Abstract
The invention relates to a loading system (LS) for an optical machine, that has a carrier (TR), which can be moved in a movement plane (x-y) by way of two linear guide units (LF1, LF2). At least one holder (H1, H2, H3) for a workpiece, block piece and/or tool is mounted on the carrier, which holder can be moved in a transverse direction (z), which is perpendicular to the movement plane. The linear guide units are designed and arranged in the manner of an H gantry or cross gantry, with two stationary drive motors (AM1, AM2) for driving a tension element (ZG) in the same direction or in opposite directions, which tension element is movably arranged on the linear guide units in an H shape or cross shape and is fastened to the carrier.
Claims
1. A loading system (LS) for an optical machine, having a carrier (TR), which is movable in a movement plane (x-y) by way of two linear guide units (LF1, LF2) and which carries at least one holder (H1, H2, H3) for an optical workpiece (L) and/or a block piece (B) and/or the tool, the holder being movable in a transverse direction (z) with respect to the movement plane (x-y), characterized in that the linear guide units (LF1, LF2) are constructed and arranged in the form of an H gantry or a cross gantry, with two stationary drive motors (AM1, AM2) for drive in the same or opposite sense of a traction element (ZG) which is movably arranged in an H shape or a cross shape at the linear guide units (LF1, LF2) and secured to the carrier (TR).
2. A loading system (LS) according to claim 1, characterized in that one linear guide unit (LF1) comprises two stationary x guide elements (XF1, XF2), which extend parallel to one another and at each of which a respective x half-carriage (HS1, HS2) is guided to be longitudinally displaceable, whilst the other linear guide unit (LF2) comprises two y guide elements (YF1, YF2), which extend parallel to one another and transversely to the x guide elements (XF1, XF2) and rigidly connect the x half-carriages (HS1, HS2) together and at which the carrier (TR) as y carriage is guided to be longitudinally displaceable.
3. A loading system (LS) according to claim 2, characterized in that, when the linear guide units (LF1, LF2) are constructed and arranged in the form of an H gantry, two 180 deflections (UL1, UL2, UL3, UL4) for the traction element (ZG) are associated with each of the stationary x guide elements (XF1, XF2) and arranged at the ends, whilst each of the x half-carriages (HS1, HS2) carries two 90 deflections (UL5, UL6, UL7, UL8) for the traction element (ZG), wherein one (UL1) of the 180 deflections (UL1, UL3) at one x guide element (XF1) is drivable by one (AM1) of the stationary drive motors (AM1, AM2) and independently thereof the other one (UL2) of the 180 deflections (UL2, UL4) at the other x guide element (XF2) is drivable by the other one (AM2) of the stationary drive motors (AM1, AM2).
4. A loading system (LS) according to claim 3, characterized in that one (UL4) of the 180 deflections (UL1, UL2, UL3, UL4) is provided with a tensioning device (SE) for the traction element (ZG).
5. A loading system (LS) according to claim 2, characterized in that the x guide elements (XF1, XF2) and/or the y guide elements (YF1, YF2) are guide rods.
6. A loading system (LS) according to claim 5, characterized in that each of the x half-carriages (HS1, HS2) is provided with two linear bearing elements (LL), which are axially spaced from one another and which co-operate with the guide rod respectively associated as x guide element (XF1, XF2).
7. A loading system (LS) according to claim 5, characterized in that the carrier (TR) constructed as y carriage comprises three linear bearing elements (LL), which are spaced from one another and of which two linear bearing elements (LL) co-operate with one y guide element (YF2) constructed as a guide rod, while the other linear bearing element (LL) co-operates with the other y guide element (YF1) constructed as a guide rod.
8. A loading system (LS) according to claim 7, characterized in that the traction element (ZG) is secured to the carrier (TR) at a securing point (BS) near the two linear bearing elements (LL), which both co-operate with the one y guide element (YF2) constructed as a guide rod.
9. A loading system (LS) according to claim 2, characterized in that the y guide elements (YF1, YF2) are constructed as hollow bodies.
10. A loading system (LS) according to claim 2, characterized in that the x guide elements (XF1, XF2) and/or the y guide elements (YF1, YF2) are guide rods with a round cross-section.
11. A loading system (LS) according to claim 6, characterized in that the linear bearing elements (LL) are ball bushings with which strippers (AS) are preferably associated at each of two longitudinal sides.
12. A loading system (LS) according to claim 1, characterized in that the traction element (ZG) is a belt, preferably a cogged belt.
13. A loading system (LS) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one holder (H1, H2, H3) is movable by an associated pneumatic cylinder (PZ1, PZ2, PZ3) in the transverse direction (z) with respect to the movement plane (x-y).
14. A loading system (LS) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one holder (H1, H2, H3) is in addition pivotable by an associated pneumatic pivot mechanism (SK1, SK2, SK3) from a position aligned with the transverse direction (z) to a position oriented substantially perpendicularly to the transverse direction (z), and conversely.
15. A loading system (LS) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one holder (H1, H2, H3) is a pneumatically actuable multi-finger gripper.
16. A loading system (LS) according to claim 1, characterized in that a valve terminal (VI) for activation of pneumatic components is arranged on the carrier (TR) constructed as y carriage.
17. A loading system (LS) according to claim 1, characterized in that the carrier (TR) as seen in plan view is of substantially O-shaped configuration with a central opening (OE) in which the at least one holder (H1, H2, H3) is mounted to be movable in the transverse direction (z) with respect to the movement plane (x-y).
