrier axis (A) projecting transversely to the surface of a turntable (6), a carrier arm (18) which is mounted at one end to turn about the carrier axis (A) and at the other end of which a feeler (8) is mounted, whereby the feeler (8) is mobile relative to the turntable (6) along a circular arc path centered on the carrier axis (A).

Abstract: An eyeglass lens measurement apparatus includes: a measurement unit which includes a tracing stylus to be inserted into a groove of a rim of an eyeglass frame, a moving mechanism for moving the tracing stylus along the groove of the rim, and a detector for detecting movement of the tracing stylus, and obtains three-dimensional shape of the rim based on a detected result by the detector; and a holding unit which includes upper and lower sliders for positioning the frame, left and right clamp pins for clamping the rim and left and right contact portion to be contacted with the rim which is clamped by the clamp pins, and holds the frame fixedly. The left and right clamp pins and the contact portions protrude from each of the upper and lower sliders. Each of the contact portions is formed at the periphery of each of the lamp pins.

Abstract: A contour reading method for an item such as an eyewire for spectacles, the method using an appliance including a support for holding the item, and a rotary platform which is rotatably mounted in relation to the support about a rotational axis and carries a reading sub-set provided with a sensor consisting of a finger and a rod, the finger having a distal end. The distal end is displaced along the contour and successive positions thereof are detected. The method is characterized in that the displacement step includes a measuring step wherein the effort exerted between the platform and the rod is measured parallel to the rod, and a control step wherein the distance between the finger and the platform is controlled according to the effort in such a way that the intensity of the effort remains lower than a pre-determined threshold.

Abstract: A hole data input device for inputting hole data including a position of a hole with respect to a target lens shape for forming the hole on an eyeglass lens to attach a rimless frame to the lens, includes: a storage that stores plural types of hole patterns; a selector that selects a desired hole pattern from the stored hole patterns; and a setting unit that automatically sets at least one of positions, diameters, depths, and angles of plural holes based on the selected hole pattern.

Abstract: A method of reading the outline of the bezel of a rim of an eyeglass frame, includes the steps of putting a feeler into contact against the bezel and of feeling the bezel by sliding or running the feeler along the bezel, the feeler being actuated by actuator elements along at least a first axis normal to the general plane of the rims of the frame. According to the invention, the overall force delivered by the actuator elements varies continuously or in step during reading as a function of the position of the feeler along the first axis.

Abstract: A measurement instrument for establishing an angle by which each lens-mounting rim of a spectacles frame having two lens-mounting rims joined by a spectacles bridge is tilted in a horizontal plane in front of an eye of a spectacles wearer comprises a supporting plate onto which a spectacles frame can be positioned with the upper or lower outside edges of the lens-mounting rims downward; a marking line on the surface of the supporting plate for alignment of the spectacles frame; and at least one adjustable means permitting measurement of an angle between an imaginary line connecting a nasal and a temporary edge of a lens-mounting rim and the marking line.

Abstract: The proposed invention calculates the circumference of an optical lens taking into consideration external variations in lens size and shape. The invention, utilizing a uniquely designed optical lens tracing pen in conjunction with a specifically designed tracing template provides for a consistent method of measure with respect to the outermost ridge of a traced lens. The lens is traced utilizing the specifically designed invention pen, and scanned into a software system which receives the traced image and plots a lens shape based upon a calculated distance between first color template axis indicators and a second color pen tracing. The system further provides for a number of options to allow specification a prescription to be utilized in conjunction with the lens sizing information as well as the automated and transparent downloading of computer software and additional lens shape offerings reflected in updated versions of the invention.

Abstract: A spectacle frame shape measuring apparatus includes a measurement element holding mechanism. The measurement element holding mechanism holds a measurement element in a substantially loadless state along a frame groove formed in the inner circumferential surface of a rim of a spectacle frame. The measurement element holding mechanism includes a rod, balance spring, and evacuating mechanism. The rod is vertically movable and has an upper end portion on which the measurement element is mounted. The balance spring pushes the rod upward to hold the measurement element at a loading position during shape measurement. The evacuating mechanism regularly evacuates the measurement element to an evacuation position, thereby performing three-dimensional measurement of a rim shape. A spectacle frame shape measuring apparatus holder is also disclosed.

