Subsurface optical structures with enhanced refractive index value profiles

Abstract

Ophthalmic lenses and related methods employ subsurface optical structures having enhanced refractive index profiles. An ophthalmic lens includes a lens body and a subsurface optical structure within the lens body. A sub-volume of the optical structure has a refractive index that spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the optical structure. The refractive index equals the first boundary refractive index of the optical structure over a first portion of the optical structure. The refractive index equals the second boundary refractive index of the optical structure over a second portion of the optical structure.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 069,943, filed August 25, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] Optical aberrations that reduce visual acuity are common. Optical aberrations are defects in the eye that reduce the focusing of light on the retina. Common optical aberrations include lower-order aberrations (e.g., astigmatism, positive defocus (myopia), and negative defocus (hyperopia)) and higher-order aberrations (e.g., spherical aberration, coma, and trefoil).

[0004] Existing treatment options for correcting optical aberrations include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and corneal reshaping through laser eye surgery. Additionally, artificial lenses are typically implanted to replace the natural lens removed during cataract surgery. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following is a simplified overview of some embodiments of the invention to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This content is not a broad overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key / determining elements of the invention, nor is it intended to describe the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the detailed implementation presented later.

[0006] Embodiments described herein relate to an ophthalmic lens including at least one subsurface optical structure (which can include a diffractive optical element and / or a refractive optical element) having an enhanced refractive index value profile. In many embodiments, the subsurface refractive index changes are formed by focusing femtosecond duration laser pulses onto a target sequence of subsurface volumes of the ophthalmic lens. The refractive index of the optical structure can spatially vary between a first boundary refractive index of the optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the optical structure to provide any suitable phase change. The refractive index of a first sub-volume of each optical structure can equal the first boundary refractive index over a first portion of the optical structure, where an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter of the first portion of the optical structure are separated by a length of at least 0.050 mm. The refractive index can equal the second boundary refractive index over a second portion of the optical structure (e.g., providing a phase change of 0.0 waves), where an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter of the second portion of the optical structure are separated by a length of at least 0.050 mm. The enhanced refractive index value profile can be formed using fewer laser pulses and lower laser energy as compared to a corresponding refractive index value profile determined by a phase stepping method. Additionally, limiting the refractive index value to be within a range between the first boundary refractive index and the second boundary refractive index can reduce damage caused by the sequence of laser pulses as compared to forming a corresponding subsurface optical structure(s) having a refractive index value outside of the range between the first boundary refractive index and the second boundary refractive index. The methods described herein can be used to form subsurface optical structure(s) in any suitable ophthalmic lens (e.g., an intraocular lens, a contact lens, a cornea, a spectacle lens, and / or a native lens).

[0007] Thus, in one aspect, an ophthalmic lens includes a lens body and at least a first optical structure. The lens body is made of a transparent material. The first optical structure is disposed within a first volume of the lens body. The first optical structure includes sub-volumes of the first volume. Each of the sub-volumes of the first optical structure has a respective refractive index spatial dependence. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the first optical structure spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the first optical structure equals the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a first portion of the first optical structure. The first portion of the first optical structure spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the first optical structure and an outer boundary of the first portion of the first optical structure. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the first optical structure equals the second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a second portion of the first optical structure. The second portion of the first optical structure spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the first optical structure and an outer boundary of the second portion of the first optical structure.

[0008] In some embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the first optical structure provides a positive phase change of less than 1.0 waves. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of less than 1.0 waves and greater than 0.10 waves for wavelengths in the visible spectral range (spanning from 400 nm to 700 nm). The second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 waves.

[0009] In some embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the first optical structure provides a negative phase change of greater than -1.0 waves. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of greater than -1.0 waves and less than -0.10 waves for wavelengths in the visible spectral range (spanning from 400 nm to 700 nm). The second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 waves.

[0010] In many embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, the sub-volumes of the third portion of the first optical structure have spatially varying refractive indices. For example, in many embodiments, the lens body has an optical axis, and the sub-volumes of the third portion of the first optical structure have refractive indices that vary in relation to the spatial coordinates of each point within the sub-volumes of the third portion (relative to the optical axis of the lens body). In many embodiments, the first portion of the first optical structure is disposed between and separates the second portion of the first optical structure and the third portion of the first optical structure, and the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the first optical structure vary from the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure to the second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure.

[0011] In many embodiments, the ophthalmic lens further comprises a second optical structure disposed within a second volume of the lens body. The second optical structure comprises sub-volumes of the second volume. Each of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure has a respective refractive index spatial dependence. The refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the second volume spatially vary between a first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure. The refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure equal the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a first portion of the second volume. The first portion of the second volume spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the second volume and an outer boundary of the first portion of the second volume. The refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the second volume equal the second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a second portion of the second volume. The second portion of the second volume spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the second volume and an outer boundary of the second portion of the second volume.

[0012] In some embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the second volume provides a positive phase change of less than 1.0 waves. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of less than 1.0 waves and greater than 0.10 waves for wavelengths in the visible spectral range (spanning from 400 nm to 700 nm). The second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 waves.

[0013] In some embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the second volume provides a negative phase change of greater than -1.0 waves. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of greater than -1.0 waves and less than -0.10 waves for wavelengths in the visible spectral range (spanning from 400 nm to 700 nm). The second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 waves.

[0014] In many embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the portion of the second optical structure vary spatially. For example, in some embodiments, the sub-volumes of the third portion of the second volume have refractive indices that vary in relation to the spatial coordinates of each point (relative to the optical axis of the lens body) within the sub-volumes of the third portion of the second volume. In some embodiments, the first portion of the second volume is disposed between and separates the second portion of the second volume and the third portion of the second volume, and the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the second volume vary from the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure to the second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure.