18. An apparatus (AV) for deblocking optical workpieces (L), particularly spectacle lenses, from associated block pieces (B), comprising a transfer station (TS) for deposit of optical workpieces (L) blocked on block pieces (B) and/or deblocked optical workpieces (L) and/or block pieces (B), and a loading station (PS) for loading optical workpieces (L), which are blocked on block pieces (B), prior to deblocking and/or unloading deblocked optical workpieces (L) and/or block pieces (B) after deblocking, characterized by a loading system (LS) according to any one of the preceding claims, by which the optical workpieces (L) blocked on block pieces and/or the deblocked optical workpieces (L) and/or the block pieces (B) are transportable between the transfer station (TS) and the loading station (PS) and can be placed in or removed from the respective station (TS, PS).
19. An apparatus (AV) according to claim 18, characterized in that the carrier (TR) of the loading system (LS) comprises three holders (H1, H2, H3), which are movable in the transverse direction (z) with respect to the movement plane (x-y) and of which a first holder (H1) is assigned to the optical workpieces (L) blocked on block pieces (B), a second holder (H2) is assigned to the deblocked optical workpieces (L) and a third holder (H3) is assigned to the block pieces (B).
20. An apparatus (AV) according to claim 18, characterized in that the transfer station (TS) comprises a conveyor belt (FB) for transport in a transport direction (R) of job trays (RK) serving for reception of optical workpieces (L) blocked on block pieces (B) and/or deblocked optical workpieces (L) and/or block pieces (B).
21. An apparatus (AV) according to claim 19, characterized in that the second holder (H2) for the deblocked optical workpieces (L) as seen transversely to the transport direction (R) of the conveyor belt (FB) lies adjacent to the third holder (H3) for the block pieces (B).
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0039] The invention is explained in more detail in the following on the basis of a preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying partly simplified or schematic drawings, which are not to scale and in which:
[0040] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a deblocking device for deblocking optical workpieces, namely spectacle lenses, from associated block pieces from obliquely above and front left, with a loading system according to the invention in an upper region, by which the spectacle lenses blocked on block pieces or the deblocked spectacle lenses and block pieces can be transported between a transfer station and a loading station of the deblocking device and placed in or removed from the respective station;
[0041] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the deblocking device according to FIG. 1 from obliquely above and front right;
[0042] FIG. 3 shows a plan view of the deblocking device according to FIG. 1, in which a carrier, which is movable in a movement plane x-y by way of linear guide units arranged in H shape, of the loading system with holderswhich are movable transversely with respect to the movement plane x-yfor the spectacle lenses and block pieces is disposed above a conveyor belt of the transfer station, the belt being provided for transport of job trays for reception of the spectacle lenses and block pieces in the blocked or deblocked state;
[0043] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the loading systemwhich is separated from the deblocking device according to FIG. 1of the deblocking device from obliquely above and front right;
[0044] FIG. 5 shows a partly broken-away plan view of the loading system, which is shown in isolation in FIG. 4, of the deblocking device according to FIG. 1, without valve terminal at the carrier, particularly for illustration of the path of a cogged belt as traction element for the movement of the carrier, which is arranged to be movable at the linear guide units under guidance in an H shape around deflections and is secured to the carrier;
[0045] FIG. 6 shows a sectional view of the loading system of the deblocking device according to FIG. 1 in correspondence with the section line VI-VI in FIG. 5;
[0046] FIG. 7 shows a sectional view, which is broken away towards both sides and which is turned in the plane of the drawing through 90 in anticlockwise sense, of the loading system of the deblocking device according to FIG. 1 in correspondence with the section line VII-VII in FIG. 5;
[0047] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the carrier, which is constructed as a Y carriage and is separated from the loading systemshown in FIG. 4of the deblocking device according to FIG. 1, of the loading system from obliquely above and front right, with three holders, which are movable transversely with respect to the movement plane x-y, for the spectacle lenses and block pieces;
[0048] FIG. 9 shows a side view of the carrier according to FIG. 8 with the holders, from the right in FIG. 8;
[0049] FIG. 10 shows a sectional view of the carrier according to FIG. 8 with the holders, in correspondence with the doubly offset section line X-X in FIG. 9;
[0050] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the holder, which is at the front in FIG. 8 and is constructed as a multi-finger gripper, from obliquely above and front right, which together with an associated pneumatic cylinder as well as guide arrangement and an associated pivot mechanism is illustrated separated from the carrier according to FIG. 8;
[0051] FIG. 12 shows a side view of the pneumatic cylinder with guide arrangement and of the pivot mechanism, which are associated with the holder according to FIG. 11, from the left in FIG. 11, without the holder;
[0052] FIG. 13 shows a sectional view of the pneumatic cylinder with guide arrangement and of the pivot mechanism for the holder according to FIG. 11, in correspondence with the section line XIII-XIII in FIG. 12; and
[0053] FIGS. 14 to 35 show perspective views of the deblocking device according to FIG. 1, which illustrate a possible fully automatic deblocking processwith the assistance of the loading system according to the inventionin the time sequence thereof, wherein for simplification of the illustration the traction element for drive of the carrier together with deflections was omitted.
[0054] With respect to the drawings it may also be noted at this point that the illustration of the deblocking device with the loading system according to the invention is in a right-angled Cartesian co-ordinate system in which the letter x denotes the length direction, the letter y denotes the width direction and the letter z denotes the height direction of the deblocking device or loading system. In order to reveal a view of essential components or subassemblies of the deblocking device and the loading system and for simplification of the illustration, parts of the cladding, the supply devices (inclusive of lines, hoses and pipes) for power, compressed air and water as pressure medium, the suction device as well as the measuring, maintenance and safety devices, in particular, have mostly been omitted in the drawings, since they do not appear necessary for an understanding of the invention and are in any case familiar to the expert.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT
[0055] A deblocking device, for example for an optical machine for treatment and/or processing optical workpieces, for the deblocking of optical workpieces, such as spectacle lenses L, from associated block pieces B is generally denoted by the reference AV in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 14 to 35. The deblocking device AV comprises a machine frame MG, on which, as core element of the deblocking device AV, a specially constructed workpiece holding arrangement WH is movably mounted at a central point, the arrangement being further described in the following to the extent appearing desirable for a better understanding of the present invention.
