Edging Patents (Class 451/43)
  • Patent number: 7998865
    Abstract: A system (500) removes wafer edge residue from a target wafer (508). A wafer holding mechanism (502) holds and rotates the target wafer (508). A residue remover mechanism (504) mechanically interacts or abrades an edge surface of the target wafer (508) and removes strongly adhered residue from the edge surface of the target wafer (508). The residue remover mechanism (504) controls coverage of the mechanical interaction and magnitude of the mechanical interaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Joe G. Tran, Brian K. Kirkpatrick, Alfred J. Griffin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7997957
    Abstract: A process for edging an optical lens for conforming the optical lens to the size and shape of a lens frame into which the optical lens is to be accommodated, said process comprising: a) providing an optical lens having a convex surface, the convex surface being provided with an anti-smudge topcoat rendering the optical lens inappropriate for edging; b) fixing a mounting element on the convex surface of the optical lens, preferably on its center, by means of an adhesive pad adhering both to the mounting element and the convex surface of the optical lens to form a mounting element/optical lens assembly; c) placing the mounting element/optical lens assembly in a grinding machine so that the optical lens is firmly maintained; and d) edging the optical lens to the intended size and shape, wherein, prior to step (b) of fixing the mounting element, the anti-smudge topcoat on the convex surface of the optical lens is pre-treated with a solvent selected from the group consisting of alkanols and dialkylketones under a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Essilor International Compagnie Generale d'Optique
    Inventors: Gerald Fournand, Agnes De Leuze-Jallouli, Bruce Keegan
  • Patent number: 7988536
    Abstract: An exemplary grinding method includes, firstly, providing a holding device including a first rotatable pressing portion and a second rotatable pressing portion, and providing a base. Then a number of workpieces are placed into a groove of the base. Two blocking members identical in shape are placed in the groove, with the workpieces therebetween. The blocking members are moved towards the workpieces to closely align with the workpieces. The sizes of the blocking members are compared with that of each workpiece, and then the blocking members are removed. If the workpieces are larger than the blocking members, the workpieces are thereafter held between the first and second pressing portions. Next, the base is removed and the first and second pressing portions are driven to rotate. Subsequently, the workpieces are ground, and then a number of finished products are obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sei-Ping Louh
  • Patent number: 7980920
    Abstract: A manufacturing method of a spectacle lens improving a manufacturing yield and a production efficiency is provided. The manufacturing method of the spectacle lens in which necessary information for a frame machining of a spectacle lens (progressive-power lens 20) including spectacle rim related information is obtained, and both surfaces of a convex surface and a concave surface are edge/polish machined from a spectacle lens blanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventors: Hisanori Akiyama, Masashi Nishioka, Michio Arai
  • Patent number: 7963824
    Abstract: A method for grooving or counter-beveling the periphery of an opthamalic lens in a grinding machine is provided. The grinding machine includes a lens support with a mechanism configured to rotate the lens about a first axis, a grooving or counter-beveling wheel rotatable about a second axis which can be tilted relative to the first axis, and a mechanism to adjust the angle of tilt of the second axis relative to the first axis. Initially, a profile for the groove is determined. A single treatment angle corresponding to the profile is calculated, and the angle of tilt of the second axis is adjusted to the value of the single treatment angle. A groove or counter-bevel is ground into the periphery of the lens with the angle of tilt remaining constant throughout the grinding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Briot International
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Meunier, Bruno Bizet
  • Publication number: 20110037945
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a beveling wheel and method for forming a beveled lens with the beveling wheel for use with eyeglasses. One embodiment includes a prescription lens for use on an eyeglass frame having a receiving channel. The receiving channel includes a channel bottom and opposed interior wall surfaces having a first angle therebetween. The prescription plastic lens includes a prescription lens body generally defined by a peripheral edge having a bevel extending away from the edge to a vertex. The bevel has a distal portion with a second angle. The bevel is receivable within the receiving channel. At least a portion of the vertex of the bevel has an interference fit with the receiving channel bottom when held within the eyeglass frame. The first angle is greater than the second angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald C. Wiand
  • Publication number: 20100312573
