EP0930954B1 - System for making an optical glass from a blank - Google Patents

System for making an optical glass from a blank Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0930954B1
EP0930954B1 EP98921542A EP98921542A EP0930954B1 EP 0930954 B1 EP0930954 B1 EP 0930954B1 EP 98921542 A EP98921542 A EP 98921542A EP 98921542 A EP98921542 A EP 98921542A EP 0930954 B1 EP0930954 B1 EP 0930954B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
blank
adapter
glass
information
processing unit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP98921542A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0930954A1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Jacques Bernard Joseph Videcoq
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Briot International SA
Original Assignee
Briot International SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Briot International SA filed Critical Briot International SA
Publication of EP0930954A1 publication Critical patent/EP0930954A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0930954B1 publication Critical patent/EP0930954B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
    • B24B51/00—Arrangements for automatic control of a series of individual steps in grinding a workpiece
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
    • B24B13/00—Machines or devices designed for grinding or polishing optical surfaces on lenses or surfaces of similar shape on other work; Accessories therefor
    • B24B13/005—Blocking means, chucks or the like; Alignment devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
    • B24B13/00—Machines or devices designed for grinding or polishing optical surfaces on lenses or surfaces of similar shape on other work; Accessories therefor
    • B24B13/06—Machines or devices designed for grinding or polishing optical surfaces on lenses or surfaces of similar shape on other work; Accessories therefor grinding of lenses, the tool or work being controlled by information-carrying means, e.g. patterns, punched tapes, magnetic tapes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
    • B24B9/00—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor
    • B24B9/02—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground
    • B24B9/06—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain
    • B24B9/08—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass
    • B24B9/14—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass of optical work, e.g. lenses, prisms
    • B24B9/144—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass of optical work, e.g. lenses, prisms the spectacles being used as a template
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
    • B24B9/00—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor
    • B24B9/02—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground
    • B24B9/06—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain
    • B24B9/08—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass
    • B24B9/14—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass of optical work, e.g. lenses, prisms
    • B24B9/146—Accessories, e.g. lens mounting devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
    • B24B9/00—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor
    • B24B9/02—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground
    • B24B9/06—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain
    • B24B9/08—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass
    • B24B9/14—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass of optical work, e.g. lenses, prisms
    • B24B9/148—Machines or devices designed for grinding edges or bevels on work or for removing burrs; Accessories therefor characterised by a special design with respect to properties of materials specific to articles to be ground of non-metallic inorganic material, e.g. stone, ceramics, porcelain of glass of optical work, e.g. lenses, prisms electrically, e.g. numerically, controlled