[0056] The basic construction of the deblocking device AV and, in particular, of the workpiece holding arrangement WH is the subject of parallel German Patent Application DE 10 2019 006 504.2 (called parallel application in the following), i.e. filed with the same application date, under the title Optical machine for treatment and/or processing optical workpieces, such as spectacle lenses, as well as deblocking device and deblocking method therefor, to which at this point for avoidance of repetition express reference may be made with respect to the more precise structure and function of the deblocking device AV in general and the workpiece holding arrangement WH specifically.
[0057] As can be best recognized in FIGS. 14 to 35, different stations of the deblocking device AV are grouped in stationary position at the machine frame MG around the workpiece holding arrangement WH. The stations are, firstly, a loading station PS at the top (see, in particular, FIGS. 14, 15 and 20 to 35), comprising a first sub-station PS1 (top front) for loading spectacle lenses L, which are blocked on block pieces B, prior to the deblocking and for unloading block pieces B after the deblocking, as well as a second sub-station PS2 (top rear) for unloading deblocked spectacle lenses L after the deblocking. Mounted on the machine frame MG at a three-dimensional spacing from the loading station PS are, below the loading station PS, a deblocking station DS (bottom front; cf., for example, FIGS. 1 and 2) as first treatment station for deblocking spectacle lenses L from the respectively associated block piece B and a cleaning station CS (bottom rear; see, in particular, FIGS. 16 to 19) as a further treatment station for cleaning the deblocked spectacle lenses L and the block pieces B.
[0058] The deblocking station DS comprisesas shown in the afore-mentioned German parallel application, but not hereas a first treatment device a first nozzle subassembly with a first high-pressure nozzle for delivery of a high-pressure pressure medium jet for deblocking the spectacle lenses L from the respectively associated block piece B. The cleaning station CS comprisesagain not illustrated here, but shown in the afore-mentioned German parallel applicationas a second treatment device a second nozzle subassembly with a second high-pressure nozzle for delivery of a high-pressure pressure medium jet for cleaning the deblocked spectacle lenses L and, as a third treatment device, a third nozzle subassembly with a third high-pressure nozzle for delivery of a high-pressure medium jet for cleaning the block pieces B.
[0059] The hydraulic supply of the afore-mentioned nozzle subassemblies is carried out by way of a hydraulic arrangement HA, which according to FIGS. 1 and 2 is mounted on the machine frame MG in a lower region, laterally below the workpiece holding arrangement WH. This hydraulic arrangement HA generally comprises a pump unit PE, by which temperature-controlled water as pressure medium can be conveyed from a tank T by way of a distributor device VE of the hydraulic arrangement HA to the nozzle subassemblies. In addition, low-pressure nozzlesagain not shown here, but illustrated in the afore-mentioned German parallel applicationare connected with the hydraulic arrangement and serve for cleaning the deblocking station DS and the cleaning station CS.
[0060] This hydraulic arrangement HA is the subject of parallel German Patent Application DE 10 2019 006 505.0, i.e. filed on the same application date, under the title Hydraulic arrangement for a device for deblocking optical workpieces, particularly spectacle lenses, from associated block pieces, to which, for the avoidance of repetition, express reference may be made at this point with respect to the more precise construction and function of the hydraulic arrangement HA.
[0061] Arranged at approximately the same height as the workpiece holding arrangement WH and on the right in FIGS. 1 and 2 adjacent to the workpiece holding arrangement WH is a transfer station TS for deposit of spectacle lenses L blocked on block pieces B, deblocked spectacle lenses L and block pieces B. In the illustrated embodiment the transfer station TS of the deblocking device AV comprises a conveyor belt FB, which is mounted on the machine frame MG, for transport of job trays RK in a transport direction R. The job trays RK serve for reception of spectacle lenses L blocked on block pieces B, deblocked spectacle lenses L and block pieces B.
[0062] Mounted above the workpiece holding arrangement WH and the transfer station TS at the machine frame MG is a loading system LS, which is described in more detail in the following and by which the spectacle lenses L blocked on block pieces B, deblocked spectacle lenses L and deblocked block pieces B can be transported between the transfer station TS and the loading station PS, which is provided at the workpiece holding arrangement WH, with its sub-stations PS1, PS2 and placed in and removed from the respective station TS, PS1, PS2.
[0063] As FIGS. 4 and 5, in particular, show, the loading system LS generally comprises a carrier TR, which is movable in a movement plane x-y by way of two linear guide units LF1, LF2 and which carries three holders H1, H2, H3 movable in a transverse direction z with respect to the movement plane x-y. Of these, a first holder H1 (concealed in FIGS. 1 and 2) is assigned to the spectacle lenses L blocked on block pieces B, a second holder H2 is assigned to the deblocked spectacle lenses L and a third holder H3 is assigned to the block pieces B.
[0064] A feature of this loading system LS is thatas explained in more detail in the followingthe linear guide units LF1, LF2 are constructed and arranged in the form of an H gantry, with two stationary drive motors AM1, AM2 for drivein the same sense or in opposite senseof a traction element ZG which is movably arranged in an H shape at the linear guide units LF1 and LF2 and is attached to the carrier TR.
