Fluid optical article with movable element and control method thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an optical article comprising an optical lens housing (100) having an inner surface (101), a support element (200) for mounting the housing (100) in a fixed position and for movably mounting a movable element (300) between a first position and a second position. The optical article further comprises a sealed cavity (401) disposed between the movable element and the inner surface of the housing. The optical article is switchable between a first configuration (CFG1) in which the movable element is passively held against the housing and a second configuration (CFG2) in which the cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a fluid that modifies the propagation of visible light and the movable element is released from the housing by pressure exerted by the fluid in the cavity. The present disclosure also includes a corresponding method for controlling the optical article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to optical articles such as eyewear or eyewear components and methods for controlling such optical articles. Background Art

[0002] One area of ​​interest in the field of optics is the ability to provide an optical lens with variable, controllable light transmission.

[0003] In fact, most users who have prescription glasses today also have a pair of sunglasses and use the two glasses interchangeably depending on the ambient light level.

[0004] It would be desirable not to have two pairs of glasses but to use a single pair of glasses in all situations.

[0005] There are known solutions to this concern, most of which are based on the use of liquid crystals. Some suitable liquid crystals may include electrochromic materials. The transmission of an optical element made from one of these materials can be controlled by placing the optical element between two electrodes and adjusting the potential difference between the two electrodes.

[0006] So, with this optical device, instead of having to replace their prescription glasses with sunglasses, users can simply switch the liquid crystals from a transparent state to a dark state.

[0007] However, a known drawback of electrochromic dyes is their limited darkening and lightening speed, particularly at low ambient temperatures.

[0008] Meanwhile, few known solutions disclose the use of fluid lenses, which are defined as lenses that use a flow of liquid to change the transmission of the lens.

[0009] Known fluid lenses involve adding or removing fluid from a cavity defined by a spherical membrane. The membrane's spherical shape is required to avoid creating unwanted astigmatism.

[0010] For example, the cavity may be filled with a photochromic dye, and controlling the fluid lens may involve introducing a photochromic dye into the liquid to switch its transmissive function from a first state to a second state, and removing the liquid to switch its transmissive function from the second state back to the first state.

[0011] In a fluid lens, the transmission function of the photochromic dye changes much faster than the transmission function of the electrochromic dye.

[0012] However, manufacturing and controlling conventional fluid lenses is very complex due to the need for precise control and accurate manipulation of fluids within a small geometric confinement. Repeated switching of conventional fluid lenses between a transparent state and a dark state can result in unwanted residual liquid in the cavity in the transparent state, or unwanted residual bubbles in the cavity in the dark state, both of which can be detrimental to the optical quality of the lens.

[0013] Another disadvantage of known fluid lenses is the spherical shape of the membrane. Since the spherical membrane is attached along a closed line with a circular shape, fluid lenses are usually mounted on round frames. Other frame shapes are possible, but at the expense of hiding part of the fluid lens inside the frame.

[0014] In this context, there is a need for an optical product that can quickly switch between two states (such as a transparent state and a dark state) while providing uniform transmission function over most of the lens area in at least one of the two states (for example, in the transparent state) and having very good optical quality.

[0015] Optionally, the optical article should allow for providing a uniform transmission function in the dark state.

[0016] Optionally, the optical article should allow for providing a controllable refractive function.

[0017] Alternatively, the optical article should allow providing a combination of a controllable refractive function and a controllable transmission function. For example, for night driving use, it may be desirable to provide a slight increase in optical power compared to normal use, combined with a specific yellow tint.

[0018] Optionally, the optical article should not be limited to any particular frame shape.

[0019] Optionally, the optical article should allow the optical function to be changed as needed to provide a desired hue, color, transmission, optical power, etc.

[0020] Optionally, the optical article should continue to provide very good optical quality after multiple switching states. Summary of the Invention

[0021] The invention is defined by the appended independent claims. Additional features and advantages of the concepts disclosed herein are set forth in the following description.

[0022] The present disclosure aims to improve this situation.

[0023] To this end, the present disclosure describes an optical article comprising an optical lens housing having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein:

[0024] the optical article further comprises a support element which mounts the optical lens housing in a fixed position and which movably mounts the movable element between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the movable element rests on the optical lens housing and wherein in the second position the movable element is released from the optical lens housing,

[0025] - the optical article further comprises a first sealed cavity placed between the movable element and the inner surface of the optical lens housing, coupled to a fluid inlet adapted to regulate the amount of fluid in the first sealed cavity,

[0026] - the optical article is switchable between a first configuration and a second configuration,

[0027] - in the first configuration, the movable element is passively held in the first position, and

[0028] - In the second configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a first fluid that modifies visible light propagation, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity.

[0029] An "optical article" is understood to include, for example, an optical lens, such as a spectacle lens, or an optical device including such an optical lens, such as a pair of spectacles, including a frame for mounting the two spectacle lenses. An optical lens can be a planar lens or an ophthalmic lens. An optical lens has a front surface and a back surface. When the optical lens is placed in front of a user's eye, for example, when the user is wearing the optical device, the front surface faces the scene, while the back surface faces the user's eye.

[0030] An "optical lens housing" is understood to be an element of an optical lens that is made of a rigid optical material, such as organic glass or mineral glass, and that extends radially over at least the central portion of the optical lens, extending over the full field of view. The outer surface of the optical lens housing may, for example, coincide with the front or back surface of the optical lens. The inner surface of the optical lens housing is the opposite of the outer surface.

[0031] A "support element" may be understood as a peripheral portion of the optic, such as a protrusion extending from the optic housing or from the movable element along its periphery.

[0032] The expressions "fixed position," "first position," and "second position" have relative meanings. In other words, these expressions are defined solely relative to one another. The optical lens housing is mounted in a fixed position, corresponding to the fixed position defining the origin of a reference system. The movable element is movable in the reference system between the first position and the second position, both of which are fixed positions in the reference system.

