Electroactive sports eyewear

Abstract

An electroactive lens provides simultaneous focusing at two different optical refractive powers. It achieves this using a stack of electroactive lens elements aligned along the same optical axis, each focusing light in a different polarization state (e.g., horizontal and vertical polarization). If the first and second electroactive lens elements have different optical refractive powers, light in the first polarization state can be focused to one optical refractive power, and light in the second polarization state can be focused to different optical refractive powers simultaneously. The electroactive lens can switch between different single and multiple optical refractive powers. People with presbyopia can use electroactive lenses mounted in eyeglasses instead of conventional bifocal glasses. Electroactive lenses can also be used in scopes to improve target aiming.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 067,839, filed August 19, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] Vision deteriorates with age. One way vision worsens with age is the ability to quickly switch focus between two different focal points at two different distances. Young people with good vision can typically switch their focus quickly between near and far objects. As people age, they may lose this ability to switch focus quickly. Another way vision deteriorates with age is the ability to see near objects clearly, a condition known as presbyopia.

[0004] The common treatment for presbyopia is wearing glasses with bifocal, trifocal, or progressive lenses. A bifocal lens has two zones with different refractive powers. The upper half of a bifocal lens provides a visual prescription for distant objects. The lower half provides a reading prescription for near objects. Similarly, a trifocal lens has three zones for focusing on objects at near, intermediate, and far distances. Bifocal and trifocal lenses typically have visible lines indicating changes in the prescription. Progressive lenses are similar to trifocal lenses, but they do not have visible lines indicating changes in the prescription. Progressive lenses can be considered “seamless” trifocal lenses. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Wearing bifocal or progressive lenses can have several disadvantages. If a wearer of bifocal, trifocal, or progressive lenses wishes to switch between two different prescriptions in the lenses while looking in one direction, the wearer must move their head or glasses to change which part of the lens they are looking through. This movement can be harmful in many activities, including certain professions, sports, hobbies, and everyday activities.

[0006] For example, one activity where physical head movement can be problematic is driving a car. When driving, drivers should be able to quickly switch their focus between the road far ahead and an approaching sign (e.g., an exit ramp or street), both within their field of vision. If a driver needs to move their head to switch focus, their reaction time may be slower. This can lead to dangerous driving situations.

[0007] Physical movement of the head or eyes can cause problems during certain sports, such as shooting, billiards, and racket play. For example, when shooting a rifle, the shooter may want to quickly switch focus between the rifle's sight and the target. Normally, the sight is aligned with the target to successfully hit it. If wearing bifocal or progressive lenses, the shooter may need to move their head or glasses so that they can see through different parts of the lens. This movement can impair a person's aiming ability, which can adversely affect their performance.

[0008] The electroactive lens system of the present invention provides simultaneous focusing at two different optical refractive powers without head movement. It achieves this operation using pairs or stacks of electroactive lens elements (also called electroactive lenses) that focus light in different polarization states (e.g., orthogonal horizontal and vertical polarization states). For example, a first electroactive lens element can be configured to focus horizontally polarized light and transmit vertically polarized light, and a second electroactive lens element can be configured to focus vertically polarized light and transmit horizontally polarized light. If the first and second electroactive lens elements have different optical refractive powers, horizontally polarized light can be focused onto one plane, while vertically polarized light can be focused onto different planes.

[0009] The electroactive lens system of the present invention may include an electroactive lens. The electroactive lens includes a first electroactive lens element configured to switch between state A and state B. In state A, the first electroactive lens element provides a first optical refractive power for light in a first polarization state and zero optical refractive power for light in a second polarization state different from the first polarization state. In state B, the first electroactive lens element provides a second optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state different from the first optical refractive power and zero optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state. The electroactive lens further includes a second electroactive lens element optically connected in series with the first electroactive lens element. The second electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state C and state D. In state C, the second electroactive lens element provides a third optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state different from the first and second optical refractive powers and zero optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state. In state D, the second electroactive lens element provides a fourth optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state and zero optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state.

[0010] The first electroactive lens element may include a first liquid crystal layer and a first alignment layer having a first alignment direction. The second electroactive lens element may include a second liquid crystal layer and a second alignment layer having a second alignment direction orthogonal to the first alignment direction.

[0011] The first electroactive lens element may include a first substrate, a first plurality of electrodes, a first alignment layer, a second substrate, a conductive coating, a second alignment layer, and a liquid crystal material. The first plurality of electrodes may be disposed on the surface of the first substrate. The first alignment layer may be disposed on the first plurality of electrodes and a portion of the first substrate. The second substrate may be coupled to the first substrate to form a first cavity. The conductive coating may be disposed on the surface of the second substrate. The second alignment layer may be disposed on the conductive coating. The liquid crystal material may be disposed in the first cavity between the first alignment layer and the second alignment layer. The first plurality of electrodes may include a plurality of concentric ring electrodes. The liquid crystal material may include a nematic liquid crystal material. The first alignment layer may be aligned parallel to the second alignment layer. Alternatively, the first alignment layer may be aligned antiparallel to the second alignment layer.

[0012] The first electroactive lens element can be configured to switch between state A and state B independently of the state of the second electroactive lens element. In one embodiment, neither the first nor the second electroactive lens element includes a polarizer.

[0013] The first optical refractive power level of the first electroactive lens element can be between approximately 1 / 4 diopter and approximately 5 diopter. The second optical refractive power level of the first electroactive lens element can be between approximately 0 diopter and approximately 5 diopter. The third optical refractive power level of the second electroactive lens element can be between approximately 1 / 4 diopter and approximately 5 diopter. The fourth optical refractive power level of the second electroactive lens element can be between approximately 0 diopter and approximately 5 diopter. The first optical refractive power level of the first electroactive lens element can be different from the third optical refractive power level of the second electroactive lens element. The second optical refractive power level of the first electroactive lens element can be the same as the fourth optical refractive power level of the second electroactive lens element.

[0014] The electroactive lens element can be configured to switch between state A and state B via at least one of a (mechanical) switch, voice actuation, or eye movement. The second electroactive lens element can be configured to switch between state C and state D via at least one of a (mechanical) switch, voice actuation, or eye movement. The first polarization state can be orthogonal to the second polarization state.

[0015] The electroactive lens may further include a third electroactive lens element optically connected in series with the first and second electroactive lens elements. The third electroactive lens element may be configured to switch between state E and state F, in which state E provides a fifth optical refractive power to light in a third polarization state, different from the first, second, and third optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first and second polarization states; in state F, the third electroactive lens element provides a sixth optical refractive power to light in the third polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first and second polarization states.