[0065] In addition, FIGS. 1 and 2 show a control cabinet SS, which is arranged behind the machine frame MG, for the deblocking device AV as well as a suction device SU, which is positioned adjacently on the right and which is connected with the second sub-station PS2 of the loading station PS and the cleaning station CS. A funnel-shaped housing section TG for collection in common of pressure medium, blocking material and other residues for preparation or disposal is arranged, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, below the deblocking and cleaning stations DS, CS, which are themselves positioned below the loading station PS for best possible draining of the water needed in the process. Finally, a control panel BF, by way of which the deblocking device AV can be controlled, is secured to the machine frame MG at the front left in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0066] Before the loading system LS is described in detail, the machine concept of the deblocking device AV with the afore-mentioned workpiece holding arrangement WH shall firstly be briefly explained. A feature of the workpiece holding arrangement WH is that the workpiece holding arrangement WH comprises a plurality of partition walls TW (marked in, for example, FIGS. 14, 15, 20 and 21), which separate and delimit four work spaces AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 from one another, of which in FIGS. 1 to 3, 14, 15, and 20 merely the first work space AR1 and in FIGS. 21 to 35 only the fourth work space AR4 are to be seen (also designated in these figures by the Roman numerals I I or IV IV respectively applied at the end). In that case, an individual workpiece holder CH, as, for example, FIGS. 1 to 3 showhere in each instance in the form of a clamping chuckis associated with each of the work spaces AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 for parallel use for different spectacle lenses L.
[0067] The work spaces AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 can be moved in common together with the workpiece holding arrangement WH with respect to the machine frame MG so that each work space AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 can be selectably moved from the loading station PS, which is stationary at the machine frame MG, to the treatment or processing station DS, CS physically spaced from the loading station, and conversely. More precisely, each work space AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 can be displaced together with the workpiece holding arrangement WH in a movement cycle (indicated by a central round arrow in FIG. 21) from the first sub-station PS1 of the loading station PS via the cleaning station CS and the second sub-station PS2 of the loading station PS back to the first sub-station PS1 of the loading station PS so that the work spaces AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 can be used simultaneously for different spectacle lenses L and different processes (loading, deblocking, cleaning, unloading).
[0068] For that purpose, the work spaces AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 of the workpiece holding arrangement WH together with their workpiece holders CH are arranged to be rotatable about a common axis RA of rotation (see, in that regard, FIGS. 1 and 3 as well as 16 to 35). The overall result is a drum-like construction of the workpiece holding arrangement WH with two mutually opposite end walls SW1, SW2 (marked in FIGS. 14, 15, 20, 21 and 32 to 35), between which the partition walls TW separating the work spaces AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 are arranged. In that regard, the axis RA of rotation runs through the mutually parallel end walls SW1, SW2.
[0069] Whereas a first end wall SW1 of the workpiece holding arrangement WH of drum-like construction carries the workpiece holders CH, as can be readily seen in, for example, FIGS. 32 to 35, a second end wall SW2 of the workpiece holding arrangement WH carries, according to, for example, FIGS. 14, 15, 20 and 21, workpiece counter-holders WC which are aligned with the workpiece holders CH. Not only the workpiece holders CH, but also the workpiece counter-holders WC are, in addition, each mounted to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis LA1 or LA2 thereof (marked in FIGS. 22, 23, 34 and 35). In other words, the result is a circular arrangement of four spindle pairs which are uniformly mutually angularly spaced from one another around the axis RA of rotation. Moreover, the workpiece counter-holders WC are each axially displaceable along the longitudinal axis LA2 thereof parallel to the axis RA of rotation. In that regard, the workpiece counter-holders WC are each provided at the end thereof projecting into the respective work space AR1, AR2, AR3 and AR4 with a suction head SH for holding the spectacle lens L, as, for example, FIGS. 2 and 3 show.
[0070] Further details of the loading system LS can now be inferred from, in particular, FIGS. 5 to 10. As can be readily recognized at the outset in FIGS. 4 and 5, one linear guide unit LF1 for the x direction comprises two x guide elements XF1, XF2 extending parallel to one another. The x guide elements XF1, XF2 are mounted, according to, for example, FIGS. 1 and 2, on the machine frame MG in fixed location. As FIGS. 4 and 6, in particular, show, the x guide elements XF1, XF2 are solid guide rods with a round cross-section.
[0071] A respective x half-carriage HS1, HS2 is guided at each of the x guide elements XF1, XF2 to be longitudinally displaceable. For that purpose each x half-carriage HS1, HS2 is providedas illustrated in the section according to FIG. 6 for the x half-carriage HS2with two axially mutually spaced-apart linear bearing elements LL, which co-operate with the respective guide rod associated as x guide element XF1, XF2.
[0072] By contrast, the other linear guide unit LF2 for the y direction comprises, according to, in particular, FIGS. 4 and 5, two y guide elements YF1, YF2 which extend parallelly to one another and transversely to the x guide elements XF1, XF2. The y guide elements YF1, YF2 rigidly connect the x half-carriages HS1, HS2 together so that the x half-carriages HS1, HS2 and the y guide elements YF1, YF2 together form an x carriage XS.
[0073] As can be best seen in the section according to FIG. 7, the y guide elements YF1, YF2 are also guide rods with a round cross-section. However, in distinction from the x guide elements XF1, XF2 the y guide elements YF1, YF2 are constructed as hollow bodies, thus tubular. High useful loads are achieved through use of the guide rods; in that regard, the hollow-body construction ensures a low weight and is conducive to a high dynamic.
[0074] The afore-mentioned carrier TR as y carriage is guided at the y guide elements YF1, YF2 to be longitudinally displaceable. For that purpose, the carrier TR according to FIG. 10 comprises three mutually spaced-apart linear bearing elements LL, of which two linear bearing elements LL co-operate with the y guide element YF2 constructed as a guide rod, whilst the other linear bearing element LL co-operates with the other y guide element YF1 constructed as a guide rod. The result is thus a statically defined mounting of the carrier TR, which is constructed as a y carriage, at the y guide elements YF1, YF2.
[0075] Not only the respective two linear bearing elements LL at the x half-carriages HS1, HS2, but also the three linear bearing elements LL at the carrier TR constructed as y carriage are ball bushings. In that case, a stripper AS is associated with each of the linear bearing elements LL at the two longitudinal sides, as schematically illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10.