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for preparing an ophthalmic lens (20) for mounting the same into the rim of a rimmed spectacles frame that comprises the step of acquiring a first longitudinal profile (27) of a groove of said rim, the step of blocking the lens in a holding means, and the step of trimming the ophthalmic lens using trimming means, during which the holding and trimming means are driven so that the ophthalmic lens is trimmed and includes a fitting rib extending along a second longitudinal profile (25; 26) derived from the first longitudinal profile. According to the invention, the method comprises the step of determining a second longitudinal profile of a singular portion (Z1) having a reduced curvature radius. Furthermore, during the trimming step, the holding and trimming means are driven so that the section of the fitting rib is locally narrowed in terms of width and/or height in said singular portion, and/or so that the setpoint of the trimming radius is reduced in said singular portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: Essilor International (Compagnie Generale d'Optique)
    Inventor: Ahmed Haddadi
  • Patent number: 7846009
    Abstract: The method includes: automatic measurement of the marking characteristics of the lens in a measurement position in order to produce a marking reference of the ophthalmic lens; transfer of the lens in a second transfer movement from the measurement position to an intermediate position which is distinct from the measurement position; transfer of the lens in a third transfer movement from the intermediate position to a trimming position which is distinct from the intermediate position; locking of the ophthalmic lens on trimming elements (6); trimming the lens. The third transfer is carried out by third transfer elements that make up a sub-unit which is distinct and independent from other units or includes elements carrying out the second transfer, and trimming elements, wherein full blocking of the lens on the trimming elements is only completed after the third transfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Essilor International (Compagnie Generale d'Optique)
    Inventor: Gaël Mazoyer
  • Publication number: 20100283968
    Abstract: A method for determining the shape of the bevel of an ophthalmic lens so as to have the ophthalmic lens fit a given spectacle frame, the method comprising the steps of: providing the three-dimensional (xi, yi, zi) internal profile of the groove of at least a rim of the spectacle frame expressed in the principal axes (Xf, Yf, Zf) of the spectacle frame and the length Pf of the periphery of the groove of the rim, providing the blocking point of the ophthalmic lens and the horizontal direction Xl of the ophthalmic lens, projecting the three-dimensional (xi, yi, zi) internal profile of the groove of the rim on the front face surface of the ophthalmic lens so as to obtain a three-dimension projected groove shape (xp, yp, zp), modifying the coordinates of each point of the two-dimensional groove shape (xp, yp) based on two correction coefficient, Rx for the coordinate xp and Ry for the coordinate yp, with Rx+Ry=1 so as to have the length Pp of the three-dimensional groove projected shape (xp, yp, zp) equal to the l
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL (COMPAGNIE GENERALE D'OPTIQU
    Inventors: David Freson, Frédérique Dubois
  • Patent number: 7828624
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing ophthalmic lenses comprises the steps of: a) mounting lens blanks on lens blocks at a blocking location; b) transporting the blocked lens blanks to at least one manufacturing site that is remote from the blocking location; and c) selectively machining ophthalmic lens from the blocked lens blanks at the manufacturing site on a machining platform, wherein the selective machining of ophthalmic lens includes back surface generation of the lens blanks and edging of the lens blanks at the manufacturing site on a single manufacturing platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: NCRX Optical Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry K. Siders, Donald F. Baechtel
  • Patent number: 7803035
    Abstract: A method of working the periphery of an ophthalmic lens (L), the periphery of the lens possessing an edge face (C) and the method including edging the edge face of the lens by machining with a first grindwheel (31) mounted to rotate about an axis of rotation (A4). According to the invention, during the edging, in addition to being free to rotate about the axis of rotation, the first grindwheel possesses two degrees of freedom to move in tilting about two distinct pivot directions that are substantially transverse to its axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Essilor International (Compagnie Generale d'Optique)
    Inventors: Michel Nauche, Gaël Mazoyer
  • Patent number: 7740519
    Abstract: A method for processing a chamfering of an eyeglass lens, including the steps of inputting a width of the chamfering and a range of the chamfering from a periphery of a lens shape at a position adjacent to a nose and/or a position far away form the nose, obtaining a trace of the chamfering on a refractive surface of the eyeglass lens and displaying the trace of the chamfering by overlapping the lens shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCON
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Hatano, Kenichi Watanabe, Takeshi Nakamura, Takumi Uchiyama, Yasuhiko Kusaka
  • Publication number: 20100136885
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus including a lens edge position detecting unit for obtaining edge positions, an edge corner processing tool for processing an edge corner of the lens, a correction data input unit for inputting correction data to avoid interference between an edge and a nose pad arm, wherein the correction data includes data on a position of interference between the nose pad arm and the edge, data necessary for setting an amount of processing at an interference position, and an edge processing range, a processing data computing unit for determining a path of processing the edge corner, based on edge position data and the correction data, to obtain data on correction processing and a processing controller for processing the edge corner of the lens by the edge corner processing tool in accordance with the correction processing data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: NIDEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kyoji TAKEICHI
