Abstract: The present invention refers to a Method for printing a three-dimensional optical structure (1), wherein the three-dimensional optical structure (1) is built up from layers (L) of printing ink deposited through targeted placement of droplets of printing ink at least partially side by side in consecutive printing steps, wherein in order to at least partially compensate for deviations of a thickness from a nominal thickness of at least one layer (2), possible deviations are determined prior to printing said layer (2) and depositing the printing ink is controlled dependent on the determined possible deviations during printing of said layer (2).

Abstract: A method for printing a three-dimensional optical structure, in particular an ophthalmic lens, wherein the three-dimensional optical structure is built up from layers of printing ink deposited through targeted placement of droplets of printing ink at least partially side by side in consecutive printing steps, wherein a slicing (3) of the three-dimensional structure to be printed is adapted depending on a predefined true layer shape (2) so that during at least one printing step at least one layer is printed depending on the predefined true layer shape (2), wherein the predefined true layer shape (2) comprises the shape and/or volume characteristics of a typical printed layer.

Abstract: A method for printing a three-dimensional optical component (2) with an inkjet printer (1), wherein the three-dimensional component (2) is built up from layers of printing ink through a targeted placement of droplets (6) of printing ink at least partially side by side and one above the other in successive printing steps, wherein at least one printing step is followed by: a first scanning step during which surface properties of the two dimensional surface defined by the last printed layer are determined through a one dimensional measurement along a first direction by a measurement means (7), a rotation step during which the structure built up in the preceding steps is rotated with respect to the measurement means by a defined rotation angle and a second scanning step during which surface properties of the two-dimensional surface are determined through a one-dimensional measurement along a second direction by the measurement means.

Abstract: An apparatus for lifting one or more objects by suction includes a vacuum chamber, a grid element forming the floor of the vacuum chamber, and apparatus for creating a vacuum in the vacuum chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, the grid element includes a two-dimensional array of cells, each of which opens directly onto each opposite major surface of the grid element. Each cell has at least one valve member for closing and opening of the cell. The valve(s) normally assume a first position wherein the cell is open to provide direct communications through the cell between the opposite major surfaces of the grid element but are movable by a sufficient flow of air through the cell into a second position wherein the cell is substantially closed against such communication. Each valve member can include a flap valve pivoted for rotation between the first position and the second position, and a structure for supporting the grid element within the vacuum chamber.