[0076] In this connection it is to be mentioned that the loading system LS in the case of use, which is described here, in or at the deblocking device AV is exposed to special use conditions. Due to the deblocking and cleaning processes with high pressure (water as medium with a temperature of up to 50 Celsius) an extremely high level of humidity arises in the deblocking device AV. This humidity precipitates on all components. The afore-described embodiment of the guide system comprising round rods and ball bushings with strippers has proved advantageous here inasmuch as the loading system LS is capable of permanently withstanding not only the mechanical and dynamic loads, but also these environmental conditions.
[0077] By virtue of the afore-described arrangement of the linear guide units LF1, LF2 the result is substantially an H shape as can be readily recognized in FIG. 5. The thus-formed H gantry is completed by deflections and drives for the traction element ZG. More precisely and according to, in particular, FIG. 5 two 180 deflections UL1, UL2, UL3, UL4 for the traction element ZG are associated with each of the stationary x guide elements XF1, XF2 at the ends. On the other hand, each of the x half-carriages HS1, HS2 carries two 90 deflections UL5, UL6, UL7, UL8 for the traction element ZG. In that case, as illustrated in FIG. 4, one (UL1) of the 180 deflections UL1, UL3 is drivable at one x guide element XF1, which is on the left in FIG. 4, by one (AM1) of the stationary drive motors AM1, AM2. Independently thereof, the other one (UL2) of the 180 deflections UL2, UL4 at the other x guide element XF2, which is on the right in FIG. 4, is drivable by the other one (AM2) of the stationary drive motors AM1, AM2.
[0078] In the illustrated embodiment the traction element ZG is a cogged belt. At least the deflections UL1 and UL2 provided for this purpose at the stationary drive motors AM1, AM2 and driven by these are formed by correspondingly toothed belt pulleys. A precise control of the movement of the carrier TR is possible through the thus-produced mechanically positive and therefore slip-free movement transmission.
[0079] In this connection, it is additionally to be inferred particularly from FIG. 5 that the traction element ZG is secured to the carrier TR at a securing point BS (belt clamping) seated near the two linear bearing elements LL which both co-operate with the y guide element YF2 constructed as a guide rod. Tilting moments, which might detract from accuracy, at the carrier TR are thereby avoided.
[0080] Moreover, it is additionally indicated in FIG. 5 at the lower right and FIG. 6 at the bottom that the 180 deflection UL4 at the x guide element XF2 is provided with a tensioning device SE for the traction element ZG, here in the form of a bearing block which can be displaced by set screws (not shown) in x direction and fixed, so as to tension the traction element ZG.
[0081] As seen in the plan view according to FIG. 5, the following movements of the carrier TR in the movement plane x-y of the H gantry can thus be generated: If the two 180 deflections UL1, UL2 are driven at the same speed and with positive direction of rotation (i.e. in clockwise sense), then the carrier TR moves on the y guide elements YF1, YF2 in positive y direction, i.e. to the right in FIG. 5. If drive of the two 180 deflections UL1, UL2 takes place at the same speed and in negative direction of rotation (i.e. in anticlockwise sense), then the carrier TR moves on the y guide elements YF1, YF2 in negative y direction, i.e. to the left in FIG. 5.
[0082] A movement of the carrier TR in positive x direction, i.e. downwardly in FIG. 5, arises when the 180 deflection UL2 on the right as seen in the plan view is driven in negative direction of rotation and the 180 deflection UL1 on the left as seen in the plan view is driven in positive direction of rotation at the same speed, whereby the x carriage XS together with the carrier TR arranged thereon is drawn downwardly in FIG. 5. Correspondingly, the carrier TR in the case of a reversal of direction of rotation at the two 180 deflections UL1, UL2 is moved together with the x carriage XS in negative x direction, i.e. upwardly in FIG. 5.
[0083] If only the 180 deflection UL1 on the left as seen in the plan view is driven in positive direction of rotation, whilst the 180 deflection UL2 on the right is stationary, then the carrier TR moves on the Y guide elements YF1, YF2 in positive y direction, whilst the x carriage XS is displaced on the stationary x guide elements XF1, XF2 in positive x direction, so that the carrier TR in sum moves in the movement plane x-y diagonally in positive y direction and positive x direction, i.e. downwardly to the right in FIG. 5. This can be reversed by a reversal of direction of rotation at the lefthand 180 deflection UL1, so that the carrier TR moves diagonally in negative y direction and negative x direction, i.e. upwardly to the left in FIG. 5.
[0084] In analogous manner, when the lefthand 180 deflection UL1 is stationary a diagonal movement of the carrier TR in positive y direction and negative x direction (i.e. upwardly to the right in FIG. 5) or in negative y direction and positive x direction (i.e. downwardly to the left in FIG. 5) can be produced by the righthand 180 deflection UL2 being driven in clockwise sense or anticlockwise sense, respectively. Moreover, the carrier TR can travel over any desired path in the movement plane x-y of the H gantry through suitable superimposition of the drive motions.
[0085] Further details with respect to the movement possibilities of the holders H1, H2, H3 relative to the carrier TR can be inferred from FIGS. 7 to 13. Accordingly, the holders H1, H2, H3 are each movable by a respectively associated pneumatic cylinder PZ1, PZ2, PZ3 in the transverse direction z with respect to the movement plane x-y and, in fact, independently of one another. Moreover, each holder H1, H2, H3 is pivotable by a respectively associated pneumatic pivot mechanism SK1, SK2, SK3 from a position aligned with the transverse direction z to a position oriented substantially perpendicularly to the transverse direction z, and conversely. These pivot movements are also dependent on one another. Finally, in the illustrated embodiment each holder H1, H2, H3 is formed as a pneumatically actuable multi-finger gripper and can be actuated individually, i.e. again independently of the other holders.
