Eyewear

Abstract

One aspect of the disclosure relates to an eyewear for a user to see an image while wearing the eyewear. The eyewear can include a light adjustment device configured to provide a projected light that is perceived by an eye of the user when facing a first surface of the light adjustment device such that the user can see a modified image that is modified from an original image. The light adjustment device can be configured to provide a modified on-axis contrast signal to a retina of the eye of the user in the modified image as compared to the original image.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Different aspects of the disclosure relate to an eyewear for a user to see an image when wearing the eyewear. BACKGROUND

[0002] Myopia (a form of refractive error) is a condition of the human eye in which incoming light rays do not focus directly on the retina but in front of the retina, resulting in a blurred image when looking at distant objects, but a clear image when looking at close objects. Low myopia is merely annoying (e.g. > -5D), whereas high myopia is associated with an ever-increasing risk of severe visual impairment, and in extreme cases, blindness. Myopia control has therefore become a serious burden for the eye care clinical and research fields.

[0003] Currently, myopia can be compensated using optical lenses that refocus the image. These optical lenses can be implemented in an eyewear worn by the user. However, such optical lenses neither correct nor solve the root problem, in particular, the user’s myopia control or progression problem. Such optical lenses only provide a way of compensation, and thus the user relies on such lenses to correct vision. Therefore, the user needs to wear such corrective optical lenses throughout his or her life.

[0004] There is therefore a need to provide an improved eyewear that does not need to be used throughout life. SUMMARY

[0005] It is an object of the disclosure to provide an eyewear that modifies an original image into a modified image, thereby providing a modified (e.g. increased) amount of positive contrast signal to the retina of the user’s eye. It is also an object of the disclosure to provide an image processing circuit comprising instructions to perform an image processing method to provide a modified image. It is a further object to provide an image processing device comprising an image processing circuit configured to perform an image processing method to provide a modified image.

[0006] A first aspect of the disclosure relates to an eyewear for a user to see an image when wearing the eyewear. The eyewear can comprise a light adjustment device that can be configured to provide a projected light that is perceived by the user’s eye when facing a first surface of the light adjustment device, such that the user sees a modified image modified from an original image. The light adjustment device can be configured to provide a modified (e.g. increased) amount of positive contrast signal to the retina of the user’s eye in the modified image compared to the original image.

[0007] According to different embodiments, the modified (e.g. increased) amount of positive contrast signal can be provided by a light intensity pattern adjustment. According to different embodiments, the light intensity pattern adjustment can comprise a transmission pattern and / or a light emission pattern. The transmission pattern and / or the light emission pattern can be provided on at least one lens of the eyewear. According to different embodiments, the light intensity pattern adjustment can be produced by both the transmission pattern and the light emission pattern.

[0008] According to different embodiments, the transmission pattern can comprise a plurality of minority regions having a higher transmittance than the majority of the remaining regions.

[0009] According to different embodiments, the plurality of minority regions can be formed as through-holes in the lens.

[0010] According to different embodiments, the plurality of minority regions differ from the majority of the regions by a coating.

[0011] According to different embodiments, the transmission pattern can be free of rotational and translational symmetries.

[0012] According to different embodiments, the modified (e.g. increased) amount of positive contrast signal can be provided by a light intensity pattern adjustment produced by the light emission pattern.

[0013] According to different embodiments, the light adjustment device can comprise a light source comprising one or more light emitters arranged on the eyewear for generating the light emission pattern.

[0014] According to different embodiments, the light adjustment device can comprise a plurality of light reflectors for generating the light emission pattern by reflecting light from the one or more light emitters.

[0015] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors can be selected from prisms, mirrors and liquid crystals.

[0016] According to different embodiments, the light emission pattern can be free of rotational and translational symmetries.

[0017] According to different embodiments, the eyewear can comprise an image projector for generating the light emission pattern.

[0018] According to different embodiments, the eyewear can further comprise an image sensor and an image processing circuit.

[0019] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit can be configured to map a plurality of positive contrast regions of the original image. Each of the plurality of positive contrast regions can have a contrast of center over surroundings exceeding a predetermined positive contrast threshold.

[0020] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit can be configured to draw a map of a plurality of negative contrast regions of the original image. Each of the plurality of negative contrast regions can have a peripheral-to-center contrast that exceeds a predetermined negative contrast threshold.

[0021] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit can be configured to draw a map of a plurality of negative contrast regions of the original image. Each of the plurality of negative contrast regions can have a peripheral-to-center contrast that exceeds a predetermined negative contrast threshold. The image processing circuit can be further configured to compute a modified image by modifying the image on the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions to obtain an overall difference in a first overall ratio and a second overall ratio. The first overall ratio (GR1) can be defined as a difference between a sum of the contrast of the plurality of positive contrast regions and a sum of the contrast of the plurality of negative contrast regions of the original image. The second overall ratio (GR2) can be defined as a difference between a sum of the contrast of the plurality of positive contrast regions and a sum of the contrast of the plurality of negative contrast regions of the modified image.

[0022] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit can be configured to compute an adjustment parameter based on the overall difference in the first overall ratio and the second overall ratio.