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a system for manufacturing an optical glass from a blank according to the preamble of claim 1 (see for example EP-B-0 363 281). .
  • Manufacturing systems of this type are already known in the prior art, which include a device for fitting an adapter onto the blank for its transfer and mounting in a device the size of which ci, controlled using size information, to make the optical glass.
  • an optical glass blank is held for example between two ends of a divided shaft of a grinding machine, by means of an adapter which is for example in the form of a suction cup or a any adhesive support, applied with precision thereon to define the axis of rotation of this blank in the grinding machine.
  • These probing means are then suitable for measuring radii of a mount or of a corresponding gauge, which are then used to generate control signals applied to the grinding machine by through a computer, during the roughing operation to obtain the glass.
  • Such a computer is generally associated with a screen making it possible to display the shape of the circles of the frame or that of the template for control for the user of the system.
  • This device indeed establishes itself the information necessary for the direct control of the size machine, according to the particular morphological data of the patient having to wear the glasses and of data relating to the chosen frame.
  • the device described in this document then includes a frame database or database and a computer associated with a display screen, constituted for example by a flat electronic display.
  • this computer includes means for displaying and moving on this screen, an image stored in the database, of a spectacle frame or of a corresponding template, as well as means for controlling and memorizing movements of the image of this mount on the screen, means for calculating the differences in its final coordinates with respect to a reference position and calculate the resulting ordering information for the grinding machine and means for applying corresponding commands directly to the grinding machine in order to allow the size of the blank.
  • the device described in this document comprises a pivoting system for fitting the adapter onto the blank, and optical sighting means for positioning the blank under this pivoting system for fitting the adapter.
  • the characteristics of the blank that is to say for example its power, and to mark thereon. for example its optical center and in the case of a cylindrical blank, its optical axis or other optical characteristics depending on the type of blank and glass to be manufactured.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to solve these problems.
  • the present invention relates to a system for manufacturing an optical glass from a blank, designated by the general reference 1 in FIG. 1.
  • This system includes a device for fitting an adapter to this blank, this device being designated by the general reference 2 in this figure, with a view to its transfer and its mounting in a device of the size thereof, controlled by the using size information to make optical glass.
  • the cutting device is designated by the general reference 3.
  • such a pruning device comprises for example a grinding machine or a grinder which is adapted to receive the blank by means of its adapter, between two shafts divided therefrom for example.
  • the blank and the cutting tool thereof are animated with a relative movement making it possible to obtain the glass to be produced after an adequate size of this blank.
  • the cutting tool can then be rotatably mounted around a fixed axis in position and the blank can be mounted movable in rotation and in translation relative to this tool, according to size information, to obtain the glass from this blank.
  • an information processing unit designated by the general reference 4 in this figure constituted for example by any suitable computer, this information processing unit 4 being connected to means for acquiring the characteristics of the glass to be manufactured, designated by the general reference 5 in this figure.
  • these characteristics of the glass to be manufactured may also include data on its shape and data on its optical characterization, which can be obtained for example from information input means relating to the frame in which the lens is to be placed and the patient for whom the lens is intended.
  • the means for entering information relating to the frame in which the lens is to be placed are designated by the general reference 6, while the means for entering information relating to the patient for whom the glass, are designated by the general reference 7.
  • these means 6 for inputting information relating to the frame may comprise means for storing a frame database in a conventional manner.
  • this database all the information relating to different frames is stored and this information can be accessible to the information processing unit 4, for example under the control of a man-machine interface designated by the general reference 8 in this figure, allowing a user of the system to select the corresponding frame and therefore the information processing unit 4 to acquire the information corresponding to the selected frame.
  • the means for entering information relating to the patient for whom the lens is intended may also include means for storing data also in the form of a database, in which the various information relating to one or more are stored. several patients and allowing to take into account the specific characteristics of each of them in order to manufacture a corresponding glass.
  • This information is also accessible to the information processing unit 4 under the control for example of the human-machine interface 8 described above, to allow this information processing unit to acquire this corresponding data in the means storage 7.
  • this interface 8 can also be used in a conventional manner for entering directly into the information processing unit, the information relating to the patient for whom the glass is intended, as is already known in the state. of the technique, using information display means.
  • the blank 1 is placed in the device for fitting the adapter 2 on support means for the latter, designated by the general reference 10 in this figure 1.
  • These means of support 10 comprise for example a transparent plate of this device for fitting the adapter, these support means 10 being associated with means 2 for placing the adapter on the blank 1.
  • Means for immobilizing the blank position such as pliers or the like are also provided in these support means, but will not be described in detail below, since they are well known.
  • the adapter is designated by the general reference 11 and is arranged for example at the end of a support arm designated by the general reference 12, carried for example by a bracket designated by the general reference 13, this arm and this bracket being movable, as will be described in more detail below, to allow the fitting of the adapter 11 on this blank 1.
  • the device 2 for placing the adapter on the blank, means for transmitting / receiving analysis radiation through the blank, arranged on either side of it.
  • these means comprise a portion for emitting the radiation designated by the general reference 14 in this FIG. 1, arranged above this blank 1 and a receiving portion designated by the general reference 15, disposed below this blank 1 and then receiving the analysis radiation after it has passed through this blank 1 and the transparent support means 10 thereof.
  • transmission / reception means are connected to means 16 for processing the signals delivered by these means. to allow the information processing unit 4 to acquire the characteristics of the blank 1.
  • the means of emission / reception of the analysis radiation described above can for example comprise an automatic focometer, of conventional type well known in the state of the art.
  • Such an apparatus then allows the information processing unit 4 to acquire the characteristics of the blank, these characteristics further comprising shape data thereof and optical characterization data thereof, such as this has been described previously.
  • this structure allows the information processing unit 4 to acquire the characteristics of the glass to be manufactured, that is to say in particular its shape and its optical characterization data from the input means. described above and the characteristics of the blank, that is to say in particular its shape and its optical characterization data, by analysis of the signals delivered by the analysis transmission / reception means thereof, integrated in the device for fitting the adapter to this blank.
  • the analysis of the output signals from the means for transmitting and receiving the analysis radiation allows the information processing unit 4 to very precisely determine the position of the blank in the processing device. fitting of the adapter and possibly its orientation with respect thereto.
  • the information processing unit 4 is adapted to automatically determine the size information of the blank, in a coordinate system centered on the axis of the cutting device, to control the processing device. size in order to make the glass from the blank.
  • This size information is then transmitted for example to designated control interface means. by the general reference 17 in this figure 1, making it possible to control the device of size 3.
  • the information processing unit 4 can be connected to means for activating the means for fitting the adapter 11 to the blank 1 to trigger the automatic fitting of this adapter thereon, classic way.
  • These means then comprise for example an activation member, designated by the general reference 18 in this FIG. 1, controlled by the information processing unit 4 through control interface means 19, to control the automatic laying. of the adapter on the blank before it is transferred to the cutting machine.
  • the operations of acquiring the characteristics of the blank and depositing the adapter thereon are carried out without the operator having to move it, the information processing unit responsible for determining the size information according to the results of the analysis of the blank, that is to say its optical characteristics and its arrangement in the fitting device of the adapter to control the size of the blank in order to obtain the desired glass.
  • means other than a focometer can be used to determine the characteristics of the blank.
  • a camera for reading information carried by the blank associated with a light source can also be used to acquire the characteristics of the latter.
  • the device for placing the adapter on the blank may also include means for relative displacement of the means for supporting the blank and means for laying the adapter on the latter, for placing the adapter. at a predetermined location of the blank, as illustrated in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 2 we recognize a manufacturing system largely similar to that shown in FIG. 1.
  • the means for supporting the blank transparent to the analysis radiation include, for example, a table with crossed movements in XY, designated by the general reference 20, presenting for example any conventional structure known in the state of the art, the displacements of which are controlled for example by activation members 21 and 22, in perpendicular directions.
  • means for angular displacement of the adapter 11 can also be provided, if necessary, which may be the case for example for glasses having complex configurations, such as bifocals, etc. ...
  • These displacement means are designated by the general reference 25 in this figure 2 and comprise for example an angular orientation member of the adapter 11, also controlled by the information processing unit 4 through means interface designated by the general reference 26.
  • Such a structure allows for example to place the adapter on the optical center of the blank in order to simplify the control of the cutting device during the cutting operation.
  • control information of these members is then calculated by the information processing unit 4 in a conventional manner from the characteristics of the blank, and of the glass to be produced and of the relative initial position of this blank in the processing device. poses, on its support means.
  • the activation and displacement members described above may for example include electric or other motors.
  • the information processing unit 4 can also be adapted to set up performs a phase of checking the inscription of the glass to be produced in the blank and that of the adapter in the glass to be produced therein, to allow the detection of a possible problem of size of this blank.
  • the information processing unit 4 can include any suitable computer programmed in a conventional manner to fulfill the various acquisition, calculation and control functions described above.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
  • Inorganic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Grinding And Polishing Of Tertiary Curved Surfaces And Surfaces With Complex Shapes (AREA)
  • Eyeglasses (AREA)
  • Sampling And Sample Adjustment (AREA)
  • Mechanical Coupling Of Light Guides (AREA)
  • Microscoopes, Condenser (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un système de fabrication d'un verre optique à partir d'une ébauche selon le préambule de la revendication 1 (voir par example EP-B-0 363 281). .The present invention relates to a system for manufacturing an optical glass from a blank according to the preamble of claim 1 (see for example EP-B-0 363 281). .

On connaît déjà dans l'état de la technique, des systèmes de fabrication de ce type, qui comportent un dispositif de pose d'un adapteur sur l'ébauche en vue de son transfert et de son montage dans un dispositif de taille de celle-ci, piloté à l'aide d'informations de taille, pour fabriquer le verre optique.Manufacturing systems of this type are already known in the prior art, which include a device for fitting an adapter onto the blank for its transfer and mounting in a device the size of which ci, controlled using size information, to make the optical glass.

On sait en effet qu'une ébauche de verre optique est maintenue par exemple entre deux extrémités d'un arbre divisé d'une rectifieuse, au moyen d'un adapteur qui se présente par exemple sous la forme d'une ventouse ou d'un support adhésif quelconque, appliqué avec précision sur celle-ci pour définir l'axe de rotation de cette ébauche dans la rectifieuse.We know that an optical glass blank is held for example between two ends of a divided shaft of a grinding machine, by means of an adapter which is for example in the form of a suction cup or a any adhesive support, applied with precision thereon to define the axis of rotation of this blank in the grinding machine.