[0033] A “support element” may be understood as a frame element having a first contact portion configured to cooperate with a corresponding portion of the optical lens housing and a second contact portion configured to cooperate with a corresponding portion of the movable element.

[0034] The movable element resting on the optical lens housing means that at least a portion of the movable element in contact with at least a portion of the optical lens housing, such as the inner surface of the optical lens housing. Conversely, the movable element being released from the optical lens housing means that the movable element is not in contact with the optical lens housing.

[0035] Thus, due to the specific arrangement of the features described above, and more particularly due to the movable element, it is possible to selectively provide the user with a first optical function in a first configuration and a second optical function in a second configuration.

[0036] For example, as a result, the first configuration may correspond to a transparent state while the second configuration corresponds to a dark state, and switching from the first configuration to the second configuration is faster than switching the electrochromic material from the transparent state to the dark state.

[0037] In addition, compared to known fluid lenses, the optical product is less prone to generating unnecessary residual liquid in the cavity in the first configuration or unnecessary residual bubbles in the cavity in the second configuration. This is due to the specific arrangement of the above-mentioned features, more specifically because the first cavity is sealed and its volume is controllable (caused by the displacement or deformation of the movable element between the first configuration and the second configuration). For example, the first position can correspond to the movable element being held against the inner surface of the optical lens housing. Therefore, at least in the first configuration, very good optical quality is obtained. In addition, after switching back and forth between the two configurations many times, the optical product still provides very good optical quality.

[0038] Due to the specific arrangement of the features described above, in at least one of the two configurations, it is easy to shape the movable element and the optical lens housing to provide at least a uniform transmission function and possibly a uniform refractive function.

[0039] For example, if both the movable element and the optical lens housing are rigid elements with spherical surfaces and uniform thickness, the first sealed cavity will also have a uniform thickness in both configurations, thus providing a uniform transmission function in both configurations.

[0040] For example, if both the movable element and the optical lens housing are rigid elements, comprise surfaces that mate with each other and are held tightly against each other in the first configuration, a uniform optical function is provided in the first configuration.

[0041] For example, if the movable element is deformable, the movable element can be deformed to be held tightly against the inner surface of the optical lens housing in the first configuration, thereby providing a uniform optical function in the first configuration.

[0042] For example, if the movable element is deformable and the optical article is configured such that the movable element deforms in the second configuration to have the same shape as the inner surface of the optical lens housing, a uniform transmission function is provided in the second configuration.

[0043] In an example, the movable element is a rigid element having an outer surface and an inner surface.

[0044] The movable element is non-deformable, and the optical article switches between the two configurations by translating the movable element along a linear path between a first position and a second position. A user can apply pressure to the movable element to displace the movable element from the second position to the first position, thereby switching the optical article from the second configuration to the first configuration.

[0045] In an example, the first sealed cavity is defined by an inner surface of the rigid element and an inner surface of the optic housing.

[0046] The optical function provided by such an optical article in the first and second configurations can be customized simply by manufacturing the movable element to have a desired shape, while all other elements of the optical article can be universal. For example, the optical lens housing can simply have a spherical inner surface and a uniform thickness.

[0047] In an example, the optical device includes a deformable membrane attached to the inner surface of the rigid element, the deformable membrane being retained against the inner surface of the optical lens housing in the first configuration and the second configuration, and the first sealed cavity being defined by the deformable membrane and the inner surface of the rigid element.

[0048] Because the first cavity is defined by the movable element and the deformable membrane attached to the movable element, the sealing of the first sealed cavity is ensured by the bond between the membrane and the movable element. This advantage is that it facilitates the manufacture of the optical article. In practice, the mounting of the movable element to the support element does not require precise manipulation, allowing air to flow between the exterior of the optical article and the area between the optical lens housing and the membrane, while preventing any risk of fluid leakage during use of the optical article.

[0049] In an example, the movable element is a deformable membrane, and the first sealed cavity is defined by the deformable membrane and an inner surface of the optical lens housing.

[0050] The movable element is deformable and the optical article is switched between the two configurations by deforming the movable element between a first position and a second position. In other words, at least a portion of the film moves between a first position in the first configuration and a second position in the second configuration.

[0051] The deformable membrane may be attached to the support element, for example on its edge.The bonding of the deformable membrane to the support element is performed to ensure sealing of the first sealed cavity.

[0052] In this case, in a first configuration, the membrane rests passively against the inner surface of the optical lens housing, while in a second configuration, as the fluid fills the first sealed cavity and increases its volume, the membrane is released from the optical lens housing and deforms, its surface being stretched. In this case, the shape of the deformable membrane in the second configuration depends on the shape of the support element and optional further constraints.

[0053] For example, the optical article may include a rigid member having an inner surface and an outer surface, the rigid member being mounted on a support member and disposed in a fixed position.

[0054] The inner surface of the rigid element can be arranged to contact the outer surface of the deformable membrane in the second configuration. Thus, the shape of the membrane in the second configuration conforms to the shape of the inner surface of the rigid element. This shape can be customized to provide a desired optical function in at least the second configuration.

[0055] If no such rigid element is present and the deformable membrane is not subject to any further constraints, the shape of the deformable membrane in the second configuration depends solely on the shape of the supporting element. For example, if the supporting element is a circular eyeglass frame, the membrane has a spherical shape in the second configuration.

[0056] In an example, a second sealed cavity is defined by the membrane and the inner surface of the rigid element, and at least in the second configuration, the second sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of backpressure fluid so as to apply a backpressure to the membrane that is opposite to the pressure applied by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity, and the membrane has a non-uniform thickness.

[0057] In this example, the membrane does not contact the rigid element.

[0058] In the second configuration, the shape of the membrane can be predetermined based on setting a predetermined pressure difference between the first fluid and the second fluid. This allows for providing a predetermined optical power in the second configuration. The predetermined optical power can be set when the optical article is initialized and can be customized to the specific needs of the user, such as for a specific type of visual activity.