[0016] An electroactive lens may be included in a firearm sight. The firearm sight may be configured to be mounted on a firearm. The first electroactive lens element and the second electroactive element may be configured to switch between states via a mechanical switch located adjacent to a trigger guard on the firearm. Alternatively, the electroactive lens may be located in at least one of eyeglasses, contact lenses, or artificial lenses.

[0017] Another embodiment of this technology is a method of operating an electroactive lens. The method includes applying a first voltage to a first electroactive lens element to switch the first electroactive lens element from state A to state B. The method further includes applying a second voltage, different from the first voltage, to a second electroactive lens element to switch the second electroactive lens element from state C to state D.

[0018] Another embodiment of this technology is a firearm sight. The firearm sight includes a housing, an electroactive lens, a processor, and a power supply. The electroactive lens and the processor are disposed within the housing and electrically coupled to each other. The power supply is electrically coupled to the processor. The processor independently switches between the first electroactive lens element and the second electroactive lens element.

[0019] The firearm sight may include a switch. The switch may be located on the outer surface of the housing and electrically coupled to the processor to allow a user to control the electroactive lens. The firearm sight may also include a wireless communication receiver coupled to the processor to receive signals from the external switch to allow the user to control the electroactive lens.

[0020] Another embodiment of this technology is a gun including a firearm sight with a multifocal electroactive lens. The gun may also include a trigger and an external switch. The external switch may be mounted adjacent to the trigger at a distance from the user's hand, allowing the user's finger to switch the focus of the electroactive lens without changing the user's grip or position.

[0021] All combinations of the foregoing concepts and the additional concepts discussed in more detail below (assuming that such concepts do not contradict each other) constitute part of the subject matter of the invention disclosed herein. Specifically, all combinations of the claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure constitute part of the subject matter of the invention disclosed herein. Terms used herein, and may also appear in any disclosure incorporated by reference, should be given the meaning most consistent with the specific concepts disclosed herein. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Those skilled in the art will understand that the accompanying drawings are primarily for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventive subject matter described herein. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale; in some cases, various aspects of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein may be exaggerated or enlarged in the drawings to aid in understanding different features. In the drawings, similar reference numerals generally refer to similar features (e.g., functionally and / or structurally similar elements).

[0023] Figure 1A-1C The markings for linearly polarized light are shown.

[0024] Figure 2A-2C The markings indicate the direction of liquid crystal alignment (rubbing).

[0025] Figure 3 An electroactive lens element with two substrates is shown before assembly.

[0026] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 Polarization alignment on electrically active lens elements.

[0027] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 Exploded view of an electroactive lens element.

[0028] Figure 6 An exploded view of another electroactive lens element is shown.

[0029] Figure 7 It shows Figure 3 The electrodes in the electroactive lens element have no electrical connection to supply power to the electrodes.

[0030] Figure 8A An exploded view of an electroactive lens with two electroactive lens elements is shown.

[0031] Figure 8B It shows Figure 8A A perspective view of an electroactive lens.

[0032] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8A and 8BThe four switching states are used for the electroactive lens.

[0033] Figure 10A It is achieved by focusing on distant objects. Figure 8A and 8B The image captured by the electroactive lens.

[0034] Figure 10B It is achieved by focusing on nearby objects. Figure 8A and 8B The image captured by the electroactive lens.

[0035] Figure 10C It works by simultaneously focusing on objects both near and far. Figure 8A and 8B The image captured by the electroactive lens.

[0036] Figure 11 An electroactive lens with three electroactive lens elements is shown.

[0037] Figure 12 A firearm sight with an electroactive lens is shown.

[0038] Figure 13 It shows having Figure 12 A rifle with a gun sight.

[0039] Figure 14A A multifocal electroactive lens is shown installed in eyeglasses.

[0040] Figure 14B A multifocal electroactive lens is shown that is incorporated into a contact lens.

[0041] Figure 14C A multifocal electroactive lens disposed in an artificial lens is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The electroactive lens of this invention can simultaneously focus light in different polarization states onto different focal planes. Unlike conventional electroactive lenses, the electroactive lens of this invention can simultaneously focus different polarization states using different optical refractive forces because it does not include any polarizer. Conventional electroactive lenses typically include polarization-dependent electroactive elements; that is, they typically operate only on polarized light. Due to this dependence, conventional electroactive lenses typically include polarizers for attenuating light that is not in the appropriate polarization state or polarization switches (e.g., switchable waveplates) for switching light to the appropriate polarization state. Instead of using polarizers or polarization switches to correct the polarization dependence of the lens elements, the electroactive lens system of this invention utilizes this polarization dependence to simultaneously focus unpolarized light using multiple optical refractive forces.

[0043] An electroactive lens comprises at least two electroactive (e.g., liquid crystal) lens elements having coincident optical axes, providing different optical refractive powers. Each lens element has two intrinsic axes orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis. Each lens element, when open, focuses light polarized along a first intrinsic axis with a different optical refractive power, and transmits light polarized along a second (second) intrinsic axis when open and closed. The lens elements are rotated 90 degrees relative to each other about the optical axis such that the first intrinsic axis of the first lens element is aligned with the second intrinsic axis of the second lens element, and the first intrinsic axis of the second lens element is aligned with the second intrinsic axis of the first lens element.

[0044] The focusing amount, i.e., the optical refractive power, provided along the first intrinsic axis of each lens element depends on the liquid crystal thickness and the applied voltage, etc., and can be tuned continuously (e.g., between a-5 and +5 diopters) or switched between two or more discrete states (e.g., between 0 and 5 diopters in increments of 0.5 or 1.0 diopters). (Other ranges and values ​​of optical refractive power are also possible.) Each lens element may provide no optical refractive power (providing zero) when closed (when no voltage is applied), or may provide non-zero optical refractive power along the first intrinsic axis when closed. The lens elements are configured to be controlled independently such that the operation of one lens element does not affect the operation of another lens element. In other words, the optical refractive power in each lens element can be independently switched to provide different optical refractive powers without moving any part.

[0045] An alternative electroactive lens system comprises three lens elements. Similar to how two lens elements can provide two different simultaneous focal points, three lens elements can provide three different simultaneous focal points. Each lens element in the three-lens system focuses light polarized in a different direction with a different optical refractive power when open, and transmits light polarized in other directions when open and closed. The lens elements rotate less than 90 degrees about the optical axis relative to each other. For example, each lens element can rotate 45 degrees about the optical axis relative to the other lens elements.

[0046] Electroactive materials used in lens elements may include liquid crystal materials, such as nematic liquid crystal materials and other planar or vertically aligned liquid crystal materials.