On conçoit alors que le centrage de l'adapteur sur cette ébauche est une opération relativement complexe qui doit être effectuée en tenant compte de divers facteurs.It can therefore be seen that centering the adapter on this blank is a relatively complex operation which must be carried out taking various factors into account.

On conçoit également que la précision de cette opération de centrage conditionne la bonne exécution de la taille de l'ébauche et la meilleure adaptation possible du verre fabriqué à l'environnement de celui-ci, c'est-à-dire en fait au patient devant porter ce verre et à la monture de support de celui-ci.It is also understood that the precision of this centering operation conditions the correct execution of the size of the blank and the best possible adaptation of the glass produced to the environment thereof, that is to say in fact to the patient. before wearing this glass and the support frame thereof.

Il est déjà connu d'utiliser des systèmes électroniques pour commander des rectifieuses au moyen de bases ou banques de données contenant les caractéristiques de différentes montures de lunettes ou au moyen d'un dispositif comportant des moyens de palpage d'une monture ou d'un gabarit correspondant, dans laquelle doit être disposé le verre.It is already known to use electronic systems to control grinding machines by means of databases or databases containing the characteristics of different spectacle frames or by means of a device comprising means for probing a frame or a corresponding template, in which the glass must be placed.

Ces moyens de palpage sont alors adaptés pour mesurer des rayons d'une monture ou d'un gabarit correspondant, qui sont ensuite utilisés pour engendrer des signaux de commande appliqués à la rectifieuse par l'intermédiaire d'un calculateur, lors de l'opération de taille de l'ébauche pour obtenir le verre.These probing means are then suitable for measuring radii of a mount or of a corresponding gauge, which are then used to generate control signals applied to the grinding machine by through a computer, during the roughing operation to obtain the glass.

De plus, un tel calculateur est généralement associé à un écran permettant d'afficher la forme des cercles de la monture ou celle du gabarit pour un contrôle pour l'utilisateur du système.In addition, such a computer is generally associated with a screen making it possible to display the shape of the circles of the frame or that of the template for control for the user of the system.

On pourra par exemple se reporter au document EP-A-0 092 364 et au document FR-A-2 547 930 qui a plus particulièrement pour objet une rectifieuse à commande numérique.Reference may for example be made to document EP-A-0 092 364 and to document FR-A-2 547 930 which more particularly relates to a grinder with digital control.

Cependant, les procédés et dispositifs décrits dans ces documents présentent toujours l'inconvénient de nécessiter un centrage très précis de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche de verre en fonction de repères ou de marques préalablement déposés sur celle-ci.However, the methods and devices described in these documents always have the disadvantage of requiring very precise centering of the adapter on the glass blank according to marks or marks previously deposited thereon.

Une solution pour tenter de résoudre ce problème a été décrite dans le document EP-A-0 206 860, qui décrit un appareil de centrage et de pose d'un adapteur sur une ébauche de verre optique, de façon précise.A solution to try to solve this problem has been described in document EP-A-0 206 860, which describes a device for centering and fitting an adapter on a blank of optical glass, precisely.

Cet appareil établit en effet lui-même les informations nécessaires à la commande directe de la machine de taille, en fonction des données morphologiques particulières du patient devant porter les lunettes et de données relatives à la monture choisie.This device indeed establishes itself the information necessary for the direct control of the size machine, according to the particular morphological data of the patient having to wear the glasses and of data relating to the chosen frame.

L'appareil décrit dans ce document comporte alors une base ou banque de données de monture et un calculateur associé à un écran d'affichage, constitué par exemple par un afficheur électronique plat.The device described in this document then includes a frame database or database and a computer associated with a display screen, constituted for example by a flat electronic display.

De plus, ce calculateur comporte des moyens pour afficher et déplacer sur cet écran, une image mémorisée dans la banque de données, d'une monture de lunettes ou d'un gabarit correspondant, de même que des moyens pour commander et mémoriser des déplacements de l'image de cette monture sur l'écran, des moyens pour calculer les différences de ses coordonnées finales par rapport à une position de référence et calculer les informations de commande de la rectifieuse qui en résultent et des moyens permettant d'appliquer des commandes correspondantes directement à la rectifieuse afin de permettre la taille de l'ébauche.In addition, this computer includes means for displaying and moving on this screen, an image stored in the database, of a spectacle frame or of a corresponding template, as well as means for controlling and memorizing movements of the image of this mount on the screen, means for calculating the differences in its final coordinates with respect to a reference position and calculate the resulting ordering information for the grinding machine and means for applying corresponding commands directly to the grinding machine in order to allow the size of the blank.

Enfin, l'appareil décrit dans ce document comporte un système pivotant de pose de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche, et des moyens optiques de visée pour le positionnement de l'ébauche sous ce système pivotant de pose de l'adapteur.Finally, the device described in this document comprises a pivoting system for fitting the adapter onto the blank, and optical sighting means for positioning the blank under this pivoting system for fitting the adapter.

Cependant, il subsiste pour l'utilisateur de cet appareil, la nécessité de vérifier préalablement à l'opération de taille, les caractéristiques de l'ébauche, c'est-à-dire par exemple sa puissance, et de marquer sur celle-ci par exemple son centre optique et dans le cas d'une ébauche cylindrique, son axe optique ou d'autres caractéristiques optiques en fonction du type d'ébauche et de verre à fabriquer.However, there remains for the user of this device, the need to check prior to the cutting operation, the characteristics of the blank, that is to say for example its power, and to mark thereon. for example its optical center and in the case of a cylindrical blank, its optical axis or other optical characteristics depending on the type of blank and glass to be manufactured.

Ces différentes opérations sont communément appelées par l'homme de l'art, le contrôle et le pointage ou marquage de l'ébauche.These various operations are commonly called by a person skilled in the art, the control and the pointing or marking of the blank.

Ces opérations de vérification et de marquage peuvent être réalisées indépendamment des autres opérations qui viennent d'être décrites, à l'aide d'un appareil autonome de mesure, tel que par exemple un focomètre à projection qui permet de déterminer les caractéristiques optiques de cette ébauche, c'est-à-dire en fait par exemple la valeur de la sphère et du cylindre, de l'addition ainsi que l'orientation de l'axe optique ou autres de celle-ci.These verification and marking operations can be carried out independently of the other operations which have just been described, using an autonomous measuring device, such as for example a projection focometer which makes it possible to determine the optical characteristics of this blank, that is to say in fact for example the value of the sphere and the cylinder, of the addition as well as the orientation of the optical axis or others thereof.

