Article processing stem

Abstract

A removable stem for handling and transporting articles such as optical lens blanks during “wet processing” is disclosed. The stem is dimensioned and configured to support such articles particularly in liquid baths, while directing “wet” materials along the surface of the stem and away from flow onto the article. The stem further provides a drip collection point to avoid disturbing the surface of a “wet bath” while an article is immersed in the bath.

1 - An article processing stem [ 20 ] for separably coupling an article to a transport mechanism during wet processing, said processing stem comprising:
 a generally elongate body member [ 22 ] having a transport mechanism suspension portion [ 24 ] at one end thereof, a drip collection end portion [ 26 ] at the opposite end thereof, an intermediate portion [ 28 ] extending between said suspension portion [ 24 ] and said drip collection end portion [ 26 ], an article-mounting support portion [ 30 ] projecting from said intermediate body portion [ 28 ] and an article-mounting surface [ 32 ] on said article-mounting support portion for being removably attached to an article.   
     
     
         2 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 1  wherein: said transport mechanism suspension portion has at least one resiliently deflectable member for resiliently coupling to a transport carrier. 
     
     
         3 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 1  wherein: said transport mechanism suspension portion has a particular cross section shape for engagement with a transport carrier to restrict rotation of said suspension portion when engaged therewith. 
     
     
         4 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 1  wherein: said drip collection end portion terminates in a pointed shape at a location most remote from said suspension portion 
     
     
         5 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 4  wherein: said pointed shape is a wedge-shape. 
     
     
         6 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 4  wherein: said pointed shape is conical in form. 
     
     
         7 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 4  wherein: said article-mounting surface [ 32 ] is dimensioned and oriented so that an imaginary line extending in a vertical direction downwardly from said mounting surface does not intersect any portion of an attached article. 
     
     
         8 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 7  wherein: said stem is further dimensioned and oriented so that the lowest edge portion of said attached article is not lower than said pointed shape 
     
     
         9 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 1  wherein: said stem is formed of thermoplastic material. 
     
     
         10 - An article processing stem in accordance with  claim 1  wherein: said stem is further dimensioned and oriented so that a minimal portion of said intermediate body portion [ 28 ] is located directly above any portion of an attached article.