Abstract: A lens shape measuring apparatus is disclosed, which is capable of identifying a size of an outer-diameter shape of a lens fixing jig by using a measuring element also used for measuring a lend shape. This lens shape measuring apparatus comprising: a lens fixing jig installed in an eyeglass lens to be processed to clamp the eyeglass lens; a lens rotation shaft for clamping and rotating the lens to be processed; a measuring element abutted on a refracting surface of the lens clamped by the lens rotation shaft; a measuring element position switching mechanism for controlling rotation of the measuring element around a rotation shaft roughly parallel to the lens rotation shaft; and a measuring unit for measuring a moving distance of the measuring element in a direction roughly parallel to the lens rotation shaft.

Abstract: A control system is provided for a pivotally actuated tracer which traces an object (e.g., a frame mount of an eyeglass frame, a lens, or a lens pattern) while the object is held in a more-vertical-than-horizontal orientation. The control system comprises a trace control element and a gravity compensation element. The trace control element applies control signals to the pivotally actuated tracer. In response, the object engager of the tracer is pivotally actuated against and along the object to be traced with a biasing force toward the object. The gravity compensation element is adapted to compensate for the effects of gravity on the object engager by causing a varying pivoting force to be exerted on the object engager. The pivoting force varies depending on the rotational orientation of the object engager to keep the biasing force substantially constant along the object. Also provided is a data acquisition system for the tracer.

Abstract: Apparatus for tracing the perimeter shape of the lens holding aperture of an eyeglass frame, or an eyeglass lens, includes a holder to releasably hold an eyeglass frame or lens for tracing measurement. A tracing stylus has a 3 axis movement control apparatus to move the stylus around an axis of rotation and in a vertical and a horizontal direction of a plane rotatable about the axis of rotation. The stylus is urged into horizontal contact with the frame or lens to be traced by a horizontal axis motor dynamically controlled to optimize the contact force between the tracing stylus and frame or lens during the trace process. Control of the vertical movement axis of the stylus optimally provides a weightless behaviour of the stylus permitting it to move vertically responsive to external vertical forces.

Abstract: The proposed invention calculates the circumference of an optical lens taking into consideration external variations in lens size and shape. The invention, utilizing a uniquely designed optical lens tracing pen in conjunction with a specifically designed tracing template provides for a consistent method of measure with respect to the outermost ridge of a traced lens. The lens is traced utilizing the specifically designed invention pen, and scanned into a software system which receives the traced image and plots a lens shape based upon a calculated distance between first color template axis indicators and a second color pen tracing. The system further provides for a number of options to allow specification a prescription to be utilized in conjunction with the lens sizing information as well as the automated and transparent downloading of computer software and additional lens shape offerings reflected in updated versions of the invention.

Abstract: A grinding machine includes a swing-arm mounted to pivot on a frame, a lens-holder shaft which is mounted to rotate on the swing-arm about a rotation axis parallel to the pivot axis of the swing-arm, and on which a calibration template can be mounted, and a tool-holder shaft which is mounted to rotate on the frame at a distance from the pivot axis of the swing-arm and on which a machining tool can be mounted. A method of calibrating the machine includes an approach phase during which the swing-arm, which is fitted with a calibration template, is moved toward the tool-holder shaft, which is equipped with a machining tool. The approach phase is interrupted as soon as contact is detected between the calibration template and the machining tool. Applications include machines for grinding ophthalmic lenses.

Abstract: A control system is provided for a pivotally actuated tracer which traces an object (e.g., a frame mount of an eyeglass frame, a lens, or a lens pattern) while the object is held in a more-vertical-than-horizontal orientation. The control system comprises a trace control element and a gravity compensation element. The trace control element applies control signals to the pivotally actuated tracer. In response, the object engager of the tracer is pivotally actuated against and along the object to be traced with a biasing force toward the object. The gravity compensation element is adapted to compensate for the effects of gravity on the object engager by causing a varying pivoting force to be exerted on the object engager. The pivoting force varies depending on the rotational orientation of the object engager to keep the biasing force substantially constant along the object. Also provided is a data acquisition system for the tracer.

Abstract: The accuracy of the axial degree of a lens in an eyeglass production is improved. In an eyeglass frame measuring apparatus, first and second frame data on the eyeglass frame consisting of first and second frames are entered. The entered first frame data are inverted to obtain a third frame data. On the basis of the third frame data and the entered second frame data, an amount of deviation of the second frame data with respect to the third frame data in a rotation direction is obtained. An eyeglass lens is processed on the basis of the rotation deviation amount and the third frame data.