De plus, des moyens de marquage de la position de ceux-ci sont également nécessaires, ces moyens comprenant par exemple des moyens graphiques tels que des pointes encrées ou des tampons, etc...In addition, means for marking the position of these are also necessary, these means comprising for example graphic means such as inked tips or stamps, etc.

Cependant, ceci présente également un inconvénient, car outre le fait que ces appareils sont relativement coûteux et encombrants, ils sont indépendants des autres moyens de préparation de l'opération de taille de l'ébauche, et nécessitent de déplacer celle-ci entre différents postes fonctionnels de l'appareil.However, this also has a drawback, because in addition to the fact that these devices are relatively expensive and bulky, they are independent of the others means for preparing the roughing operation, and require moving it between different functional positions of the device.

Ceci se traduit alors par des risques importants d'introduction d'erreurs de centrage de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche durant les différentes opérations décrites précédemment en raison soit d'un déréglage ou d'une usure des différents dispositifs décrits, soit de causes humaines, directement liées à l'utilisateur de ceux-ci, ces erreurs se cumulant alors et risquant de conduire à un défaut grave de positionnement de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche.This then results in significant risks of introducing errors in centering the adapter on the blank during the various operations described above due to either an adjustment or wear of the various devices described, or causes human, directly related to the user thereof, these errors then accumulating and risking leading to a serious defect in positioning of the adapter on the blank.

Ceci a alors pour conséquence la production d'un verre défectueux, inadapté aux caractéristiques du porteur.This then results in the production of a defective glass, unsuitable for the characteristics of the wearer.

Le but de l'invention est donc de résoudre ces problèmes.The object of the invention is therefore to solve these problems.

Ce but est atteint par un système ayant les caractéristiques de la revendication 1.This object is achieved by a system having the features of claim 1.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à l'aide de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en se référant aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la Fig.1 représente un schéma synoptique illustrant la structure et le fonctionnement d'un premier exemple de réalisation d'un système de fabrication selon l'invention; et
  • la Fig.2 représente un schéma synoptique illustrant la structure et le fonctionnement d'un second exemple de réalisation d'un système de fabrication selon l'invention.
The invention will be better understood with the aid of the description which follows, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • Fig.1 shows a block diagram illustrating the structure and operation of a first embodiment of a manufacturing system according to the invention; and
  • Fig.2 shows a block diagram illustrating the structure and operation of a second embodiment of a manufacturing system according to the invention.

D'une façon générale, la présente invention concerne un système de fabrication d'un verre optique à partir d'une ébauche, désignée par la référence générale 1 sur la figure 1.In general, the present invention relates to a system for manufacturing an optical glass from a blank, designated by the general reference 1 in FIG. 1.

Ce système comporte un dispositif de pose d'un adapteur sur cette ébauche, ce dispositif étant désigné par la référence générale 2 sur cette figure, en vue de son transfert et de son montage dans un dispositif de taille de celle-ci, piloté à l'aide d'informations de taille, pour fabriquer le verre optique.This system includes a device for fitting an adapter to this blank, this device being designated by the general reference 2 in this figure, with a view to its transfer and its mounting in a device of the size thereof, controlled by the using size information to make optical glass.

Sur cette figure 1, le dispositif de taille est désigné par la référence générale 3.In this figure 1, the cutting device is designated by the general reference 3.

De façon classique, un tel dispositif de taille comporte par exemple une rectifieuse ou une meuleuse qui est adaptée pour recevoir l'ébauche grâce à son adapteur, entre deux arbres divisés de celle-ci par exemple.Conventionally, such a pruning device comprises for example a grinding machine or a grinder which is adapted to receive the blank by means of its adapter, between two shafts divided therefrom for example.

De façon classique également, lors des opérations de taille, l'ébauche et l'outil de taille de celle-ci sont animés d'un mouvement relatif permettant d'obtenir le verre à fabriquer après une taille adéquate de cette ébauche.Also conventionally, during the cutting operations, the blank and the cutting tool thereof are animated with a relative movement making it possible to obtain the glass to be produced after an adequate size of this blank.

L'outil de taille peut alors être monté rotatif autour d'un axe fixe en position et l'ébauche peut être montée déplaçable en rotation et en translation par rapport à cet outil, en fonction d'informations de taille, pour obtenir le verre à partir de cette ébauche.The cutting tool can then be rotatably mounted around a fixed axis in position and the blank can be mounted movable in rotation and in translation relative to this tool, according to size information, to obtain the glass from this blank.

Dans le système de fabrication selon l'invention, il est prévu une unité de traitement d'informations désignée par la référence générale 4 sur cette figure, constituée par exemple par tout calculateur approprié, cette unité de traitement d'informations 4 étant reliée à des moyens d'acquisition des caractéristiques du verre à fabriquer, désignés par la référence générale 5 sur cette figure.In the manufacturing system according to the invention, there is provided an information processing unit designated by the general reference 4 in this figure, constituted for example by any suitable computer, this information processing unit 4 being connected to means for acquiring the characteristics of the glass to be manufactured, designated by the general reference 5 in this figure.

En fait, ces caractéristiques du verre à fabriquer peuvent comporter en outre des données de forme de celui-ci et des données de caractérisation optique de celui-ci, qui peuvent être obtenues par exemple à partir de moyens d'entrée d'informations relatives à la monture dans laquelle doit être disposé le verre et au patient auquel est destiné le verre.In fact, these characteristics of the glass to be manufactured may also include data on its shape and data on its optical characterization, which can be obtained for example from information input means relating to the frame in which the lens is to be placed and the patient for whom the lens is intended.

Sur cette figure 1, les moyens d'entrée d'informations relatives à la monture dans laquelle doit être disposé le verre, sont désignés par la référence générale 6, tandis que les moyens d'entrée d'informations relatives au patient auquel est destiné le verre, sont désignés par la référence générale 7.In this FIG. 1, the means for entering information relating to the frame in which the lens is to be placed, are designated by the general reference 6, while the means for entering information relating to the patient for whom the glass, are designated by the general reference 7.

En fait, ces moyens 6 d'entrée d'informations relatives à la monture peuvent comporter des moyens de stockage d'une banque de données de monture de façon classique.In fact, these means 6 for inputting information relating to the frame may comprise means for storing a frame database in a conventional manner.