[0059] The deformable membrane can be made of a material that filters at least a portion of the visible light spectrum. In this case, due to its non-uniform thickness, the transmission function of the deformable membrane is non-uniform. Furthermore, due to the non-uniform thickness of the deformable membrane, the width of the first sealed cavity is also non-uniform. Therefore, if the first fluid filters at least a portion of the visible light spectrum, the transmission function of the first sealed cavity is non-uniform. The same applies to the second cavity and the backpressure fluid. Thus, a non-uniform transmission function can be provided, for example, for aesthetic purposes or to accommodate differences in the sensitivity of a user's eye to light intensity across the field of view.

[0060] Furthermore, due to the non-uniform thickness of the deformable membrane, the diopter formed by the membrane and the first fluid does not have a uniform curvature, but rather includes depressions and protrusions that can be selected to provide localized power deviations. Thus, the optical design of the optical lens can be predetermined, for example, according to the user's prescription, simply by customizing the thickness of the deformable membrane across the entire field of view.

[0061] In the first configuration, the back pressure fluid filling the second sealed cavity can further be used to help push the deformable membrane against the inner surface of the optical lens housing, thereby ensuring that the first sealed cavity is free of the first fluid and ensuring optimal optical quality.

[0062] As previously mentioned, the optical function provided by the optical article in the second configuration depends on the optical properties of the optical lens housing, the movable element, the first fluid, and the back-pressure fluid (if applicable).

[0063] In the following three examples, it can be assumed that the optical article includes a rigid element that defines a hollow chamber with the optical lens housing; the optical article further includes a deformable membrane as a movable element that separates the hollow chamber into a first sealed cavity and a second sealed cavity; and the membrane has a non-uniform thickness.

[0064] In the second configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of the first fluid, and the second sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of the back-pressure fluid.

[0065] In the first configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a smaller amount of the first fluid than the above predetermined amount or is free of the first fluid, and the second sealed cavity includes at least a predetermined amount of the back-pressure fluid.

[0066] In these three examples, the difference between the optical functions provided by the optical article in the first and second configurations, respectively, is solely a function of the properties and optical characteristics of the first and back-pressure fluids.

[0067] In examples, one of the first fluid, the backpressure fluid, and the membrane filters at least a portion of the visible light spectrum such that in the second configuration, the optical article has a non-uniform transmission function.

[0068] In examples, one of the first fluid, the backpressure fluid, and the film is tinted such that in the second configuration, the optical article has a non-uniform tint.

[0069] In examples, the first fluid and the back-pressure fluid have significantly different refractive indices, such that in the second configuration, the optical article has a non-uniform refractive function.

[0070] In an example, the fluid inlet is coupled to a controllable element for switching the optical article from the first configuration to the second configuration by moving a predetermined amount of the first fluid from the first fluid tank to the first sealed cavity and / or switching the optical article from the second configuration to the first configuration by moving the predetermined amount of the first fluid from the first sealed cavity to the first fluid tank.

[0071] The controllable element may, for example, be embedded in a frame element of the optical article. The optical article may include multiple such controllable elements. The same controllable element may be used to switch the optical article from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa, or different controllable elements may be used to switch the optical article from the first configuration to the second configuration and from the second configuration to the first configuration.

[0072] Examples of controllable elements include buttons, sliders, motors coupled to a power source, which can be switched using, for example, piezoelectric elements, and the like.

[0073] US 2012087014 discloses an example of a possible pump that can be used as a controllable element for injecting fluid into or removing fluid from the cavity. Of course, other pumps may also be suitable.

[0074] The optical lens housing, deformable element, and rigid element defined above can each be an example of a controllable element. In practice, applying pressure to the element defining the first sealed cavity reduces the volume of the first sealed cavity and moves the movable element from the second position to the first position. In a first configuration, applying pressure to the deformable element, which contains a first fluid and is coupled to the first sealed cavity, reduces the volume of the deformable element, pushes the fluid into the first sealed cavity, and moves the movable element from the first position to the second position.

[0075] In an example, the optical article is switchable between the first and third configurations, wherein:

[0076] - in the third configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a second fluid, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the second fluid in the first sealed cavity, and

[0077] - The second fluid alters the propagation of visible light in a different manner than the first fluid.

[0078] Indeed, the optical article is not limited to only two configurations, but by replacing the first fluid with another fluid having different optical properties, in particular a different absorption spectrum, the optical article can be switched to additional configurations, each additional configuration providing an additional optical function.

[0079] In an example, the optical article further includes a selector configured to selectively couple the fluid inlet with a first fluid tank containing the predetermined amount of the first fluid or a second fluid tank containing the predetermined amount of the second fluid.

[0080] For example, the first fluid and the second fluid may have different hues, and the user may switch the hue of the optical article as desired.

[0081] The present disclosure also describes a method for controlling an optical article, the optical article comprising:

[0082] - an optical lens housing having an inner surface and an outer surface,

[0083] a supporting element which mounts the optic housing in a fixed position and which movably mounts the movable element between a first position, in which the movable element rests on the optic housing, and a second position, in which the movable element is released from the optic housing,

[0084] a first sealed cavity placed between the movable element and the inner surface of the optical lens housing, coupled to a fluid inlet adapted to regulate the amount of fluid in the first sealed cavity,

[0085] - the method comprises switching the optical article between a first configuration and a second configuration,

[0086] - in the first configuration, the movable element is passively held in the first position, and

[0087] - In the second configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a first fluid that modifies visible light propagation, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity.

[0088] In an example, the optical article further includes a selector configured to selectively couple the fluid inlet to a first fluid tank containing the predetermined amount of the first fluid or a second fluid tank containing a predetermined amount of a second fluid, the second fluid altering visible light propagation differently than the first fluid.

