Inventors:
Richard T. Miller - Phoenix AZ
Yefim P. Sukhman - Phoenix AZ
Lynn C. Welker - Scottsdale AZ
Assignee:
Dow Corning Corporation - Midland MI
International Classification:
B23K 2600
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for edge contouring and severing a lens such as a contact lens of an elastomeric material such as a silicone elastomer from a workpiece containing the lens. The method most preferably employs two beam focussing means such as laser optics systems situated opposite each other which project a ring-shaped beam of, e. g. , 10. 6 micron wavelength radiation from a carbon dioxide laser at a workpiece centered between the two beam focussing means. Such a laser beam is preferably directed at both surfaces of a workpiece to fully edge contour and sever a contact lens from the workpiece in a fast and efficient manner.