[0023] According to different embodiments, the modified image can correspond to the original image with inverted contrast.

[0024] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to an image processing apparatus. Another aspect of the disclosure relates to an image processing method. Another aspect of the disclosure relates to an image processing method.

[0025] One aspect of the disclosure relates to an image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus can include an image processing circuit that can be configured to receive an image in an electronic format. The image processing circuit can be further configured to draw a map of a plurality of positive contrast regions of the image, each of the plurality of positive contrast regions having a center-to-peripheral contrast that exceeds a predetermined positive contrast threshold. The image processing circuit can be further configured to draw a map of a plurality of negative contrast regions of the image, each of the plurality of negative contrast regions having a peripheral-to-center contrast that exceeds a predetermined negative contrast threshold. The image processing circuit can be further configured to compute a modified image by modifying the image on the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions to obtain an overall difference in a first overall ratio and a second overall ratio. The first overall ratio can be defined as a difference between a sum of the contrast of the plurality of positive contrast regions and a sum of the contrast of the plurality of negative contrast regions of the image. The second overall ratio can be defined as a difference between a sum of the contrast of the plurality of positive contrast regions and a sum of the contrast of the plurality of negative contrast regions of the modified image.

[0026] According to different embodiments, the image processing device can be a server that receives the image from the user device over the Internet and sends the modified image to the user device over the Internet.

[0027] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit can be configured to process a plurality of frames of a video stream, each frame of the plurality of frames corresponding to an image to be processed.

[0028] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit can be further configured to compute an overall difference of the first overall ratio and the second overall ratio for a plurality of images received over time, and further configured to trigger the image modification when a result based on an integral of the overall difference of the first overall ratio and the second overall ratio over a time window exceeds a duration threshold.

[0029] According to different embodiments, the image modification can be a modification of pixels of the plurality of positive or negative contrast regions computed to minimize the result.

[0030] According to different embodiments, the image modification can be a contrast inversion, including changing one of the plurality of negative contrast regions to a positive contrast or changing one of the plurality of positive contrast regions to a negative contrast.

[0031] According to different embodiments, computing the modified image can include blurring one of the plurality of positive contrast regions or one of the plurality of negative contrast regions.

[0032] According to different embodiments, computing the modified image can include modifying a light intensity of a center of one or more of the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions.

[0033] According to different embodiments, computing the modified image can include modifying a light intensity of a surrounding of one or more of the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions.

[0034] One aspect of the disclosure relates to an image processing method. The method can include mapping a plurality of positive contrast regions of an image, each of the plurality of positive contrast regions having a contrast of center to surroundings that exceeds a predetermined positive contrast threshold. The method can include mapping a plurality of negative contrast regions of the image, each of the plurality of negative contrast regions having a contrast of surroundings to center that exceeds a predetermined negative contrast threshold. The method can include computing a modified image by modifying the image on the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions to obtain an overall difference in a first overall ratio and a second overall ratio. The first overall ratio can be defined as a difference between a sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions and a sum of contrasts of the plurality of negative contrast regions of the image. The second overall ratio can be defined as a difference between a sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions and a sum of contrasts of the plurality of negative contrast regions of the modified image.

[0035] According to different embodiments, computing the modified image can include blurring one or more of the plurality of positive contrast regions or one or more of the plurality of negative contrast regions.

[0036] According to different embodiments, computing the modified image can include modifying a light intensity of a center of one or more of the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions.

[0037] According to different embodiments, computing the modified image can include modifying a light intensity of a surroundings of one or more of the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions.

[0038] According to different embodiments, modifying the light intensity of the center or the surroundings, respectively, can include changing one of the plurality of negative contrast regions to positive contrast or changing one of the plurality of positive contrast regions to negative contrast. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] The disclosure will be better understood when considered in connection with the non- limiting examples and the figures, in which:

[0040] - FIG. 1A And FIG. 1B A schematic representation of a use condition of the eyewear 100 according to different embodiments is shown by way of example;

[0041] - FIGS. 2A-2D An exemplary image of the ON pathway and the OFF pathway of the visual system stimulated according to different embodiments is shown;

[0042] - FIG. 3 A schematic representation of a front view of a transmission pattern 300 according to different embodiments is shown by way of example;

[0043] - FIG. 4schematics of front views of light emission patterns 400 according to different embodiments are shown by way of example;

[0044] - FIGS. 5A-5C schematics of different arrangements of light sources comprising one or more light emitters 410 and a plurality of light reflectors 420 on the eyewear 100 that can generate light emission patterns 400 according to different embodiments are shown by way of example;

[0045] - FIG. 6 schematics of an example of an optical system 600 comprising the eyewear 100, an image sensor 610, an image processing circuit 620 and an image projector 630 according to different embodiments are shown;

[0046] - FIG. 7 algorithms for modifying an image 700 according to different embodiments are illustrated by way of example;

[0047] - FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B schematics of adjustment parameters that can be used to obtain a modified image according to different embodiments are shown by way of example;

[0048] - FIGS. 9A-9C schematics of adjustment parameters that can be used to obtain a modified image according to different embodiments are shown by way of example;

[0049] - FIG. 10 a graph 1000 providing an example of determining an on / off ratio for use with the eyewear 100 according to different embodiments is shown; and

[0050] - FIG. 11 a graph 1100 providing an example of periodic contrast inversion for use with the eyewear 100 according to different embodiments is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The following detailed description is predicated on the attached drawings, which are meant to illustrate and not to limit the present disclosure. The embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the present disclosure. Other embodiments can also be utilized and structural and logical changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The various embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some embodiments can be combined with one or more other embodiments to form new embodiments.