[0089] - the method comprises switching the optical article between the first configuration and a third configuration,

[0090] - In the third configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with the predetermined amount of the second fluid, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the second fluid in the first sealed cavity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0091] For a more complete understanding of the description provided herein and its advantages, reference is now made to the following brief description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and detailed description, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts.

[0092] Figure 1 An example of an optical device comprising a hard housing as a moving element placed in a first configuration is depicted.

[0093] Figure 2 Depicts placement in the second configuration Figure 1 The exemplary optical device depicted in .

[0094] Figure 3 An example of an optical device comprising a hard case including a soft membrane as a moving element placed in a first configuration is depicted.

[0095] Figure 4 Depicts placement in the second configuration Figure 3 The exemplary optical device depicted in .

[0096] Figure 5 An example of an optical device comprising a soft film as a moving element placed in a first configuration is depicted.

[0097] Figure 6 Depicts placement in the second configuration Figure 5 The exemplary optical device depicted in .

[0098] Figure 7 Depicted is an example of a fluid supply element coupled to a fluid inlet of an exemplary optical device placed in a first configuration.

[0099] Figure 8 Depicts Figure 7 , the optical device is placed in a second configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0100] In the subsequent description, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In particular, the relative size of the cavity relative to the rigid element may be exaggerated. For the purposes of clarity and conciseness or for informational purposes, certain features may be shown in summary or schematic form. In addition, although the manufacture and use of a plurality of different embodiments are discussed in detail below, it should be understood that many inventive concepts that can be implemented in a variety of contexts are provided as described herein. The embodiments discussed herein are merely representative and do not limit the scope of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that all technical features defined with respect to the method can be converted into the system individually or in combination, and conversely, all technical features defined with respect to the system can be converted into the method individually or in combination.

[0101] Now refer to Figure 1 , which depicts an exemplary optical device comprising at least an optical lens and a support element (200). For example, the optical device may be a pair of eyeglass lenses mounted on an eyeglass frame.

[0102] The optical lens comprises at least an optical lens housing (100) and a movable element (300).

[0103] In this example, the optical lens housing (100) and the movable element (300) are each made of a rigid optical material. Examples of suitable materials include mineral glass and organic glass. The refractive index of each of the materials can be selected to be close to each other, for example, having a difference of 0.10 or less, such as 0.05 or less, such as 0.02 or less.

[0104] The optical lens housing (100) is in a fixed position relative to the support element (200).

[0105] For example, the optical lens housing (100) and the support element (200) may be separate elements configured to cooperate with each other so that the optical lens housing (100) is mounted in the fixed position relative to the support element (200). Alternatively, the optical lens housing (100) and the support element (200) may be defined as different parts of a single, integral and rigid element.

[0106] The optical lens housing (100) includes an inner surface (101) and an outer surface (102) opposite the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100). The shape of each of these surfaces can be selected based on the user's prescription to help provide the user with the desired refractive function.

[0107] The movable element (300) also includes an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface of the movable element. The shape of each of these surfaces can be selected based on the user's prescription to help provide the desired refractive function to the user. To optimize the mechanical properties of the movable element (300), the inner and outer surfaces of the movable element can be evenly spaced apart, in other words, the movable element (300) can have a uniform thickness.

[0108] The movable element (300) is movably mounted on the support element (200) between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the movable element (300) abuts against the optical lens housing (100). In the second position, the movable element (300) is released from the optical lens housing (100). For each of the first position and the second position, the support element (200) may include an abutment portion arranged to cooperate with a corresponding portion of the movable element (300).

[0109] In the first position and the second position, the inner surface of the movable element (300) faces the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100). The first sealed cavity (401) is defined by the inner surface of the movable element (300) and the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100).

[0110] The inner surfaces of the movable element (300) and the optical lens housing (100) can be aligned with each other to minimize the volume of the first sealed cavity (401), particularly when the movable element (300) is held against the optical lens housing (100), thereby correspondingly minimizing the thickness of the optical lens.

[0111] The support element (200) includes a fluid inlet (500) as a passageway connected to the first sealed cavity (401) and the fluid tank. The fluid inlet (500) is configured to allow bidirectional fluid transfer between the first sealed cavity (401) and the fluid tank. For example, the fluid tank can be embedded in the support element (200), such as placed in the arm of an eyeglass frame on which the optical lens is mounted. The fluid tank can be attached (e.g., removably attached) to the support element (200).

[0112] The fluid inlet (500) and / or fluid tank may alternatively be embedded in the peripheral area of ​​the optic housing or movable element.

[0113] exist Figure 1 In the drawings, the optical device is depicted as being placed in a first configuration (CFG1) in which the movable element (300) is passively held in a first position against the optical lens housing (100).

[0114] Various structural elements known to those skilled in the art may be used to passively maintain the movable element (300) in the first position.

[0115] For example, the optical device may further include a spring, a block of elastic material, or any other similar element arranged to exert a resilient force on the movable element (300). The resilient force is opposite to the force exerted by the fluid filling the first cavity (401). In this example, the optical device is placed in the first configuration by setting the pressure in the first cavity (401) to be below a predetermined threshold. For example, the first cavity (401) may be filled with less than a predetermined amount of fluid, the amount of fluid being selected such that the resilient force is sufficient to passively maintain the movable element (300) in the first position.

[0116] For example, the optical device can be configured such that the movable element (300) is arranged between a first cavity (401) on the inner surface side of the movable element (300) and a region at ambient pressure on the outer surface side of the movable element (300). In this example, the position of the movable element (300) can also be controlled by adjusting the pressure in the first cavity (401). The optical device can be placed in the first configuration simply by placing the first cavity (401) under at least a partial vacuum, in which case the ambient pressure holds the movable element (300) against the optical lens housing (100).

[0117] Now refer to Figure 2 , which depicts the Figure 1 The same exemplary optical device, here placed in a second configuration (CFG2).