[0086] A valve terminal, which is denoted generally by the reference VI and which is arranged on the carrier TR constructed as y carriage, i.e. laterally flange-mounted thereon (see FIGS. 1 to 4), is provided for activation of the pneumatic cylinders PZ1, PZ2, PZ3, the pneumatic pivot mechanisms SK1, SK2, SK3 and the pneumatically actuable multi-finger grippers H1, H2, H3. The sensors of the loading system LS are connected with the valve terminal VI. Thus, it is merely necessary to supply the valve terminal VI with energy, i.e. electrically and pneumatically; further subdivision at the afore-mentioned pneumatic consumers takes place from the valve terminal VI and accompanies the carrier TR. There is thus only a need for a small number of electrical cablespowerlink (bus), electrical energyand pneumatic hosescompressed air for the above pneumatic consumers, supplementary control airas feed lines. The energy supply is correspondingly simple, small and light and thus designed for rapid accelerations and speeds of the loading system LS.
[0087] As FIG. 10, in particular, shows, the carrier TR itself as seen in plan view is of substantially O-shaped construction, with a central opening OE in which the holders H1, H2, H3 are mounted to be movable in the transverse direction z with respect to the movement plane x-y. More precisely, first and foremost an identically constructed linear guide FG is associated with each of the holders H1, H2 and H3. According to, in particular, FIG. 11, each of the linear guides FG has a substantially H-shaped guide block FG1, which is screw-connected by a transverse side in the region, i.e. within the opening OE, with the carrier TR, as illustrated in FIG. 10. Guide bores which extend parallel to one another in z direction and through each of which a round guide rod FG2 passes are formed in the two limbs of the H-shaped guide block FG1. The two guide rods FG2 are fixedly connected together by way of a cross member FG3 above the guide block FG1; provided below the guide block FG1 is a flange plate FG4 which connects the guide rods FG2 together, as, for example, shown merely schematically in FIG. 13. It will be apparent that the guide rods FG2, the cross member FG3 and the flange plate FG4 form a unit, which can be moved relative to the guide block FG1 in the z direction under guidance at the guide block FG1.
[0088] Moreover, a connecting section between the two limbs of the H-shaped guide block FG1 according to FIG. 13 is provided with a passage bore. The respective double-acting pneumatic cylinderin the example of FIGS. 11 to 13, the third pneumatic cylinder PZ3is, according to FIGS. 11 and 13, flange-mounted by its cylinder housing from above on the connecting section of the guide block FG1 and passes by its piston rod through the passage bore in the connecting section. The piston rod of the pneumatic cylinder is screw-connected by its end, which is remote from the guide block FG1 and lower in FIGS. 11 and 13, with the flange plate FG4, as FIG. 13 shows. Depending on the pressure loading of a first or second effective surface of the double-acting pneumatic cylinder, the flange plate FG4 is thus guided by the guide rods FG2 in the z direction at the guide block FG1 in the direction of the guide block FG1, which is secured to the carrier TR, (upward direction) or away therefrom (downward direction). The upper end position of the flange plate FG4 is reached when the piston of the respective pneumatic cylinder comes into internal contact with the cylinder housing thereof (see FIG. 7 at the top). By contrast, the lower end position of the flange plate FG4 is settable in defined manner by a length-adjustable stop damper FG5, which according to FIGS. 7 to 9, 11 and 12 is mounted on the cross member FG3 of the linear guide FG and co-operates in travel-limiting manner with an associated abutment surface at the carrier TR.
[0089] From below, the respective pneumatic pivot mechanism SK1, SK2, SK3 is flange-mounted on each flange plate FG4, as FIGS. 7 to 9 and 11 to 13 show. Details with respect to the respective pivot mechanism are evident, in the example of the third pivot mechanism SK3, from the sectional view according to FIG. 13. Accordingly, the pivot mechanism SK3 comprises a housing SK4 which is flange-mounted on the flange plate FG4 and in which a pivot piston SK5 loadable with pressure on both sides is guided. A toothing SK6 in the form of a rack, which meshes with a gearwheel SK7, is formed at a longitudinal side of the pivot piston SK5. The gearwheel SK7 is connected with a shaft SK8 which is rotatably mounted in the housing SK4 and which according to, in particular, FIGS. 11 and 12 protrudes from the housing SK4. Finally, the holder H3 of the loading system LS is secured by a clamp SK9 to the part of the shaft SK8 projecting from the housing SK4, as can be readily recognized in FIGS. 8 and 11.
[0090] In the case of loading of one of the two effective surfaces of the pivot piston SK5 with pressure this can be moved from a first end position to a second end position and conversely, wherein the gearwheel SK7 is driven so that the holder H3, which is connected by way of the shaft SK8 and the clamp SK9, is pivoted from a horizontal position, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 11, into a vertical position, and conversely.
[0091] The construction and function of the pneumatically actuable multi-finger grippers provided in the illustrated embodiment as holders H1, H2, H3 are known per se, so that no further explanations with respect thereto are necessary at this point. These multi-finger grippers can be controlled so that they selectably grip or release a spectacle lens L or block piece B at the edge.
[0092] With regard to the three-dimensional arrangement of the holders H1, H2, H3 at the carrier TR it is additionally to be mentioned that the arrangement is such that in the state of the loading system LS being mounted on the machine frame MG the second holder H2 for the deblocked spectacle lenses L lies adjacent to the third holder H3 for the block pieces B as seen transversely to the transport direction R of the conveyor belt FB, as FIGS. 1 and 2 show, so that simultaneous operation can take place here.