[0052] Features described in the context of one embodiment can correspondingly be applied to the same or similar features in other embodiments. Features described in the context of one embodiment can correspondingly be applied to other embodiments, even if not explicitly described in those other embodiments. Additionally, the features described for a feature in the context of one embodiment can correspondingly be applied to the same or similar features in other embodiments.

[0053] The disclosures illustratively described herein can suitably be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations that is / are not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, for example, the terms "comprising," "including," containing", and the like, shall be read expansively and without limitation. The words "comprising" or "comprise" or "including" or "including" or "comprises" or "comprised of" as used herein are used in their broadest and most general sense and encompass the possession of stated integers or group of integers but do not, by themselves, preclude the addition of one or more additional integers or the possession of one or more additional integers. Additionally, the terms and expressions employed herein have been used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described herein. Addition, modifications, and variations to those features shown and described herein are possible in light of the scope of the present disclosure.

[0054] In the context of different embodiments, the articles "a", "an", and "the" as used within this document encompass the use of both the singular and plural form, as appropriate for the context in which it is used. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0055] Reference signs included in brackets in the claims are used to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure and are in no way limiting to the scope of the claims.

[0056] According to different embodiments, the term "eyewear" used herein can refer to an optical article configured to be worn on / with an eye of a user (e.g., in front of the eye of the user). For example, the eyewear can be selected from the group consisting of glasses, sunglasses, head-mounted devices, augmented reality devices, virtual reality devices. According to different embodiments, the eyewear can be electronically active (i.e., electrically powered) or can be electronically passive (e.g., non-electrically powered, or free of electronic components).

[0057] According to different embodiments, the term“lens” (“lenses”) can have a corrective power (e.g., a multifocal lens, a prescribed lens for a refractive error condition) or can not have a corrective power (e.g., a plano lens). According to different embodiments, the lens can be transparent, tinted (e.g., gray, pink, blue, brown, etc.), or can be polarized.

[0058] It should be understood that any reference herein to“frame” refers to the portion of the eyewear that is not the lens portion, e.g., as in eyewear can include a frame and can include a lens attached to the frame, if not otherwise explicitly stated, the lens is not part of the frame.

[0059] According to different embodiments, the term“original image” used herein can refer to a present or existing image that a user can see when looking. For example, the original image can refer to a present or existing image that a user sees when the user does not wear eyewear described according to different embodiments of the disclosure, or when the user wears a comparative eyewear that does not have a light adjustment device.

[0060] According to different embodiments, the term“modified image” used herein can refer to an altered original image that a user sees when the user wears eyewear described according to different embodiments of the disclosure. The modified image can correspond to the original image and thus retain most of the information of the original image. In other words, the original image can be altered or modified in a way that the user is still able to identify or recognize the content of the original image. For example, the modified image can correspond to the original image, selected characteristics (e.g., contrast, luminosity) of which can be altered.

[0061] According to different embodiments, the term“light adjustment device” used herein can refer to a tool, article, or object for altering an original image so that a user’s eye sees a modified image. For eyewear, the term“light adjustment device” can include the meaning of structural characteristics of the eyewear and / or of a device included in the eyewear. For example, the light adjustment device can include a lens configured to alter an image. As another example, the design can be configured to alter the contrast of the original image to provide the modified image. According to different embodiments, the light adjustment device can include a light intensity pattern that can provide a design for adjusting or altering the contrast of the original image, thereby providing the modified image.

[0062] According to different embodiments, the term“light intensity pattern” used herein can refer to an arrangement of a plurality of elements comprised in the light adjustment device. For example, the arrangement of the plurality of elements can be free of rotational and translational symmetries. As another example, the elements can be repeated in a random manner (e.g., randomized). According to some embodiments, the plurality of elements can be formed in or on the lens, e.g., deposited on the lens. The pattern disposed on the light intensity pattern can adjust or change the light intensity, luminance, or contrast of the light emitted from the image. For example, the light intensity pattern can increase or decrease the luminance of the incident light rays.

[0063] According to different embodiments, the term“projected light” used herein can refer to light projected from the light adjustment device. The projected light can refer to light containing visual information such that, when perceived by a user (e.g., alone or in addition to the original image), the user perceives a modified image. The light adjustment device is configured to provide the projected light.

[0064] According to different embodiments, the term“positive contrast signal” (singular or plural) used herein can refer to a visual signal that can stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system when viewed by a viewer. The positive contrast signal can be provided by the image portion of the respective positive contrast region. The positive contrast signal can stimulate the on-pathway, which can correspond to the presence of a light stimulus on a dark background, as will be explained below with reference to FIG. 2A In other words, when the user’s eye sees the positive contrast signal, the on-pathway of the user’s visual system can be activated. As another example, the positive contrast signal can be provided by changing (e.g., decreasing) the spatial frequency of the image.