[0118] In the second configuration (CFG2), the first sealed cavity (401) is filled with a predetermined amount of a first fluid that changes the propagation of visible light. In other words, in the second configuration (CFG2), the optical function of the optical device is affected by the presence of the first fluid in the first sealed cavity (401).

[0119] For example, the first fluid may be tinted such that the transmission function of the optical lens is significantly affected.

[0120] For example, the refractive index of the first fluid can be selected to be slightly different from the refractive index of the movable element (300) and / or the optical lens housing (100). For example, the difference can be selected to be 0.02 or greater, such as 0.05 or greater, so that the refractive function of the optical lens is significantly affected.

[0121] When the optical device is placed in the second configuration (CFG2), the pressure exerted by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity (401) exceeds the pressure in the first sealed cavity when the optical device is placed in the first configuration (CFG1). As a result, the volume of the first sealed cavity (401) is expanded, and the movable element (300) is maintained in the second position, released from the optical lens housing (100).

[0122] The distance between the first position and the second position can be, for example, about 20 μm. In fact, a solar solution, tinted solution or photochromic solution of about 20 μm thickness is sufficient to absorb light to avoid glare and allow the user to view the scene comfortably under sunlight conditions. For the first sealed cavity (401) having such a thickness in the second configuration (CFG2), its volume can be calculated based on the shape and size of the lens. For example, if the optical lens is circular and has a diameter of 70 mm, the volume of the first cavity (401) in the second configuration (CFG2) is equal to about 0.07 mL. For example, if the optical lens is circular and has a diameter of 35 mm, the volume of the first cavity (401) in the second configuration (CFG2) is equal to about 0.02 mL. The volume calculated in this way is also the minimum volume of the required fluid tank or fluid cartridge so that the fluid tank and fluid cartridge can be filled with the first fluid in the first configuration (CFG1).

[0123] The optical device is reversibly switchable between a first configuration (CFG1) and a second configuration (CFG2) by controlling the amount of a first fluid allowed to fill a first sealed cavity (401).

[0124] If said quantity corresponds to a fluid pressure below a predetermined threshold, the optical device is in a first configuration (CFG1).If said quantity exceeds said predetermined threshold, the optical device is in a second configuration (CFG2).

[0125] For example, in a first configuration (CFG1), a first fluid quantity equal to at least a predetermined value can be contained in a fluid tank coupled to a fluid inlet (500), which itself is coupled to a first fluid cavity (401) devoid of the first fluid. The optical device can be switched to a second configuration (CFG2) by moving a first fluid quantity equal to the predetermined value from the fluid tank through the fluid inlet (500) into the first fluid cavity (401). The optical device can then be switched back to the first configuration (CFG1) by moving a first fluid quantity equal to the predetermined value from the first fluid cavity (401) back into the fluid tank through the fluid inlet (500).

[0126] The radius of the inner surface of the optical lens housing (100) may be slightly lower than the radius of the inner surface of the movable element (300), and may be slightly different. This allows for easier extraction of the fluid in the first sealed cavity (401) when the optical article is switched from the second configuration (CFG2) to the first configuration (CFG1).

[0127] The optical article may include different types of controllable elements for switching between the first configuration and the second configuration (CFG1, CFG2). In practice, the command may be manual (such as by pressing a button or shifting a slider) or electronic. Switching may be limited to a binary choice between the first configuration and the second configuration (CFG1, CFG2). Alternatively, the optical article may allow switching into and out of one or more intermediate configurations in a discrete or continuous manner, in which the level of the first fluid in the first sealed cavity (401) is greater than in the first configuration (CFG1) but less than in the second configuration (CFG2). For example, the fluid inlet (500) may be coupled to a fluid supply system comprising a controllable element configured such that a wearer can change the level of the first fluid in the first sealed cavity (401), which may then change, for example, the transmission level if the first fluid absorbs part of the visible light spectrum.

[0128] Now refer to Figure 3 , which depicts another exemplary optical device that is Figure 1 The depicted optical device differs in that it comprises a deformable membrane (310) attached to the inner surface of a rigid movable element (300). For example, the deformable membrane (310) is a transparent flexible film.

[0129] In this example, the optical device is adapted to contain a fluid in a first sealed cavity (401) defined by the inner surface of the movable element (300) and the deformable membrane (310).

[0130] In this example, the fluid inlet (500) coupled to the internal cavity (401) is a channel that passes not only through the support element (200), but also through the movable element (300).

[0131] Therefore, this arrangement is different from Figure 1 An arrangement of an exemplary optical device is depicted (the arrangement does not include such a deformable membrane, wherein the first sealed cavity (401) is defined by the inner surface of the movable element (300) and the optical lens housing (101), and wherein the fluid inlet (500) does not need to include a channel portion through the movable element (300)).

[0132] Another possible arrangement of the fluid inlet (500) is a channel completely embedded in the movable element (300) and connecting the internal cavity (401) with the fluid tank (such as a groove or bubble), which can also be embedded in the peripheral portion of the movable element (300). The volume of the fluid tank is predetermined to allow it to be filled with a predetermined amount of the first fluid.

[0133] Means for maintaining appropriate pressure in the first sealed cavity and the fluid tank are not described here, but various options are known to a person skilled in the art and / or can be derived, for example, from the field of ballpoint pens, where the problem of maintaining appropriate pressure in microfluidic systems is also faced.

[0134] The surface in contact with the first fluid may be hydrophobic to facilitate removal of the fluid when switching the optical article between different configurations. This applies to fluid tanks, rigid elements, deformable membranes, support elements, fluid inlets, optical lens housings, etc.

[0135] This can be related to increasing the wettability of the surfaces in contact with the first fluid, so that the surface energy of these surfaces is greater than the surface energy of the first fluid, to ensure that there are no drips and bubbles when the fluid is removed. Oxygen plasma activation technology can be used for this purpose. Another possibility is to include a surfactant in the fluid composition.

