Ophthalmic lenses with friction control structure

Abstract

An ophthalmic lens may include a lens body, the lens body including a first surface. The first surface may include a first region including a plurality of friction-reducing structures arranged to align with the movement of a user's upper eyelid during blinking. The first surface may also include a second region including a plurality of friction-reducing structures arranged to align with the movement of a user's lower eyelid during blinking.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of ophthalmic lenses, and in particular to ophthalmic lenses having surface structures for controlling friction. Background Technology

[0002] The eyelids are anatomical structures that both cleanse the eyes and diffuse the lubricating components present in tears. They provide the physical means for evenly distributing tears, or tear fluid, across the surface of the eye, thus maintaining a comfortable and microbiologically intact environment. When ophthalmic lenses, such as contact lenses, are worn, tear film integrity can be compromised by the bulk polymer properties of the lens, the type or properties of the polymer itself, or a combination of both. This phenomenon, combined with the interaction between the lens polymer and the surrounding environment, can create undesirable wearing conditions for the user. These undesirable conditions are typically associated with reduced eye comfort and dryness. These conditions may lead to shorter lens wear times and a suboptimal experience for the user.

[0003] Friction between the lens and the anatomy of the eye can be key to improving the comfort of wearing contact lenses. Many methods exist in the art for controlling friction of ophthalmic lenses, some involving alterations to chemical properties and others involving alterations to physical properties. Chemical or physical surface modification is known in the art, but it is typically applied to ophthalmic lenses only on a bulk basis; that is, the entire lens surface can be modified without considering the directional movement of the eyelids on the lens. Because each of the upper and lower eyelids behaves differently during their blinking phases, such a blanket surface modification cannot adequately control friction between the lens and the eyelids.

[0004] The upper eyelid is primarily controlled by the levator palpebrae superioris muscle and exhibits mainly vertical movement or direction of travel during blinking. The upper eyelid is physically rigid through internal structures called the tarsal plate, and therefore exerts a higher surface force on the eye or ophthalmic lens than the lower eyelid. The lower eyelid is primarily controlled by the orbicularis oculi muscle and moves primarily in a sacral motion coordinated with the upper eyelid along the nose during blinking. The lower eyelid does not actually exhibit any vertical movement.

[0005] Therefore, the direction and amount of friction between the eyeglass lens and the eyelid may differ for different parts of the lens, depending on which eyelid crosses the lens. The upper part of the lens may be affected by the harder, primarily vertical movement of the upper eyelid, while the lower part of the lens may be affected by the softer, primarily nasal-oriented movement of the lower eyelid. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to this disclosure, an ophthalmic lens may include a lens body, the lens body including a first surface, the first surface including: a first region including a first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a first orientation; and a second region including a second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a second orientation.

[0007] In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes at least one patterned feature. In some embodiments, the patterned feature includes a nanoscale feature. In some embodiments, the patterned feature includes a microscale feature. In some embodiments, the patterned feature includes a wave structure. In some embodiments, the first surface includes the outer surface of the lens. In some embodiments, the first surface includes the inner surface of the lens. In some embodiments, a first orientation is aligned with the movement of the upper eyelid during blinking. In some embodiments, a second orientation is aligned with the movement of the lower eyelid during blinking. In some embodiments, a plurality of friction-reducing structures enhance the wettability of the first surface of the lens body. In some embodiments, a plurality of friction-reducing structures facilitate natural blinking movements of the eyelids. In some embodiments, a first plurality of friction-reducing structures extends across the entire width of a first region. In some embodiments, a second plurality of friction-reducing structures extends across the entire width of a second region. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of friction-reducing structures in the first and second regions are substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of friction-reducing structures in one or more of the first and second regions is defined by an arc, and the plurality of friction-reducing structures are arranged in a substantially concentric manner.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first orientation is substantially perpendicular to the second orientation. In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes a combination of channels and ridges. In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes a combination of recesses and protrusions. In some embodiments, the recesses or protrusions have a combination of substantially circular, substantially rectangular, substantially triangular, and irregularly shaped profiles.

[0009] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include an optical region. In some embodiments, a first region is disposed outside the optical region and surrounds at least a portion of the optical region. In some embodiments, a second region is disposed outside both the optical region and the first region. In some embodiments, the first region extends from the edge of the lens body to a position on the first surface at a distance greater than a radius from the edge of the lens body. In some embodiments, the first region extends from the edge of the lens body to a position on the first surface at a distance approximately 2 / 3 the diameter of the first surface from the edge of the lens body. In some embodiments, the second region extends from the edge of the lens body to a position on the first surface at a distance less than a radius from the edge of the lens body. In some embodiments, the second region extends from the edge of the lens body to a position on the first surface at a distance approximately 1 / 3 the diameter of the first surface from the edge of the lens body. In some embodiments, the second region is substantially adjacent to the first region. In some embodiments, the first and second regions cover substantially the entire first surface. In some embodiments, the first and second regions cover substantially the entire first surface outside the optical region.

[0010] In some embodiments, the optical region has a toric, spherical, or multifocal geometry. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include at least one stabilizing structure configured to engage the eyelid during blinking and orient the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include multiple stabilizing structures disposed on the periphery of the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the multiple stabilizing structures include multiple protrusions disposed at the interface between the first and second regions. In some embodiments, at least one stabilizing structure includes a wave or streak. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include one or more prisms formed along the outer edge of the lens body to substantially orient the lens body at a desired position on the eye.

[0011] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may also include a chemical surface modifier. In some embodiments, the chemical surface modifier includes one or more of the following: hyaluronic acid (HA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP), and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphocholine (MPC).

[0012] According to some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens may include a lens body and at least one stabilizing structure. The lens body includes a first surface, the first surface including: an optical region; a first region including a first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a first orientation aligned with the movement of the upper eyelid during blinking; a second region substantially adjacent to the first region, the second region including a second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a second orientation aligned with the movement of the lower eyelid during blinking; and at least one stabilizing structure configured to engage the blinking eyelid and orient the ophthalmic lens.

[0013] In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes at least one patterned feature. In some embodiments, the patterned feature includes a nanoscale feature. In some embodiments, the patterned feature includes a microscale feature. In some embodiments, the patterned feature includes a wave structure. In some embodiments, multiple friction-reducing structures enhance the wettability of a first surface of the lens body. In some embodiments, multiple friction-reducing structures facilitate natural blinking of the eyelids. In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes a combination of grooves and ridges. In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes a combination of depressions and protrusions. In some embodiments, the depressions or protrusions have a combination of substantially circular, substantially rectangular, substantially triangular, and irregularly shaped contours.