Dans cette banque de données, toutes les informations relatives à différentes montures sont stockées et ces informations peuvent être accessibles à l'unité de traitement d'informations 4, par exemple sous le contrôle d'une interface homme-machine désignée par la référence générale 8 sur cette figure, permettant à un utilisateur du système, de sélectionner la monture correspondante et donc à l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 d'acquérir les informations correspondant à la monture sélectionnée.In this database, all the information relating to different frames is stored and this information can be accessible to the information processing unit 4, for example under the control of a man-machine interface designated by the general reference 8 in this figure, allowing a user of the system to select the corresponding frame and therefore the information processing unit 4 to acquire the information corresponding to the selected frame.

Il va de soi bien entendu que d'autres moyens d'entrée d'informations relatives à cette monture peuvent être envisagés comme par exemple des moyens de palpage de cette monture ou d'un gabarit correspondant, comme cela est déjà connu dans l'état de la technique.It goes without saying of course that other means of entering information relating to this frame can be envisaged such as for example probing means of this frame or of a corresponding template, as is already known in the state of technique.

Les moyens d'entrée d'informations relatives au patient auquel est destiné le verre, peuvent également comporter des moyens de stockage de données se présentant également sous la forme d'une banque de données, dans laquelle sont stockées les différentes informations relatives à un ou plusieurs patients et permettant de prendre en compte les caractéristiques propres à chacun de ceux-ci en vue de fabriquer un verre correspondant.The means for entering information relating to the patient for whom the lens is intended, may also include means for storing data also in the form of a database, in which the various information relating to one or more are stored. several patients and allowing to take into account the specific characteristics of each of them in order to manufacture a corresponding glass.

Ces informations sont également accessibles à l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 sous le contrôle par exemple de l'interface homme-machine 8 décrite précédemment, pour permettre à cette unité de traitement d'informations d'acquérir ces données correspondantes dans les moyens de stockage 7.This information is also accessible to the information processing unit 4 under the control for example of the human-machine interface 8 described above, to allow this information processing unit to acquire this corresponding data in the means storage 7.

Il va de soi bien entendu que cette interface 8 peut également être utilisée de façon classique pour entrer directement dans l'unité de traitement d'informations, les informations relatives au patient auquel est destiné le verre, comme cela est déjà connu dans l'état de la technique, en utilisant des moyens d'affichage d'informations.It goes without saying of course that this interface 8 can also be used in a conventional manner for entering directly into the information processing unit, the information relating to the patient for whom the glass is intended, as is already known in the state. of the technique, using information display means.

En effet, il existe déjà dans l'état de la technique, des systèmes dans lesquels une interface homme-machine comportant par exemple différentes touches manipulables par l'utilisateur, peuvent être utilisées pour entrer dans une unité de traitement d'informations, les informations correspondantes, celles-ci étant par exemple visualisées sur un écran d'affichage d'informations désigné par la référence générale 9 sur cette figure 1.Indeed, there already exist in the state of the art, systems in which a man-machine interface comprising for example different keys manipulated by the user, can be used to enter an information processing unit, the information corresponding, these being for example displayed on an information display screen designated by the general reference 9 in this FIG. 1.

Dans le système de fabrication selon l'invention, l'ébauche 1 est placée dans le dispositif de pose de l'adapteur 2 sur des moyens de support de celle-ci, désignés par la référence générale 10 sur cette figure 1. Ces moyens de support 10 comprennent par exemple une plaque transparente de ce dispositif de pose de l'adapteur, ces moyens de support 10 étant associés à des moyens de pose 2a de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche 1.In the manufacturing system according to the invention, the blank 1 is placed in the device for fitting the adapter 2 on support means for the latter, designated by the general reference 10 in this figure 1. These means of support 10 comprise for example a transparent plate of this device for fitting the adapter, these support means 10 being associated with means 2 for placing the adapter on the blank 1.

Des moyens d'immobilisation en position de l'ébauche tels que des pinces ou autres, sont également prévus dans ces moyens de support, mais ne seront pas décrits en détail par la suite, car ils sont bien connus.Means for immobilizing the blank position such as pliers or the like are also provided in these support means, but will not be described in detail below, since they are well known.

Sur cette figure 1, l'adapteur est désigné par la référence générale 11 et est disposé par exemple à l'extrémité d'un bras de support désigné par la référence générale 12, porté par exemple par une potence désignée par la référence générale 13, ce bras et cette potence étant déplaçables, comme cela sera décrit plus en détail par la suite, pour permettre la pose de l'adapteur 11 sur cette ébauche 1.In this FIG. 1, the adapter is designated by the general reference 11 and is arranged for example at the end of a support arm designated by the general reference 12, carried for example by a bracket designated by the general reference 13, this arm and this bracket being movable, as will be described in more detail below, to allow the fitting of the adapter 11 on this blank 1.

De plus, il est également prévu dans le dispositif de pose 2 de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche, des moyens d'émission/réception d'un rayonnement d'analyse à travers l'ébauche, disposés de part et d'autre de celle-ci.In addition, there is also provided in the device 2 for placing the adapter on the blank, means for transmitting / receiving analysis radiation through the blank, arranged on either side of it.

C'est ainsi par exemple, que ces moyens comprennent une portion d'émission du rayonnement désignée par la référence générale 14 sur cette figure 1, disposée au-dessus de cette ébauche 1 et une portion de réception désignée par la référence générale 15, disposée au-dessous de cette ébauche 1 et recevant alors le rayonnement d'analyse après que celui-ci a traversé cette ébauche 1 et les moyens de support transparents 10 de celle-ci.Thus, for example, these means comprise a portion for emitting the radiation designated by the general reference 14 in this FIG. 1, arranged above this blank 1 and a receiving portion designated by the general reference 15, disposed below this blank 1 and then receiving the analysis radiation after it has passed through this blank 1 and the transparent support means 10 thereof.

Bien entendu, d'autres dispositions de ces moyens peuvent être envisagées.Of course, other arrangements for these means can be envisaged.

Ces moyens d'émission/réception sont reliés à des moyens 16 de traitement des signaux délivrés par ces moyens pour permettre à l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 d'acquérir les caractéristiques de l'ébauche 1.These transmission / reception means are connected to means 16 for processing the signals delivered by these means. to allow the information processing unit 4 to acquire the characteristics of the blank 1.

Les moyens d'émission/réception du rayonnement d'analyse décrits précédemment, peuvent par exemple comporter un focomètre automatique, de type classique bien connu dans l'état de la technique.The means of emission / reception of the analysis radiation described above, can for example comprise an automatic focometer, of conventional type well known in the state of the art.