[0015] In many embodiments, the ophthalmic lens further comprises a third optical structure disposed within a third volume of the lens body. The third optical structure comprises sub-volumes of the third volume. Each of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure has a respective refractive index spatial dependence. The refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure spatially vary between a first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure. The refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure equal the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure over a first portion of the third optical structure. The first portion of the third optical structure spans a length of at least 0.016 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the third optical structure and an outer boundary of the first portion of the third optical structure. The refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure equal the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure over a second portion of the third optical structure. The second portion of the third optical structure spans a length of at least 0.016 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the third optical structure and an outer boundary of the second portion of the third optical structure.

[0016] In some embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure provides a positive phase change of less than 1.0 waves. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of less than 1.0 waves and greater than 0.10 waves for wavelengths in the visible spectral range (spanning from 400 nm to 700 nm). The second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 waves.

[0017] In some embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure provides a negative phase change of greater than -1.0 waves. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of greater than -1.0 waves and less than -0.10 waves for wavelengths in the visible spectral range (spanning from 400 nm to 700 nm). The second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 waves.

[0018] In many embodiments of the ophthalmic lens, the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the portion of the third optical structure vary spatially. For example, in some embodiments, the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure have a refractive index that varies in relation to the spatial coordinates of each point within the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure (relative to the optical axis of the lens body). In some embodiments, the first portion of the third optical structure is disposed between and separates the second portion of the third optical structure and the third portion of the third optical structure, and the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure vary from the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure to the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure.

[0019] The ophthalmic lens can be any suitable type of ophthalmic lens. For example, in some embodiments, the lens body comprises a contact lens. In some embodiments, the lens body comprises an intraocular lens.

[0020] In another aspect, a method of forming a subsurface optical structure includes forming a first optical structure disposed within a first volume of a lens body. The first optical structure includes subvolumes of the first volume. Each of the subvolumes of the first optical structure has a respective spatial dependence of refractive index. The refractive index of the subvolumes of the first optical structure spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure. The refractive index of the subvolumes of the first optical structure equals the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a first portion of the first optical structure. The first portion of the first optical structure spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the first optical structure and an outer boundary of the first portion of the first optical structure. The refractive index of the subvolumes of the first optical structure equals the second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a second portion of the first optical structure. The second portion of the first optical structure spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the first optical structure and an outer boundary of the second portion of the first optical structure.

[0021] In some embodiments of the method, each of the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the first optical structure provides a positive phase change of less than 1.0 wave. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of less than 1.0 wave and greater than 0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm. The second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 wave.

[0022] In some embodiments of the method, each of the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the first optical structure provides a negative phase change of greater than -1.0 wave. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of greater than -1.0 wave and less than -0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm. The second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 wave.

[0023] In many embodiments of the method, the subvolumes of the third portion of the first optical structure have a spatially varying refractive index. For example, in many embodiments of the method, the lens body has an optical axis, and the subvolumes of the third portion of the first optical structure have a refractive index that varies in relation to a coordinate of the subvolumes of the third portion of the first optical structure relative to the optical axis. In many embodiments of the method, the first portion of the first optical structure is disposed between and separates the second portion of the first optical structure and the third portion of the first optical structure, and the refractive index of the subvolumes of the third portion of the first optical structure varies from the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure to the second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure.

[0024] In many embodiments, the method includes forming a second optical structure within a second volume of the lens body. The second optical structure includes sub-volumes of the second volume. Each of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure has a respective spatial dependence of refractive index. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the second volume spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure equals the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a first portion of the second volume. The first portion of the second volume spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the second volume and an outer boundary of the first portion of the second volume. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the second volume equals the second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a second portion of the second volume. The second portion of the second volume spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the second volume and an outer boundary of the second portion of the second volume.

[0025] In some embodiments of the method, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the second volume provides a positive phase change of less than 1.0 wave. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of less than 1.0 wave and greater than 0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm. The second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 wave.

[0026] In some embodiments of the method, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the second volume provides a negative phase change of greater than -1.0 wave. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of greater than -1.0 wave and less than -0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm. The second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 wave.

[0027] In many embodiments of the method, the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the portion of the second optical structure spatially vary. For example, in some embodiments of the method, the sub-volumes of the third portion of the second volume have a refractive index that varies in relation to a coordinate of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the second volume relative to an optical axis of the lens body. In some embodiments of the method, the first portion of the second volume is disposed between and separates the second portion of the second volume and the third portion of the second volume, and the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the second volume vary from the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure to the second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure.

[0028] In many embodiments, the method includes forming a third optical structure within a third volume of the lens body. The third optical structure includes sub-volumes of the third volume. Each of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure has a respective spatial dependence of refractive index. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure equals the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure over a first portion of the third optical structure. The first portion of the third optical structure spans a length of at least 0.016 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the third optical structure and an outer boundary of the first portion of the third optical structure. The refractive index of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure equals the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure over a second portion of the third optical structure. The second portion of the third optical structure spans a length of at least 0.016 mm between an inner boundary of the third portion of the third optical structure and an outer boundary of the second portion of the third optical structure.

[0029] In some embodiments of the method, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure provides a positive phase change of less than 1.0 wave. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of less than 1.0 wave and greater than 0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm. The second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 wave.

[0030] In some embodiments of the method, each of the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure provides a negative phase change of greater than -1.0 wave. For example, the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of greater than -1.0 wave and less than -0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm. The second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure can provide a phase change of 0.0 wave.