[0014] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include a plurality of stabilizing structures disposed on the periphery of the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the plurality of stabilizing structures include a plurality of protrusions disposed at the interface between the first region and the second region. In some embodiments, at least one stabilizing structure includes a wave or streak. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include one or more prisms formed along the outer edge of the lens body to substantially orient the lens body at a desired position on the eye. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include a chemical surface modifier. In some embodiments, the chemical surface modifier includes one of the following: hyaluronic acid (HA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP), and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphocholine (MPC).

[0015] According to some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens may include a lens body, the lens body including a first surface, the first surface including: a first region, the first region including a first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a first orientation, the first plurality of friction-reducing structures including one or more patterned nano- or micro-features arranged substantially parallel to each other; and a second region, the second region including a second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a second orientation substantially perpendicular to the first orientation, the second plurality of friction-reducing structures including one or more patterned nano- or micro-structures arranged substantially parallel to each other.

[0016] In some embodiments, the patterned features include a wave structure. In some embodiments, the first surface includes the outer surface of the lens. In some embodiments, the first surface includes the inner surface of the lens. In some embodiments, a first plurality of friction-reducing structures extend across the entire width of the first region. In some embodiments, a second plurality of friction-reducing structures extend across the entire width of the second region. In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes a combination of grooves and ridges. In some embodiments, the friction-reducing structure includes a combination of recesses and protrusions. In some embodiments, the recesses or protrusions have a combination of substantially circular, substantially rectangular, substantially triangular, and irregularly shaped profiles. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may also include an optical region. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may also include at least one stabilizing structure configured to engage the eyelid for blinking and orient the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may also include a chemical surface modifier.

[0017] According to some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens may include a lens body and at least one stabilizing structure. The lens body includes a first surface, the first surface including: an optical region; a first region including a first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a first orientation aligned with the movement of the upper eyelid during blinking, the first plurality of friction-reducing structures including at least one patterned feature; a second region including a second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a second orientation aligned with the movement of the lower eyelid during blinking, the second plurality of friction-reducing structures including at least one patterned feature, wherein the friction-reducing structures are configured to facilitate natural blinking movement of the eyelids; and at least one stabilizing structure is configured to engage the blinking eyelid and orient the lens body at a desired position on the eye.

[0018] In some embodiments, multiple friction-reducing structures enhance the wettability of the first surface of the lens body. In some embodiments, the second region is substantially adjacent to the first region. In some embodiments, the first and second regions cover substantially all of the first surface. In some embodiments, the first and second regions cover substantially all of the first surface outside the optical region. In some embodiments, the optical region has a toric, spherical, or multifocal geometry. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include multiple stabilizing structures disposed on the periphery of the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the multiple stabilizing structures include multiple protrusions disposed at the interface between the first and second regions. In some embodiments, at least one stabilizing structure includes a wave or streak. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens may further include a chemical surface modifier. In some embodiments, the chemical surface modifier includes one of the following: hyaluronic acid (HA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP), and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphocholine (MPC). Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of this device and are part of the specification. The embodiments shown are merely examples of this device and do not limit its scope.

[0020] Figure 1A This is a top view of an ophthalmic lens including the friction control structure according to this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 1B This is a side view of an ophthalmic lens including the friction control structure according to this disclosure.

[0022] Figures 2A to 2D This is a contour diagram of a friction control structure on an ophthalmic lens according to the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 3A This is a top view of an ophthalmic lens including the friction control structure according to this disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A side view of an ophthalmic lens.

[0025] Figures 4A to 4B A schematic diagram illustrating the steps of a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens including a friction control structure is shown.

[0026] Figures 5A to 5E A schematic diagram illustrating the steps of a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens including a friction control structure is shown.

[0027] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals denote similar but not necessarily identical elements. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The principles described herein involve ophthalmic lenses having one or more surface features that, when worn on a user's eye, control the amount of friction between one or more surfaces of the ophthalmic lens and one or more parts of the user's anatomy (e.g., the eyelid). These friction-controlling surface features can, for example, reduce the amount of friction between the user's eyelid and the surface of the ophthalmic lens during blinking. In some cases, the surface features described herein can enhance the wettability of the ophthalmic lens surface on which they are disposed. Reduced friction between the surface of the ophthalmic lens and the user's eyelid, and / or enhanced wettability or lubricity imparted by the surface features, can result in increased user comfort when the lens is worn on the user's eye and can promote natural blinking movements of the eyelid. That is, compared to ophthalmic lenses without friction-controlling features, reduced friction between the eyelid and the ophthalmic lens allows the eyelid to perform blinking movements while encountering less frictional resistance from the lens. This increased comfort can allow for longer lens wear, reduced inflammation or irritation caused by the lens, and many other benefits. In addition, these surface features can help control the orientation of the eyepiece on the user's eye, thereby enabling the eyepiece to include bifocal optical features, toric optical features and / or other orientation-dependent features.

[0029] In some examples, the surface feature may be a surface structure, such as a nanoscale or microscale structure. In some cases, the surface structure may include one or more patterned physical features, such as channels, ridges, depressions, traps, and protrusions. In some cases, the surface structure may have a macroscale structure, such as a wave structure. In some cases, the surface structure may include a combination of nanoscale, microscale, and macroscale structures. In some embodiments, the surface feature may include a chemically modified portion of the surface of the ophthalmic lens. For example, in some cases, the surface feature may be a microscale or nanoscale portion of the surface of the ophthalmic lens, which includes chemical surface modifiers such as hyaluronic acid (HA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP), and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, surface features may include physical structures such as nanoscale or microscale structures and chemical surface modifiers that may be located on, adjacent to, or at any desired location relative to the nanoscale or microscale structure.

[0030] In some examples, friction control surface features may be disposed on the inner surface of the ophthalmic lens facing the eye. In some examples, friction control surface features may be disposed on the outer surface of the ophthalmic lens. In some examples, surface features may be disposed on both the inner and outer surfaces of the ophthalmic lens.

[0031] To control the amount of friction between the eyeglass lens and, for example, a user's eyelid, surface features can be aligned substantially along a specific orientation. In some examples, each of one or more surface features can be positioned on the eyeglass lens with a specific orientation. In those embodiments where the surface features include patterned features, the features themselves can be positioned with a specific orientation, and / or the pattern can have a specific orientation.

[0032] In some examples, the surface of an ophthalmic lens may include one or more regions, and surface features disposed in each region may have different orientations relative to each other. For example, the surface of an ophthalmic lens may include: a first region having a first plurality of surface features having a first orientation; and a second region having a second plurality of surface features having different second orientations. In some examples, when the lens is worn on the eye in a desired orientation, the orientation of the surface features in one or more regions may be substantially aligned with the direction of movement of the user's eyelid in that region. For example, the surface of an ophthalmic lens may include a first upper region and a second lower region. The surface features of the first upper region may have an orientation aligned with or corresponding to the primary direction of movement of the user's upper eyelid, while the surface features of the second lower region may have an orientation aligned with or corresponding to the primary direction of movement of the user's lower eyelid.