[0047] The electroactive lens of the present invention may further include one or more static optical structures for focusing light. These static optical structures may include simple lens structures (e.g., convex lenses, concave lenses, and / or concave-convex lenses), compound lens structures (e.g., combinations of simple lenses), and / or aspherical lens structures (e.g., Fresnel lenses and / or gradient refractive index lenses). These structures may contain or form portions of the electroactive lens element itself (e.g., they may be etched or formed in the substrate of the electroactive lens element).

[0048] Polarization state and liquid crystal alignment direction

[0049] Figure 1A , 1B 1C and 1C show the symbols used in this disclosure to describe different linear polarization orientations or states. Figure 1A The symbol 5 in the figure indicates linear polarization "entering and leaving the plane of the figure". Figure 1B The symbol 10 indicates linear polarization orthogonal to the direction indicated by symbol 5. In this case, the direction of linear polarization is "to the left and right on the plane of the figure". Figure 1C The symbol 15 indicates linear polarization that is also orthogonal to the directions indicated by symbols 5 and 10. The linear polarization direction indicated by symbol 15 is "upward and downward on the plane of the figure".

[0050] Figure 2A , 2B Symbols 2 and 2C are shown in this disclosure for describing the orientation of the friction or alignment direction of the alignment layer used in a liquid crystal focusing converter (electroactive lens element). Figure 2A The symbol 20 in the figure indicates the direction of "entering and leaving the plane of the figure". Figure 2B The symbol 25 indicates that the direction of friction is orthogonal to the direction indicated by symbol 20; it means "to the left and right on the plane of the figure". Figure 2C The symbol 30 indicates that the friction direction is orthogonal to the directions indicated by symbols 20 and 25, where the friction direction is "up and down on the plane of the pattern". Each liquid crystal lens typically has two alignment layers—one on either side of the liquid crystal material—whose friction directions can be parallel, antiparallel, or orthogonal to each other. In some cases, only one alignment layer can be used to reduce costs. Using two alignment layers increases both switching speed and field of view.

[0051] Figure 1A-1C The symbols shown in 2A-2C indicate relative directions. If different diagrams are from different viewpoints, different symbols can be used to indicate the same polarization state in those diagrams. Similarly, if different diagrams are from different viewpoints, the same symbols can be used to indicate different polarization states in those diagrams. For example, in a side view or outline view of an optical component, symbol 5 can indicate a horizontal polarization state, and symbol 10 can indicate a vertical polarization state. In an end view of the same optical component (i.e., a view along the optical axis), symbol 10 can indicate a horizontal polarization state, and symbol 15 can indicate a vertical polarization state.

[0052] Electroactive lens element for simultaneous focusing at different depths

[0053] Figure 3-7An electroactive lens element 300 suitable for use in the electroactive lens of the present invention is shown. A first side of the multifocal electroactive lens element 300 includes a first substrate 305 having a circular electrode 310 patterned onto the surface of the first substrate 305. The circular electrode 310 is made of a transparent conductive material (e.g., indium tin oxide (ITO)). The electrode is deposited on the first substrate 305 by depositing a conductive material layer on the surface of the first substrate 305 and then patterning the conductive material layer using photolithography. A transparent conductive material coating is also disposed on a second substrate 330 on a second side of the multifocal electroactive lens element 300. This transparent conductive material coating is not patterned and acts as a ground plane.

[0054] An insulating layer (e.g., SiO2) may be disposed on the electrode 310 on the first substrate 305 and on the conductive layer on the second substrate 330. The insulating layer may be patterned to have small vias to electrically couple the electrode 310 and the conductive layer on the second substrate 330 to a power source. See below for further details. Figure 7 The via configuration on the first substrate 305 is described in more detail. One or more vias may be patterned on the second substrate 330. Preferably, when the first substrate 305 and the second substrate 330 are coupled together, only one via is used to couple the conductive layer on the second substrate 330 to the power source, and the via is located outside the region that overlaps with the electrode 310 on the first substrate 305.

[0055] Circular electrodes 310 are electrically coupled to electrical pads 320 via bus lines 315. These electrical pads 320 can be formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO or an opaque material such as nickel, which is deposited on the first substrate 305 and then patterned using photolithography. Electrical pads 340 are electrically coupled to crossover points 335, serving as the ground side of the circuit. The ground side of the circuit on the first substrate 305 is electrically coupled to a conductive coating on the second substrate 330 via one or more bus lines through one or more vias in an insulating layer on the second substrate 330.

[0056] Crosspoint 335 electrically couples pad 340 on the first substrate 305 to a conductive coating on the second substrate 330. Crosspoint 335 includes a plurality of conductive beads disposed on its surface. The two sides of the electroactive lens element 300 are coupled together such that a circular electrode 310 on the first substrate 305 faces a transparent conductive coating on the second substrate 330. The conductive beads on crosspoint 335 are electrically coupled to the transparent conductive coating on the second substrate 330. The coupling between crosspoint 335 and the conductive coating on the second substrate 330 provides a ground circuit connection at pad 340, which is electrically isolated from other conductive features on the substrate 305 (circular electrode 310 and electrical pad 320). Using this configuration, the lens element 300 can be connected to a power supply and / or processor for control of the electroactive lens element 300 using a single electrical connector (e.g., a flexible ribbon connector) with multiple independent wires, instead of using two separate electrical connectors to electrically couple the operating and grounding circuit elements on the substrate 305. The two substrates 305 and 330 can be coupled to an adhesive on a wire 325 disposed on the first substrate 305 (and / or the second substrate 330). Spacer beads can be disposed between the two substrates 305 and 330 to provide a uniform thickness (e.g., about 10 micrometers to about 15 micrometers) for a sealing cavity formed between the substrates 305 and 330. Before sealing the cavity with adhesive to form the lens element 300, a liquid crystal material (e.g., Merck MLC-2140; not shown) is disposed in the cavity between the two substrates 305 and 330.

[0057] Figure 4 Alignment layers on substrates 305 and 300 and their rubbing / alignment directions 345 and 350 are shown respectively. Each alignment layer can be formed of polyimide or another suitable material and is disposed on the substrate surface and above the electrodes facing the liquid crystal material when the lens element 300 is fully assembled. Alignment directions 345 and 350 determine how the liquid crystal molecules align themselves relative to substrates 305 and 330. They are fixed by rubbing the polyimide with a felt cloth or by exposing the polyimide to ultraviolet (UV) light linearly polarized along the desired alignment direction. The two substrates 305 and 330 can be oriented and assembled such that alignment directions 345 and 350 are parallel to each other (e.g., ...). Figure 5 (as shown in the exploded view of the assembled lens element) or antiparallel (such as...) Figure 6 (As shown in the exploded view of the assembled lens element). Since the liquid crystal molecules are birefringent, the alignment directions 345 and 350 determine the intrinsic axes of the liquid crystal lens, wherein the first intrinsic axis is parallel to the alignment directions 345 and 350, and the second intrinsic axis is perpendicular to the alignment directions 345 and 350.