[0031] In many embodiments of the method, the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the portion of the third optical structure spatially vary. For example, in some embodiments of the method, the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure have a refractive index that varies in relation to a coordinate of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure relative to an optical axis of the lens body. In some embodiments of the method, the first portion of the third optical structure is disposed between and separates the second portion of the third optical structure and the third portion of the third optical structure, and the refractive indices of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure vary from the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure to the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure.

[0032] The ophthalmic lens can be any suitable type of ophthalmic lens. For example, in some embodiments of the method, the lens body comprises a contact lens. In some embodiments of the method, the lens body comprises an intraocular lens. In some embodiments of the method, the first optical structure is formed within an intraocular lens, where the intraocular lens is in an implanted state within the eye of the patient. In some embodiments of the method, the lens body comprises a cornea of a human eye. In some embodiments of the method, the first optical structure is formed in vivo within tissue of the cornea of the patient.

[0033] For a more complete understanding of the nature and advantages of this application, reference should be made to the following detailed description and to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 is a plan view of an ophthalmic lens comprising sub-surface optical structures having enhanced refractive index variation profiles according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 2 is a plan view of one of the sub-surface optical structures of the ophthalmic lens of Figure 1

[0036] Figure 3 is a side view of the sub-surface optical structures of Figure 1

[0037] Figure 4 is a simplified schematic of a system for forming one or more sub-surface optical structures within an ophthalmic lens according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 5 is a simplified schematic of some components in the system of Figure 4

[0039] Figure 6A graphically illustrates the relationship of the diffraction efficiency for near and far focus versus phase change height for a scaled phase profile.

[0040] Figure 6B graphically illustrates the relationship of the diffraction efficiency for near and far focus versus phase change height for an enhanced phase profile.

[0041] Figure 7 graphically illustrates an example calibration curve of the resulting phase change height versus laser pulse sequence optical power.

[0042] Figure 8 illustrates the radial variation in units of light waves for a 2.0 diopter phase profile at a wavelength of 562.5 nm according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 9 illustrates the radial variation in units of light waves for a 2.0 diopter phase profile at a wavelength of 562.5 nm according to an embodiment. Figure 8 ​​​the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 2.0 diopter phase profile of

[0044] Figure 10 The 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 2.0 diopter phase profile of Figure 9 is also shown. Figure 10 The 1 / 3 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 2.0 diopter phase profile of Figure 9 is also shown.

[0045] Figure 11 The 1 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 2.0 diopter phase profile of Figure 9 is also shown. Figure 11 The 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 2.0 diopter phase profile of Figure 9 is also shown.

[0046] Figure 12 A plot of the on-axis MTF at the best focus of the 1 / 3 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 10 is compared to the 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 11 is also shown.

[0047] Figure 13 A plot of the off-axis MTF at a spatial frequency of 30 lp / ° of the 1 / 3 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 10 is compared to the 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 11 is also shown.

[0048] Figure 14 A plot of the on-axis MTF at the best focus of the 1 / 4 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9 is compared to the 1 / 4 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9 is also shown.

[0049] Figure 15 A plot of the off-axis MTF at a spatial frequency of 30 lp / ° of the 1 / 4 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9 is compared to the 1 / 4 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9 is also shown.

[0050] Figure 16 A plot of the on-axis MTF at the best focus of the 1 / 4 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9 corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile of

[0051] Figure 17 corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9 corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile of Figure 9 corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile of the 1 / 6th light wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] In the following description, various embodiments of the present application will be described. For the purpose of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present application can be practiced without specific details being presented herein. Furthermore, well-known features are omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiments being described.

[0053] Turning now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the several views, Figure 1 is a plan view of an ophthalmic lens 10 according to an embodiment, the ophthalmic lens 10 including one or more subsurface optical structures 12 having a spatial variation in refractive index. The one or more subsurface structures 12 described herein can be formed in any suitable type of ophthalmic lens, including but not limited to an intraocular lens, a contact lens, a cornea, a spectacle lens, and a native lens (e.g., a human native lens). The one or more subsurface optical structures 12 having a spatial variation in refractive index can be configured to provide an appropriate refractive correction for each of a number of optical aberrations, such as astigmatism, myopia, hyperopia, spherical aberration, coma, and trefoil, as well as any suitable combination thereof.

[0054] Figure 2is a plan view of one of the subsurface optical structures 12 of the ophthalmic lens 10. The illustrated optical subsurface 12 occupies a corresponding volume of the lens 10, which includes the associated sub-volume of the lens 10. In many embodiments, the volume occupied by one of the optical structures 12 includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion 14. Each of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion 14 can be formed by focusing appropriate laser pulses within the respective portion 14 so as to induce a change in refractive index in the sub-volume of the lens 10 constituting the respective portion 14, such that each portion 14 has a corresponding refractive index profile as described herein.

[0055] In many embodiments, a refractive index profile is defined for each portion 14 of the subsurface optical structure 12 such that the resulting subsurface optical structure 12 provides a desired optical correction. The refractive index profile of each portion 14 can be used to determine the parameters of the laser pulses (e.g., laser pulse power (mW), laser pulse width (fs), scan speed of the laser pulses (mm / s)) that are focused onto the respective portion 14 to induce the desired refractive index profile in that portion 14.

[0056] While in the illustrated embodiment, the portions 14 of the subsurface optical structure 12 have a circular shape as viewed from the plan view, the portions 14 can have any suitable shape and refractive index variation profile. For example, a single portion 14 having an overlapping spiral shape as viewed from the plan view can be employed. In general, one or more portions 14 having any suitable shape as viewed from the plan view can be distributed with intervening spaces so as to provide a desired optical correction for light incident onto the subsurface optical structure 12.