[0033] In some examples, surface features of the ophthalmic lens can help control or stabilize the lens's orientation on the user's eye. In some examples, in addition to friction control as described herein, surface features can control or stabilize the lens's orientation on the user's eye. In some examples, the ophthalmic lens may also include one or more additional stabilizing features, such as one or more protrusions, grooves, waves, or prisms, that substantially orient the lens at a desired location on the user's eye. When the ophthalmic lens includes lens stabilizing features, as described herein, the stable orientation of the lens on the user's eye allows the orientation of the friction-controlling surface features to be substantially aligned with the primary direction of travel of the eyelid. This alignment of the friction-controlling surface features with the primary direction of eyelid movement allows for a reduction in the level of friction between the eyelid and the surface of the ophthalmic lens.

[0034] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An example of an ophthalmic lens 100 formed of lens material and including a first surface is depicted, the first surface being referred to as a surface facing the eyelid, facing the environment, or not facing the eye. The first surface may include a first region 111 and a second region 112. In some cases, the first surface of the ophthalmic lens 100 may include an optical region 113.

[0035] Lens materials can include any material suitable for use as ophthalmic or contact lenses. That is, in some examples, lens materials can include typical hydrogel contact lenses. For example, lens materials can include transparent polymeric materials, such as hydrogels. In some examples, lens materials can include silicone hydrogel materials.

[0036] According to some examples, a first region 111 of the first surface may include a plurality of friction control structures 121. In some examples, the friction control structure 121 may be a friction-reducing structure. According to this example, the first region 111 includes a plurality of friction control structures 121, wherein the friction control structure 121 includes one or more patterned features. In some examples, the patterned features of the friction control structure 121 may be nanoscale features and / or microscale features as further described herein. In some examples, the patterned features may have an undulating or wave-like structure. For example, the patterned features may include undulations or waves on the first surface having a nanoscale or microscale height difference between peaks and valleys. In some cases, the wave structure may include any number of peaks and valleys, from about 1 to about 10, 100, 1000, or 10,000 or more. It should be noted that, in the case of including at least Figure 1A and 1B The features depicted in the accompanying drawings may be shown out of scale and may be enlarged for illustrative purposes.

[0037] In some examples, the friction control structure 121 may not diffract light and may not suppress the clarity of the ophthalmic lens 100 as detected by the eye. In some examples, the friction control structure 121 may enhance the wettability or lubricity of the first region 111 of the ophthalmic lens 100. In this way, the friction control structure 121 can provide a reduced level of friction between the eye and the eyelid by retaining a desired amount of liquid or lubricating fluid via the friction control structure 121 between the ophthalmic lens 100 and the eyelid. In some examples, the friction control structure 121 may reduce, break up, or disperse any tear film on the lens 100. In some examples, the friction control structure 121 may enhance the delivery of fluid (e.g., tears) on the lens 100, thereby providing a more uniform and even distribution of lubricating tears in the first region 111.

[0038] The friction control structures 121 of the first region 111 may be configured, positioned, or formed such that they have a first orientation. As used herein, the orientation of one or more friction control structures 121 can be understood as describing the basic alignment of one or more patterned features of the friction control structures 121 with a single direction or range of directions. In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structures 121 may refer to the alignment of the path of least resistance or least friction for the eyelid to move on each friction control structure 121. In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structures 121 may refer to the alignment of the maximum or minimum lateral dimension of the friction control structures 121 with a desired direction.

[0039] In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structure 121 of the first region 111 can be approximately vertically aligned when the ophthalmic lens 100 is worn on the user's eye. In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structure 121 can be substantially aligned with the primary direction of movement of the user's upper eyelid when the ophthalmic lens 100 is worn on the user's eye. In some cases, when the friction control structure 121 of the first region 111 is oriented to align with the primary direction of movement of the user's upper eyelid, the friction control structure 121 can reduce the amount of friction between the user's upper eyelid and the first region 111 relative to other alignments of the friction control structure 121. This reduction in friction between the user's eyelid and the first region 111 can facilitate or aid the user's natural blinking movements.

[0040] Furthermore, in examples where the friction control structure 121 is oriented to reduce the amount of friction between the first region 111 and the upper eyelid in the primary direction of eyelid movement, the friction control structure 121 can be used to stabilize the position of the eyeglass lens 100 on the user's eye. The orientation of the friction control structure 121 can provide a path of least resistance or friction for the eyelid traveling on the first surface. If the eyeglass lens 100 rotates or otherwise moves out of position on the user's eye, this path of least resistance will no longer be substantially aligned with the primary direction of eyelid movement. When the user blinks, the upper eyelid can apply a force to the first surface that repositions the lens 100 on the eye, causing the path of least resistance to be aligned with the vertical movement of the upper eyelid again. In this way, the friction control structure 121 of the first region 111 can be used to stabilize the position or orientation of the eyeglass lens 100 on the user's eye.

[0041] like Figure 1A As shown, in some examples, one or more of the friction control structures 121 may extend substantially across the entire height or width of the first region 111. In some examples, one or more of the friction control structures 121 may extend at least partially across the first region 111. In some examples, one or more of the friction control structures 121 may extend straight or substantially straight across at least a portion of the first region 111. However, in some examples, one or more of the friction control structures 121 may have an arcuate or curved shape. For example, one or more of the friction control structures 121 may have a shape defined by an arc on the surface of the first region 111.

[0042] In some examples, and such as Figure 1AAs shown, each of the friction control structures 121 can be positioned substantially parallel to each other in the first region 111. That is, when the friction control structures 121 have a first orientation, each of the friction control structures 121 can therefore be positioned parallel to each other in the first orientation. In some examples where one or more of the friction control structures 121 have a curved or arcuate shape, the friction control structures 121 can be arranged in a substantially concentric manner.

[0043] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The depicted ophthalmic lens 100 also includes a second region 112 of the first surface. The second region 112 may include a second plurality of friction control structures 122. In some examples, the friction control structures 122 may be friction-reducing structures. According to some examples, the second region 112 includes a plurality of friction control structures 122, wherein each friction control structure 122 includes one or more patterned features. In some examples, the patterned features of the friction control structures 122 may be nanoscale features and / or microscale features as further described herein. In some examples, the patterned features may have an undulating or wavy structure. In some examples, although the friction control structures 122 may have different orientations or sizes, the friction control structures 122 of the second region 112 may be substantially similar to the friction control structure 121 of the first region 111 as described herein.