  • Patent number: 7713108
    Abstract: In an eyeglass lens processing apparatus for beveling a peripheral edge of an eyeglass lens, if the high curve lens processing mode is selected by a mode selector, a computing unit acquires a high curve bevel path for locating the bevel apex on a front surface curve of the eyeglass lens or for locating the bevel apex at a position shifted by a predetermined quantity from the front surface curve toward the rear side on the basis of the edge position information acquired by the edge position detector, thereby providing high curve beveling data for the rear surface beveling grindstone, or for the front surface and rear surface beveling grindstones; and a beveling controller bevels the peripheral edge of the eyeglass lens by the rear surface beveling grindstone, or by the front surface and rear surface beveling grindstones on the basis of the high curve beveling data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kyoji Takeichi
  • Publication number: 20100112908
    Abstract: A method of shaping an ophthalmic lens includes machining the edge face of the lens by at least one rotary tool having an axis of rotation movable relative to the lens axis, both in rotation and radial and axial translation. These movements are controlled so that the edge face of the lens presents a profiled shape with an engagement ridge suitable for engaging in a bezel of eyeglasses and first and second margins. Given first and second longitudinal curves of the first and second margins, respectively, the edge face of the lens is machined in such a manner that, at each axial section of the lens, the traces in the axial section of the first and second longitudinal curves present first and second distances from the axis of the lens, with the difference (rs) therebetween being a function of the position of the plane of the axial section under consideration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: ESSIL OR INTERNATIONAL (COMPAGNIE GÉNÉRALE D'OPTIQ
    Inventors: Cedric Lemaire, Ahmed Haddadi
  • Publication number: 20100105293
    Abstract: A lens holder (16) is attached to a processing target lens (2) such that a holder center (O) coincides with a processing center position (21) of the lens. An axial deviation measuring mark (81a, 81b) is displayed on the processing target lens (2) to coincide with a reference position mark (80a, 80b) of the lens holder (16), and the circumferential surface of the processing target lens (2) undergoes primary processing. After primary processing, the axial deviation of the processing target lens (2) is measured from the reference position mark (80a, 80b) and axial deviation measuring mark (81a, 81b). When axial deviation exists, the lens holder (16) is removed from the processing target lens (2) and the processing target lens (2) is held again, so that the axial deviation is corrected. After that, the processing target lens (2) undergoes secondary processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: Akira Hamanaka, Takashi Daimaru, Ryo Terai
  • Publication number: 20100009603
    Abstract: The machine includes: elements for supporting the lens and for driving it in rotation about a first axis of rotation, the rotation of the lens being driven by first driver element, a tool-carrier mounted to turn about a second axis of rotation, turning of the tool-carrier being driven by second driver element, a plurality of working tools mounted on the tool-carrier to rotate about tool axes, with at least two of the tools including tools for shaping the periphery of the lens for shaping having distinct tool axes, third driver element for driving relative spacing movements between the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation, swivel elements for enabling the tool-carrier to be pivoted relative to the first axis of rotation about a third axis of rotation that extends substantially transversely to the first axis of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL (COMPAGNIE GENERALE D'OPTIQUE)
    Inventor: Michel Nauche
  • Publication number: 20100002187
    Abstract: A pair of eyeglasses includes: a frame provided with at least one rim presenting an internal bezel; and a lens mounted in the frame, the lens presenting a front face, a rear face, and on its edge face, an engagement peripheral ridge presenting a rear flank, situated beside the rear face of the lens and a front flank situated beside the front face of the lens, the front and rear flanks being engaged in the internal bezel. The front flank of the engagement peripheral ridge presents continuity of at least first order with the remainder of the front face. The edge face of the lens presents a rear shoulder or foot, and in that the radial height of the engagement peripheral ridge considered between the peak of the peripheral ridge and the foot varies along the periphery of the lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: Essilor International (Compagnie Generale d'Optique)
    Inventor: Michel Nauche
  • Patent number: 7643899