[0057] Figure 3 Embodiments are shown in which the subsurface optical structure 12 is composed of a number of stacked layers separated by intervening layer spaces. In the illustrated embodiment, the subsurface optical structure 12 has a spatial distribution of refractive index variations. Figure 3 is a side view of an example profile of refractive index variations in the subsurface optical structure 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the subsurface optical structure 12 can be formed using a raster scan method in which each layer is formed sequentially starting from the bottom layer and working upwards. For each layer, the raster scan method can sequentially scan the focal position of the laser pulses along a plane of constant Z dimension while varying the Y and X dimensions such that the resulting layer has Figure 3 a flat cross-sectional shape as shown in the middle, Figure 3A cross-sectional view of the ophthalmic lens 10 is shown. In a raster scanning method, the timing of the laser pulses can be controlled to focus each laser pulse on a target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10 without focusing the laser pulse on a non-target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10, which includes sub-volumes of the ophthalmic lens 10 that do not form any of the subsurface optical structures 12 (such as an intermediate space between adjacent stacked layers that can form a subsurface optical structure 12).

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, there are three annular subsurface optical structures 12 having a distribution of spatial variations in refractive index. Each of the illustrated subsurface optical structures 12 has a flat layer configuration and can be composed of one or more layers. If the subsurface optical structure is composed of more than one layer, the layers can be separated from one another by an intermediate layer spacing. However, each of the layers can instead have any other suitable general shape, including but not limited to any suitable non-planar surface or planar surface. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the subsurface optical structures 12 has a circular outer boundary as seen from a plan view. However, each of the subsurface optical structures 12 can instead have any other suitable outer boundary shape. As seen from a plan view, each of the subsurface optical structures 12 can include two or more separate portions 14, where each portion covers a portion of the area of the subsurface optical structure 12.

[0059] Figure 4 is a simplified schematic of a system 30 for forming one or more subsurface optical structures 12 within an ophthalmic lens 10 according to an embodiment. The system 30 includes a laser beam source 32, a laser beam intensity control component 34, a laser beam pulse control component 36, a scanning / interface component 38, and a control unit 40.

[0060] The laser beam source 32 generates and emits a laser beam 46 having an appropriate wavelength for inducing refractive index changes in the target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10. In the examples described herein, the laser beam 46 has a central wavelength of 1035 nm. However, the laser beam 46 can have any suitable wavelength (e.g., in the range of 400 to 1100 nm) that is effective to induce refractive index changes in the target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10.

[0061] The laser beam intensity control component 34 is controllable to selectively vary the intensity of the laser beam 46 to produce a selected intensity of the laser beam 48 output to the laser beam pulse control component 36. The laser beam intensity control component 34 can have any suitable configuration (including any suitable existing configuration) to control the intensity of the resulting laser beam 48.

[0062] The laser beam pulse control assembly 36 is controllable to generate collimated laser beam pulses 50 with appropriate duration, intensity, size, and spatial distribution for inducing refractive index changes in the target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10. The laser beam pulse control assembly 36 may have any suitable configuration (including any suitable existing configuration) to control the duration of the resulting laser beam pulses 50.

[0063] The scanning / interface component 38 can be controlled to selectively scan the laser beam pulses 50 to generate XYZ scanned laser pulses 74. The scanning / interface component 38 can have any suitable configuration (including any suitable existing configuration, e.g., Figure 5 The configuration shown is used to generate XYZ scanned laser pulses 74. The scanning / interface assembly 38 receives laser beam pulses 50 and outputs the XYZ scanned laser pulses 74 in a manner that minimizes vignetting. The scanning / interface assembly 38 is controlled to selectively scan each of the laser beam pulses 50 to generate XYZ scanned laser pulses 74 that are focused on a target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10 to induce a corresponding refractive index change within the target sub-volume to form one or more subsurface optical structures 12 within the ophthalmic lens 10. In many embodiments, the scanning / interface assembly 38 is configured to restrict the position of the ophthalmic lens 10 to an appropriate degree to properly control the position of the target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10 relative to the scanning / interface assembly 38. In many embodiments (such as...) Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the scanning / interface assembly 38 includes a motorized Z-stage that is controlled to selectively control the depth to which each of the XYZ scanning laser pulses 74 is focused within the ophthalmic lens 10.

[0064] The control unit 40 is operatively coupled with each of the laser beam source 32, the laser beam intensity control assembly 34, the laser beam pulse control assembly 36, and the scanning / interface assembly 38. The control unit 40 provides coordinated control of each of the laser beam source 32, the laser beam intensity control assembly 34, the laser beam pulse control assembly 36, and the scanning / interface assembly 38 so that each of the XYZ-scanned laser pulses 74 has a selected intensity and duration and is focused on a respective selected sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10 to form one or more subsurface optical structures 12 within the ophthalmic lens 10. The control unit 40 can have any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the control unit 40 includes one or more processors and a tangible memory device storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to cause the control unit 40 to control and coordinate operation of the laser beam source 32, the laser beam intensity control assembly 34, the laser beam pulse control assembly 36, and the scanning / interface assembly 38 to produce the XYZ-scanned laser pulses 74, each of which is synchronized with the spatial location of a sub-volume optical structure.

[0065] Figure 5 A simplified schematic of an embodiment of the scanning / interface assembly 38 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the scanning / interface assembly 38 includes an XY galvo scanning unit 42, a relay optical assembly 44, a Z stage 66, an XY stage 68, a focusing objective 70, and a patient interface / ophthalmic lens holder 72. The XY galvo scanning unit 42 includes XY galvo scanning mirrors 54, 56. The relay optical assembly 44 includes concave mirrors 60, 61 and flat mirrors 62, 64.