[0093] Finally, with regard to handling of the deblocked spectacle lenses L in the workpiece holding arrangement WH of the deblocking device AV it remains to be mentioned at this point that according to, in particular, FIGS. 16 to 21 a pivot mechanism PM carrying a workpiece gripper PG, here in the form of a parallel gripper, is associated with the second sub-station PS2 of the loading station PS. Through appropriate activation of the pivot mechanism PM the workpiece gripper PG mounted thereon can be pivoted about a pivot axis SA, which is illustrated in FIG. 18, into the second sub-station PS2 of the loading station PS (as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17) or out of the second sub-station PS2, in correspondence with the arrow depicted in FIG. 18. A deblocked spectacle lens L can be selectably gripped or released at the edge by the workpiece gripper PG. Otherwise, with respect to handling of the spectacle lenses L and block pieces B in the workpiece holding arrangement WH of the deblocking device AV express reference may be made at this point additionally to the afore-mentioned German parallel application.
[0094] A fully automatic loading cycle and unloading cycle, which are possible with the afore-described loading system LS, of the deblocking device AV shall be described in a time sequence thereof in the following with respect to the more schematic FIGS. 14 to 35, wherein in these figures for the sake of better clarity merely the references described for the respective figure are entered. In the present case, the loading system LS is oriented substantially horizontally. If in the following horizontal and vertical are mentioned, this means two directions (x direction, y direction) extending perpendicularly to one another. Even if by with these terms in the case of the embodiment shown herein there is description of directions which in reality run substantially horizontally or substantially vertical, this is not to be understood in a sense of restricting the possibility of the corresponding directions also lying anywhere in space as long as it remains ensured that horizontal and vertical extend perpendicularly to one another.
[0095] FIG. 14: The x carriage XS of the loading system LS travels into a position in which the vertically oriented first holder H1 (concealed in this figure by the machine frame MG) is disposed centrally above a blocked spectacle lens L, which is provided in x direction at the front in a job tray RK for deblocking, the tray being positioned on the conveyor belt FB in x direction at a rearmost position of the transfer station TS of the deblocking device AV.
[0096] FIG. 15: The first holder H1 is moved in negative z direction into a lower end position in which the four fingers of the first holder H1 are disposed at a height suitable for gripping the blocked spectacle lens L.
[0097] FIG. 16: After the first holder H1 has gripped the blocked spectacle lens L, it is moved again in positive z direction into an upper end position.
[0098] FIG. 17: The first holder H1 is pivoted by the first pivot mechanism SK1 out of the vertical position into a horizontal position so that the center axis of the blocked spectacle lens L is oriented horizontally.
[0099] FIG. 18: A deblocked spectacle lens L held by the workpiece gripper PG is pivoted at the second sub-station PS2 of the loading station PS by the pivot mechanism PM for the workpiece gripper PG about the pivot axis SA out of the sub-station PS2 of the loading station PS.
[0100] FIG. 19: The second holder H2 is similarly pivoted by the second pivot mechanism SK2 out of a vertical position into a horizontal position.
[0101] FIG. 20: The x carriage XS and the carrier TR are initially moved simultaneously in positive x direction and negative y direction until the second holder H2 is positioned at a defined spacing from the deblocked spectacle lens L held in the workpiece gripper PG; subsequently, movement of the carrier TR in negative y direction takes place until the four fingers of the second holder H2 are arranged around the edge of the deblocked spectacle lens L held in the workpiece gripper PG.
[0102] FIG. 21: The second holder H2 grips the deblocked spectacle lens L, the workpiece gripper PG is opened and the carrier TR is moved in positive y direction in order to move the deblocked spectacle lens L out of the pivot region of the workpiece gripper PG. At the same time the block piece B, which is still held in the workpiece holder CH of the fourth work space AR4 of the workpiece holding arrangement WH, which is present in the second sub-station PS2 of the loading station PS, is transported by rotation of the workpiece holding arrangement WH through 90 about the axis RA of rotation into the first sub-station PS1 of the loading station PS.
[0103] FIG. 22: The x carriage XS is moved in positive x direction until the third holder H3 is disposed above the longitudinal axis LA1 of the workpiece holder CH, which together with the fourth workspace AR4 of the workpiece holding arrangement WH is arranged in the first sub-station PS1 of the loading station PS.
[0104] FIG. 23: The third holder H3 is pivoted by the third pivot mechanism SK3 out of the vertical position into the horizontal position.
[0105] FIG. 24: The carrier TR is moved in negative y direction until the third holder H3 is positioned in y direction between the workpiece holder CH of the fourth work space AR4 and the oppositely disposed suction head SH of the corresponding workpiece counter-holder WC.
[0106] FIG. 25: The third holder H3 is moved in negative z direction into the lower end position, so that the third holder H3 is opposite the block piece B held in the workpiece holder CH of the fourth work space AR4.
[0107] FIG. 26: The carrier TR is moved in positive y direction so that the third holder H3 can grip the block piece B in the workpiece holder CH of the fourth work space AR4.
[0108] FIG. 27: The carrier TR is moved in negative y direction so that the third holder H3 draws the block piece B out of the workpiece holder CH of the fourth work space AR4.
[0109] FIG. 28: The third holder H3 is moved in positive z direction into its upper end position.
[0110] FIG. 29: The blocked spectacle lens L held by the first holder H1 is positioned opposite the workpiece holder CH of the fourth work space AR4 in the first sub-station PS1 of the loading station PS by the x carriage XS being moved in positive x direction and the first holder H1 in negative z direction into the lower end position thereof.
[0111] FIG. 30: The carrier TR is moved in positive y direction and the blocked spectacle lens L held at the first holder H1 is inserted by its block piece B into the workpiece holder CH of the fourth work space AR4.
[0112] FIG. 31: The first holder H1 is opened for release of the blocked spectacle lens L and the carrier TR is moved in negative y direction.
[0113] FIG. 32: The first holder H1 is moved in positive z direction into the upper end position.