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a machine programmed to edge an ophthalmic lens blank. The machine includes an edger device for forming a bevel in a peripheral edge of the lens blank, a central processing unit operably associated with the edger device for controlling operation thereof, and a computer program stored on a medium in communication with the central processing unit. The computer program includes a first instruction set operably causing the edger device to form a bevel in a peripheral edge of a lens blank. A second instruction set operably causes the edger device to form a step in the peripheral edge intermediate an apex of the bevel and an interface between the peripheral edge and a major surface of the lens blank. A method of controlling an edger device for edging an ophthalmic lens blank and a computer program are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: National Optronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt William Schaeffer
  • Publication number: 20090305614
    Abstract: A method of working the periphery of an ophthalmic lens (L), the periphery of the lens possessing an edge face (C) and the method including edging the edge face of the lens by machining with a first grindwheel (31) mounted to rotate about an axis of rotation (A4). According to the invention, during the edging, in addition to being free to rotate about the axis of rotation, the first grindwheel possesses two degrees of freedom to move in tilting about two distinct pivot directions that are substantially transverse to its axis of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL COMPAGNIE CENERALE D'OPTIQUE
    Inventors: Michel Nauche, Gael Mazoyer
  • Patent number: 7628486
    Abstract: In a method of processing a periphery of an eyeglass lens, at an optician shop, rimless frame identifying data for identifying a rimless frame is inputted; modification data for an original target lens shape of the eyeglass lens to be mounted on the rimless frame is inputted; and the input rimless frame identifying data and modification data is transmitted through a network communication to a lens processing factory; and at the lens processing factory, the data transmitted is received through the network communication; the original target lens shape data of the eyeglass lens to be mounted on the rimless frame is called from a database, based on the received rimless frame identifying data; a modified target lens shape is calculated based on the original target lens shape and the modification data; and the periphery of the eyeglass lens is processed based on data the calculated modified target lens shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Motoshi Tanaka, Ryoji Shibata, Takayasu Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7617579
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes a lens holding unit for holding an eyeglass lens, a roughing tool, a finishing tool, a drilling tool, a processing water supply unit for applying processing water to a processed part of the lens held by the lens holding unit, and a controller for controlling driving operations of each of the processing tools and the processing water supply unit in order to execute roughing for the lens by the roughing tool without application of the processing water, drilling for the lens by the drilling tool without the application of the processing water after the roughing and finishing for the lens by the finishing tool with the application of the processing water after the drilling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Katsuhiro Natsume
  • Patent number: 7614742
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for producing ophthalmic lenses that uses plastic blanks in the form of flat, round discs. The outer edge of said plastic blanks is clamped and the desired final surface geometry and surface quality of the front faces of the lens are subsequently produced by a machining process using grinders and/or lathes and by smoothing and polishing processes. During machining, a thicker annular region is retained on the outer circumference of the workpiece. The annular region clamps or arranges the workpiece during machining and transport operations and stabilizes the lens for additional machining. Shaped pieces for identifying the machining axes are attached to the annular region. The lens is provided with fine markings to characterize the lens that has been produced, with the lens then being separated from the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignees: Optotech Optikmashinen GmbH, Carl Zeiss Vision GmbH
    Inventors: Roland Mandler, Reinhold Weis
  • Publication number: 20090247051
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes: an edge position detector which detects front and rear edge positions of an eyeglass lens based on target lens shape data; a bevel locus setting unit which includes: a) a provisional bevel locus calculator which obtains a provisional bevel locus by obtaining a bevel curve substantially equal to a frame curve; b) a nose-side bevel position determining unit which determines a corrected bevel apex position at a nose-side edge position; c) an ear-side bevel position determining unit which determines a corrected bevel apex position at an ear-side edge position; and d) a corrected bevel locus calculator which obtains a corrected bevel locus which has a curve value equal to the bevel curve; and a processing controller which obtains beveling information based on the corrected bevel locus and controls an operation of the apparatus according to the beveling data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: NIDEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hirokatsu OBAYASHI
  • Patent number: 7581305
