Abstract: A method and system for generating a lens by grinding a lens blank with a tool in a working position calls for a diamond tool to be disposed only angularly, the lens being moved in an X,Y relationship so that the relative cutting position is properly maintained. The angular disposition and X,Y relationship of the tool and the lens are pre-calculated by a computer, and the digital data thus obtained are converted to analog data for controlling a servo system. In accordance with the invention, when a certain range of curves is entered via a digital keyboard, a computation is made by computer to determine if an interference between the spindle holding the diamond tool and lens will exist, or if an interference between the lens and a chuck will exist. If an interference will exist, the chucked lens is caused to rotate around the optic axis by precisely 180.degree.

Abstract: A machine for finishing the surface of a lens mounted on one side of a lens block having receiving depressions in its other side, the machine having a cylindrical tube mounted for rotary and reciprocal motion on a fixed shaft, an optical tool holder affixed to one end of the cylindrical tube and adapted to receive an optical lap thereon, an arm having pins extending therefrom to engage the pin recesses in a lens block having a lens mounting thereon for holding the lens in contact with the optical lap, a coupling block affixed to the cylindrical tube adjacent the other end thereof and having a spherical plane bearing therein, an outer cylindrical drive member having an eccentric longitudinal opening therethrough, an inner cylindrical drive member also having an eccentric cylindrical opening therethrough, the inner cylindrical drive member being rotatably received in the opening through the outer cylindrical member, the cylindrical drive members being independently related, a shaft extending through the longitu

Abstract: An apparatus for simultaneously grinding a peripheral shape and edge surface upon a pair of ophthalmic lenses with a single pattern. The apparatus includes an abrading wheel and first and second floating heads for rotatably supporting a pair of ophthalmic lenses on either side of the abrading wheel. The lenses are biased toward the wheel and are incrementally rotated about mutually parallel axes which lie parallel with a central longitudinal axis of the abrading wheel. A control system is operably connected to each of the lenses and serves to control incremental rotation of each of the lenses as well as lateral engagement of the lenses with the central abrading wheel.

Abstract: An apparatus for grinding cylindrical lenses, comprising a frame supporting a motor-driven apparatus in which a vertical driving pin is adapted to be moved parallel to itself, in complex motion, which is substantially non-repetitive. Three separate drive means are provided for producing eccentric motion of selected amplitude, and individually controllable relative phase angle with each other. The driving pin is connected with a universal joint, to a vertical post which is pivoted at its bottom end, and adapted for angular motion forward and backward and to each side, but does not have any component of rotary motion about its own axis. Arm means are provided attached to the post, for pressing a lens block holding a lens to be ground, against a stationary lap, so as to grind a cylindrical surface on the lens.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for blocking an ophthalmic lens blank by means of a vacuum. The lens blank rests on the chuck and forms an air pocket or cavity therebetween which is evacuated by means of a vacuum pump. After evacuation, an elastic plug is inserted in an aperture in the chuck by atmospheric pressure to maintain the vacuum. The lens is disengaged from the chuck by peeling the plug back and thereby releasing the vacuum.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for blocking an ophthalmic lens blank by means of a vacuum. The lens blank rests on the chuck and forms an air pocket or cavity therebetween which is evacuated by means of a vacuum pump. After evacuation, an elastic plug is inserted in an aperture in the chuck by atmospheric pressure to maintain the vacuum. The lens is disengaged from the chuck by peeling the plug back and thereby releasing the vacuum.