Abstract: A fabrication system may generally comprise an x-y positioning assembly, a clamping head to receive an end effector, wherein the clamping head is coupled to the x-y positioning assembly, a z positioning assembly, a platform including a surface that is rigid and substantially planar, wherein the platform is coupled to the z positioning assembly, and a controller operably coupled to the x-y positioning assembly, end effector, z positioning assembly, and platform. Methods of using the fabrication system are also described.

Abstract: A lens processing system used for removing a lens blank (98, 110) from an edging block (40). The system includes an elongated collet (22) that engages the mating edging block (40). The block (40) includes an enlarged groove (41) that receives a pair of blades (65, 66) extended upwardly from the floor (75) of the collet (22). Each lens blank (98,110) is formed to include a series of surface markings (191,192) to verify proper functioning of the edging machine that forms a finished lens. Each lens blank also includes a series of circular markings (117,133) arranged in diagonal rows to verify the accurate drilling of bores with the lens blank (98,110).

Abstract: A tool holder with tensioning design includes a body and a tensioning device. The body is a hollow cylinder with a peripheral wall and a tool inserting hole, around the peripheral wall is formed an annular slot, the peripheral wall is further provided with a gap which extends along an axial direction of the body and in communication with the annular slot, the body is provided with two assembling portions at two sides of the gap. The tensioning device is disposed at the two assembling portions to tighten or loosen the two assembling portions. The annular slot and the gap allows for micro deformation of the two assembling portions. The use of the tool holder of the present invention is not restricted by the configuration of the tool to be held.

Abstract: A chuck holds a disk by the inside diameter with a plurality of contact surfaces at the end of fingers. Axial motion of an actuator is translated into outward radial movement of the fingers to place the contact surfaces in contact with the inside diameter of the disk. The force that is applied to the disk is limited to reduce or eliminate warping or curvature of the disk, e.g., a sleeve that surrounds the fingers can be used as a hard stop to physically limit the range of outward radial movement of the fingers.

Abstract: A lead fixation tool includes a tapered opening for receiving and guiding a stylet into a lead. The fixation tool also includes an engagement mechanism for gripping a portion of the lead connector so that rotation of the tool causes rotation of an active fixation tip, such as a helical tip, coupled with the lead.

Abstract: A tool holder assembly having a cutting tool, a tool holder, and a sealing portion. The sealing portion is configured to inhibit fluid leakage between the cutting tool and the tool holder.