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an optical component comprising a substrate and a mounting frame with plural contact portions disposed at predetermined distances from each other is provided. The method comprises providing a measuring frame separate from the mounting frame for mounting the substrate, which measuring frame comprises a number of contact portions equal to a number of the contact portions of the mounting frame, wherein respective distances between the contact portions of the measuring frame are substantially equal to the corresponding distances between those of the mounting frame, measuring a shape of the optical surface of the substrate, while the substrate is mounted on the measuring frame, and mounting the substrate on the mounting frame such that the contact portions of the mounting frame are attached to the substrate at regions which are substantially the same as contact regions at which the substrate was attached to the measuring frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMT AG
    Inventors: Bernhard Geuppert, Jens Kugler, Thomas Ittner, Bernd Geh, Rolf Freimann, Guenther Seitz, Bernhard Fellner, Bernd Doerband, Stefan Schulte
  • Patent number: 7578725
    Abstract: This apparatus includes a unit for adhering an elastic seal to a lens holder, a unit for causing the lens holder, to which the elastic seal is adhered, to hold a lens, a pivotal arm, an arm driving unit for pivoting the pivotal arm, a clamp unit attached to the pivotal arm to be vertically movable to hold the lens holder, and a clamp driving unit for vertically moving the clamp unit. The pivotal arm is pivoted to sequentially adhere the elastic seal to the lens holder and hold the lens by the lens holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Igarashi, Shinichi Yokoyama, Michio Arai, Masahiko Samukawa, Shuichi Sato
  • Patent number: 7563153
    Abstract: The method comprises the following steps: a centering step during which the optical frame of reference of the lens is acquired and a blocking accessory is fastened thereto; and a step of shaping the lens to have a desired outline. The blocking accessory is fitted with an electronic identification element bearing an identification code, and said identification code of the electronic element is read initially during a first read during the centering step to associate the code in memory with the mounting parameters of the lens that is receiving the blocking accessory, and then during a second read during the shaping step in order to recover the mounting parameters associated with the identification code as read and thus with the lens attached to the blocking accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Essilor International
    Inventor: Ahmed Haddadi
  • Publication number: 20090176442
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes a processing control unit (50) which in the soft processing mode, roughs the lens such that the torque threshold value is set to a value T?s lower than the threshold value T?N of a normal processing mode, and when torque detected by a sensor unit does not exceed the threshold value T?s, a axis-to-axis distance varying unit or a lens rotating unit is controlled so that a cutting amount per rotation of the lens reaches a threshold cutting amount, and when the detected torque exceeds the threshold value T?s, the axis-to-axis distance varying unit or the lens rotating unit is controlled so that the torque becomes lower than the threshold value T?s to decrease the threshold cutting amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: NIDEK CO., LTD
    Inventors: Kyoji Takeichi, Hirokatsu Obayashi
  • Publication number: 20090170403
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes: a setting unit which sets points on an edge of a lens, where a line on a target lens shape and passing through the first and second points intersects a line on the target lens shape and passing through the third and fourth points; and a calculating unit which: obtains a first plane including a bisection point between the first and second points and perpendicular to the first line; obtains a second plane including a bisection point between the third and fourth points and perpendicular to the second line; obtains an intersection line of the first and second planes; obtains a bevel spherical surface so that a center of the bevel spherical surface is located on the intersection line and passes through a desired edge position; and obtains the bevel path on the basis of the bevel spherical surface and target lens shape data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: NIDEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ryoji SHIBATA
  • Publication number: 20090163119
    Abstract: According to the present invention, in a method for subjecting a roughly ground chamfer portion of a semiconductor wafer to helical grinding by relatively inclining the wafer and a second grinding stone to perform precise grinding, an edge portion of a discoid truer is formed into a vertically asymmetrical groove shape of a first grinding stone by using the first grinding stone having a vertically asymmetrical groove formed on a periphery thereof to grind the edge portion of the truer by the groove of the first grinding stone without being relatively inclined, a groove is formed on a periphery of the second grinding stone by relatively inclining the truer and the second grinding stone to subject the second grinding stone to helical grinding, and the chamfer portion of the wafer is precisely ground based on helical grinding by relatively inclining the semiconductor wafer with respect to a direction of the groove formed on the periphery of the second grinding stone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: SHIN-ETSU HANDOTAI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Eiichi Yamazaki, Takashi Sekine
  • Publication number: 20090142993
