Abstract: In an inspection module for inspecting optical parts (12) for defects, especially contact lenses manufactured as injection-moulded parts, the optical parts (12) are illuminated from one side and are observed from the opposite side by means of an image-resolving sensor (34). The image data of the sensor (34) are forwarded to image-processing means for identification of defects. To obtain a high throughput with a simple construction, a chain (52) of liquid-filled vessels (10) circulating in an endless line is provided. The endless line is passed in an inspection station (72) between an illumination device (32) and the image-resolving sensor (34). Handling means in the form of grippers (56, 58) revolve with the vessels (10), by means of which optical parts (12) to be inspected can be introduced into the vessels (10) at a position of the line upstream of the inspection station (72) and the inspected parts can be taken out of the vessels (10) at another position of the line.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for the photo-initiated chemical cross-linking of material (28). To form one or more mouldings the material is enclosed in an optically transparent mould (26). The apparatus has at least one light source (12), for example a pulsed UV light source by which the material (28) can be acted upon by a light that triggers the cross-linking. The region to be cross-linked in the mould (26) is determined at least partially by beam-delimiting elements (20, 22) between the light source (12) and the mould (26). That can be achieved by arranging between the light source (12) and the mould (26) a mask (20) having transparent and non-transparent surface portions. The mask (20) is then projected onto the material (28) that is enclosed in the mould (26) by projection optics (24). The projection of the mask (20) onto the material is effected in a telecentric beam path.

Abstract: Inspection module for inspecting optical parts for defects In an inspection module for inspecting optical parts (12) for defects, especially contact lenses manufactured as injection-moulded parts, the optical parts (12) are illuminated from one side and are observed from the opposite side by means of an image-resolving sensor (34). The image data of the sensor (34) are forwarded to image-processing means for identification of defects. To obtain a high throughput with a simple construction, a chain (52) of liquid-filled vessels (10) circulating in an endless line is provided. The endless line is passed in an inspection station (72) between an illumination device (32) and the imageresolving sensor (34).

Abstract: A process and an apparatus for the examination, especially the quality control, of optical components, in which an image of the particular component to be examined is produced and flaws in the imaged article are detected by image analysis, as well as the integration of that examining process into the manufacture of the component. The optical components may be optical components for the eye, such as spectacle lenses, contact lenses, intraocular lenses and the like.

Abstract: Efficient and consistent processes for manufacturing moldings, especially ophthalmic lenses such as contact lenses. The processes comprises a series of improvements, including improvements in the areas of conditions for dispensing liquid prepolymer into lens molds, male and female mold mating, reusable molds, mold cleaning, lens separation from molds (demolding), lens handling, and in-line inspection. Cyclic series of processing steps are also disclosed. Additionally, an improved molding tool is disclosed, with the molding tool including a male mold housing and a female mold housing, each of which have disposed therein a plurality of mold halves.

Abstract: An optical position transmitter comprises a movable code element (36). A light beam (44) is directed onto the code element. The coding of the code element (36) generates in the reflected light beam (44) sub-light beams having different optical path differences. This may be effected by stepped surface portions on the surface of the code element (36). The optical path differences are greater than the coherency length of the light of the light source (62). The reflected light beam is directed through a beam splitter (42) onto an interferometer for detection of the optical path differences. Interferences between sub-light beams are permitted by well-defined quick changes in the interferometer with determined path differences. Position signals can be obtained from the thus obtained "interference peaks".