[0065] According to different embodiments, the term“negative contrast signal” (singular or plural) used herein can refer to a visual signal that can stimulate the off-pathway of the visual system when viewed by a viewer. The negative contrast signal can be provided by the image portion of the respective negative contrast region. The negative contrast signal can stimulate the off-pathway, which can correspond to the presence of a dark stimulus on a light background, as will be explained below with reference to FIG. 2B In other words, when the user’s eye sees the negative contrast signal, the off-pathway of the user’s visual system can be activated. As another example, the negative contrast signal can be provided by changing (e.g., increasing) the spatial frequency of the image.

[0066] According to different embodiments, the term“sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions” used herein can refer to the aggregation of the image portions of the positive contrast regions, and can be denoted as The sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions can stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system when viewed by a viewer. For example, the sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions may stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system when viewed by a viewer. For example, the sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions may refer to the aggregation of image portions of light color stimuli on a dark background (e.g. FIG. 2A may refer to the aggregation of image portions of light color stimuli on a dark background (e.g. may refer to the aggregation of image portions of light color stimuli on a dark background (e.g.

[0067] According to different embodiments, the term "sum of contrast of a plurality of negative contrast regions" used herein can refer to the aggregation of image portions of negative contrast regions and can be denoted as may refer to the aggregation of image portions of light color stimuli on a dark background (e.g. may stimulate the off-pathway of the visual system when viewed by a viewer. For example, the sum of contrast of a plurality of negative contrast regions may refer to the aggregation of image portions of light color stimuli on a dark background (e.g. FIG. 2B may refer to the aggregation of image portions of light color stimuli on a dark background (e.g. may refer to the aggregation of image portions of light color stimuli on a dark background (e.g.

[0068] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B a schematic view of a use condition of the eyewear 100 is shown by way of example. FIG. 1A a schematic view of a perspective view is shown, while FIG. 1B a schematic view of a partial top view section of such use is shown. As FIG. 1A and FIG. 1BThe illustrated exemplary use condition can include the eyewear 100 and the user's eye 110. The eyewear 100 can be in front of the user's eye 110 such that the user's eye 110 receives a visual signal when the user wears the eyewear 100. For example, the user's eye 110 can see a modified image. The eyewear 100 can include at least one lens 130 mounted on a frame 140. The at least one lens 130 can include a light adjustment device 120. The at least one lens can further include a lens 130', or alternatively, the lens 130' can be configured to be different from the lens 130, or can be light adjustment device-free. For example, the light adjustment device 120 can be placed on the at least one lens 130, or on two or more lenses 130, 130'. The light adjustment device 120 can partially or completely change an original image to produce a modified image, and the projected light 150 can include a visual signal on the modified image. For example, the projected light 150 can include a visual signal on the modified image, which can correspond to the original image with modified positive contrast (e.g., an increased number of positive contrast regions) and / or modified contrast on the positive contrast regions. Alternatively, the projected light 150 can include a visual signal on the modified image, which can correspond to the original image with modified contrast on the negative contrast regions.

[0069] Exemplary images stimulating the on and off pathways of the visual system are shown in FIGS. 2A-2D Reference is made to FIG. 2A The on pathway can be stimulated by the presence of a light-colored stimulus 210 (e.g., a white letter "A") on a background 220, which can be, for example, a black background (the black background is represented by a stippled pattern fill, and is provided for illustrative purposes only). The white letter "A" 210 on the background 220 around "A" has positive contrast, which can stimulate the on pathway. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 2B The black text "A" 240 on a white background 250 around "A" has negative contrast, which can stimulate the off pathway. For example, a classic white-on-black can stimulate the off pathway. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B The outline of the light-colored background and letter "A" is provided for illustrative purposes only. According to different embodiments, the on and off pathways of the visual system can also be stimulated by spatial frequencies, which describe the periodic distribution of light and dark colors in an image. As shown in FIG. 2C The distribution of light (e.g., light-colored) regions on dark surrounding regions can stimulate the on pathway. The on pathway also mediates lower spatial frequencies (e.g., FIG. 2C ), which encode coarse levels of detail, e.g., the overall shape of an image (e.g., general orientation and scale). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2DAs illustrated, the distribution of dark regions on a bright (e.g. light) surrounding region can stimulate the off-pathway. The off-pathway also mediates higher spatial frequencies (e.g. FIG. 2D ), which encode fine levels of detail, e.g. sharp edges of an image.

[0070] With reference to FIGS. 1A-2D , the light adjustment device 120 can comprise a light intensity pattern 160 arranged on the light adjustment device 120. The light intensity pattern 160 can be configured to adjust the contrast signal of the retina of the user’s eye 110 in the modified image compared to the original image. For example, the light intensity pattern 160 can provide a modified (e.g. increased) amount of positive contrast signal. For example, the light intensity pattern 160 can be blurred (e.g. reduce high spatial frequency content), or can adjust the contrast of the image or image portions. In other words, the retina of the user’s eye 110 can see a modified image, which can be adjusted to stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system. For example, the modified image can comprise image portions of positive contrast regions, e.g. by modifying negative contrast regions to positive contrast regions. As another example, the modified image can comprise image portions that can be blurred (e.g. reduce high spatial frequency content).