[0136] exist Figure 3 In the example of , the optical device is depicted as being placed in a first configuration (CFG1) in which the movable element (300) is passively held against the optical lens housing (100).

[0137] The respective shapes of the movable element (300), the support element (200), and the optical lens housing (100) can be selected so that in a first configuration, the inner surface of the movable element (300) and the inner surface of the optical lens housing (100) fit together and tightly clamp the deformable membrane (310). For example, the membrane can be made of a tinted material. In this configuration, the thickness is uniform, and the thickness of the tinted material is uniform across the lens surface, so the tint is uniform.

[0138] The film can be designed so that no matter how the optical article is configured, wrinkles that would reduce the optical quality are not formed. To this end, the thickness of the film can be selected to be greater than a predetermined threshold, which is a function of the material forming the film, to provide sufficient stiffness.

[0139] Alternatively, the respective shapes of the movable element (300), the support element (200) and the optical lens housing (100) can be selected so that in the first configuration (CFG1), a hollow chamber is formed between the inner surface of the movable element (300) and the inner surface of the optical lens housing (100). The position of the deformable membrane (310) in the hollow chamber in the first configuration (CFG1) can be predetermined. For example, the pressure in the first sealed cavity (401) can be selected to allow the deformable membrane (310) to rest on the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100). Alternatively, the pressure in the first sealed cavity (401) can be set to a slight vacuum so that the deformable membrane (310) remains against the inner surface of the movable element (300).

[0140] Now refer to Figure 4 , which depicts the Figure 3 The same exemplary optical device, here placed in a second configuration (CFG2).

[0141] In the second configuration (CFG2), the first sealed cavity (401) is filled with a predetermined amount of the first fluid, similar to Figure 2 The exemplary optical device depicted in .

[0142] The volume of the first sealed cavity (401) is larger in the second configuration (CFG2) than in the first configuration (CFG1). In the second configuration, the deformable membrane (310) is released from the inner surface of the movable element (300) and supported on the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100). Due to the pressure applied by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity (401), the movable element (300) is released from the optical lens housing (100).

[0143] Controlling the optical article to switch between the first configuration (CFG1) and the second configuration (CFG2) may be performed manually (such as by applying manual pressure to the movable element (300)) or electronically using a piezoelectric controller.

[0144] In this example, the deformable membrane may have a uniform or non-uniform thickness.

[0145] The uniform thickness of the film (300) allows for the desired optical functionality to be provided over the entire field of view without requiring compensation for the inherent optical properties (such as transmissive properties) of the film (300).

[0146] The non-uniform thickness of the membrane (300) and / or the non-spherical shape of the inner surface of the movable element (200) can be selected so that the width of the first sealed cavity (401) is also non-uniform. Thus, depending on the optical properties of the first fluid, a non-uniform tint can be provided in the second configuration (CFG2), for example, over the entire field of view, or a localized power deviation can be introduced.

[0147] Typically, the shape of the membrane is a parameter that can be predetermined to help provide a desired optical function. In practice, it may be useful for optical lens manufacturers to manufacture a deformable membrane having a non-uniform thickness. In practice, designing a membrane having a non-uniform thickness allows optical lens manufacturers to provide optical devices with optical functions that are fine-tuned to suit specific customer needs, even if the shape and thickness of the optical lens housing (100) and the movable element (300) are universal.

[0148] Now refer to Figure 5 , which depicts another exemplary optical device that is Figure 1 The depicted optical device differs in that the movable element (300) is a deformable membrane (310) rather than a rigid element.

[0149] The membrane (310) is mounted on the support element (200) and is deformable between a first position and a second position.

[0150] The membrane (310) has an inner surface, which defines a first sealed cavity (401) together with the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100). The membrane (310) further has an outer surface opposite to the inner surface.

[0151] The optical device may further include a rigid element (110) mounted on the support element (200) and arranged in a fixed position relative to the optical lens housing (100). When the optical device includes such a rigid element (110), the rigid element (110) has an inner surface (111) that defines a second sealed cavity (402) with the outer surface of the membrane (310). The rigid element (110) further has an outer surface (112) opposite to its inner surface (111).

[0152] Furthermore, since the optical lens housing (100), the rigid element (110), and the support element are all non-deformable, the sum of the volumes of the first cavity (401) and the second cavity (402) can be fixed. Therefore, any deformation of the membrane (310) that increases the volume of the first cavity (401) will also reduce the volume of the second cavity (402), and vice versa.

[0153] The optical device may further include another fluid inlet (510) as a passage through the support element (200) and connecting the second sealed cavity (402) to the exterior of the optical lens. Here, for example, the exterior of the optical lens may define a valve in the support element (200) to maintain the second sealed cavity at ambient air pressure. Alternatively, the exterior of the optical lens may define a sealing element, such as a fluid tank, which may be embedded in the support element (200) or attached (e.g., removably attached) to the support element (200).

[0154] exist Figure 5 In the example of , the optical device is depicted as being placed in a first configuration (CFG1) in which the inner surface of the membrane (310) is passively held against the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100).

[0155] Now refer to Figure 6 ,in Figure 5 The depicted optical device is placed in a second configuration (CFG2).

[0156] In the second configuration (CFG2), the amount of the first fluid filling the first cavity (401) is increased compared to the first configuration (CFG1). As a result, the membrane (310) deforms and releases from the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100), allowing the volume of the first cavity (401) to expand.

[0157] When the optical device includes a second cavity (402), the second sealed cavity (402) can be filled with a predetermined amount of a back pressure fluid, thereby applying a back pressure to the membrane (310), the back pressure being opposite to the pressure applied by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity (401). The optical device can be switched from the first configuration (CFG1) to the second configuration (CFG2) by controlling the pressure difference between the first cavity (401) and the second cavity (402), or by controlling the respective amounts of the first fluid in the first cavity (401) and / or the back pressure fluid in the second cavity (402).