[0058] Figure 7 It shows that it is suitable for use in Figure 3-6The concentric circular electrodes 765 used in the electroactive lens element 300. The circular electrodes 765 are typically made of a transparent but conductive material (such as ITO) patterned on a transparent substrate (such as glass or plastic). Between each electrode 765 is a gap 760 without conductive material to prevent electrical connections between the electrodes 765. The gaps 760 (nineteen shown) may be unfilled or filled with a non-conductive material, such as silicon dioxide (SiO2). In many cases, it is desirable to make this gap as small as possible, typically 1 to 3 micrometers in size. Smaller or larger gaps are also possible. Twenty electrodes 765 are shown in this example, but more electrodes are typically used, perhaps hundreds or thousands.

[0059] An insulating layer can be disposed on top of the circular electrode 765 and the gap 760. This insulating layer can be made of a non-conductive but optically transparent material, such as a 125 nm thick SiO2 layer deposited on the electrode 205. A series of holes can be patterned in the insulating layer to expose a segment of each underlying electrode 765. These holes connect the electrode 765 to a power source.

[0060] Figure 7 Electrical connections 755, also known as bus lines (twenty shown), are illustrated and are configured to supply power to electrodes 765. The bus lines 755 are made of a conductive material such as nickel. They are typically about 10 micrometers wide, but can be narrower (e.g., 1 micrometer) if space is limited and electrical conductivity is low, or wider (e.g., 100 micrometers) if electrical conductivity is high. Depending on the size of the lens, each bus line 755 can be up to about 10 mm long (e.g., 2 mm, 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, or 10 mm long) or larger.

[0061] In operation, bus lines 755 supply power to electrodes 765. Each bus line 755 supplies power only to its designated electrode 765 and not to any other electrode 765. An insulating layer prevents the bus lines 755 from short-circuiting or connecting to other adjacent electrodes and only allows the bus lines 755 to connect to the desired electrode 765 through vias in the insulating layer.

[0062] Figure 7The exemplary electrodes shown each use one bus line. In other embodiments, resistors or resistor bridges connect some of the adjacent electrodes such that only a subset of the electrodes are connected to the bus line. Electrodes not connected to the bus line are powered by current delivered through the resistor bridge and adjacent electrodes. This reduces the number of bus lines and electrical drive channels, which can improve optical quality. In one embodiment, the (bent) resistor bridge is disposed in the same plane as electrode 765, connecting corresponding pairs of adjacent electrodes 765. These resistor bridges are disposed within the gap between the electrodes or at a break point in the electrodes. In another embodiment, the resistor bridge is raised above the plane of electrode 765. The raised resistor bridge may be disposed on an insulating layer between the resistor and the electrode, with the resistor and electrode connected through a via in the insulating layer. For more information on resistor bridges, see, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 10,599,006 and 10,551,690, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0063] Unlike conventional electroactive lens elements, Figure 3-7 The electroactive lens element 300 does not include any polarizer. Because the liquid crystal layer in the electroactive lens element 300 is birefringent, when it is actuated, it focuses light polarized along its alignment direction 345 / 350, and transmits light in orthogonal directions regardless of whether it is actuated. Because the electroactive lens element 300 transmits unfocused light when actuated, the focused image produced by the electroactive lens element 300 may appear blurrier, softer, or out of focus than the focused image produced by a comparable conventional electroactive lens element.

[0064] Concentric ring electrodes are merely one example of electrode configurations that can be used in electroactive lens elements. Other configurations include, for example, linear electrodes, elliptical electrodes, non-circular electrodes, and partially closed circular and / or non-circular electrodes (e.g., arc-shaped rather than closed rings).

[0065] Electroactive lenses that focus simultaneously at different depths

[0066] Figure 8A and 8B Exploded perspective view and perspective view of an electroactive lens 800 having two electroactive lens elements 810 and 830 are shown, respectively. The first lens element 810 includes a first substrate 816 and a second substrate 818. An electroactive region 820 on the first substrate 816 indicates the location where an electrode is patterned onto the surface of the first substrate 816. A transparent conductive coating, acting as a ground plane, is disposed on the surface of the second substrate 818. The two substrates 816 and 818 are mated such that the electroactive region 820 on the substrate 816 faces the conductive coating on the substrate 818. A liquid crystal material layer is sandwiched between the two substrates 816 and 818.

[0067] The second lens element 830 includes a first substrate 836 and a second substrate 838. For example... Figure 8A and 8B As shown, the first substrate 836 differs from the second substrate 818 of the first lens element 810; alternatively, the two lens elements 810 and 830 may share a common substrate with appropriately patterned conductive material, alignment layers, and optional insulating layers on both sides of the substrate. Electroactive regions 840 indicate the positions where electrodes are patterned onto the surface of the first substrate 836. A transparent conductive coating, acting as a ground plane, is disposed on the surface of the second substrate 838. The two substrates 836 and 838 are coupled together such that the electroactive regions 840 on substrate 836 face the conductive coating on substrate 838. A liquid crystal material layer is sandwiched between the two substrates 816 and 818. This liquid crystal material layer may have a different thickness than the liquid crystal material layer in the first electroactive lens element 810, have a different composition, and / or be actuated at a different voltage or with a different voltage distribution. This allows the second electroactive lens element 830 to provide different optical refractive power than the first electroactive lens element 810. Electrical connections 812 and 832 provide power to the patterned electrodes in the first lens element 810 and the second lens element 830, respectively.

[0068] Figure 8B An electroactive lens 800 is shown, consisting of two lens elements 810 and 830 assembled together. The first lens element 810 and the second lens element 830 have different optical refractive powers and are assembled such that their liquid crystal alignment directions 814 and 834 are orthogonal. In other words, the lens elements 810 and 830 are aligned such that their optical axes coincide, but their intrinsic axes are rotated 90° relative to each other—the focusing intrinsic axis of the first lens element is parallel to the transmission intrinsic axis of the second lens element, and the transmission intrinsic axis of the first lens element is parallel to the focusing intrinsic axis of the second lens element. In this manner, the first lens element focuses, for example, s-polarized light and transmits p-polarized light, and the second lens element focuses p-polarized light and transmits s-polarized light (or vice versa).

[0069] Figure 9 Four different operating states of the electroactive lens 800 are illustrated. In this embodiment, the first lens element 810 focuses collimated s-polarized light 1001 onto a focal plane, and the second lens element 830 focuses collimated p-polarized light 1003 onto a different focal plane. (This indicates that lens elements 810 and 830 have different optical refractive powers and can focus light from different distances onto the same focal plane.)