[0071] It has been determined that the stimulation of the off-pathway and the on-pathway of the human eye, which are preferentially stimulated by the visual environment, have different effects on eye physiology and on myopia. The stimulation of the off-pathway in the visual system has been associated with choroidal thinning, eye elongation and myopia progression. On the other hand, the stimulation of the on-pathway in the visual system has been associated with choroidal thickness and emmetropia. In particular, the stimulation of the on-pathway has been associated with a reduction in myopia drift and inhibits the progression of abnormal refraction in the human eye induced by myopia. It is therefore hypothesized that the modulation of the mutual intensity of the off-pathway and the on-pathway has an impact on the occurrence and progression of myopia.

[0072] Advantageously, the eyewear 100 according to different embodiments of the disclosure can provide a device for modulating the mutual intensity of the off-pathway and the on-pathway of the visual system of a user. The eyewear 100 can adjust the contrast of the original image to reduce the intensity of the off-pathway. The eyewear 100 can also adjust the contrast of the original image to increase the intensity (e.g. stimulation) of the on-pathway. Thus, the eyewear 100 can prevent the occurrence of myopia in emmetropic users, or can mitigate the effects of myopia progression in myopic users.

[0073] The different mechanisms by which the eyewear 100 can be used to stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system of a user will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 3-11 .

[0074] FIG. 3A schematic view of a front view of the transmission pattern 300 is shown by way of example. The light intensity pattern 160 can be provided by the transmission pattern 300, according to different embodiments. For example, adjustment of the contrast can be provided by the light intensity pattern 160 resulting from the transmission pattern 300. The transmission pattern 300 can be provided on at least one lens 130 of the eyewear 100. For example, the transmission pattern 300 can be provided on one lens 130, or on two or more lenses 130, 130'. The transmission pattern 300 can comprise an arrangement of a plurality of elements. For example, each element can comprise a region of a surface of the lens 130, 130' having a different refractive index. As another example, each element can be a hole on a surface of the lens 130, 130'. The transmission pattern 300 can comprise a plurality of minority regions 310. The remaining regions not comprising the plurality of minority regions 310 can be referred to as the remaining majority regions 320. For example, the remaining majority regions 320 can comprise the remaining surface of the lens 130, 130' of the eyewear 100 not occupied by an element of the plurality of elements. According to different embodiments, the plurality of minority regions 310 can comprise a pattern, for example, a pattern of holes. The pattern of holes can comprise a plurality of individual holes 330.

[0075] According to different embodiments, each hole 330 can comprise a different geometry. Non-limiting exemplary plan views of such shapes include: a circle, an ellipse, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, or a hexagon. For example, the plurality of minority regions 310 can comprise one geometry or can comprise more than one geometry. As another example, the plurality of minority regions 310 can comprise circular holes 330, or can comprise a mixture of circular, elliptical, and hexagonal holes 330. In the example, a circle has been provided for illustration purposes only. FIG. 3

[0076] According to different embodiments, the size of each hole 330 can be in the range of 0.1 mm to 5 mm in width. For example, the size of each hole 330 can be in the range of 0.1 mm to 3 mm in width, or can be in the range of 0.2 mm to 2 mm in width. The plurality of minority regions 310 can comprise holes 330 of one size, or can comprise holes 330 of different sizes. For example, the plurality of minority regions 310 can comprise holes 330 of 1 mm in width, or can comprise holes 330 of 1 mm and 2 mm in width. The width can be the maximum width.

[0077] ​According to different embodiments, the spacing between individual holes 330 can range from 0 mm (e.g., coalesced) to 10 mm (e.g., spaced apart). For example, the spacing between each hole 330 can range from 0 mm to 5 mm, or can range from 0 mm to 3 mm. The plurality of minority regions 310 can include holes 330 that are spaced apart, or a mixture of coalesced and spaced apart holes 330. For example, the plurality of minority regions 310 can include holes 330 that are spaced apart by 2 mm, or can include coalesced holes 330 and holes 330 that are spaced apart by 2 mm.

[0078] Advantageously, the plurality of minority regions 310 can provide regions of higher light transmission as compared to the remaining majority regions 320. For example, the plurality of minority regions 310 can transmit approximately 99% or more of the incident light intensity, while the remaining majority regions 320 (e.g., the lens 130, 130’) can transmit approximately 96% or more of the light. The plurality of minority regions 310 can provide small areas of higher luminance as compared to the remaining majority regions 320. The transmission pattern 300 can provide a modified (e.g., increased) amount of on-contrast signal to the retina of the eye of the user 110. For example, the transmission pattern can increase the sum of the contrast of the on-contrast regions. As another example, the transmission pattern 300 can blur the image slightly (e.g., reduce high spatial frequency content). Thus, the transmission pattern 300 can stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system.