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes: a processing tool which processes a peripheral edge of the lens and includes a roughing tool, a beveling tool and a bevel-modifying tool; a selection unit which is used to select a high curve beveling mode for forming a bevel in the lens fitted into a high curve frame having a protrusion portion; a modifying portion data input unit inputs data of a portion to be modified so as to prevent an interference between the lens and the protrusion portion; a calculation unit which obtains bevel-modifying data on the basis of a bevel path and data of the modifying portion; and a processing control portion which performs the beveling to the lens by the beveling tool in accordance with the beveling data, and removes a part of the bevel shoulder and/or the bevel slope by the bevel-modifying tool in accordance with the bevel-modifying data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: NIDEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hirokatsu OBAYASHI
  • Patent number: 7540798
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes: an endmill that bevels a periphery of lens by a tip thereof so that an angle made by a bevel and a bevel foot substantially coincides with an angle of the tip; a moving unit that includes an inclining unit that inclines the endmill relative to the lens chuck; an operating portion that calculates front surface side beveling data and rear surface side beveling data; and a control portion that controls the moving unit based on the front surface side beveling data to bevel the front surface side of the lens and controls the moving unit based on the rear surface side beveling data to bevel the rear surface side of the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryoji Shibata
  • Publication number: 20090093194
    Abstract: A method and device for edging an ophthalmic lens, includes turning the lens about a first axis of rotation and working on the edge face of the lens with a beveling grindwheel or cutter having a beveling groove or chamfer and mounted to rotate about a second axis of rotation. While machining the edge face of the lens with the beveling grindwheel or cutter, the first and second axis of rotation are moved dynamically relative to each other as a function of the angle of rotation of the lens about the first axis of rotation, in such a manner that during machining of each portion of the edge face of the lens, the tangent to the curve of the working portion of the beveling groove or chamfer is substantially parallel to the tangent to the curve of the bevel desired on the portion of the edge face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2006
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL
    Inventor: Michel Nauche
  • Patent number: 7510459
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing an eyeglass lens, includes: a facetting tool that facets an edge corner of the lens which has been finished; a lens chuck that holds the lens; an input unit that inputs a target lens shape; a lens measuring unit that obtains front and rear edge paths of the lens, which has been finished, based on the input target lens shape; a display unit that displays a front outline graphic and a side outline graphic as view from at least one direction based on the measured front and rear edge paths; and a setting unit that sets a facetting area of the lens. The display unit displays the set facetting area in the front and side outline graphics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tadamasa Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20090068932
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and to a method for shaping an optical lens. According to the invention, a selection is provided between either a first tool (50) for machining the edge face of the lens, and a cutter tool (637) for cutting through the material of the lens, for the purpose of performing at least one given shaping operation. The invention also provides a method of shaping an optical lens coated in a treatment with low surface energy, the method including cutting through the material of the lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Applicant: Essilor International (Compagnie Generale d'Opitqu
    Inventors: Cedric Lemaire, Michel Nauche
  • Publication number: 20090068931
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a machine programmed to edge an ophthalmic lens blank. The machine includes an edger device for forming a bevel in a peripheral edge of the lens blank, a central processing unit operably associated with the edger device for controlling operation thereof, and a computer program stored on a medium in communication with the central processing unit. The computer program includes a first instruction set operably causing the edger device to form a bevel in a peripheral edge of a lens blank. A second instruction set operably causes the edger device to form a step in the peripheral edge intermediate an apex of the bevel and an interface between the peripheral edge and a major surface of the lens blank. A method of controlling an edger device for edging an ophthalmic lens blank and a computer program are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Kurt William SCHAEFFER
  • Publication number: 20090059383
    Abstract: A process for edging an optical lens for conforming the optical lens to the size and shape of a lens frame into which the optical lens is to be accommodated, said process comprising: a) providing an optical lens having a convex surface, the convex surface being provided with an anti-smudge topcoat rendering the optical lens inappropriate for edging; b) fixing a mounting element on the convex surface of the optical lens, preferably on its center, by means of an adhesive pad adhering both to the mounting element and the convex surface of the optical lens to form a mounting element/optical lens assembly; c) placing the mounting element/optical lens assembly in a grinding machine so that the optical lens is firmly maintained; and d) edging the optical lens to the intended size and shape, wherein, prior to step (b) of fixing the mounting element, the anti-smudge topcoat on the convex surface of the optical lens is pre-treated with a solvent selected from the group consisting of alkanols and dialkylketones under a