[0044] In some examples, the friction control structure 122 may not diffract light and may not suppress the clarity of the ophthalmic lens 100 as detected by the eye. In some examples, the friction control structure 122 may enhance the wettability or lubricity of the second region 112 of the ophthalmic lens 100. In some examples, the friction control structure 122 may reduce any tear film breakage or dispersion on the lens 100. In some examples, the friction control structure 122 may enhance the delivery of fluids (e.g., tears) to the desired area of ​​the lens 100.

[0045] The friction control structures 122 of the second region 112 may be configured, positioned, or formed such that they have a second orientation. In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structures 122 may refer to the alignment of the path of least resistance or least friction for the eyelid to move on each friction control structure 122. In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structures 122 may refer to the alignment of the maximum or minimum lateral dimension of the friction control structures 122 with the desired direction.

[0046] In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structure 122 of the second region 112 can be approximately horizontally aligned when the ophthalmic lens 100 is worn on the user's eye. In some examples, the orientation of the friction control structure 122 can be substantially aligned with the primary direction of movement of the user's lower eyelid when the ophthalmic lens 100 is worn on the user's eye. In some examples, when the friction control structure 122 of the first region 112 is oriented to align with the primary direction of movement of the user's lower eyelid, the friction control structure 122 can reduce the amount of friction between the user's lower eyelid and the second region 112. This reduction in friction between the user's eyelid and the second region 112 can facilitate or aid the user's natural blinking movement.

[0047] In some examples, the friction control structure 122 of the second region 112 can function similarly to the friction control structure 121 of the first region 111 in terms of stabilizing the position of the eyepiece 100 on the eye and reducing friction between the second region 112 and the user's lower eyelid.

[0048] like Figure 1A As shown, in some examples, one or more of the friction control structures 122 may extend substantially across the entire height or width of the second region 112. In some examples, one or more of the friction control structures 122 may extend at least partially across the second region 112. In some examples, one or more of the friction control structures 122 may extend straight or substantially straight across at least a portion of the second region 112. However, in some embodiments, one or more of the friction control structures 122 may have an arcuate or curved shape on the surface of the second region 112. For example, one or more of the friction control structures 122 may have a shape defined by an arc.

[0049] In some examples, and such as Figure 1A As shown, each of the friction control structures 122 can be positioned substantially parallel to each other on the second region 112. That is, when the friction control structures 122 have a second orientation, each of the friction control structures 122 can therefore be positioned parallel to each other in the second orientation. In some examples where one or more of the friction control structures 122 have a curved or arcuate shape, the friction control structures 122 can be arranged in a substantially concentric manner.

[0050] like Figure 1AAs shown, the friction control structure 121 of the first region 111 can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the friction control structure 122 of the second region 112. That is, in some examples, the friction control structure 121 has a first orientation perpendicular to the second orientation of the friction control structure 122. However, in some other examples, the first orientation may be substantially parallel to the second orientation or have some other spatial relationship with the second orientation.

[0051] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The ophthalmic lens 100 depicted includes a first region 111 extending from the edge of the first surface ophthalmic lens 100 to a position on the first surface approximately two-thirds of the diameter of the ophthalmic lens 100 from the edge. In some examples, the first region 111 may extend from the edge of the ophthalmic lens 100 to a position on the first surface greater than the edge of the ophthalmic lens or approximately one radius from the ophthalmic lens 100.

[0052] In the illustrated example, the second region 112 covers the remainder of the first surface, excluding the first region 111 and the optical region 113. Specifically, in some examples, the second region 112 extends from the edge of the ophthalmic lens 100 to a position on the first surface approximately one-third of the way from that edge. In some examples, the second region 112 extends from the edge of the ophthalmic lens 100 to a position on the first surface less than a radius from the edge of the ophthalmic lens or the ophthalmic lens 100. In some examples, the first region 111 and the second region 112 thus cover substantially the entire first surface, excluding the optical region 113.

[0053] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the example shown, the first region 111 on the first surface is substantially adjacent to the second region 112. However, in some examples, the first region 111 and the second region 112 may not be substantially adjacent to each other or not adjacent to each other. Furthermore, in some examples, the first region 111 and the second region 112 may not cover the entire first surface and may only cover a portion of it. In some examples, if an optical region 113 exists on the lens 100, one or both of the first region 111 and the second region 112 may extend partially or completely into the optical region 113.

[0054] In some examples, the first region 111 can cover a portion of the first surface having any desired shape and area. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The first region 111 comprises an approximate semicircle; however, in other examples, the first region 111 may have a circle, rectangle, triangle, or any other desired shape. The second region 112 may similarly have any desired shape and area on the first surface.

[0055] although Figure 1A and Figure 1B The examples depicted include a first region 111 and a second region 112, but any number of regions may exist on the first surface of the ophthalmic lens 100. Furthermore, each of these regions may include one or more friction control structures, wherein the friction control structures of the region have an orientation, for example, an orientation different from the orientation of the friction control structures of other regions.

[0056] The lens material may include an optical region or area 113 located at the center of the ophthalmic lens 100. The optical region 113 typically has a size approximately the same as the pupil of the eye under low-light conditions; for example, the optical region 113 may have a diameter of approximately 10 mm. If any corrective power is present, the optical region 113 may include the corrective power of the ophthalmic lens 100. According to some examples, the optical region 113 may not include any friction control structures or features. In some other examples, one or more friction control structures, as described herein, may be present in the optical region. In some examples, the friction control structure 121 of the first region 111 or the friction control structure 122 of the second region 112 may extend into or be disposed on all or part of the optical region 113. In some examples where the optical region 113 may include a corrective angle, the optical region 113 may have a toric, spherical, or multifocal geometry. In some examples, the optical region 113 may have any form of corrective or optical geometry existing in the art or to be developed in the future.

[0057] Figure 2A An outline or cross-sectional view of an exemplary friction control structure 221 on a first or second region of an ophthalmic lens 200 is shown. The friction control structure 221 may be a friction-reducing structure. The friction control structure 221 and the lens 200 may substantially resemble, and include, any or all features of the structures and lenses described herein (e.g., friction control structure 121 and lens 100). In some examples, the friction control structure 221 may be a patterned feature comprising a plurality of repeating physical structures. Figure 2A As shown, in some examples, the repeating physical structure may include a combination of recesses 231 and protrusions 232. In this particular example, recesses 231 and protrusions 232 may have a generally rectangular outline. In some examples, such as... Figure 2BAs shown, the recess 231 and the protrusion 232 may have a generally circular outline. In some examples, the recess 231 or the protrusion 232 may have a generally rectangular outline, a generally circular outline, a generally triangular outline, an irregularly shaped outline, or a combination thereof. For example, the recess 231 may have a generally rectangular outline, while the protrusion 232 may have a generally circular outline.