[0070] In state 1 (top left), the first lens element 810 and the second lens element 830 are in an unfocused state and therefore transmit light in any polarization state without any focus.

[0071] In state 2 (top right), the first lens element 810 is in a focused state, and the second lens element 830 is in a non-focused state. In state 2, the first lens element 810 focuses s-polarized light and transmits p-polarized light, while the second lens element transmits both s-polarized and p-polarized light. The overall effect in state 2 is that some unpolarized light incident on the electroactive lens 800 is focused onto the first plane (perpendicular to the point where the inclined ray intersects the optical axis) by the first lens element 810, and some incident unpolarized light is transmitted through the electroactive lens 800 without being focused.

[0072] In state 3 (lower left), the second lens element 830 is in a focused state, and the first lens element 810 is in an unfocused state. In state 3, the second lens element 830 focuses p-polarized light and transmits s-polarized light, while the first lens element 810 transmits both s-polarized and p-polarized light. The overall effect in state 3 is that some unpolarized incident light is focused by the second lens element 830 onto the second plane (also perpendicular to the point where the oblique ray intersects the optical axis), and some light is transmitted through the electrically active lens 800 without focusing.

[0073] In state 4 (lower right), both the first lens element 810 and the second lens element 830 are in a focused state. In state 4, the first lens element 810 focuses s-polarized light and transmits p-polarized light, while the second lens element 830 focuses p-polarized light and transmits s-polarized light. The overall effect in state 4 is that some of the collimated unpolarized incident light is focused onto the first plane by the first lens element 810, and some of the incident light is focused onto the second plane by the second lens element 830.

[0074] Figures 10A-10C Images taken using the electroactive lens 800 in states 2-4 are shown respectively. Figure 10A In state 2, the electroactive lens 800 is in a focused state, where the first lens element 810 is in a focused state and the second lens element is in a non-focused state. The first lens element 810 has optical refractive power selected to focus a distant object. The result is that the distant object (left) appears focused, while the nearby object (right) appears out of focus. Figure 10B In the image, the electroactive lens 800 is in state 3, where the second lens element 830 is in a focused state while the first lens element is in a non-focused state. The second lens element 830 has the optical refractive power to focus near objects. As a result, the near object (right) appears to be in focus, while the distant object (left) appears to be out of focus. Figure 10C In the image, the electroactive lens 800 is in state 4, where both the first and second lens elements are in a focused state. As a result, both the near object (right) and the distant object (left) appear to be soft-focused (rather than the sharp focus produced by the polarizing liquid crystal lens).

[0075] More generally, in one embodiment, the first electroactive lens element and the second electroactive lens element each have a transmission state and a focusing state. In other words, the first electroactive lens element can switch between a first focusing state and a first transmission state. In the first focusing state, the first electroactive lens element focuses light in a first polarization state and transmits light in a second polarization state. In the first transmission state, the first electroactive lens element transmits light in both the first and second polarization states. Similarly, the second electroactive lens element can switch between a second focusing state and a second transmission state. In the second focusing state, the second electroactive lens element transmits light in the first polarization state and focuses light in the second polarization state. In the second transmission state, the second electroactive lens element transmits light in both the first and second polarization states.

[0076] This electroactive lens system can be used or operated by: setting a first electroactive lens element to a first focused state or a first unfocused state; setting a second electroactive lens element to a second focused state or a second unfocused state; and transmitting light through the first and second electroactive lens elements. If the first electroactive lens element is in the first focused state and the second electroactive lens element is in the second unfocused state, the system uses the first electroactive lens element to focus light in a first polarization state and transmits light in a second polarization state through both the first and second electroactive lens elements without focusing light in a second polarization state. If the second electroactive lens element switches from the second unfocused state to the second focused state, the second electroactive lens element focuses light in a second polarization state, and the first electroactive lens element transmits light in a second polarization state without focusing light in a second polarization state.

[0077] In other embodiments, one or more of the lens elements can provide different optical refractive powers for two focusing states, rather than a focused and unfocused state. For example, an electroactive lens may include a first lens element that switches between a first focusing state and a second focusing state (each focusing state having a different optical refractive power), and a second lens element that switches between a focused state and an unfocused state. The focusing state of the second lens element may have the same optical refractive power as the first focusing state of the first lens element. In this way, one state of the electroactive lens uses a single optical refractive power to focus light in two different polarization states to provide higher contrast and sharpness at that optical refractive power, while other states of the electroactive lens can provide simultaneous focusing at multiple optical refractive powers.

[0078] An electroactive lens system can switch between states using any of several methods. System switching can be initiated by a user of the electroactive lens system. In one embodiment, the user can initiate switching of one or more lens elements in the electroactive lens system using a manual switch coupled to a power supply to the electroactive lens system. In another embodiment, the user can initiate switching of lens elements using eye movement or facial movement. In this embodiment, the electroactive lens system includes a detector coupled to the power supply for detecting user eye movement and / or facial movement. In another embodiment, the electroactive lens system includes a processor electrically coupled to the power supply to control the lens elements. The processor can be programmed to automatically cycle between switching states at a predetermined rate. In yet another embodiment, the electroactive lens system includes a microphone coupled to the processor to receive voice commands from the user to switch the focusing state of the electroactive lens elements.

[0079] Figure 11 An electroactive lens 1100 with three lens elements 1110, 1120, and 1130 is shown. This configuration is similar to a dual-lens configuration, except that the alignment layer friction direction of each lens element is a 45-degree rotational increment instead of 90 degrees. For example, lens element 1110 may have an alignment layer friction direction aligned at zero degrees around the optical axis, lens element 1120 may have an alignment layer friction direction aligned at 45 degrees around the optical axis, and lens element 1130 may have an alignment layer friction direction aligned at 90 degrees around the optical axis.

[0080] Multifocal electroactive lens gun sight

[0081] Figure 12 An adjustable firearm sight 1200 is shown, featuring an electroactive lens 1290 capable of simultaneously focusing unpolarized light from near and far planes in different polarization states. The firearm sight 1200 may include a target assembly 1224 disposed at one end of a scope tube 1222 and an eye assembly 1220 disposed at the end of the scope tube 1222 opposite to the target assembly 1224. The target assembly 1224 includes one or more optical elements (lenses) 1264 and 1266 for transmitting light 1201 back to the eye assembly 1220. The scope tube 1222 also houses optical elements 1260 and 1262 providing variable scaling. The sight 1200 may also include aiming radii (e.g., crosshairs) for aiming and mounting elements (e.g., windage adjustment, height adjustment, and mounting rings) for mounting the sight to a weapon (e.g., a rifle, crossbow, machine gun, or pistol).

