Importance

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Abstract

A machine and process for making an ultraviolet cured block for an ophthalmic lens are provided in which a lens is placed at an input port to the machine by an operator. Data related to the lens is fed to or stored in the machine from either a keyboard or a data base. The lens is then collected from the input port for processing and transported, preferably by means of pneumatics, to a block molding point within the confines of the machine. A special adhesive is administered to the surface of a mold unit and the mold unit is then positioned to receive the lens. Pressure is applied to squeeze the lens against the adhesive and the mold. After molding the adhesive onto the lens, the lens and mold are transported via servo slide to a UV station where curing takes place from above the lens. After preliminary curing, the lens and mold unit are taken to a removal station and the lens, together with the adhesive cured to its front surface, is removed from the mold unit, again preferably by means of pneumatics. The separated blocked lens is then transported to a second curing station where it is cured by UV from the underside before being released to the operator. In the final stage of the cycle, a daubing unit is used to apply a releasing agent to the surface of the mold in preparation for the next cycle.

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First Claim