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: Essilor International (Compagnie Generale d'Optique)
    Inventors: Gerald Fournand, Agnes De Leuze-Jallouli, Bruce Keegan
  • Patent number: 7476143
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing system includes a main processing apparatus having a first lens chuck, a roughing tool, a first bevel-finishing tool, a lens edge measuring unit, and a first computing unit to obtain roughing data and first bevel-finishing data, and a sub processing apparatus, and having a second lens chuck, and a second bevel-finishing tool having a smaller diameter than the first bevel-finishing tool. The main processing apparatus has a means to set whether processing of the lens is performed by the first and second bevel-finishing tools, a transmission unit that transmits at least one of second bevel-finishing data or data for obtaining the second bevel-finishing data to the sub processing apparatus, a first control unit that performs roughing based on the roughing data and bevel-finishing based on the first bevel-finishing data. The sub processing unit has a second control unit that performs bevel-finishing based on the second bevel-finishing data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryoji Shibata
  • Patent number: 7463944
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of controlling an edger device, and a machine programmed to edge a lens blank. A lens blank and an edger are provided. The edger device is capable of forming a groove in a peripheral edge of the lens, and forming at least one hole extending from a first major surface of the lens to a second major surface. A CPU is provided, which is operably associated with the edger device for controlling operation of the edger device. Processing instructions are transmitted from the central processing unit to the edger device. The processing instructions comprise: forming a groove in a peripheral edge of a lens blank; and forming at least one hole in the lens blank extending from the first major surface to the second major surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: National Optronics
    Inventor: Kurt William Schaeffer
  • Patent number: 7454264
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a machine programmed to edge an ophthalmic lens blank. The machine includes an edger device for forming a bevel in a peripheral edge of the lens blank, a central processing unit operably associated with the edger device for controlling operation thereof, and a computer program stored on a medium in communication with the central processing unit. The computer program includes a first instruction set operably causing the edger device to form a bevel in a peripheral edge of a lens blank. A second instruction set operably causes the edger device to form a step in the peripheral edge intermediate an apex of the bevel and an interface between the peripheral edge and a major surface of the lens blank. A method of controlling an edger device for edging an ophthalmic lens blank and a computer program are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: Kurt William Schaeffer
  • Patent number: 7448938
    Abstract: Difference between a lens edge circumference and an edged lens circumference is controlled to be always within a prescribed range so that a spectacle lens of a properly finished circumference size can always be supplied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventor: Masaaki Inoguchi
  • Patent number: 7422510
    Abstract: The invention relates to a machining machine for lenses, which comprises a first workpiece drive, configured as the transport receptacle and having a workpiece spindle, a workpiece changer for exchanging workpieces between the workpiece drive and a workpiece stock, and a machining station for machining a workpiece. The workpiece spindle of the workpiece drive can be rotated about an axis of rotation (c1). The workpiece drive can be swiveled about a first swiveling axis (b1) which is arranged at a right angle to the axis of rotation (c1). The work piece drive can be rotated about an axis of rotation (k) which is arranged at a right angle to the first swiveling axis (b1). The machining machine according to the invention is characterized in that at least one further workpiece drive is provided and has a spindle that can be rotated about a respective axis of rotation (c1, c2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Schneider GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Gunter Schneider, Helwig Buchenauer, Klaus Krämer
  • Publication number: 20080207092
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for centering an uncut single vision ophthalmic lens (1) having an initial contour (2) associated with a center point (CO) and provided for being cut according to a final contour (3) associated with a pupil point, comprising the following steps: superimposing the pupil point of the final contour on the center point of the uncut lens, and; relatively adjusting the final contour inside the initial contour of the uncut lens. The step for adjusting the final contour inside the initial contour involves an angular orientation relative to the initial contour with regard to the final contour around the center point according to an angular position of adjustment in order to prevent or reduce the amount by which the final contour exceeds the initial contour of the lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: Essilor International (Compagnie Generale D'Optique)
    Inventor: Ahmed Haddadi
