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Lens Measure (Geneva Lensometer)

The Geneva Lens Measure, or lensometer, is an optical instrument used to measure the surface power of lenses by determining their curvature. It operates on the principle of measuring the sagitta of a curved surface and is primarily utilized in optometry for lens identification and quality control. While it provides approximate power values based on a standard refractive index, it has limitations regarding accuracy and surface-specific measurements.

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Subham Nag
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1K views2 pages

Lens Measure (Geneva Lensometer)

The Geneva Lens Measure, or lensometer, is an optical instrument used to measure the surface power of lenses by determining their curvature. It operates on the principle of measuring the sagitta of a curved surface and is primarily utilized in optometry for lens identification and quality control. While it provides approximate power values based on a standard refractive index, it has limitations regarding accuracy and surface-specific measurements.

Uploaded by

Subham Nag
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Lens Measure (Geneva Lensometer)

Introduction
• The Geneva Lens Measure, commonly known as a lensometer or lens clock, is an
optical instrument used to measure the surface power of a lens.
• It is primarily used to determine the curvature of the lens surfaces and calculate
the approximate power of the lens.

Principle
• The Geneva lens measure works on the principle of measuring the sagitta (sag) of a
curved surface.
• It calculates the surface power using the formula: [ F = \frac{n’ - n}{r} ] Where:
– F = Surface power of the lens.
– n’ = Refractive index of the lens material.
– n = Refractive index of air (usually 1.0).
– r = Radius of curvature of the lens surface.

Features
1. Three Pins:
– The instrument has three pins:
• The central pin moves up and down.
• The outer two pins remain fixed.
– These pins determine the sag of the lens surface.
2. Scale Display:
– Measures in diopters (D), based on a standard refractive index (commonly
1.523 for crown glass).

Uses
1. Measuring Surface Power:
– Used to measure the front and back surface curvature of the lens.
– Helps in determining the approximate power of spherical and cylindrical
lenses.
2. Lens Identification:
– Identifies lens type (e.g., concave or convex) and surface curvature.
3. Material Differentiation:
– Can help differentiate between lens materials based on refractive index.
Steps to Use
1. Place the Geneva lens measure on the lens surface.
2. Ensure the central pin rests on the lens surface while the outer pins remain fixed.
3. Read the diopter value on the scale.
– Positive value: Convex surface.
– Negative value: Concave surface.
4. Repeat the process for both the front and back surfaces to calculate the total lens
power.

Limitations
1. Refractive Index Dependence:
– The device assumes a standard refractive index (1.523). Deviations from this
require corrections.
2. Approximation:
– Provides an approximate power, not the exact value.
3. Surface-Specific:
– Measures only surface power, not the combined or effective power of the
lens.

Clinical Relevance
• Optometry and Ophthalmology:
– Useful in verifying lens prescriptions and ensuring proper lens fabrication.
• Lens Quality Control:
– Assists in detecting manufacturing defects in lenses.

Conclusion
The Geneva Lens Measure is a simple and effective tool for determining the surface power
of lenses. Despite its limitations, it remains widely used in clinical and manufacturing
settings for quick lens evaluation.

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