[0082] As described above, the eye assembly 1220 includes similar components. Figure 8A and8B An electroactive lens 1290 is used to focus different polarization components of unpolarized light 1201 from different planes (e.g., a near plane and a far plane). The electroactive lens 1290 includes a first lens element 1210 and a second lens element 1230, as described above, having intersecting intrinsic axes (alignment directions) and no polarizer. Lens elements 1210 and 1230 provide different optical refractive powers for light polarized along different (orthogonal) alignment directions. In other words, lens elements 1210 and 1230 are aligned such that their optical axes coincide, but their intrinsic axes are rotated 90° relative to each other—the focusing intrinsic axis of the first lens element is parallel to the transmission intrinsic axis of the second lens element, and the transmission intrinsic axis of the first lens element is parallel to the focusing intrinsic axis of the second lens element. Lens elements 1210 and 1230 can be as described above regarding… Figure 9 It is actuated as described above.

[0083] In an alternative embodiment of the scope, the scope includes a conventional eye assembly, and the electroactive lens 1290 is an additional optical component. In this embodiment, the electroactive lens 1290 is arranged in optical series with other optical components in the scope tube 1222, between the target assembly 1224 and the conventional eye assembly, or adjacent to the conventional eye assembly on the eye-closer side.

[0084] This scope's switchable mode can provide two focal lengths simultaneously, with the option to select only one or the other. For example, if the user is monitoring two targets (e.g., a closer target and a farther target), a dual-focus mode can be used to keep both targets in focus (similar to...). Figure 9 (State 4) Once the decision is made to narrow down the target to just one target, the user can switch the electroactive lens 1290 to monofocal-only mode to focus more intently on that target (whether it is a closer or farther target), achieving better focus and higher contrast.

[0085] Figure 13 The mounting to the rifle 1300 is shown using mounting rings 1312 and 1314. Figure 12The scope 1200. The rifle 1300 includes a switch 1320 mounted near the trigger guard. The switch 1320 is close enough to the trigger and trigger guard that the shooter can actuate the switch without moving his hand, his body, or the rifle 1300. The switch 1320 is coupled to the scope 1200 and is used to switch the electrically active lens 1290 in the scope 1200 between its different states. Preferably, the switch 1320 includes a wireless transmitter, and the scope 1200 includes a wireless receiver to provide wireless coupling between the switch 1320 and the scope 1200. In another embodiment, the switch 1320 is coupled to the scope 1200 via a wire or other physical connection. In another embodiment, the switch 1320 may be controlled by a "scout," a second person assisting the shooter in finding the target. Many other switching methods can be utilized, methods known to those skilled in the art of human control factors.

[0086] The electroactive lens 1290 is powered by a power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery or capacitor). The power source is located inside the scope housing, inside the rifle housing, or on the surface of the scope housing or rifle housing. A processor is operatively coupled to the electroactive lens 1290 and provides control of the electroactive lens 1290. The processor is located inside the scope housing, inside the rifle housing, or on the surface of the scope housing or rifle housing. The processor also provides voltage gradients and amplitudes to control the electroactive lens 1290.

[0087] Other applications of multifocal electroactive lenses

[0088] Beyond rifle shooting, multifocal electroactive lenses have numerous other applications where they can be useful. For example, they can be used in billiards to align the cue stick with the cue ball and the target ball, as well as the intended target. As another example, they can be used while driving a vehicle, allowing the driver to see dashboard instruments while still being able to see the road. As yet another example, they can be used in sports requiring catching a ball, where the ball is initially far away and gradually gets closer. As yet another example, they can be used in racket sports, using a near focus at the moment of impact and a far focus to track the ball as it moves further away. Multifocal electroactive lenses can also be used in cooking, allowing the driver to read recipes while keeping cooking equipment and food in focus. They can also be used by pilots flying aircraft, allowing them to see nearby objects such as instruments while maintaining a distant focus. Finally, they can be used in card games, allowing players to see their cards while still observing other players. Multifocal electroactive lenses can also be used during medical procedures, allowing physicians to clearly see the patient while simultaneously checking readings from distant diagnostic equipment. Multifocal electroactive lenses can be used while typing to allow the keyboard to be focused while still being able to see distant objects, such as monitors or documents. Multifocal electroactive lenses can be used by workers in industrial environments where they wish to focus on a measuring device (e.g., a voltmeter) while still being able to see distant objects being measured (e.g., circuits).

[0089] Multifocal electroactive lenses can be used in any of several optical devices. For example, the lens can be mounted in eyeglass frames, contact lenses, or artificial lenses.

[0090] Figure 14A A multifocal electroactive glasses 1800 is shown. The electroactive glasses 1800 may include an electronic module 202 disposed in one or both temples of the glasses. The electronic module 202 may include a power supply and / or a processor. The electronic module 202 may be electrically coupled to multifocal electroactive lenses 104 and 106 via a conductive link 1802. The multifocal electroactive lenses 104 and 106 may have rotating electroactive lens elements without polarizers, like... Figure 8ASimilar to the electroactive lens 800 in [the original text]. The conductive link 1802 may include any number of conductive elements (e.g., flexible band connectors) that provide electrical connection between the electronic module 202 and the multifocal electroactive lenses 104 and 106. In other embodiments, the multifocal electroactive glasses may have only one multifocal electroactive lens, and the other lens may be a conventional lens. Similar to multifocal electroactive glasses, other embodiments of the present invention include multifocal electroactive sunglasses. For more information on electroactive glasses, see, for example, U.S. Patent Application No. 2020 / 0225511A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0091] In operation, the multifocal electroactive glasses 1800 can switch between different focusing states (multifocal and monofocal) in one of several ways. In one embodiment, glasses 1800 may include a button 1810 (e.g., a capacitive touch switch) disposed on the temple of the glasses and operatively coupled to module 202. The wearer of the glasses can use button 1810 to switch between focusing states. A detector, coupled to the glasses and operatively coupled to module 202, can also be used to switch the glasses to detect eye movements or facial movements of the wearer. A processor in module 202 can be programmed to automatically cycle between switching states at a predetermined rate. Glasses 1800 may also include an antenna to receive signals from a remote device (e.g., a smartphone) to switch focusing states.