[0058] In some examples, and such as Figure 2C The depicted friction control structure 221 may include protrusions 232 and may not include recesses. In some examples, and as... Figure 2D As depicted, the friction control structure 221 may include recesses 231 and may not include protrusions. In some examples, the friction control structure 221 may include any number of recesses 231 and / or protrusions 232 arranged in any arrangement, or a combination of recesses 231 and / or protrusions 232 arranged in any arrangement.

[0059] In some examples, the friction control structure may include one or more channels and / or ridges. In some examples, each channel or ridge of the friction control structure may extend the entire length of the friction control structure, or may extend only a portion of the length of the friction control structure. In some examples where the channels or ridges may not extend the entire length of the friction control structure, the structure may include multiple channels and / or ridges. In some examples, the channels and / or ridges of the friction control structure may be positioned in a straight line or parallel to the orientation of the friction control structure. However, in some other examples, the channels or ridges of the friction control structure may be positioned perpendicular to the orientation of the friction control structure or may have some other spatial relationship.

[0060] In some examples, Figures 2A to 2D The recesses 231 and ridges 232 shown can extend a desired distance to define ridges and / or channels. That is, Figures 2A to 2D The recesses 231 and ridges 232 shown may extend to a desired distance within or outside the page to define one or more ridges and / or channels. In some examples, Figures 2A to 2D The recesses 231 and / or ridges 232 shown may be or define nano- or micro-structured traps. That is, in addition to the lateral repetitions shown, the friction control structure 221 may also include repeating recesses 231 and / or ridges 232 extending across a first surface of the lens 100 into and / or outside the page, and are partially separated by the lens material. Thus, in some examples, the recesses 231 and / or traps defined by the recesses 231 and / or ridges 232 can provide a superwetting surface to enhance the wetting and fluid transport of the surface of the lens 100.

[0061] In some examples, the friction control structure 221, including one or more traps, may contain liquid, such as tears or other lubricants when a user wears the ophthalmic lens 100. Therefore, the friction control structure 221 can provide improved lubricity because fluid delivery is reduced by retaining liquid within the traps, while also providing increased fluid delivery when pressure is applied to the lens 100 (e.g., through the eyelid during blinking). Because the pressure applied by the eyelid during blinking can deform the recesses 231, protrusions 232, and / or traps thus defined, allowing fluid to escape, selective levels of these fluid delivery can be achieved. However, when no pressure is applied to the lens 100, the recesses 231, protrusions 232, and / or traps can maintain their structure and retain a desired amount of liquid therein to provide increased wetting.

[0062] The physical features that may include the friction control structure (e.g., repeating physical features of friction control structure 221 and / or friction control structures including channels and / or ridges) may be nanoscale, microscale, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the physical features of the friction control structure may have principal dimensions from about 10 nm to about 100 nm, about 250 nm, about 500 nm, or up to about 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, or 10 mm or larger. In some examples, the physical features including the friction control structure may all have substantially similar principal dimensions. In some examples, the friction control structure may include multiple physical features having a range of principal dimensions. For example, the friction control structure may include one or more physical features having nanoscale principal dimensions and one or more physical features having microscale principal dimensions. In some examples, the principal dimensions of the protrusion 232 may be the height or distance above the surface of lens 100, as well as the width and / or length. Similarly, in some examples, the principal dimensions of the recess 231 may be the depth or distance below the surface of lens 100, as well as the width and / or length.

[0063] As described herein, in some examples, friction control structures may include macroscopic-scale physical features such as wave structures. In some examples, friction control structures may include, for example, features related to… Figures 2A to 2D The combination of nanoscale and / or microscale physical features and macroscale structures such as wave structures described herein.

[0064] In some examples, the physical features of the friction control structure described herein may be formed from materials that are the same as or similar to the lens material (e.g., silicone and / or hydrogel materials). In some examples, the physical features may include one or more other polymer materials. In some examples, one or more physical features may be formed by additive manufacturing processes. For example, physical features may be formed by casting, molding, printing, stamping, liquid or vapor deposition processes, or combinations thereof. In some examples, physical features may be formed simultaneously with the lens body. In some examples, physical features may be formed separately from the lens body and subsequently attached or adhered to it. In some examples, physical features may be formed after the formation or curing of the lens body. In some examples, physical features may be formed by subtractive manufacturing processes. For example, physical features may be formed by etching (e.g., plasma etching), photolithography, machining, drilling, lathe machining, or some other subtractive processes, or combinations thereof. In some examples, one or more physical features may be formed by additive manufacturing processes, while one or more other physical features may be formed by subtractive manufacturing processes. In some examples, one or more physical features may be formed by a combination of additive and subtractive manufacturing processes.

[0065] In some examples, the friction control structure (e.g., the friction reduction structure) may include a chemical surface modifier. For example, the friction control structure may include a portion of the surface of an ophthalmic lens containing one or more chemical surface modifiers. In some examples, the chemical surface modifier may include one or more of the following: hyaluronic acid (HA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP), 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphocholine (MPC), and other similar organic compounds.

[0066] In some examples, the friction control structure may include one or more portions of the surface of an ophthalmic lens containing a chemical surface modifier, wherein one or more portions may be arranged in a pattern and may have an orientation. For example, the friction control structure may include multiple repeating portions of the surface of an ophthalmic lens arranged substantially vertically, horizontally, or otherwise oriented when the lens is worn on a user's eye. In some examples, the friction control structure including a chemical surface modifier may include multiple portions of the lens surface oriented in a straight line with the primary direction of movement of the eyelid (e.g., the upper or lower eyelid).

[0067] In some examples, the friction control structure may include one or more physical structures, such as patterned nanoscale or microscale structures as described herein, wherein at least a portion of the physical structure comprises a chemically modified surface. In some examples, the friction control structure may include one or more physical structures and one or more portions of the surface of the ophthalmic lens that have been chemically modified. Furthermore, in some examples, the friction control structure may include any combination of physical structures or features as described herein, wherein one or more portions of the physical structure and / or one or more portions of the surface of the ophthalmic lens may comprise a chemically modified surface.

[0068] Figure 3A A top view depicts an ophthalmic lens 300 formed of lens material and including a first, top, or eyelid-facing surface. Figure 3B A contour diagram is depicted. The first surface may include a first region 311 and a second region 312. In some cases, the first surface of the ophthalmic lens 300 may include an optical region 313. The first region 311 and the second region 312 may include a plurality of friction control structures 321, 322. The friction control structures 321, 322 and the lens 300 may be substantially similar to any or all of the features of the structures and lenses described herein (e.g., friction control structure 121 and lens 100), and include any or all of the features of the structures and lenses described herein. The ophthalmic lens 300 may also include one or more stabilizing structures 340.