[0079] According to different embodiments, the plurality of minority regions 310 can be formed by through-holes at regions where individual holes 330 can be formed. The remaining majority regions 320 can not include through-holes. In addition to the different geometries of each hole 330 as described above, the holes 330 formed using through-holes can further include a taper. For example, the plurality of minority regions 310 can include tapered through-holes, or can include tapered and circular through-holes. Masks can be provided to facilitate the formation of the holes 330.

[0080] According to different embodiments, the term “through-hole” as used herein can include the meaning of a physical hole or opening in the lens 130, 130’. For example, a through-hole can refer to a physical space or gap that allows incident light to pass through. Molding or drilling are some non-limiting examples of ways that a through-hole can be formed. Masks can be provided to facilitate the formation of the through-holes.

[0081] According to different embodiments, the holes 330 formed by through-holes can be oriented towards the eye rotation center (ERC). For example, each hole 330 can be positioned such that the plurality of minority regions 310 as a whole can be aligned towards the ERC. This orientation can provide additional power near the central vision of the user (e.g., within the fovea).

[0082] According to different embodiments, the holes 330 formed by the through-holes can not be oriented towards the ERC. For example, the various holes 330 can be randomly or unevenly arranged on the lens 130. Since the through-holes can not be oriented towards the ERC, additional power can be provided near the central vision of the user (e.g. within the fovea) as well as near the peripheral vision (e.g. outside the fovea). Thus, the variation in orientation of the holes 330 formed by the through-holes to the ERC can create myopic defocus in front of the retina of the eye 110 of the user. Further, the random alternation of holes 330 formed by the through-holes in the lens 130 can also randomize the transmission of light, for example, by randomizing the path of the light rays.

[0083] According to different embodiments, the walls of the holes 330 formed by the through-holes can comprise a coating. For example, the circumference of the holes 330 can or can not be coated. For example, the walls of the holes 330 can be coated with a mirror to form a light guide which can change (e.g. increase) the amount of light on the retina of the eye 110 of the user. For another example, the walls of the holes 330 can be coated with a non-reflective coating (e.g. an AR coating) which can allow a higher light transmission through the minority regions 310 compared to the rest of the majority regions 320.

[0084] According to different embodiments, the lens 130, 130' comprising the plurality of minority regions 310 formed by the through-holes can be coated with a protective coating on at least one surface of the lens 130, 130'. For example, one or both surfaces of the lens 130, 130' can be coated with a protective coating. Non-limiting examples of protective coatings can include a transparent film or an additional lens. Accordingly, dust from the environment cannot enter the plurality of minority regions 310.

[0085] Advantageously, the transmission pattern 300 comprising the plurality of minority regions 310 formed by the through-holes can provide a higher light transmission compared to the rest of the majority regions 320 (e.g. the lens 130, 130') and can change (e.g. increase) the on-contrast signal amount for the retina of the eye of the user 110 to stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system. Moreover, the plurality of minority regions 310 can provide additional benefits of myopia control for the user. Since the through-holes do not have a corrective power, the light passing through the transmission pattern 300 can form myopic defocus in front of the retina of the eye 110 of the user, for example, by reducing hyperopic defocus and / or forming peripheral defocus, which can act as a supplementary signal to prevent eye elongation and thus progression of myopia.

[0086] According to different embodiments, the plurality of minority regions 310 can be formed by a coating. The plurality of minority regions 310 can be formed by depositing a coating on the regions that can form the individual apertures 330, or alternatively, on the remaining majority regions 320. For example, an AR coating can be deposited on the surface of the lens 130, 130' to form the individual apertures 330. As an alternative example, an absorptive coating can be deposited on the surface of the lens 130, 130' at the regions that can form the remaining majority regions 320. According to different embodiments, both the plurality of minority regions 310 and the remaining majority regions 320 can be formed by a coating. For example, a first coating can be deposited to form the plurality of minority regions 310, and a second coating can be deposited to form the remaining majority regions 320.

[0087] According to different embodiments, the term "coating" used herein can include the meaning of depositing a material so as to form a layer (e.g., material from a solution, or material from a gas or vapor phase, to form a layer on the lens 130, 130'), and can include the meaning of laminating a pre-formed layer (e.g., adhesive fixation of an anti-reflective (AR) coating formed on a temporary substrate on the lens 130). Some non-limiting examples of depositing a material to form a layer are: thin film coating, spin coating, sputtering, inkjet printing, physical vapor deposition. A mask can be provided to facilitate the deposition of the coating.

[0088] According to different embodiments, the transmission pattern 300 can be non-rotationally and translationally symmetric. For example, two or more apertures 330 can be arranged in a uniform manner to form a pattern group, and each pattern group can be repeated on the lens 130, 130' in a non-uniform manner. For example, a first pattern group can be spaced apart from a second pattern group by 1 mm. A third pattern group can be spaced apart from the second pattern group by a narrower or a farther distance (e.g., a variation of ± 10%, 0.9 mm or 1.1 mm). Thus, the plurality of minority regions 310 can include a plurality of uniform patterns arranged on the lens 130, 130' in a non-uniform manner. Alternatively, each aperture 330 can be arranged randomly (e.g., irregularly). For example, the apertures 330 on the lens 130, 130' can be misaligned. Since the transmission pattern 300 can be non-rotationally and translationally symmetric, diffraction of light can be avoided. Thus, the transmission pattern 300 does not distort or distort the original image, but only adjusts the contrast of the original image, thereby allowing a user to easily identify and recognize the content of the modified image.