[0092] Figure 14B A multifocal electroactive contact lens 1900 is shown. The multifocal electroactive contact lens 1900 includes a multifocal electroactive lens 1902 with a rotating electroactive lens element but without a polarizer, like... Figure 8A Similar to the electroactive lens 800 in [the context of contact lenses], the contact lens 1900 includes a bus line 1920 to provide power to the electrodes in the electroactive lens 1902. The electroactive lens 1902 may include a resistor bridge 1950 to electrically couple the electrodes in the electroactive lens 1902 that are not directly coupled to the bus line 1920. The bus line may be connected to a bus 1922, which is connected to a processor (here, an ASIC 1924) via a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) 1926. The flexible PCB 1926 may also connect the ASIC 1924 to a ring-shaped power battery 1928 and (optionally) a ring antenna 1930, both concentric with the electroactive lens 1902. All these components may be fixed to or fully or partially embedded in a base optics element 1904. The base optics element 1904 may provide additional optical refractive power, i.e., it may act as a fixed lens and may be formed of any suitable material, including soft hydrogels such as those used in soft contact lenses.

[0093] In operation, the contact lens 1900 can be switched between different focusing states (multifocal and monofocal) in one of several ways. One way to switch the contact lens is by using an ASIC 1924, which can be programmed to automatically cycle between switching states at a predetermined speed. Another way to switch the contact lens is by using an antenna 1930, which can receive signals from a remote device (e.g., a smartphone) to switch the focusing state.

[0094] Figure 14C A multifocal electroactive intraocular lens 400 with a multifocal electroactive lens 430 and a rechargeable battery ring 424 is shown. The multifocal electroactive lens 430 may have a rotating electroactive lens element without a polarizer, like... Figure 8A The multifocal electroactive lens 430 is similar to the electroactive lens 800 in the IOL. Lens anchor 414 can be used to stabilize and position the multifocal electroactive lens 430 in a desired location and orientation. A rechargeable battery ring 424 can be inductively powered by an external device. Other power sources may include mechanical energy from body movement, solar cells, and conductive charging. A power connection 422 electrically couples the battery 424 to the multifocal electroactive lens 430. An optional base lens 452 can be used with a conventional lens configuration to provide base refractive power. The base lens 452 may also encapsulate the electroactive lens 430 in a hermetically sealed housing composed of a biocompatible material similar to those currently used in IOL manufacturing, for example, soft acrylic or solid medical-grade silicone. The IOL 400 includes a processor coupled to the rechargeable battery ring 424 to control the switching states of the multifocal electroactive lens 430. The IOL 400 may optionally include an antenna for receiving signals from a remote device. For more information on electroactive intraocular lenses, see, for example, U.S. Patent Application No. 2019 / 0110887A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In operation, the processor can be programmed to automatically cycle between switching states at a predetermined rate. Alternatively, the intraocular lens 400 can be configured to switch between switching states when the antenna receives a signal from a remote device (e.g., a smartphone).

[0095] Conclusion

[0096] Although various embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated herein, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of a variety of other means and / or structures for performing functions and / or obtaining results and / or one or more advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is considered to be within the scope of the embodiments of the invention described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily understand that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are exemplary, and actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend on one or more specific applications for which the invention is taught. Those skilled in the art can recognize or determine many equivalents of the particular inventive embodiments described herein using at most conventional experimentation. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only, and that the inventive embodiments can be practiced in ways other than those specifically described and claimed within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The inventive embodiments of this disclosure relate to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods (if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not inconsistent with each other) is included within the inventive scope of this disclosure.

[0097] Furthermore, various inventive concepts can be embodied in one or more methods, examples of which have been provided. Actions performed as part of a method can be ordered in any suitable manner. Therefore, embodiments can be constructed that perform actions in an order different from that described, which may include the simultaneous execution of some actions, even those shown as sequential in the illustrative embodiments.

[0098] It should be understood that all definitions defined and used herein take precedence over dictionary definitions, definitions in referenced documents, and / or the general meaning of the terms used in the definitions.

[0099] As used herein in the specification and claims, the indefinite article “a” should be understood to mean “at least one” unless explicitly indicated to the contrary.

[0100] As used herein in the specification and claims, the phrase “and / or” should be understood to mean “any one or two” of the elements so combined, that is, the elements exist together in some cases and separately in others. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be interpreted in the same way, that is, “one or more” of the elements so combined. In addition to the elements specifically indicated by the “and / or” clause, other elements may optionally be present, whether related to or unrelated to those specifically indicated. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with open-ended language (e.g., “comprising”), reference to “A and / or B” may in one embodiment refer only to A (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment only to B (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); and so on.

[0101] As used herein in this specification and claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when multiple items are separated in a list, “or” or “and / or” will be interpreted as inclusive, that is, including at least one, but also including several elements or more than one element in a list of elements and optionally additional unlisted items. Only terms that explicitly indicate the opposite, such as “only one of…” or “exactly one of…” or “consisting of…” when used in claims, will refer to including multiple elements or exactly one element in a list of elements. Generally, the term “or” as used herein should only be interpreted as indicating an exclusive alternative (i.e., “one or the other, but not both”) before exclusive terms such as “any one,” “one,” “only one,” or “exactly one”. “Substantially consisting of…” when used in claims should have the ordinary meaning as it is used in the field of patent law.

[0102] As used herein in the specification and claims, when referring to a list of one or more elements, the phrase "at least one" should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically listed in the list of elements, and does not exclude any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the optional presence of elements other than those specifically identified in the list of elements referred to by the phrase "at least one," regardless of whether they are related to those specifically identified elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, in one embodiment, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B," or equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer to at least one, optionally including more than one A, without B (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, it may refer to at least one, optionally including more than one B, without A (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, it may refer to at least one, optionally including more than one A, and at least one, optionally including more than one B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

[0103] In the claims and in the foregoing description, all conjunctions such as “comprising,” “including,” “with,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “accommodating,” and “consisting of” should be understood as open-ended, meaning that they include but are not limited to. As described in Section 2111.03 of the U.S. Patent Examination Procedure Manual, only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “substantially consisting of” should be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

Claims

1. An electroactive lens, comprising: A first electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state A and state B, wherein in state A, the first electroactive lens element provides a first optical refractive power for light in a first polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power for light in a second polarization state different from the first polarization state; and in state B, the first electroactive lens element provides a second optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state different from the first optical refractive power and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state. as well as A second electroactive lens element, optically connected in series with the first electroactive lens element, is configured to switch between state C and state D. In state C, the second electroactive lens element provides a third optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state, different from the first and second optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. In state D, the second electroactive lens element provides a fourth optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. The electroactive lens is configured to focus light of the first polarization state onto a first plane when the first electroactive lens is in state A and the second electroactive lens is in state C, and simultaneously focus light of the second polarization state onto a second plane different from the first plane.

2. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein, The first electroactive lens element includes a first liquid crystal layer and a first alignment layer having a first alignment direction, and the second electroactive lens element includes a second liquid crystal layer and a second alignment layer having a second alignment direction orthogonal to the first alignment direction.

3. An electroactive lens, comprising: A first electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state A and state B, wherein in state A, the first electroactive lens element provides a first optical refractive power for light in a first polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power for light in a second polarization state different from the first polarization state; and in state B, the first electroactive lens element provides a second optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state different from the first optical refractive power and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state. as well as A second electroactive lens element, optically connected in series with the first electroactive lens element, is configured to switch between state C and state D. In state C, the second electroactive lens element provides a third optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state, different from the first and second optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. In state D, the second electroactive lens element provides a fourth optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. The first electroactive lens element includes: First substrate; A plurality of electrodes are disposed on the surface of the first substrate; A first alignment layer is disposed on a portion of the first plurality of electrodes and the first substrate; A second substrate is coupled to the first substrate to form a first cavity; A conductive coating is disposed on the surface of the second substrate; A second alignment layer, wherein the second alignment layer is disposed on the conductive coating; and Liquid crystal material, wherein the liquid crystal material is disposed in the first cavity between the first alignment layer and the second alignment layer.

4. The electroactive lens according to claim 3, wherein, The first plurality of electrodes includes a plurality of concentric ring electrodes.

5. The electroactive lens according to claim 3, wherein, The liquid crystal material includes nematic liquid crystal material.

6. The electroactive lens according to claim 3, wherein, The first alignment layer is aligned parallel to the second alignment layer.

7. The electroactive lens according to claim 3, wherein, The first alignment layer is aligned antiparallel to the second alignment layer.

8. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein, The first electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state A and state B independently of the state of the second electroactive lens element.

9. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein, Neither the first electroactive lens element nor the second electroactive lens element includes a polarizer.

10. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein: The first optical refractive power level is between approximately 1 / 4 diopter and approximately 5 diopter. The second optical refractive power level is between approximately 0 diopters and approximately 5 diopters. The third optical refractive power level is between approximately 1 / 4 diopter and approximately 5 diopter, and The fourth optical refractive power level is between approximately 0 diopters and approximately 5 diopters.

11. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein: The first optical refractive power level is different from the third optical refractive power level, and The second optical refractive power level is the same as the fourth optical refractive power level.

12. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein: The first electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state A and state B via at least one of a mechanical switch, voice actuation, or eye movement; and The second electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state C and state D via at least one of mechanical switching, voice actuation, or eye movement.

13. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein, The first polarization state is orthogonal to the second polarization state.

14. An electroactive lens, comprising: A first electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state A and state B, wherein in state A, the first electroactive lens element provides a first optical refractive power for light in a first polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power for light in a second polarization state different from the first polarization state; and in state B, the first electroactive lens element provides a second optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state different from the first optical refractive power and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state. as well as A second electroactive lens element, optically connected in series with the first electroactive lens element, is configured to switch between state C and state D. In state C, the second electroactive lens element provides a third optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state, different from the first and second optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. In state D, the second electroactive lens element provides a fourth optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. A third electroactive lens element is optically connected in series with the first and second electroactive lens elements. The third electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state E and state F. In state E, the third electroactive lens element provides a fifth optical refractive power for light in a third polarization state, which is different from the first, second, and third optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the first and second polarization states. In state F, the third electroactive lens element provides a sixth optical refractive power for light in the third polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the first and second polarization states.

15. A firearm sight including an electroactive lens, said electroactive lens comprising: A first electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state A and state B, wherein in state A, the first electroactive lens element provides a first optical refractive power for light in a first polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power for light in a second polarization state different from the first polarization state; and in state B, the first electroactive lens element provides a second optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state different from the first optical refractive power and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state. as well as A second electroactive lens element, optically connected in series with the first electroactive lens element, is configured to switch between state C and state D. In state C, the second electroactive lens element provides a third optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state, different from the first and second optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. In state D, the second electroactive lens element provides a fourth optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state.

16. The firearm sight according to claim 15, wherein: The firearm sight is configured to be mounted on the firearm; and The first electroactive lens element and the second electroactive element are configured to switch between states via a mechanical switch located adjacent to the trigger guard on the gun.

17. The electroactive lens according to claim 1, wherein, The electroactive lens is disposed in at least one of eyeglasses, contact lenses, or artificial lenses.

18. A method of operating an electroactive lens, the electroactive lens comprising: A first electroactive lens element is configured to switch between state A and state B, wherein in state A, the first electroactive lens element provides a first optical refractive power for light in a first polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power for light in a second polarization state different from the first polarization state; and in state B, the first electroactive lens element provides a second optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state different from the first optical refractive power and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state. as well as A second electroactive lens element, optically connected in series with the first electroactive lens element, is configured to switch between state C and state D. In state C, the second electroactive lens element provides a third optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state, different from the first and second optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. In state D, the second electroactive lens element provides a fourth optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. The method includes: A first voltage is applied to the first electroactive lens element to switch the first electroactive lens element from state A to state B; as well as A second voltage, different from the first voltage, is applied to the second electroactive lens element to switch the second electroactive lens element from state C to state D.

19. A firearm sight, comprising: case; An electroactive lens disposed in the housing, the electroactive lens comprising: A first electroactive lens element, configured to switch between state A and state B, wherein in state A, the first electroactive lens element provides a first optical refractive power for light in a first polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power for light in a second polarization state different from the first polarization state; and in state B, the first electroactive lens element provides a second optical refractive power for light in the first polarization state different from the first optical refractive power and provides zero optical refractive power for light in the second polarization state; and A second electroactive lens element, optically connected in series with the first electroactive lens element, is configured to switch between state C and state D. In state C, the second electroactive lens element provides a third optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state, different from the first and second optical refractive powers, and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. In state D, the second electroactive lens element provides a fourth optical refractive power to light in the second polarization state and provides zero optical refractive power to light in the first polarization state. A processor, disposed within the housing and electrically coupled to the electroactive lens; and A power supply, which is electrically coupled to the processor; The processor individually switches between the first electroactive lens element and the second electroactive lens element.

20. The firearm sight of claim 19 further includes a switch disposed on the outer surface of the housing and electrically coupled to the processor to allow a user to control the electroactive lens.

21. The firearm sight of claim 19 further includes a wireless communication receiver coupled to the processor to receive signals from an external switch to allow user control of the electroactive lens.

22. A gun, comprising: The firearm sight according to claim 21; trigger; and The external switch is mounted adjacent to the trigger to allow the user to control the electroactive lens without changing the user's hand grip or position.

Images