[0066] The XY galvo scanning unit 42 receives the laser pulses 50 (e.g., 1035 nm center wavelength collimated laser pulses) from the laser beam pulse control assembly 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the XY galvo scanning unit 42 includes a motorized X-direction scanning mirror 54 and a motorized Y-direction scanning mirror 56. The X-direction scanning mirror 54 is controlled to selectively change the orientation of the X-direction scanning mirror 54 to change the direction / position of the XYZ-scanned laser pulses 58 in the X-direction transverse to the direction of propagation of the XYZ-scanned laser pulses 58. The Y-direction scanning mirror 56 is controlled to selectively change the orientation of the Y-direction scanning mirror 56 to change the direction / position of the XYZ-scanned laser pulses 58 in the Y-direction transverse to the direction of propagation of the XYZ-scanned laser pulses 58. In many embodiments, the Y-direction is substantially perpendicular to the X-direction.

[0067] The relay optics assembly 44 receives the XY scanned laser pulses 58 from the XY galvanometer scanning unit 42 and transmits the XY scanned laser pulses 58 to the Z stage 66 in a manner that minimizes vignetting. The concave mirror 60 reflects each of the XY scanned laser pulses 58 to produce converging laser pulses that are incident on the flat mirror 62. The flat mirror 62 reflects the converging XY scanned laser pulses 58 to the flat mirror 64. Between the flat mirror 62 and the flat mirror 64, the XY scanned laser pulses 58 transition from converging to diverging. The diverging laser pulses 58 are reflected by the flat mirror 64 onto the concave mirror 61. The concave mirror 61 reflects the laser pulses 58 to produce collimated laser pulses that are directed to the Z stage 66.

[0068] The Z stage 66 receives the XY scanned laser pulses 58 from the relay optics assembly 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the Z stage 66 and the XY stage 68 are coupled to the focusing objective 70 and are controlled to selectively position the focusing objective 74 relative to the ophthalmic lens 10 for each of the XY scanned laser pulses 70 so as to focus the XYZ scanned laser pulses 74 onto a respective target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10. The Z stage 66 is controlled to selectively control the depth within the ophthalmic lens 10 at which the laser pulses are focused (i.e., the depth of the subsurface volume of the ophthalmic lens 10 at which the laser pulses are focused to induce a change in the refractive index of the target subsurface volume). The XY stage 68 is controlled in conjunction with the control of the XY galvanometer scanning unit 42 so that the focusing objective 66 is appropriately positioned for the respective lateral position of each of the XY scanned laser pulses 58 received by the Z stage 70. The focusing objective 70 converges the laser pulses onto the target subsurface volume of the lens 10. The patient interface / ophthalmic lens holder 72 constrains the ophthalmic lens 10 in a fixed position to support the scanning of the laser pulses 74 by the scanning / interface assembly 38 to form the subsurface optical structure 12.

[0069] Figure 6AThe diffraction efficiency of the far focus 76A and the near focus 77A relative to the phase change height for the scaled wrapped phase distribution is graphically illustrated. For a phase change height of 0.25 waves, the diffraction efficiency for the near focus is only about 10 percent. For an overall optical correction having a near focus diffraction efficiency substantially greater than 10 percent, a greater number of stacked layers can be used to form the subsurface optical structures 12 having a phase change height greater than 0.25 waves that produces the desired near focus diffraction efficiency. However, it can be desirable to limit the number of stacked layers forming the subsurface optical structures 12 necessary to generate the desired near focus diffraction efficiency. A greater phase change height can also be achieved by inducing a greater refractive index change in the target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10. A greater refractive index change in the target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10 can be induced by increasing the energy of the laser pulses focused on the target sub-volume of the ophthalmic lens 10. However, it can be desirable to limit the energy of the laser pulses to avoid damage to the material of the lens 10 associated with a large amount of pulse energy.

[0070] By using the enhanced wrapped phase distribution as described herein, a greater diffraction efficiency at the near focus for a given phase change height can be achieved. For example, Figure 6B The diffraction efficiency of the far focus 76B and the near focus 77B relative to the phase change height for the enhanced wrapped phase distribution as described herein is graphically illustrated. For example, for a phase change height of 0.25 waves, the enhanced wrapped phase distribution results in a diffraction efficiency for the near focus of about 20 percent, which is about twice the value of the scaled wrapped phase distribution Figure 6A at the same phase change height.

[0071] Figure 7 An example calibration curve 78 graphically illustrating the resulting phase change height as a function of the laser pulse optical power is illustrated. The calibration curve 78 illustrates the correspondence between the resulting phase change height and the laser average power for a corresponding laser pulse duration, laser pulse center wavelength, laser pulse repetition rate, numerical aperture, material of the ophthalmic lens 10, depth of the target sub-volume, spacing between layers, line spacing between scan lines, and scan speed. The calibration curve 78 illustrates that increasing laser pulse energy results in an increased phase change height.

[0072] However, the laser pulse energy can be limited to avoid propagation of induced damage along and through the portion 14 or even between different layers caused by the laser pulse energy and / or thermal build-up of the ophthalmic lens 10. In many instances, no damage is observed during the formation of the first two layers and damage begins to occur during the formation of the third layer. To avoid such damage, the formation of the optical structures 12 can be accomplished by using laser pulse energies that are well below the pulse energy threshold of the material of the ophthalmic lens 10. However, using lower pulse energies increases the number of sub-surface optical structures 12 needed to provide the same amount of resulting phase change height, thereby increasing the time needed to form the total number of sub-surface optical structures 12 employed. For in-vivo applications (e.g., writing the sub-surface optical structures 12 into an implanted intraocular lens), the need for additional layers to include the sub-surface optical structures 12 can potentially increase the total amount of energy deposited into the retina. The use of a phase profile with enhanced phase wrapping requires a smaller number of layers to form the sub-surface optical structures 12 and achieve the desired visual results at near focus, such as greater modulation transfer function and greater diffraction efficiency values.