[0114] FIG. 33: The three holders H1, H2, H3 are pivoted by the respective pivot mechanism SK1, SK2, SK3 into the vertical position, wherein the x carriage XS and the carrier TR are so moved in positive y direction and negative x direction that the deblocked spectacle lens L at the second holder H2 and the block piece B at the third holder H3 are positioned above the job tray RK for deposit, which in x direction is present on the conveyor belt FB at the foremost position of the transfer station TS.
[0115] FIG. 34: The second holder H2 and the third holder H3 are moved, for deposit of the block piece B and the deblocked spectacle lens L, in negative z direction into the lower end position.
[0116] FIG. 35: After deposit of the block piece B and the deblocked spectacle lens L, the second holder H2 and the third holder H3 are moved in positive z direction into the upper end position, whereupon a new loading cycle and unloading cycle can begin.
[0117] By virtue of the high dynamic of the afore-described loading system LS it is possible to master even a comparatively high throughput of spectacle lenses L, which are deblocked in the deblocking device AV, of, for example, 250 spectacle lenses L per hour in terms of loading (loading and unloading) and this with a nevertheless very simple device, a greater degree of overview, good service-friendliness and high production serviceability.
[0118] A loading system for an optical machine, particularly for loading and unloading optical workpieces, such as spectacle lenses, and/or block pieces for blocking workpieces and/or tools, comprises a carrier which is movable in a movement plane by way of two linear guide units. At least one holder, which is movable in a transverse direction with respect to the movement plane, for the workpiece, block piece and/or tool is mounted on the carrier. The linear guide units are constructed and arranged in the manner of an H gantry or a cross gantry, with two stationary drive motors for drive in the same sense or opposite sense of a traction element which is movably arranged in an H shape or a cross shape at the linear guide units and is secured to the carrier. The loading system preferably finds use in a deblocking device in order to transport blocked and also deblocked workpieces and block pieces with a very high dynamic between a transfer station and a loading station of the deblocking device and to respectively receive or deliver them thereat.
REFERENCE NUMERAL LIST
[0119] AM1 first drive motor of the loading system [0120] AM2 second drive motor of the loading system [0121] AV deblocking device [0122] AR1 first work space of the workpiece holding arrangement [0123] AR2 second work space of the workpiece holding arrangement [0124] AR3 third work space of the workpiece holding arrangement [0125] AR4 fourth work space of the workpiece holding arrangement [0126] AS stripper for linear bearing element [0127] B block piece [0128] BF control panel of the deblocking device [0129] BS securing point for traction element of the loading system [0130] CH workpiece holder of the workpiece holding arrangement [0131] CS cleaning station of the deblocking device [0132] DS deblocking station of the deblocking device [0133] FB conveyor belt of the deblocking device [0134] FG linear guide for holder [0135] FG1 guide block of the linear guide [0136] FG2 guide rod of the linear guide [0137] FG3 cross member of the linear guide [0138] FG4 flange plate of the linear guide [0139] FG5 stop damper for linear guide [0140] H1 first holder of the loading system [0141] H2 second holder of the loading system [0142] H3 third holder of the loading system [0143] HA hydraulic arrangement of the deblocking device [0144] HS1 first x half-carriage of the loading system [0145] HS2 second x half-carriage of the loading system [0146] L optical workpiece/spectacle lens [0147] LA1 longitudinal axis of the workpiece holder [0148] LA2 longitudinal axis of the workpiece counter-holder [0149] LF1 first linear guide unit of the loading system [0150] LF2 second linear guide unit of the loading system [0151] LL linear bearing element of the loading system [0152] LS loading system [0153] MG machine frame of the deblocking device [0154] OE opening in the carrier of the loading system [0155] PE pump device of the hydraulic arrangement [0156] PG workpiece gripper of the workpiece holding arrangement [0157] PM pivot mechanism of the workpiece holding arrangement [0158] PS loading station of the deblocking device [0159] PS1 first sub-station of the loading station [0160] PS2 second sub-station of the loading station [0161] PZ1 first pneumatic cylinder of the loading system [0162] PZ2 second pneumatic cylinder of the loading system [0163] PZ3 third pneumatic cylinder of the loading system [0164] RA axis of rotation of the workpiece holding arrangement [0165] RK job tray [0166] SA pivot axis of the pivot mechanism of the loading station [0167] SE tensioning device for traction element of the loading system [0168] SK1 first pivot mechanism of the loading system [0169] SK2 second pivot mechanism of the loading system [0170] SK3 third pivot mechanism of the loading system [0171] SK4 housing of the pivot mechanism [0172] SK5 pivot piston of the pivot mechanism [0173] SK6 toothing of the pivot mechanism [0174] SK7 gearwheel of the pivot mechanism [0175] SK8 shaft of the pivot mechanism [0176] SK9 clamp of the pivot mechanism [0177] SS control cabinet of the deblocking device [0178] SU suction device of the deblocking device [0179] SW1 first end wall of the workpiece holding arrangement [0180] SW2 second end wall of the workpiece holding arrangement [0181] T tank for hydraulic arrangement [0182] TG funnel-shaped housing section [0183] TR carrier/y carriage of the loading system [0184] TS transfer station of the deblocking device [0185] TW partition wall of the workpiece holding arrangement [0186] UL1 180 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0187] UL2 180 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0188] UL3 180 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0189] UL4 180 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0190] UL5 90 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0191] UL6 90 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0192] UL7 90 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0193] UL8 90 deflection for traction element of the loading system [0194] VE distributor device of the hydraulic arrangement [0195] VI valve terminal at the carrier of the loading system [0196] WC workpiece counter-holder of the workpiece holding arrangement [0197] WH workpiece holding arrangement of the deblocking device [0198] XF1 first x guide element of the loading system [0199] XF2 second x guide element of the loading system [0200] XS x carriage of the loading system [0201] YF1 first y guide element of the loading system [0202] YF2 second y guide element of the loading system [0203] ZG traction element of the loading system [0204] x length direction [0205] y width direction [0206] z height direction