Abstract: A calibration gauge for use in calibrating a lens cutting/grinding machine has a disk with a concentric post on one of its faces for chucking the disk to a lens spindle. A target delineated on the other face of the disk consists of bands aligned on the X and Y axes and intersecting at the center of the disk. The width of the bands is not greater than the acceptable error in positioning of the X and Y axes. The calibrating operator sets a limit of Z-axis motion of the lens spindle corresponding to a selected depth of cutting/grinding a lens. The gauge is chucked to the lens spindle. The X-axis position of the tool is aligned by computer with the Z-axis. Rotation of the tool spindle is initiated and the lens spindle is raised to plunge cut/grind the gauge. The lens spindle is lowered and rotation of the tool spindle is terminated. The gauge is dechucked and the depth of the cut/grind is measured. The difference between the measured and selected depths is determined.

Abstract: A non-spherical surface shape measuring device and method that measures the shapes of object surfaces that have rotationally symmetrical non-spherical surface shapes on the basis of relative deviation values from the shape of a reference surface, the non-spherical surface shape measuring device includes a measuring means for obtaining relative deviation values between a reference surface and an object surface by measuring corresponding sampling points on the surfaces of the reference surface and the object surface and storing predetermined coefficients of variables prior to measurement. A first operating means approximates the partial differential coefficients for the predetermined variables and models the relative displacement, between the object surface and the reference surface and the XY-coordinates of the sampling points, into functional equivalents of the partial differential coefficients.

Abstract: A machine for marking the location for determining the correct prescription of progressive optical lens including a diffused light source, a platform for supporting the progressive lens intended to be marked in the illumination from the light source, an optical reference element having visible indicia thereon for contact against the progressive lens to locate the symbols on the lens that indicate the position of a reference line thereon, and a marker including adjustable marker elements for contact against the lens in alignment with the reference line, to apply temporary opaque symbols on the progressive lens from which the lens prescription can be determined.

Abstract: Device and method for accurately recreating verification markings with removable ink on progressive ophthalmic lenses and molds are provided. The device includes (a) a stage which defines a coordinate system and which is adapted for receiving a lens or mold; (b) a magnifying device for locating the reference marks on the lens or mold surface; (c) a computer for storing coordinates from the platform wherein the coordinates represent the locations of two reference marks on the lens or mold surface; and (d) a pen device adapted to be positioned over the surface of the lens or mold wherein the pen device is controlled by the computer for applying the verification markings on the lens or mold surface.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for subjectively (and in some cases at least partially objectively) determining the proper positioning of progressive power or other corrective lenses are disclosed. The apparatus includes a target such as a small fiber optic or other light source and one or more marking rods which may be activated by the patient (or, in some cases, by the practitioner). While wearing pre-fitted frames and fixating on a remote target, the patient (or practitioner) places the light source against or immediately adjacent the exterior surface of the simulated or other lens within either of the frames and positions the light so that it is centered in the patient's line of sight. Once the light is centered the marking rod is activated which contacts, and marks, the exterior surface of the lens.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the shape of a frame of spectacles is provided wherein the shape of a frame is measured with a measuring element which is held in contact with a groove in a rim of the frame while being moved along the groove. To accurately position the measuring element with respect to the groove of the frame before the start of measurement, positioning means is provided which moves the measuring element horizontally toward the frame, presses the measuring element against the frame with a biasing force, and which positions the measuring element at a measurement position. Further, to permit smooth vertical movement of the measuring element and to achieve accurate shape measurement, thrust means is provided which pushes the lower end face of a measuring element supporting shaft upward at a location displaced from the axis of the shaft.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the shape of a frame of spectacles is provided wherein the shape of a frame is measured with a measuring element which is held in contact with a groove in a rim of the frame while being moved along the groove. To accurately position the measuring element with respect to the groove of the frame before the start of measurement, a positioning device is provided which moves the measuring element horizontally toward the frame, presses the measuring element against the frame with a biasing force, and positions the measuring element at a measurement position. Further, to permit smooth vertical movement of the measuring element and to achieve accurate shape measurement, a thrust device is provided which pushes the lower end face of a measuring element supporting shaft upward at a location displaced from the axis of the shaft.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for subjectively (and in some cases at least partially objectively) determining the proper positioning of progressive power or other corrective lenses are disclosed. The apparatus includes a target such as a small fiber optic or other light source and one or more marking rods which may be activated by the patient (or, in some cases, by the practitioner). While wearing pre-fitted frames and fixating on a remote target, the patient (or practitioner) places the light source against or immediately adjacent the exterior surface of the simulated or other lens within either of the frames and positions the light so that it is centered in the patient's line of sight. Once the light is centered the marking rod is activated which contacts, and marks, the exterior surface of the lens.