[0158] The difference between the respective optical functions provided by the optical device in the first configuration (CFG1) and the second configuration (CFG2) is affected by the optical properties of the first fluid and the back-pressure fluid and the shape of the membrane (310).

[0159] For simplicity, in the following examples, it is assumed that in each configuration, only one cavity is filled with fluid.

[0160] More precisely, in the first configuration (CFG1), the first cavity (401) is empty of any fluid, while the second cavity is filled with a counter-pressure fluid.

[0161] In the second configuration (CFG2), the first cavity (401) is filled with the first fluid, while the second cavity is free of any fluid.

[0162] It is further assumed that both the first fluid and the counter-pressure fluid modify the transmission of visible light, albeit differently. For example, their refractive indices or their visible light absorption spectra may be different.

[0163] For simplicity, it is further assumed that the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100) is spherical, such that:

[0164] - If the film (310) is designed to have a uniform thickness, then in the second configuration (CFG2), the inner surface of the film (310) is consistent with the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100), and the width of the first cavity (401) is uniform, otherwise,

[0165] -If the membrane (310) is designed to have a non-uniform thickness, then in the second configuration (CFG2), the inner surface of the membrane (310) includes protrusions and recesses that are inconsistent with the inner surface (101) of the optical lens housing (100), and the width of the first cavity (401) is non-uniform.

[0166] For example, the first fluid and possibly the back-pressure fluid can be selected based on their transmission spectra to filter at least a portion of the visible light spectrum. As a result, in the second configuration (CFG2), at least a portion of the visible light spectrum is filtered by the optical device. In addition, the membrane (310) can have a non-uniform thickness, such that the width of the first cavity (401) containing the first fluid that filters at least a portion of the visible light spectrum is non-uniform. As a result, in the second configuration (CFG2), the optical device has a non-uniform transmission function.

[0167] For example, the first fluid and possibly the back-pressure fluid may be tinted. As a result, in the second configuration (CFG2), the optical article is tinted. If the membrane (310) has a non-uniform thickness, the width of the first cavity (401) is also non-uniform, and the optical device has a non-uniform tint. Furthermore, if the refractive indices of the back-pressure fluid, the membrane (310), and the first fluid are substantially equal, the refractive function provided by the optical article is unchanged in both configurations (CFG1, CFG2), even if the membrane (310) has a non-uniform thickness.

[0168] For example, the first fluid and the back-pressure fluid may have significantly different refractive indices. In this context, significantly different refractive indices are defined as exhibiting a difference of 0.03 or greater, possibly 0.06 or greater, possibly 0.10 or greater. As a result, in the second configuration (CFG2), the refractive function of the optical article differs from the refractive function in the first configuration (CFG1). Additionally, the film (310) may have a non-uniform thickness so as to introduce a localized power deviation in the second configuration (CFG2).

[0169] To illustrate this last point, consider, for example, that the refractive indices of the first fluid and the membrane (310) are approximately equal, while the refractive index of the backpressure fluid is significantly different from both of them.

[0170] In this example, in the first configuration (CFG1), due to the difference in refractive index between the back-pressure fluid and the membrane (310) and due to the non-uniform thickness of the membrane (310) retained on the optical lens housing (100), the global optical focal length provided by the optical article is a function of the shape of the optical lens housing (100) and the membrane (310).

[0171] In the second configuration (CFG2), since the refractive indices of the membrane (310) and the first fluid are approximately equal and since the second sealed cavity is free of any back pressure fluid, the global optical power provided by the optical article is only a function of the shape of the optical lens housing (100).

[0172] More generally, the use of a first fluid with a refractive index n2 in the first cavity (401) and a counter-pressure fluid with a refractive index n4 different from n2 in the second cavity (402), combined with the use of a membrane (310) with a non-uniform thickness and refractive index n3, allows the provided optical power to be controlled in the following manner:

[0173] - In the first configuration (CFG1): P(x,y) = (n2-n3).C(x,y) and P(x,y) = (n2-n3).C(x,y).

[0174] - In the second configuration (CFG2): P(x,y) = (n3-n4).C(x,y) and P(x,y) = (n3-n4).C(x,y).

[0175] These equations are established for a reference system comprising a first direction X and a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. Any position on the surface of the optical article can be identified by its abscissa x and its ordinate y.

[0176] P(x,y) represents the optical power provided by the optical article at position (x,y) in the first direction X. P(x,y) represents the optical power at position (x,y) in the second direction Y. C(x,y) = d2 E(x,y) / d 2 and C(x,y)=d 2 E(x,y) / d 2 , where E(x,y) is the thickness of the membrane at position (x,y).

[0177] Of course, by combining a film (310) with a non-uniform thickness with a fluid having a tint, a variation of the optical power and of the transmission function between the two configurations (CFG1, CFG2) can be obtained.

[0178] Now refer to Figure 7 , which depicts an example of a fluid supply element that can be coupled to a fluid inlet (500) of any of the exemplary optical devices described above. For example, the fluid supply element can be embedded in the support element (200).

[0179] The fluid supply element comprises at least a first fluid tank (701). In a first configuration (CFG1) of the optical device, the first fluid tank is filled with at least a predetermined amount of a first fluid.

[0180] The first fluid tank (701) includes a controllable element (601), such as a piston, for pushing fluid from the fluid tank (701) toward the fluid inlet (500) or withdrawing fluid from the fluid inlet (500) back to the fluid tank (701).