  • Patent number: 7410408
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing an eyeglass lens includes: a lens chuck that holds the lens; a regular-grooving tool; a first moving unit that moves the lens held by the lens chuck; a grooving data input unit that inputs grooving data including a width and depth of the groove to be formed in the lens; a controller that controls the first moving unit to perform regular-grooving on the basis of the grooving data; a fine-grooving tool; a second moving unit that moves the lens held by the lens chuck; and a selector that selects whether fine-grooving is to be performed. When performance of fine-grooving is selected, the controller performs the regular-grooving on the lens so that a bottom and side surfaces of the groove have a fine-grooving margin, and controls the second moving unit to perform the fine-grooving on the basis of the grooving data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryoji Shibata
  • Patent number: 7392108
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of controlling an ophthalmic edger device, and a machine programmed to edge and ophthalmic lens blank. A lens blank and an edger device for forming a groove in a peripheral edge of the lens blank are provided. A central processing unit is provided, which is operably associated with the edger device for controlling operation of the edger device. Processing instructions are transmitted from the central processing unit to the edger device, wherein the processing instructions comprise forming a groove in a peripheral edge of a lens blank, and removing lens material debris from the formed groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: National Optronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt William Schaeffer
  • Patent number: 7384326
    Abstract: A facetting area setting device for setting a facetting area so as to perform a facetting on an edge corner of an eyeglass lens which has been finished, includes: an input unit that inputs a target lens shape; a display unit that displays a front outline graphic based on the input target lens shape; a position setting unit that sets at least three points in the displayed front outline graphic; and an area setting unit that sets a facetting area on the basis of the input target lens shape and the set points. The area setting unit sets the facetting area by joining the set points with at least one of a straight line and a curved line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadamasa Yamamoto, Ryoji Shibata
  • Publication number: 20080125013
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a machine programmed to edge an ophthalmic lens blank. The machine includes an edger device for forming a bevel in a peripheral edge of the lens blank, a central processing unit operably associated with the edger device for controlling operation thereof, and a computer program stored on a medium in communication with the central processing unit. The computer program includes a first instruction set operably causing the edger device to form a bevel in a peripheral edge of a lens blank. A second instruction set operably causes the edger device to form a step in the peripheral edge intermediate an apex of the bevel and an interface between the peripheral edge and a major surface of the lens blank. A method of controlling an edger device for edging an ophthalmic lens blank and a computer program are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Kurt William Schaeffer
  • Patent number: 7371154
    Abstract: A dual ophthalmic lens machining platform comprises a blocked lens mounting structure constructed to simultaneously receive a first and a second blocked lens blank, and configured to rotationally and linearly move each lens blank, wherein the first and second lens blank have at least one common axis of movement on the mounting structure; and at least one machine tool adapted to machine each lens blank. A method of manufacturing ophthalmic lens comprises the steps of mounting at least a first and a second blocked lens blank on the machining platform; and simultaneously performing at least one machining process on the two blocked lens blanks on the machining platform. The dual ophthalmic lens machining platform is configured to simultaneously receive and machine a left and a right blocked lens blank for forming a left and a right lens of a pair of eyeglasses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: NCRx Optical Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry K. Siders, Donald F. Baechtel
  • Patent number: 7364494
    Abstract: An eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing an eyeglass lens includes: a lens chuck that holds the lens; a roughing tool; a finishing tool; a finishing data input unit that inputs finishing data; a water supply unit that supplies water to a portion being processed of the lens; a first temperature sensor that senses temperature of the water to be supplied; and an operating unit that corrects the input finishing data based on the temperature sensed by the first temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kyoji Takeichi, Hirokatsu Obayashi
  • Publication number: 20080096466
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing a periphery of a lens includes holding the lens to be processed, providing at least one edge processing system, disposing the at least one edge processing system and the periphery of the lens proximal one another in a processing position, dry edging the periphery of the lens with the at least one edge processing system to a predetermined configuration, and cooling the periphery of the lens during the edging step with a cooling medium other than a liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Jeff Eisenberg