[0073] Phase distribution with enhanced phase wrapping

[0074] Figure 8 A radial variation in light waves of a 2.0 diopter phase profile 80 according to an embodiment is shown. The light waves in this curve correspond to a design wavelength of 562.5 nm. In the illustrated embodiment, the 2.0 diopter phase profile 80 decreases from a maximum of 16.0 waves at the optical axis of the ophthalmic lens to 0.0 waves at 3.0 mm from the optical axis.

[0075] Figure 9 A 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 corresponding to the 2.0 diopter phase profile 80 is shown. Each portion of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 includes a ramped portion (82-a through 82-p). Each of the portions of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82, except for the central portion, includes a phase discontinuity (84-b through 84-p) having a height equal to 1.0 wave. Each of the ramped portions (82-a through 82-p) is formed to match the corresponding overlay portion (80-a through 80-p) of the 2.0 diopter phase profile 80. For example, the ramped portion 82p matches the overlay portion 80-p; the ramped portion 82-o equals the overlay portion 80-o minus 1.0 wave; the ramped portion 82-n equals the overlay portion 80-n minus 2.0 waves; and the ramped portion 82-a equals the overlay portion 80-a minus 15.0 waves. Each of the ramped portions corresponds to a Fresnel zone. The area or region occupied by each Fresnel zone corresponds to the area occupied by each sub-surface optical structure 12.

[0076] The 1.0 wave height of each of the phase discontinuities (84-b through 84-p) in the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 results in diffraction at the design wavelength that provides the same 2.0 diopter correction as the 2.0 diopter refractive profile 80 while limiting the maximum phase to 1.0 waves.

[0077] The 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 requires significantly less total laser pulse energy to induce than the 2.0 diopter phase profile 80. The area under the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 is only about 5.2 percent of the area under the 2.0 diopter phase profile 80.

[0078] Figure 10 A 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 and an example scaled phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 (for a selected maximum wave value) are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the example scaled phase wrapped phase profile has a maximum wave value of 1 / 3 waves. Similar scaled phase wrapped phase profiles can be generated for other suitable maximum wave values less than 1.0 wave (e.g., 3 / 4 wave, 5 / 8 wave, 1 / 2 wave, 1 / 4 wave, 1 / 6 wave). The 1 / 3 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile 86 is equal to 1 / 3 of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82. The 1 / 3 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile 86 is an alternative to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 and it utilizes a maximum phase value of 1 / 3 wave for optical correction.

[0079] The 1 / 3 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile 86 requires less total laser pulse energy to induce than the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82. The area under the 1 / 3 wave maximum scaled phase wrapped phase profile 86 is 1 / 3 of the area under the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82.

[0080] Figure 11 A 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 and an example enhanced phase wrapped phase profile corresponding to the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 (for a selected maximum wave value) are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the example enhanced phase wrapped phase profile has a maximum wave value of 1 / 3 waves. Similar enhanced phase wrapped phase profiles can be generated for other suitable maximum wave values less than 1.0 wave (e.g., 3 / 4 wave, 5 / 8 wave, 1 / 2 wave, 1 / 4 wave, 1 / 6 wave) using a similar approach.

[0081] 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88 includes ramp portions (88a-88p), top portions (90a-90p), phase discontinuities (92a-92p), and bottom portions (94a-94p). Each of the ramp portions (88a-88p) matches a corresponding one of the ramp portions (82a-82p) of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82. In regions where the wave value of the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 is greater than the applicable maximum wave value (the applicable maximum wave value is 1 / 3 wave in the 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88), the value of the 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88 is equal to the applicable maximum wave value (as indicated by the top portions (90a-90p)) or equal to 0.0 (as indicated by the bottom portions (94a-94p)). The top portions (90a-90p) radially extend (with an optical axis representing a radius of zero) in an annular region between the radial location in the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 where the phase is the applicable maximum wave value (1 / 3 wave in this example) and the radial location in the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 where the phase is given by the calculation “(1.0 - applicable maximum wave value) / 2” (2 / 3 wave for the 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88). The bottom portions (94a-94p) radially extend (with an optical axis representing a radius of zero) in an annular region between the radial location in the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 where the phase is given by the calculation “(1.0 - applicable maximum wave value) / 2” (2 / 3 wave for the 1 / 3 wave maximum enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88) and the radial location in the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 where the phase is 1.0 wave. The phase profile in the enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88 written in each of the regions occupied by the ramp portions (82-a to 82-p) in the 1.0 wave phase wrapped phase profile 82 constitutes the individual sub-surface optical structures 12 that form the enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88. In the illustrated embodiment, the ramp portions (88a-88p), the top portions (90a-90p), and the bottom portions (94a-94p) are portions 14 of the optical structures 12 that form the enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88 (e.g., one of the optical structures 12 in the enhanced phase wrapped phase profile 88 is optical structure c, and this structure includes bottom portion 94-c, top portion 90-c, and ramp portion 88-c). In the illustrated embodiment, the laser-induced refractive index change is positive, but the idea of an enhanced phase wrapped phase profile can also be applied to cases where the laser-induced refractive index change is negative.In a material where the laser-induced refractive index change is negative, the top portion of the enhanced phase-wrapped phase profile will have a phase of 0.0 waves, while the bottom portion will have a negative phase (e.g., -0.60 waves).

[0082] The 1 / 3 lightwave maximum enhanced phase-wrapped phase profile 88 requires less total laser pulse energy to induce than the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum scaled phase-wrapped phase profile 86. The area under the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum enhanced phase-wrapped phase profile 88 is about 82 percent of the area under the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum scaled phase-wrapped phase profile 86.