Un tel appareil permet alors à l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 d'acquérir les caractéristiques de l'ébauche, ces caractéristiques comprenant en outre des données de forme de celle-ci et des données de caractérisation optique de celle-ci, comme cela a été décrit précédemment.Such an apparatus then allows the information processing unit 4 to acquire the characteristics of the blank, these characteristics further comprising shape data thereof and optical characterization data thereof, such as this has been described previously.

On conçoit alors que cette structure permet à l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 d'acquérir les caractéristiques du verre à fabriquer, c'est-à-dire notamment sa forme et ses données de caractérisation optique à partir des moyens d'entrée décrits précédemment et les caractéristiques de l'ébauche, c'est-à-dire notamment sa forme et ses données de caractérisation optique, par analyse des signaux délivrés par les moyens d'émission/réception d'analyse de celle-ci, intégrés dans le dispositif de pose de l'adapteur sur cette ébauche.It is therefore understood that this structure allows the information processing unit 4 to acquire the characteristics of the glass to be manufactured, that is to say in particular its shape and its optical characterization data from the input means. described above and the characteristics of the blank, that is to say in particular its shape and its optical characterization data, by analysis of the signals delivered by the analysis transmission / reception means thereof, integrated in the device for fitting the adapter to this blank.

De plus, l'analyse des signaux de sortie des moyens d'émission et de réception du rayonnement d'analyse permet à l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 de déterminer de façon très précise la position de l'ébauche dans le dispositif de pose de l'adapteur et éventuellement son orientation par rapport à celui-ci.In addition, the analysis of the output signals from the means for transmitting and receiving the analysis radiation allows the information processing unit 4 to very precisely determine the position of the blank in the processing device. fitting of the adapter and possibly its orientation with respect thereto.

A partir de ces différentes informations, l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 est adaptée pour déterminer automatiquement des informations de taille de l'ébauche, dans un système de coordonnées centré sur l'axe du dispositif de taille, pour piloter le dispositif de taille afin de fabriquer le verre à partir de l'ébauche.From this different information, the information processing unit 4 is adapted to automatically determine the size information of the blank, in a coordinate system centered on the axis of the cutting device, to control the processing device. size in order to make the glass from the blank.

Ces informations de taille sont ensuite transmises par exemple à des moyens d'interface de commande désignée par la référence générale 17 sur cette figure 1, permettant de piloter le dispositif de taille 3.This size information is then transmitted for example to designated control interface means. by the general reference 17 in this figure 1, making it possible to control the device of size 3.

On notera également que l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 peut être reliée à des moyens d'activation des moyens de pose de l'adapteur 11 sur l'ébauche 1 pour déclencher la pose automatique de cet adapteur sur celle-ci, de façon classique.It will also be noted that the information processing unit 4 can be connected to means for activating the means for fitting the adapter 11 to the blank 1 to trigger the automatic fitting of this adapter thereon, classic way.

Ces moyens comprennent alors par exemple un organe d'activation, désigné par la référence générale 18 sur cette figure 1, piloté par l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 à travers des moyens d'interface de commande 19, pour contrôler la pose automatique de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche avant son transfert dans la machine de taille.These means then comprise for example an activation member, designated by the general reference 18 in this FIG. 1, controlled by the information processing unit 4 through control interface means 19, to control the automatic laying. of the adapter on the blank before it is transferred to the cutting machine.

On conçoit alors qu'un tel système présente un certain nombre d'avantages par rapport aux systèmes de l'état de la technique dans la mesure où en intégrant dans le dispositif de pose de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche, des moyens d'émission-réception d'un rayonnement d'analyse de l'ébauche et en couplant ces moyens à l'unité de traitement d'informations pour calculer les informations de taille en fonction du verre à fabriquer, on supprime les différentes manipulations nécessaires dans l'état de la technique pour d'une part, analyser et marquer cette ébauche et d'autre part, déposer l'adapteur sur celle-ci, ce qui pouvait introduire des erreurs de centrage, comme cela a été indiqué précédemment.It is therefore conceivable that such a system has a certain number of advantages compared with the systems of the state of the art insofar as by integrating in the device for fitting the adapter on the blank, means for emission-reception of an analysis radiation from the blank and by coupling these means to the information processing unit to calculate the size information as a function of the glass to be manufactured, the various manipulations necessary in the state of the art on the one hand, to analyze and mark this blank and on the other hand, to deposit the adapter thereon, which could introduce centering errors, as indicated previously.

Dans le système selon l'invention, les opérations d'acquisition des caractéristiques de l'ébauche et de dépôt de l'adapteur sur celle-ci sont réalisées sans que l'opérateur ait à la déplacer, l'unité de traitement d'informations se chargeant de déterminer les informations de taille en fonction des résultats de l'analyse de l'ébauche, c'est-à-dire de ses caractéristiques optiques et de sa disposition dans le dispositif de pose de l'adapteur pour commander la taille de l'ébauche en vue d'obtenir le verre souhaité.In the system according to the invention, the operations of acquiring the characteristics of the blank and depositing the adapter thereon are carried out without the operator having to move it, the information processing unit responsible for determining the size information according to the results of the analysis of the blank, that is to say its optical characteristics and its arrangement in the fitting device of the adapter to control the size of the blank in order to obtain the desired glass.

Il va de soi bien entendu que différents modes de réalisation d'un tel système peuvent être envisagés.It goes without saying of course that different embodiments of such a system can be envisaged.

C'est ainsi par exemple, comme cela a été indiqué précédemment, que des moyens autres qu'un focomètre peuvent être utilisés pour déterminer les caractéristiques de l'ébauche.Thus, for example, as indicated above, means other than a focometer can be used to determine the characteristics of the blank.

Ainsi par exemple, une caméra de lecture d'informations portées par l'ébauche associée à une source lumineuse, peut également être utilisée pour acquérir les caractéristiques de celle-ci.For example, a camera for reading information carried by the blank associated with a light source can also be used to acquire the characteristics of the latter.

De même, le dispositif de pose de l'adapteur sur l'ébauche peut également comporter des moyens de déplacement relatif des moyens de support de l'ébauche et des moyens de pose de l'adapteur sur celle-ci, pour poser l'adapteur en un emplacement prédéterminé de l'ébauche, comme cela est illustré sur la figure 2.Likewise, the device for placing the adapter on the blank may also include means for relative displacement of the means for supporting the blank and means for laying the adapter on the latter, for placing the adapter. at a predetermined location of the blank, as illustrated in FIG. 2.