[0069] While friction control structures 321 and 322 can help stabilize the position of the ophthalmic lens 300 on the user's eye, the ophthalmic lens 300 may include additional stabilizing structures 340 for stabilizing the position of the ophthalmic lens 300 on the eye. In some examples, and as... Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the stabilizing structure 340 may include one or more wedges or prisms having a thickness greater than that of other portions of the ophthalmic lens 300. These stabilizing structures 340 may be positioned near the outer edge of the ophthalmic lens 300, for example, on a portion of the ophthalmic lens 300 positioned on the sclera when the ophthalmic lens is worn on a user's eye.

[0070] In some examples, the stabilizing structure 340 may be positioned at the periphery of the lens 300, and may be located at approximately 60% to 70% of, for example, approximately 65% ​​of, the distance downwards from the top of the lens 300. The stabilizing structure 340 may include a peak 341, which may be the thickest portion of the lens 300, such as... Figure 3BAs shown. The peak 341 can gradually decrease to a constant edge thickness at the periphery. Therefore, the stabilizing structure 340 extracts the widest possible stabilizing effect from the eyelid, while allowing a wide channel, almost parallel to the parallel thickness, to pass through the center and intermediate peripheral region of the lens 300. In some embodiments, these stabilizing structures 340 maximize the stabilizing effect of the upper eyelid by redirecting the pressure gradient of the eyelid downward and outward, thereby stabilizing the position of the lens 300.

[0071] In some examples, the stabilizing structure 340 may include one or more grooves, patterns, and / or holes located on the front, rear, or eye-facing surface, or on both the front and rear surfaces of the ophthalmic lens 300. In some embodiments where the stabilizing structure 340 may include grooves and / or patterns, the grooves or patterns may be protrusions of the lens 300 or recesses into the surface of the lens 300 (e.g., a first surface). In some examples, when a user blinks with the lens 300 on their eye, the spongy eyelids and / or tarsal conjunctiva may grasp the stabilizing structure 340 on the lens surface and orient the lens 300 by following the angle or orientation of the patterns, grooves, or holes in the lens 300. The physiology of the eye-eyelid relationship can aid in the stabilization of the lens 300. In some examples, eyelid pressure may be used to provide frictional forces for orienting or stabilizing the lens 300.

[0072] In some examples, the stabilizing structure 340 may include the presence of waves or grooves on a surface (e.g., the first surface of the ophthalmic lens 300). In some examples, these waves or grooves may have a vertical orientation when the lens 300 is worn on the user's eye. In some examples, friction between the user's eyelid (e.g., the upper eyelid) and the stabilizing structure 340 may be used to orient or stabilize the lens 300. The orientation of the stabilizing structure 340 may provide a path of least resistance or friction for the eyelid to travel on the first surface. If the ophthalmic lens 300 rotates or otherwise moves out of position on the user's eye, this path of least resistance will no longer be substantially aligned with the primary direction of movement of the eyelid. When the user blinks, the upper eyelid may apply a force to the stabilizing structure 340 on the first surface, which repositions the lens 300 on the eye, such that the path of least resistance is once again aligned with the vertical movement of the upper eyelid. In this way, the stabilizing structure 340 of the ophthalmic lens 300 may be used to stabilize or help stabilize the position or orientation of the ophthalmic lens 300 on the user's eye.

[0073] In some examples, the ophthalmic lens 300 may alternatively or additionally include any form of stabilizing structure 340 known in the art or developed in the future. In some examples, the stabilizing structure 340 may be formed by additive or subtractive processes or combinations thereof. For example, the stabilizing structure 340 may be formed by casting, molding, printing, stamping, or liquid or vapor deposition processes or combinations thereof. In some examples, the stabilizing structure 340 may be formed by etching, machining, drilling, lathe machining, or some other subtractive processes or combinations thereof.

[0074] Figures 4A to 4B A schematic diagram illustrating the steps of a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens including a friction control structure as described herein. Figure 4A This is a cross-sectional view of an example casting molding system for casting an ophthalmic lens 400 as described herein. The lens 400 may substantially resemble and include any or all features of the structures and features in lenses (e.g., lenses 100, 200, 300) described herein. As shown, the casting molding system includes a male mold member 40 having a convex rear forming surface 42 that defines the geometry and surface finish of the rear surface, eyelid-facing surface, or first surface of the ophthalmic lens cast therein. If any friction control structure is present, the male mold member 40 includes a friction control structure. Similarly, the casting molding system includes a female mold member 44 having a concave front forming surface 46 that defines the geometry and surface finish of the front surface, eye-facing surface, or second surface of the ophthalmic lens cast therein. If any friction control structure is present, the female mold member 44 includes a friction control structure. Figure 4A As shown, the liquid lens material can be disposed within the concave surface of the female mold component 44.

[0075] In some examples, the rear forming surface 42 of the male mold member 40 and / or the front forming surface 46 of the female mold member 44 may include features such as protrusions or recesses for forming one or more friction control structures on the front or rear surface of the ophthalmic lens 400 as described herein. In some examples, the features may include a “negative” shape of the friction control structure to be formed. For example, in cases where the ophthalmic lens 400 includes a friction control structure comprising multiple protrusions on a rear or first surface, the rear forming surface 42 of the male mold member 44 may include multiple recesses or indentations 43 corresponding to the shape of the protrusions to be formed.

[0076] Figure 4BThis is a cross-sectional view of an assembled casting molding system, wherein liquid lens material 48 is disposed between male mold member 40 and female mold member 44 to conform to a rear forming surface 42 and a front forming surface 46. In this example, liquid lens material 48 is deposited into the contoured concave surface of female mold member 44 and engaged by rear forming surface 42 during assembly. Liquid lens material 48 can be made of any material suitable for ophthalmic lenses. For example, liquid lens material 48 can be made of any material that is rigid upon curing, polymerization, or hardening and permeable to gas or oxygen. In some examples, liquid lens material 48 may include polymeric materials. In some examples, liquid lens material 48 may include siloxane materials. In some examples, liquid lens material 48 may include acrylate materials. In some examples, liquid lens material 48 may include cellulose acetate butyrate, siloxane acrylates, tert-butylstyrene, fluorosiloxane acrylates, perfluoroethers, other types of polymers, or combinations thereof. These materials may include various combinations of monomers, polymers, and other materials to form the final polymer. For example, common components of these materials may include HEMA, HEMA-GMA, and other monomers.