[0181] Another possible arrangement is described below. In this arrangement, the fluid tank (701) and the movable element (300) themselves can serve as the controllable element (601). The fluid tank (701) can be made of a deformable material. Thus, the user can simply apply pressure to the fluid tank (701), thereby reducing its volume and pushing the fluid that initially fills the fluid tank towards the fluid inlet (500), thereby switching the optical device from the first configuration (CFG1) to the second configuration (CFG2). Alternatively, an optical lens (such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 The arrangement of the exemplary optical lens depicted in FIG) can allow a user to apply pressure to the movable element (300) to compress the first cavity (401) and push the first fluid back into the first fluid tank (701), thereby switching the optical device from the second configuration (CFG2) back to the first configuration (CFG1).

[0182] The fluid supply element may further comprise a second fluid tank (702). In the first and second configurations (CFG2) of the optical device, the second fluid tank is filled with at least a predetermined amount of a second fluid selected to alter visible light propagation differently than the first fluid.

[0183] The fluid supply element may further comprise a number of additional fluid tanks, limited only by compatibility requirements.

[0184] Some examples of tank volumes and sizes are disclosed below.

[0185] When a 50 μm-thick cavity extends across the entire surface of an optical lens with a diameter of 70 mm, the required fluid volume is 0.19 mL. This volume can fill a 2.8 × 30 mm canister or cylindrical barrel placed in the arm of an eyeglass frame, or a spherical canister with a radius of 75 μm placed within the movable element. The force and power required to move the fluid in the canister are 321 mN and 9.6 mW, respectively.

[0186] When a 50 μm-thick cavity extends across the entire surface of a 35 mm diameter optical lens, the required fluid volume is 0.05 mL. This volume can fill a canister or cylindrical cartridge measuring 1.4 x 30 mm. The force and power required to move the fluid in the cartridge are 80 mN and 2.4 mW, respectively.

[0187] When a 20μm-thick cavity extends across the entire surface of an optical lens with a diameter of 70mm, the required fluid volume is 0.07mL. This volume can fill a canister or cylindrical barrel measuring 1.8×30mm, or a spherical canister with a radius of 47μm placed within the movable element. The force and power required to move the fluid in the barrel are 128mN and 3.85mW, respectively.

[0188] When a 20μm-thick cavity extends across the entire surface of a 35mm-diameter optical lens, the required fluid volume is 0.02mL. This volume can fill a canister or cylindrical cartridge measuring 0.9 x 30mm. The force and power required to move the fluid in the cartridge are 32mN and 0.96mW, respectively.

[0189] The fluid supply element may further include a selector (800) configured to selectively couple the fluid inlet (500) to the first fluid tank (701) or the second fluid tank (702).

[0190] The fluid supply element can further switch between a first configuration (CFG1) and a third configuration, wherein in the third configuration the first sealed cavity (401) is filled with a predetermined amount of a second fluid and the movable element (300) is maintained in the second position by pressure exerted by the second fluid in the first sealed cavity (401).

Claims

1. An optical article comprising an optical lens housing having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein: - the optical article further comprises a support element, which mounts the optical lens housing in a fixed position and which movably mounts the movable element between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the movable element rests on the optical lens housing, and wherein in the second position the movable element is released from the optical lens housing, - the optical article further comprises a first sealed cavity placed between the movable element and the inner surface of the optical lens housing, coupled to a fluid inlet adapted to regulate the amount of fluid in the first sealed cavity, - the optical article is switchable between a first configuration and a second configuration, - in said first configuration, said movable element is passively held in said first position, - in the second configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a first fluid that modifies visible light propagation, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity, - the movable element is a rigid element having an outer surface and an inner surface, - the optical article comprises a deformable membrane attached to the inner surface of the rigid element, the deformable membrane being held against the inner surface of the optical lens housing in the first and second configurations, and - said first sealed cavity is defined by said deformable membrane and the inner surface of said rigid element.

2. The optical product according to claim 1, wherein The fluid inlet is connected to a controllable element for switching the optical article from the first configuration to the second configuration by moving a predetermined amount of first fluid from a first fluid tank to the first sealed cavity and / or switching the optical article from the second configuration to the first configuration by moving the predetermined amount of first fluid from the first sealed cavity to the first fluid tank.

3. The optical product according to claim 1, wherein The optical article is switchable between the first configuration and a third configuration, wherein: - in the third configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a second fluid, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the second fluid in the first sealed cavity, and - The second fluid modifies the propagation of visible light in a different manner than the first fluid.

4. The optical article according to claim 3, further comprising: - a selector configured to selectively couple the fluid inlet to a first fluid tank containing the predetermined amount of the first fluid or a second fluid tank containing the predetermined amount of the second fluid.

5. The optical product according to claim 1, wherein In the first configuration, the pressure within the first sealed cavity is set to a value lower than ambient pressure.

6. A method for controlling an optical article, the optical article comprising: - an optical lens housing having an inner surface and an outer surface, a supporting element which mounts the optical lens housing in a fixed position and which movably mounts the movable element between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the movable element rests on the optical lens housing and wherein in the second position the movable element is released from the optical lens housing, - a first sealed cavity placed between the movable element and the inner surface of the optical lens housing, coupled to a fluid inlet adapted to regulate the amount of fluid in the first sealed cavity, - the method comprises switching the optical article between a first configuration and a second configuration, - in said first configuration, said movable element is passively held in said first position, and - in the second configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a first fluid that modifies visible light propagation, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity, - the movable element is a rigid element having an outer surface and an inner surface, - the optical article comprises a deformable membrane attached to the inner surface of the rigid element, the deformable membrane being held against the inner surface of the optical lens housing in the first and second configurations, and - said first sealed cavity is defined by said deformable membrane and the inner surface of said rigid element.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein: the optical article further comprising a selector configured to selectively couple the fluid inlet to a first fluid tank containing the predetermined amount of the first fluid or a second fluid tank containing a predetermined amount of a second fluid, the second fluid altering the propagation of visible light differently from the first fluid, - the method comprises switching the optical article between the first configuration and a third configuration, - in the third configuration, the first sealed cavity is filled with the predetermined amount of a second fluid, and the movable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the second fluid in the first sealed cavity.

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