[0089] Advantageously, the transmissive pattern 300 can provide a way to stimulate the on-path of the user’s visual system by providing a pattern that causes a polarity of contrast. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the transmissive pattern 300 can change the ratio of off-path and on-path stimulation. For example, the transmissive pattern 300 can reduce the stimulation of the off-path, while increasing the stimulation of the on-path. For example, the transmissive pattern 300 can provide a modified image that can correspond to the original image with inverted contrast. As another example, the transmissive pattern 300 can provide a modified image that can include image portions that can be blurred (e.g., reduce high spatial frequency content).

[0090] FIG. 4 A schematic of a front view of a light emission pattern 400 is shown by way of example. According to different embodiments, the light intensity pattern 160 can be provided by the light emission pattern 400 to provide a modified (e.g., increased) amount of positive contrast signal to stimulate the on-path. The light emission pattern 400 can be disposed on at least one lens 130 of the eyewear. For example, the light emission pattern 400 can be disposed on one lens 130, or on both lenses 130, 130’. The light emission pattern 400 can include a light source, and can further include a plurality of light reflectors 420. The light source can include one or more light emitters 410. For example, the light emission pattern 400 can include a light source with one light emitter 410, and can include two or more light reflectors 420. As another example, the light emission pattern 400 can include an equal number of light emitters 410 and light reflectors 420.

[0091] According to different embodiments, the light source including one or more light emitters 410 can be configured to provide a small spot on the retina of the user’s eye 110. The light source including one or more light emitters 410 can include light emitting diodes (LEDs, e.g., micro-LEDs), and / or lasers. For example, the LEDs and lasers can have different frequencies (e.g., red, green, white) within the visible spectrum. As another example, the intensity of the light source including one or more light emitters 410 can be configured to adapt to different intensities of ambient (e.g., environmental) light. According to different embodiments, the light source including one or more light emitters 410 can further include a fluorescent or diffuse spot. For example, the fluorescent or diffuse spot can be illuminated by ambient light, LEDs, and / or lasers.

[0092] According to different embodiments, the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 can be arranged on the eyewear 100 and can generate the light emission pattern 400. The light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 can be directly inlaid (e.g., embedded) in the lens 130, 130'. Alternatively, the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 can be arranged on the eyewear 100, close to the nose of the user or close to the light adjustment device 120. For example, the one or more light emitters 410 can be arranged on the frame 140, or on the bridge or the temple arms of the eyewear 100.

[0093] According to different embodiments, a plurality of light reflectors 420 can be provided to reflect light from the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 to generate the light emission pattern 400. The plurality of light reflectors 420 can comprise objects that do not form light but can reflect light (e.g., a smooth shiny surface). The plurality of light reflectors 420 can be configured to reflect light towards the pupil of the eye of the user and can provide a small bright spot on the retina of the eye 110 of the user. The reflectivity of the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be configured depending on the power of the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410. For example, the reflectivity of the light reflectors 420 can be reduced when used with a high power light source comprising one or more light emitters 410.

[0094] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can comprise prisms (e.g., micro-prisms), liquid crystals, mirrors (e.g., micro-mirrors) and can further comprise lenses (e.g., micro-lenses). The plurality of light reflectors 420 can be selected from one type of light reflector 420, or can comprise a combination of different types of light reflectors 420. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can comprise prisms, or can comprise a combination of prisms and mirrors.

[0095] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can have a size in the range of 0.1 mm to 5 mm. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can have a size in the range of 0.1 mm to 2 mm, or can have a size in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm. The indicated size of the light reflectors 420 can minimize distortion of the original image while providing sufficient light to stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system of the user, allowing the user to easily recognize and discern the content of the modified image.

[0096] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be configured to have a narrow reflective optical band centered at the wavelength of the light source comprising the one or more light emitters 410. For example, for a light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 with a wavelength of 450 nm (e.g., blue light), the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be configured such that the reflective optical band is centered at the wavelength of the blue light (e.g., 450 nm ± 20 nm, within the range of 430 nm to 470 nm). By tailoring the optical band of the light reflectors 420, the effect on the transparency of the lens 130, 130’ can be minimized.

[0097] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be designed to reflect light of a predetermined specific wavelength. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can reflect light with a wavelength of 550 nm ± 10 nm (e.g., yellow light), and can not reflect light of other wavelengths (e.g., 700 nm ± 10 nm, red light or 400 nm ± 10 nm, violet light). According to different embodiments, each lens 130, 130’ can comprise light reflectors 420 that reflect light of a specific wavelength, or can further comprise light reflectors 420 that reflect light of different specific wavelengths. For example, each lens 130, 130’ can comprise light reflectors 420 configured to reflect light with a wavelength of 550 nm ± 10 nm (e.g., yellow light), or a mix of light reflectors 420 that reflect light with a wavelength of 550 nm ± 10 nm and 700 nm ± 10 nm (e.g., yellow light and red light). Accordingly, the distortion of the original image can be minimized while providing sufficient light to cause a contrast polarity and stimulate the on-pathway of the user’s visual system.