Abstract: A method for reading the shape of any elastically deformable article uses a contact feeler to follow the shape to be read. The contact feeler is applied to the article with a force of particular value adapted to cause localized deformation of the article and the coordinates of the contact feeler are noted at the relevant time. Two successive coordinate readings are systematically carried out, one with a first non-zero set point value of the contact feeler application force and the other with a second non-zero set point value of the application force different than the first set point value. The coordinates for a zero set point value of the contact feeler application force are deduced mathematically from the two coordinate readings.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for subjectively determining the proper positioning of progressive power or other corrective lenses are disclosed. The apparatus includes a target such as a small fiber optic or other light source and one or more marking rods which may be activated by the patient. While wearing prefitted frames and fixating on a remote target, the patient places the light source against or immediately adjacent the exterior surface of the simulated or other lens within either of the frames and positions the light so that it is centered in his or her line of sight. Once the light is centered the patient activates the marking rod which contacts, and marks, the exterior surface of the lens. Because the light source and marking rod or rods are designed to obstruct very little of the patient's vision, his or her peripheral vision remains intact during the process, thereby allowing binocular fusion to occur and avoiding introduction of phoria errors into the positioning process.

Abstract: An eyeglasses frame tracing device used in an eyeglasses lens grinding machine. The eyeglasses frame tracing device of the invention comprises a horizontally movable base portion, a rotary base rotatably supported on the base portion, a shaft including a measuring element at its upper end, the shaft being retained on the rotary base so as to relatively move in the vertical and lateral direction with respect to the rotary base, a light-shielding plate which moves in association with the vertical movement and lateral movement of the measuring element shaft and which has openings to allow a part of light to pass therethrough, and a pair of a light emitting section and a light receiving section which are provided opposite to each other with the light-shielding plate interposed therebetween and which moves integrally with the rotary base.

Abstract: A contour follower device suitable for reading off the contour of eyeglass frame rims or surrounds includes a support table with holding means for supporting the article whose contour is to be read off. A feeler has a rotatable contact head adapted to be applied to the article and is carried by a carriage which is movable relative to the support table. The contact head is rotated by rotational drive means such as a motor-gearbox unit.

Abstract: A device for tracing a surface such as one defining the lens opening of an eyeglass frame includes a tracer element moved automatically about a rotational axis surrounded by the traced surface and arranged perpendicularly to the area enclosed by the surface. As this rotation occurs a carrier for the tracer element is moved along a second axis extending perpendicularly to the rotational axis in response to a position error signal developed by the tracer element to maintain the position error signal at a substantially zero value through the use of feedback circuitry. The positions of the carrier about the rotational axis and along the second axis are repeatedly captured during the tracing movement to provide point data defining the shape of the traced surface. Results are a smooth steady movement of the tracer element along the surface with a minimum amount of force being exerted on the traced surface by the tracer element.

Abstract: A support device for eyeglass frames whereby the contour of one or both rims or surrounds of the frame can be read comprises a plurality of retaining means on a plate and on a flap pivoted to the plate. The retaining means are adapted to hold an eyeglass frame above a hole in the plate. The flap is pivoted to the plate and its inclination relative to the plate is adjustable.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for subjectively determining the proper positioning of progressive power or other corrective lenses are disclosed. The apparatus includes a target such as a small fiber optic or other light source and one or more marking rods which may be activated by the patient. While wearing pre-fitted frames and fixating on a remote target, the patient places the light source against or immediately adjacent the exterior surface of the simulated or other lens within either of the frames and positions the light so that it is centered in his or her line of sight. Once the light is centered the patient activates the marking rod which contacts, and marks, the exterior surface of the lens. Because the light source and marking rod or rods are designed to obstruct very little of the patient's vision, his or her peripheral vision remains intact during the process, thereby allowing binocular fusion to occur and avoiding introduction of phoria errors into the positioning process.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for subjectively determining the proper positioning of progressive power or other corrective lenses are disclosed. The apparatus includes a target such as a small fiber optic or other light source and one or more marking rods which may be activated by the patient. While wearing prefitted frames and fixating on a remote target, the patient places the light source against or immediately adjacent the exterior surface of the simulated or other lens within either of the frames and positions the light so that it is centered in his or her line or sight. Once the light is centered the patient activates the marking rod which contacts, and marks, the exterior surface of the lens. Because the light source and marking rod or rods are designed to obstruct very little of the patient's vision, his or her peripheral vision remains intact during the process, thereby allowing binocular fusion to occur and avoiding introduction of phoria errors into the positioning process.