On reconnaît en effet sur cette figure 2, un système de fabrication en grande partie analogue à celui représenté sur la figure 1.In fact, in FIG. 2, we recognize a manufacturing system largely similar to that shown in FIG. 1.

Pour des raisons de clarté, on a repris sur cette figure, les mêmes numéros de référence pour désigner les mêmes pièces ou des pièces analogues à celles représentées sur la figure 1.For the sake of clarity, the same reference numbers have been used in this figure to designate the same parts or parts similar to those shown in FIG. 1.

C'est ainsi par exemple que l'on reconnaît sur cette figure 2, l'ébauche 1, le dispositif de pose 2 de l'adapteur 11, le dispositif de taille 3, l'unité de traitement d'informations 4, les moyens d'acquisition 5 des caractéristiques du verre à fabriquer, l'interface homme-machine 8, l'afficheur 9, les moyens d'émission-réception du rayonnement d'analyse 14 et 15, et les moyens d'activation 18 des moyens de pose 2a de l'adapteur.This is how, for example, we recognize in this figure 2, the blank 1, the fitting device 2 of the adapter 11, the size device 3, the information processing unit 4, the means acquisition 5 of the characteristics of the glass to be manufactured, the man-machine interface 8, the display 9, the means of emission-reception of the analysis radiation 14 and 15, and the activation means 18 of the means of fitting 2a of the adapter.

Cependant, dans l'exemple de réalisation représenté sur cette figure 2, les moyens de support de l'ébauche transparents au rayonnement d'analyse, comprennent par exemple une table à mouvements croisés en X-Y, désignée par la référence générale 20, présentant par exemple n'importe quelle structure classique connue dans l'état de la technique, dont les déplacements sont pilotés par exemple par des organes d'activation 21 et 22, dans des directions perpendiculaires.However, in the embodiment shown in this FIG. 2, the means for supporting the blank transparent to the analysis radiation, include, for example, a table with crossed movements in XY, designated by the general reference 20, presenting for example any conventional structure known in the state of the art, the displacements of which are controlled for example by activation members 21 and 22, in perpendicular directions.

Le fonctionnement de ces organes est alors piloté par l'unité de traitement d'informations 4, par exemple à travers des moyens d'interface de commande 23 et 24 respectivement, pour placer l'adapteur 11 et l'ébauche 1, dans une position relative prédéterminée.The operation of these members is then controlled by the information processing unit 4, for example through control interface means 23 and 24 respectively, to place the adapter 11 and the blank 1, in a position relative predetermined.

De plus, des moyens de déplacement angulaire de l'adapteur 11 peuvent également être prévus, si cela s'avère nécessaire, ce qui peut être le cas par exemple pour des verres présentant des configurations complexes, tels que des verres à doubles foyers, etc... Ces moyens de déplacement sont désignés par la référence générale 25 sur cette figure 2 et comprennent par exemple un organe d'orientation angulaire de l'adapteur 11, également piloté par l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 à travers des moyens d'interface désignés par la référence générale 26.In addition, means for angular displacement of the adapter 11 can also be provided, if necessary, which may be the case for example for glasses having complex configurations, such as bifocals, etc. ... These displacement means are designated by the general reference 25 in this figure 2 and comprise for example an angular orientation member of the adapter 11, also controlled by the information processing unit 4 through means interface designated by the general reference 26.

Une telle structure permet par exemple de placer l'adapteur sur le centre optique de l'ébauche afin de simplifier la commande du dispositif de taille lors de l'opération de taille.Such a structure allows for example to place the adapter on the optical center of the blank in order to simplify the control of the cutting device during the cutting operation.

Les informations de commande de ces organes sont alors calculées par l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 de façon classique à partir des caractéristiques de l'ébauche, et du verre à fabriquer et de la position initiale relative de cette ébauche dans le dispositif de pose, sur ses moyens de support.The control information of these members is then calculated by the information processing unit 4 in a conventional manner from the characteristics of the blank, and of the glass to be produced and of the relative initial position of this blank in the processing device. poses, on its support means.

Les organes d'activation et de déplacement décrits précédemment peuvent par exemple comporter des moteurs électriques ou autres.The activation and displacement members described above may for example include electric or other motors.

On notera enfin que l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 peut également être adaptée pour mettre en oeuvre une phase de contrôle de l'inscription du verre à fabriquer dans l'ébauche et celle de l'adapteur dans le verre à fabriquer dans celle-ci, pour permettre la détection d'un problème éventuel de taille de cette ébauche.Finally, note that the information processing unit 4 can also be adapted to set up performs a phase of checking the inscription of the glass to be produced in the blank and that of the adapter in the glass to be produced therein, to allow the detection of a possible problem of size of this blank.

Ceci peut également être visualisé à l'utilisateur du système, par affichage de ces différentes formes et pièces sur l'afficheur 9.This can also be viewed by the user of the system, by displaying these different shapes and parts on the display 9.

Comme on l'a indiqué précédemment, l'unité de traitement d'informations 4 peut comporter tout calculateur approprié programmé de façon classique pour remplir les différentes fonctions d'acquisition, de calcul et de commande décrites précédemment.As indicated above, the information processing unit 4 can include any suitable computer programmed in a conventional manner to fulfill the various acquisition, calculation and control functions described above.

Claims (16)