[0077] In some examples, the liquid lens material 48 can be made of any silicone material and / or hydrogel material. Such materials can be formed from polymers such as Tefilcon, Tetrafilcon A, Crofilcon, Helfilcon A and B, Mafilcon, Polymacon, Hioxifilcon B, Lotrafilcon A, Lotrafilcon B, Galyfilcon A, Sanoficon A, Sifilcon A, Comfilcon A, Enfilcon A, Lidofilcon B, Surfilcon A, Lidofilcon A, Alfafilcon A, and OMAfilcon. Filcon A, Vasurfilcon A, Hioxifilcon A, Hioxifilcon D, Nelfilcon A, Hilafilcon A, Acofilcon A, Bufilcon A, Deltafilcon A, Phemfilcon A, Bufilcon A, Perfilcon, Etafilcon A, Focofilcon A, Ocufilcon B, Ocufilcon C, Ocufilcon D, Ocufilcon E, Ocufilcon F, Phemfilcon A, Metafilcon B, Vilfilcon A, and other types of polymers, monomers, or combinations thereof. These materials may include various combinations of monomers, polymers, and other materials to form liquid lens materials.

[0078] The shape and size of the ophthalmic lens 400 can be based on a variety of factors, including the shape and size of the user's eye, the various optical properties or surface manipulation forces achieved by the ophthalmic lens 400, the design of the friction control structure, and any other combination of desired factors. The total thickness of the ophthalmic lens 400 can be from about 0.1 mm to about 0.14 mm. The thickness of the ophthalmic lens 400 can vary at different locations on the ophthalmic lens 400. For example, the ophthalmic lens 400 may be thicker near its outer edge than in the optical region, and the ophthalmic lens 400 may be thicker in the optical region than near its outer edge. Furthermore, some or all of the friction control structure may be thicker than other parts of the lens 400 or other parts of the friction control structure.

[0079] Once the liquid lens material 48 is applied to the female mold member 44 and the male mold member 40 is joined, the liquid lens material 48 can be exposed to a curing agent (e.g., temperature, photochemical radiation, one or more compounds, or another type of curing agent, or a combination thereof) until cured. Thus, the liquid lens material 48 forms an ophthalmic lens 400 having a front surface corresponding to the shape of the front forming surface 46 of the female mold member 44 and a rear surface corresponding to the shape of the rear forming surface 42 of the male mold member 40. Once the ophthalmic lens 400 is cured, it can be removed.

[0080] Figures 5A to 5E A schematic diagram illustrating the steps of a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens including a friction control structure as described herein is shown. The ophthalmic lens may be substantially similar to some or all of the features of the lenses described herein (e.g., lenses 100, 200, 300, 400), and includes some or all of the features of the lenses described herein. Figures 5A to 5E Various components that can be used to manufacture the ophthalmic lens 500 as described herein are shown. Liquid lens material 51 can be applied to a contour 54 of a mold 50, which includes one or more negative structures 52 corresponding to the friction control structure 520 of the lens 500. The mold 50 with liquid lens material 51 can be loaded into a rotating structure 58 configured to rotate the mold 50 such that the liquid lens material 51 centrifugally diffuses across the contour 54 into the desired shape of the front surface of the ophthalmic lens 500, including diffusion into the features 52 on the contour corresponding to the friction control structure 520. A curing agent (e.g., temperature, photochemical radiation, or another type of curing agent or a combination thereof) can be exposed to the liquid lens material 51 while the mold 50 is rotated. In some examples, no curing agent is used. As a result of the curing agent, or simply after a period of time, the liquid lens material 51 can exhibit a gel state with the desired contour of the ophthalmic lens 500.

[0081] Figure 5AThis is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a mold for a contact lens, based on the principles of this disclosure. In this example, the mold 50 has a base 56 with a plurality of spaced-apart cutouts 60, 62, 64, which are shaped to interlock with the inner surface of a rotating structure during a later manufacturing stage. The profile 54 of the mold 50 is shaped to form the front surface of an ophthalmic lens 500 including a friction control structure. In some examples, the profile 54 of the mold 50 may include features having a “negative” shape corresponding to the shape or profile of the friction control structure to be formed.

[0082] Figure 5B This is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a mold 50 having liquid lens material 51, based on the principles of this disclosure. In this example, the liquid lens material 51 is deposited into the contour 54 of the mold.

[0083] The liquid lens material 51 can be made of any material suitable for use in contact lenses. For example, the liquid lens material 51 can be made of any silicone material and / or hydrogel material. Such materials can be formed from polymers such as Tefilcon, Tetrafilcon A, Crofilcon, Helfilcon A and B, Mafilcon, Polymacon, Hioxifilcon B, Lotrafilcon A, Lotrafilcon B, Galyfilcon A, Sanoficon A, Sifilcon A, Comfilcon A, Enfilcon A, Lidofilcon B, Surfilcon A, Lidofilcon A, Alfafilcon A, and Omafilcon. Filcon A, Vasurfilcon A, Hioxifilcon A, Hioxifilcon D, Nelfilcon A, Hilafilcon A, Acofilcon A, Bufilcon A, Deltafilcon A, Phemfilcon A, Bufilcon A, Perfilcon, Etafilcon A, Focofilcon A, Ocufilcon B, Ocufilcon C, Ocufilcon D, Ocufilcon E, Ocufilcon F, Phemfilcon A, Metafilcon B, Vilfilcon A, and other types of polymers, monomers, or combinations thereof. These materials may include various combinations of monomers, polymers, and other materials to form liquid lens materials.

[0084] In some examples, the liquid lens material 51 is made of a hydrogel polymer without any silicone. This may be desirable for increasing the wettability of contact lenses. In some examples, the liquid lens material 51 is made of a silicone hydrogel material.

[0085] Figure 5B and Figure 5C This is a cross-sectional view of mold 50, in which liquid lens material 51 diffuses centrifugally across the contour 54 of mold 50. In this example, mold 50 is in a rotating structure (58, Figure 5EThe rotating structure 58 rotates around the central axis 66. The rotating structure 58 rotates at a certain speed and forms the desired rear surface of the gel-state liquid lens material 51 in such a way that...

[0086] The rotating structure 58 includes a central loading region capable of receiving a mold 50 containing liquid lens material 51. The central loading region can be formed from a glass tube, a metal tube, or another type of structure capable of holding the mold 50 in a stacked orientation. In an example where photochemical radiation is used as a curing agent, the rotating structure 58 can have a sufficient number of openings to allow photochemical radiation to enter the central loading region—a transparent, opaque, or translucent material. Figure 5E In the example, the rotating structure 58 includes a plurality of guide posts 74 that hold the mold 50 in a stacked orientation. The rotating structure 58 also includes a region 76 that can be used for attachment to a rotary drive such as a motor.