[0083] Figure 12 A plot of the on-axis, monochromatic modulation transfer function 96 calculated for the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum scaled phase-wrapped phase profile 86 is shown, as well as a plot of the on-axis, monochromatic modulation transfer function 98 calculated for the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum enhanced phase-wrapped phase profile 88. The MTF is a measure of the ability of an optical system to transfer various contrast levels from an object to an image. As shown, the MTF 98 of the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum enhanced phase-wrapped phase profile 88 is about twice the MTF 96 of the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum scaled phase-wrapped phase profile 86 for all spatial frequencies between about 2 lp / degree and 60 lp / degree.

[0084] Figure 13 A plot of the off-axis MTF 100 (at 30 lp / degree) calculated for the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum scaled phase-wrapped phase profile 86 is shown, as well as a plot of the off-axis MTF 102 calculated for the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum enhanced phase-wrapped phase profile 88. The off-axis MTF shows how the MTF of an optical system changes as an image is defocused at a selected spatial frequency (e.g., by making the observed object increasingly further or increasingly closer to the imaging system). As shown, the off-axis MTF 102 of the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum enhanced phase-wrapped phase profile 88 is significantly greater than the off-axis MTF 100 of the 1 / 3 lightwave maximum scaled phase-wrapped phase profile 86 at 2.0 diopters and -2.0 diopters. While the off-axis MTF 102 is lower than the off-axis MTF 100 at 0.0 diopters, the off-axis MTF 102 does reach a value of 0.30 at 0.0 diopters.

[0085] Figure 14A plot of the on-focus monochromatic modulation transfer function 104 calculated for a 1 / 4- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile (similar to the 1 / 3- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile 86, but for a maximum of 1 / 4 of a wave) is shown, as well as a plot of the on-focus monochromatic modulation transfer function 106 calculated for a 1 / 4- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile (similar to the 1 / 3- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile 88, but for a maximum of 1 / 4 of a wave). As shown, for all spatial frequencies between about 2 lp / degree and 60 lp / degree, the MTF 106 of the 1 / 4- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile is more than twice the MTF 104 of the 1 / 4- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile.

[0086] Figure 15 A plot of the off-focus MTF 108 (at 30 lp / degree) calculated for a 1 / 4- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile is shown, as well as a plot of the off-focus MTF 110 calculated for a 1 / 4- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile. As shown, at 2.0 diopters and -2.0 diopters, the off-focus MTF 110 of the 1 / 4- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile is significantly greater than the off-focus MTF 108 of the 1 / 4- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile. While the off-focus MTF 110 is lower than the off-focus MTF 108 at 0.0 diopters, the off-focus MTF 110 does reach a value of 0.45 at 0.0 diopters.

[0087] Figure 16 A plot of the on-focus monochromatic modulation transfer function 112 calculated for a 1 / 6- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile (similar to the 1 / 3- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile 86, but for a maximum of 1 / 6 of a wave) is shown, as well as a plot of the on-focus monochromatic modulation transfer function 114 calculated for a 1 / 6- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile (similar to the 1 / 3- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile 88, but for a maximum of 1 / 6 of a wave). As shown, for all spatial frequencies between about 2 lp / degree and 60 lp / degree, the MTF 114 of the 1 / 6- wave maximum enhanced phase wrap of the phase profile is more than twice the MTF 112 of the 1 / 6- wave maximum scaled phase wrap of the phase profile.

[0088] Figure 17A plot of the through-focus MTF 116 (at 30 lp / degree) is shown for the 1 / 6- wavelength maximum scaled phase wrap phase profile calculation, and a plot of the through- focus MTF 118 is shown for the 1 / 6-wavelength maximum enhanced phase wrap phase profile calculation. As shown, at 2.0 diopters and -2.0 diopters, the through-focus MTF 118 for the 1 / 6- wavelength maximum enhanced phase wrap phase profile is significantly greater than the through- focus MTF 116 for the 1 / 6-wavelength maximum scaled phase wrap phase profile. While the through-focus MTF 118 is lower than the through-focus MTF 116 at 0.0 diopters, the through-focus MTF 118 does reach a value of 0.60 at 0.0 diopters.

[0089] Other variations are within the spirit of the present invention. Thus, while the present invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

[0090] The use of the terms "a" and "the" and "said" and similar referents in the context of describing the application (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. The term "connected" is to be construed as partly or fully included in, affixed to, or joined to, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the application and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the application unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the application.

[0091] Preferred embodiments of the application are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors of practicing the application. Variations of these preferred embodiments become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the application to embrace all such variations that fall within the scope of the claims, together with full equivalents thereof. Accordingly, the application includes all modifications and alternatives of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the elements from any of the above-described examples in all of its possible variations is encompassed by the application unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

[0092] All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

Claims

1. An ophthalmic lens comprising: a lens body made of a transparent material; a first optical structure disposed within a first volume of the lens body, wherein the first optical structure comprises sub-volumes of the first volume, wherein each of the sub-volumes of the first optical structure has a respective refractive index spatial dependence, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the first volume spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the first volume equals the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a first portion of the first volume, wherein the first portion of the first volume spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the first volume and an outer boundary of the first portion of the first volume, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the first volume equals the second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a second portion of the first volume, and wherein the second portion of the first volume spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the first volume and an outer boundary of the second portion of the first volume; and a second optical structure disposed within a second volume of the lens body, wherein the second optical structure comprises sub-volumes of the second volume, wherein each of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure has a respective refractive index spatial dependence, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure equals the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a first portion of the second optical structure, wherein the first portion of the second optical structure spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the second optical structure and an outer boundary of the first portion of the second optical structure, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the second optical structure equals the second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a second portion of the second optical structure, and wherein the second portion of the second optical structure spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the second optical structure and an outer boundary of the second portion of the second optical structure.

2. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein: the lens body has an optical axis; and the optical axis intersects the second portion of the first volume.

3. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein: the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure provides a phase change of less than 1.0 wave and greater than 0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm; and the second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure provides a phase change of less than 1.0 wave and greater than 0.10 wave in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm. The second boundary index of the first optical structure provides a phase change of 0.0 waves.

4. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein: The first boundary index of the first optical structure provides a phase change of greater than -1.0 waves and less than -0.10 waves in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm; and The second boundary index of the first optical structure provides a phase change of 0.0 waves.

5. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein: The lens body has an optical axis; and A sub-volume of the third portion of the first volume has a refractive index that varies in relation to a coordinate of the sub-volume of the third portion relative to the optical axis.

6. The ophthalmic lens of claim 5, wherein: The first portion of the first volume is disposed between and separates the second portion of the first volume and the third portion of the first volume; And The refractive index of a sub-volume of the third portion of the first volume varies from the first boundary index of the first optical structure to the second boundary index of the first optical structure.

7. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein: The first boundary index of the second optical structure provides a phase change of less than 1.0 waves and greater than 0.10 waves in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm; and The second boundary index of the second optical structure provides a phase change of 0.0 waves.

8. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein: The first boundary index of the second optical structure provides a phase change of greater than -1.0 waves and less than -0.10 waves in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm; and The second boundary index of the second optical structure provides a phase change of 0.0 waves.

9. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein, The second optical structure includes an inner boundary that is contiguous with an outer boundary of the first optical structure.

10. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein: The lens body has an optical axis; and A sub-volume of the third portion of the second optical structure has a refractive index that varies in relation to a coordinate of the sub-volume of the third portion relative to the optical axis.

11. The ophthalmic lens of claim 10, wherein: The first portion of the second optical structure is disposed between and separates the second portion of the second optical structure and the third portion of the second optical structure; And The refractive index of a sub-volume of the third portion of the second optical structure varies from the first boundary index of the second optical structure to the second boundary index of the second optical structure.

12. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, further comprising: a third optical structure disposed within a third volume of the lens body, wherein the third optical structure comprises sub-volumes of the third volume, wherein each of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure has a respective spatial dependence of refractive index, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure spatially varies between a first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure equals the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure over a first portion of the third optical structure, wherein the first portion of the third optical structure spans a length of at least 0.016 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the third optical structure and an outer boundary of the first portion of the third optical structure, wherein the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the third optical structure equals the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure over a second portion of the third optical structure, and wherein the second portion of the third optical structure spans a length of at least 0.016 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the third optical structure and an outer boundary of the second portion of the third optical structure.

13. The ophthalmic lens of claim 12, wherein: the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure provides a phase change of less than 1.0 waves and greater than 0.10 waves in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm; and the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure provides a phase change of 0.0 waves.

14. The ophthalmic lens of claim 12, wherein: the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure provides a phase change of greater than -1.0 waves and less than -0.10 waves in the visible spectrum of 400 nm to 700 nm; and the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure provides a phase change of 0.0 waves.

15. The ophthalmic lens of claim 12, wherein, the third optical structure comprises an inner boundary contiguous with an outer boundary of the second optical structure.

16. The ophthalmic lens of claim 12, wherein: the lens body has an optical axis; and the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure have a refractive index that varies in relation to coordinates of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the third optical structure relative to the optical axis.

17. The ophthalmic lens of claim 16, wherein: the first portion of the third optical structure is disposed between and separates the second portion of the third optical structure and the third portion of the third optical structure; and the refractive index of the sub-volumes of the third portion of the second optical structure varies from the first boundary refractive index of the third optical structure to the second boundary refractive index of the third optical structure.

18. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein, the lens body comprises a contact lens.

19. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein, the lens body comprises an intraocular lens.

20. A method of forming subsurface optical structures in a contact lens, intraocular lens, or eyeglass lens, the method comprising: forming a first optical structure disposed within a first volume of the contact lens, intraocular lens, or eyeglass lens, wherein the first optical structure comprises subvolumes of the first volume, wherein each of the subvolumes of the first optical structure has a respective refractive index spatial dependence, wherein the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the first volume spatially vary between a first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure, wherein the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the first volume equal the first boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a first portion of the first volume, wherein the first portion of the first volume spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the first volume and an outer boundary of the first portion of the first volume, wherein the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the first volume equal the second boundary refractive index of the first optical structure over a second portion of the first volume, and wherein the second portion of the first volume spans a length of at least 0.050 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the first volume and an outer boundary of the second portion of the first volume; and forming a second optical structure disposed within a second volume of the contact lens, intraocular lens, or eyeglass lens, wherein the second optical structure comprises subvolumes of the second volume, wherein each of the subvolumes of the second optical structure has a respective refractive index spatial dependence, wherein the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the second volume spatially vary between a first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure and a second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure, wherein the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the second volume equal the first boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a first portion of the second volume, wherein the first portion of the second volume spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the first portion of the second volume and an outer boundary of the first portion of the second volume, wherein the refractive indices of the subvolumes of the second volume equal the second boundary refractive index of the second optical structure over a second portion of the second volume, and wherein the second portion of the second volume spans a length of at least 0.021 mm between an inner boundary of the second portion of the second volume and an outer boundary of the second portion of the second volume.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein: the contact lens, intraocular lens, or eyeglass lens has an optical axis; and subvolumes of a third portion of the first volume have refractive indices that vary in relation to coordinates of the subvolumes of the third portion with respect to the optical axis.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein, The first optical structure is formed when the intraocular lens is in an implanted state within an eye of a patient.

Images