  1. System for making an optical glass from a blank, of the type comprising a device (2) for laying an adapter (11) on the blank (1) with a view to its transfer and its mounting in a device (3) for cutting the blank, controlled with the aid of cutting information, so as to make the optical glass, the said system comprising:
    - means of acquisition (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) of the characteristics of the glass to be made,
    - means of support (10; 20) of the blank (1), in the device (2) for laying the adapter, which means are associated with means (2a) for laying the adapter on the blank,
    - means (14, 15) for emitting/receiving radiation for analysing the blank, which means are disposed in the device (2) for laying the adapter on the blank,
    - means of acquisition (4, 16) of the characteristics of the blank, by analysis of the signals delivered by the means of emission/reception (14, 15) of the analysis radiation, the said characteristics of the blank comprising data relating to the optical characterization thereof, and
    - means (4) for determining cutting information in a coordinate system centred on the axis of the cutting device (3), for controlling this device so as to make the glass from the blank,
    the said system being characterized in that the characteristics of the blank furthermore comprise data regarding the shape thereof.
  2. System according to Claim 1, characterized in that the means (14, 15) of emission/reception of the analysis radiation are disposed on either side of the means of support (10; 20) of the blank and in that they are transparent to this radiation.
  3. System according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the characteristics of the glass to be made furthermore comprise data relating to the shape thereof and data relating to the optical characterization thereof.
  4. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means (21, 22, 25) of relative displacement of the means of support (20) of the blank (1) and of the adapter (11) so as to lay this adapter (11) at a predetermined location of the blank (1).
  5. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an information processing unit (4) for determining the cutting information, and linked:
    1) to means (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) of input of the characteristics of the glass to be made, so as to acquire these characteristics,
    2) to means (16) for processing the output signals from the means of emission/reception (14, 15) of the analysis radiation, so as to acquire the characteristics of the blank, and
    3) to means (17) forming an interface for controlling the cutting device (3) so as to drive the operation thereof on the basis of the cutting information.
  6. System according to Claim 5, characterized in that the information processing unit (4) is adapted so as to monitor the registering of the glass to be made in the blank (1) and the registering of the adapter (11) in the glass to be made therein.
  7. System according to Claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the means of input of the characteristics of the glass to be made comprise means (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) of input of information relating to the frame in which the glass is to be disposed and to the patient for whom the glass is intended.
  8. System according to Claim 7, characterized in that the means of input of information relating to the frame comprise means of storage (6) of a frame database.
  9. System according to Claim 7, characterized in that the means of input of information relating to the frame comprise means of gauging of the frame or of a corresponding template, wherein the glass is to be disposed.
  10. System according to Claim 7, 8 or 9, characterized in that the means of input of the information relating to the patient for whom the glass is intended comprise a man/machine interface (7, 8, 9).
  11. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means (14, 15) of emission/reception of the analysis radiation comprise an automatic focometer.
  12. System according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the means of emission/reception of the analysis radiation comprise a camera associated with a light source.
  13. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means (18) of activation of the means (2a) of laying the adapter on the blank, so as to automatically lay this adapter on this blank.
  14. System according to any one of Claims 4 to 13, characterized in that the means of relative displacement of the means of support of the blank (1) and of the adapter (11) comprise an X-Y traversing table (20) for supporting the blank, the displacements of which- are controlled by activation members (21, 22) driven by the information processing unit (4).
  15. System according to Claim 14, characterized in that the means of relative displacement comprise a member (25) for the angular orientation of the adapter (11), driven by the information processing unit (4).
  16. System according to Claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the members (21, 22) for activating the traversing table and the member (25) for orienting the adapter comprise electric motors.
EP98921542A 1997-04-18 1998-04-15 System for making an optical glass from a blank Expired - Lifetime EP0930954B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9704845 1997-04-18
FR9704845A FR2762247B1 (en) 1997-04-18 1997-04-18 SYSTEM FOR MANUFACTURING AN OPTICAL GLASS FROM A BLANK
PCT/FR1998/000762 WO1998047660A1 (en) 1997-04-18 1998-04-15 System for making an optical glass from a blank

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0930954A1 EP0930954A1 (en) 1999-07-28
EP0930954B1 true EP0930954B1 (en) 2002-02-27

Family

ID=9506096

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP98921542A Expired - Lifetime EP0930954B1 (en) 1997-04-18 1998-04-15 System for making an optical glass from a blank

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US6298277B1 (en)
EP (1) EP0930954B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69803977T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2173578T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2762247B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1998047660A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2854268B1 (en) * 2002-05-02 2005-12-02 Briot Int APPARATUS FOR ACQUIRING AND DISPLAYING DATA ASSOCIATED WITH AN OPHTHALMIC OBJECT AND CORRESPONDING IMAGE ANALYSIS METHOD
US20040230335A1 (en) * 2003-05-13 2004-11-18 Gerding David W. System for capturing shape data for eyeglass lenses, and method for determining shape data for eyeglass lenses
US7090559B2 (en) * 2003-11-19 2006-08-15 Ait Industries Co. Ophthalmic lens manufacturing system
WO2005098521A1 (en) * 2004-03-31 2005-10-20 Topcon Corporation Device for installing suction jig for eyeglass lens and method for determining suction jig installation position
FR2924290B1 (en) * 2007-11-23 2009-11-20 Nanoscale Labs SIGNAL CONVERTING SIGNAL FOR TRANSMITTING OR RECEIVING A RADIO FREQUENCY SIGNAL
JP5420957B2 (en) * 2009-03-31 2014-02-19 株式会社ニデック Eyeglass lens processing equipment

Family Cites Families (11)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0092364A1 (en) * 1982-04-14 1983-10-26 The Hanwell Optical Co. Limited A method of and apparatus for dimensioning a lens to fit a spectacle frame
FR2547930B1 (en) * 1983-05-06 1987-12-24 Helbrecht Otto NUMERICALLY CONTROLLED GRINDER FOR EYEWEAR GLASS EDGES
US4656590A (en) * 1984-11-07 1987-04-07 Ronald Ace Method and apparatus for making patterns for eyeglasses
FR2582975B1 (en) * 1985-06-10 1987-08-28 Briot Int APPARATUS FOR CENTERING AND POSITIONING AN ADAPTER ON AN OPTICAL GLASS BLANK AND FOR CONTROLLING A GRINDER
US4912880A (en) * 1985-12-06 1990-04-03 Cobain Optical Industries, Inc. Computerized tracing/edging system
DE68928073T2 (en) 1988-10-05 1998-02-05 Topcon Corp Lens knife
US5053971A (en) * 1989-08-30 1991-10-01 Gerber Optical, Inc. Method and apparatus for edging an optical lens
US5425665A (en) * 1992-12-09 1995-06-20 National Optronics, Inc. Optical lens blocker and method
IL113950A0 (en) * 1994-06-10 1995-08-31 Johnson & Johnson Vision Prod A method of positioning ophthalimic lenses
US5633504A (en) * 1995-03-30 1997-05-27 Wesley-Jessen Corporation Inspection of optical components
DE19527222C2 (en) * 1995-07-26 1997-09-04 Wernicke & Co Gmbh System for grinding at least the peripheral edge of spectacle lenses and method for mathematically taking into account the position of a spectacle lens blank held on a holding head of the system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US6298277B1 (en) 2001-10-02
FR2762247B1 (en) 1999-07-09
FR2762247A1 (en) 1998-10-23
DE69803977T2 (en) 2002-11-21
EP0930954A1 (en) 1999-07-28
DE69803977D1 (en) 2002-04-04
ES2173578T3 (en) 2002-10-16
WO1998047660A1 (en) 1998-10-29

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