[0087] The rotating structure 58 can be programmed to rotate in a precise manner to form a desired rear surface of the gel-liquid lens material 51, including one or more friction control structures. The program that rotates the rotating structure 58 can be modified to create desired profiles for different users based on each user's individual prescription. A curing agent can be applied to the liquid lens material 51 while the rotating structure 58 rotates the mold 50. Thus, the gel-liquid lens material 51 is formed while the rotating structure is rotating. In some examples, the gel-liquid lens material 51 is fully cured within the rotating structure. In some other examples, the gel-liquid lens material 51 can be fully cured in a process involving multiple curing stages. For example, the gel-liquid lens material 51 can be cured in the rotating structure 58 to a point where the liquid lens material retains its shape but is not fully cured.

[0088] Figure 5D A cured ophthalmic lens 500, formed from liquid lens material 51 and including a friction control structure 520, is shown. In some examples, the lens 500 may be substantially similar to those described herein. Figure 1A and Figure 1B Lens 100 is described. At this stage, the mold 50 having the ophthalmic lens 500 can be removed from the rotating structure to complete curing in another environment. A rotating structure compatible with the principles described herein is described in U.S. Patent No. 9,193,119 to Stephen D. Newman. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent No. 9,193,119 is incorporated herein by reference.

[0089] As used herein with respect to contact lenses or ophthalmic lenses, the terms "top" or "above" generally refer oriented to the outer surface of the contact lens when worn as intended by a user, while the terms "bottom" or "below" generally refer oriented to the inner surface of the lens or the surface facing the eye. Such terminology is used for reference and to aid in understanding this disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. For example, as used herein, one embodiment of an exemplary lens describes a variable capacitance sensor formed on the outer top surface of the contact lens. However, the variable capacitance sensor may be formed on the top, bottom, or inner layer of the lens.

[0090] As used herein, the term "combination" can refer to one, zero, or any number of the listed items. For example, a combination of items A and B can include items A and B, only item A, only item B, or neither item A nor item B.

[0091] Unless otherwise stated, all figures or expressions such as those indicating dimensions, physical properties, etc., used in this specification (except for the claims) shall in all cases be understood to be modified by the term "approximately". At least and without attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalence in the claims, each numerical parameter modified by the term "approximately" listed in the specification or claims shall be interpreted at least according to the numerical value of the listed significant figures and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0092] Furthermore, all scopes disclosed herein should be understood to cover and support claims that enumerate any and all subscopes or include any and all individual values ​​within a subscope. For example, the specified range of 1 to 10 should be considered to include and support claims reciting it: any and all subscopes or individual values ​​between the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10 and / or together with the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subscopes starting from a minimum value of 1 or greater and ending at a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 5.5 to 10, 2.34 to 3.56, etc.) or any value from 1 to 10 (e.g., 3, 5.8, 9.9994, etc.).

Claims

1. An ophthalmic lens, comprising: Lens body, the lens body including a first surface, the first surface including: A first region, the first region including a first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a maximum lateral dimension aligned with a first orientation; A second region, the second region including a second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a maximum lateral dimension aligned substantially perpendicular to the first orientation; and An optical region having a region without friction-reducing structures, wherein a first region is disposed outside the optical region and surrounding at least a portion of the optical region, and a second region is disposed outside the optical region and the first region.

2. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, The friction-reducing structure includes at least one patterned feature.

3. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 2, wherein, The patterned features include one or more of nanostructure features and microstructure features.

4. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of friction-reducing structures enhance the wettability of the first surface of the lens body.

5. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, The multiple friction-reducing structures facilitate natural blinking movements of the eyelids.

6. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of friction-reducing structures in one or more of the first and second regions is defined by an arc, and the plurality of friction-reducing structures are arranged in a substantially concentric manner.

7. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, The friction-reducing structure includes a combination of channels and ridges.

8. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, The first region extends from the edge of the lens body to a position on the first surface at a distance greater than a radius from the edge of the lens body to the first surface.

9. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, The second region extends from the edge of the lens body to a position on the first surface at a distance from the edge of the lens body less than a radius of the first surface.

10. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein, The first region and the second region cover substantially all of the first surface outside the optical region.

11. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, further comprising one or more prisms formed along the outer edge of the lens body to substantially orient the lens body at a desired position on the eye.

12. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 further comprises a chemical surface modifier.

13. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 2, wherein, The patterned features include wave structures.

14. An ophthalmic lens, comprising: Lens body, the lens body including a first surface, the first surface including: The optical region located at the center of the lens body; A first region, the first region including a first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a first orientation, the first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a maximum lateral dimension aligned with the movement of the upper eyelid during blinking; A second region, substantially adjacent to the first region, includes a second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a second orientation, the second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a maximum lateral dimension aligned with the movement of the lower eyelid during blinking, wherein the optical region has no friction-reducing structures; and At least one stabilizing structure is configured to engage the eyelid during blinking and orient the ophthalmic lens.

15. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 14, wherein, The friction-reducing structure includes at least one patterned feature.

16. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 14, wherein, The plurality of friction-reducing structures enhance the wettability of the first surface of the lens body.

17. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 14, further comprising a plurality of stabilizing structures disposed on the periphery of the ophthalmic lens.

18. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 14, wherein, The at least one stable structure includes waves or streaks.

19. An ophthalmic lens, comprising: Lens body, the lens body including a first surface, the first surface including: A first region, the first region including a first plurality of friction-reducing structures having a minimum lateral dimension aligned with a first orientation, the first plurality of friction-reducing structures including one or more patterned nano or micro structures; The second region includes a second plurality of friction-reducing structures having a minimum lateral dimension aligned with a second orientation substantially perpendicular to the first orientation, the second plurality of friction-reducing structures including one or more patterned nano or micro structures arranged substantially parallel to each other.

20. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 19, wherein, At least one of the patterned nano- or micro-structures included in the first plurality of friction-reducing structures and the patterned nano- or micro-structures included in the second plurality of friction-reducing structures comprises a combination of depressions and protrusions.

21. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 20, wherein, The recess or the protrusion has a substantially circular outline, a substantially rectangular outline, a substantially triangular outline, or an irregularly shaped outline.

22. The ophthalmic lens of claim 19, further comprising at least one stabilizing structure configured to engage the eyelid for blinking and to orient the ophthalmic lens.

23. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 19, wherein, At least one of the patterned nano- or micro-structures included in the first plurality of friction-reducing structures and the patterned nano- or micro-structures included in the second plurality of friction-reducing structures includes a wave structure.

Images