[0098] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be coated with an interference layer, for example, a multi-layer interference layer. The interference layer can prevent or reduce constructive or destructive interference of each reflected light ray from the plurality of light reflectors 420, and can thus increase the ratio of reflected light provided to the retina of the eye 110 of the user.

[0099] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can further comprise a spherical power (e.g. -10 D) which can provide myopia correction. Light from the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 can be imaged at different distances when compared to the distance between the retina of the user’s eye 110 and the lens 130, 130’. As a result, small spots can be projected onto the retina of the user’s eye 110. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 for a myopic user can be configured to be imaged at 30 cm from the retina of the user’s eye 110. In other words, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can adjust the focus for a myopic user. According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can further provide an adjustment of the color to adapt to the user’s environment.

[0100] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can cover 0.1% to 50% of the surface area of the lens 130, 130’. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can cover 0.1% to 40%, or can cover 0.1% to 30% of the surface area of the lens 130, 130’. In other words, the ratio of the total surface area of the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be between 0.1% to 30% of the lens 130, 130’, for example. A lower ratio (e.g. a lower number of light reflectors 420) can provide less visual distortion of the original image, while a higher ratio (e.g. a higher number of light reflectors 420) can provide a more efficient myopia correction for the user.

[0101] According to different embodiments, the density of the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be different on different areas of the lens 130, 130’. For example, the density at the bottom portion of the lens 130, 130’ can be higher than the density at the top portion of the lens 130, 130’. In other words, the bottom portion of the lens 130 can comprise a higher number of light reflectors 420 when compared to the top portion of the lens 130. This can be useful for the user as the bottom portion of the lens 130 can be used more when the user can be writing or reading.

[0102] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be arranged at different areas in the lens 130, 130’ to adapt to different eye directions that can be adopted by the user. For example, a first group of light reflectors 420 can be provided to reflect light when the eye direction of the user is lowered (e.g. reading), and a second group can be provided to reflect light when the user is looking forward (e.g. distance vision). As a result, the stimulation of the on-path can be provided at all times, regardless of the eye position of the user.

[0103] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be arranged on or in the lens 130, 130' of the eyewear 100 to generate the light emission pattern 400. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be arranged on a surface of the lens 130, 130' that can face the eye of the user.

[0104] According to different embodiments, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be directly inlaid (e.g., embedded) in the lens 130. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be encapsulated or surrounded in the lens 130 during a manufacturing process. According to one embodiment, the plurality of light reflectors 420, which can comprise prisms, can be encapsulated by injection molding, casting or freeform cutting process. According to another embodiment, the plurality of light reflectors 420, which can comprise mirrors, can be encapsulated by arranging the mirrors on the front half of the lens (e.g., using a mask with a tilted spread angle), then adding the back half of the lens 130, 130' to encapsulate the mirrors.

[0105] According to different embodiments, the precise placement of the plurality of light reflectors 420 on the lens 130 can be facilitated by optical means configured to record the light rays emitted from the source (e.g., the original image) and the light emission pattern 400 (e.g., the hologram).

[0106] According to different embodiments, the light emission pattern 400 can be non-rotationally and translationally symmetric. For example, the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 and the plurality of light reflectors 420 can be arranged in a uniform manner to form pattern groups, and each pattern group can be repeated on the lens 130, 130' in a non-uniform manner. For example, a first pattern group can be spaced apart from a second pattern group by 1 mm. A third pattern group can be spaced apart from the second pattern group by a narrower or a further distance (e.g., a variation of ± 10%, e.g., 0.9 mm or 1.1 mm). Thus, the light emission pattern 400 can comprise a plurality of pattern groups arranged on the lens 130, 130'. Alternatively, the light source comprising the light emitters 410 and the light reflectors 420 can be arranged randomly. For example, the plurality of light reflectors 420 can not be aligned with each other and can not be aligned with the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410. Since the light emission pattern 400 can be non-rotationally and translationally symmetric, adverse light diffraction can be avoided. Thus, the light emission pattern 400 does not distort or distort the original image, but only changes the contrast of the original image, thereby allowing the user to easily identify and recognize the content of the modified image.

[0107] FIGS. 5A-5C Exemplary non-limiting schematic views showing different arrangements of the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 and the plurality of light reflectors 420 on the eyewear 100 that can generate the light emission pattern 400 are shown.

[0108] As illustrated in the example of FIG. 5A , a light source comprising one light emitter 410a can be disposed on the frame 140 near the temple of the user and a plurality of light reflectors 420 can be arranged on the surface of the lens 130 facing the eye of the user. In the example of FIG. 5B , a light source comprising one light emitter 410b can be directly inlaid at the base of the lens 130. A plurality of light reflectors 420 can also be directly inlaid in the lens 130. Further, as illustrated in the example of FIG. 5C , the same number of light sources comprising a plurality of light emitters 410c and a plurality of light reflectors 420 can be provided. For example, each light reflector 420 can be illuminated by a light source comprising one light emitter 410c. In the examples provided by FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B , a light source comprising one light emitter 410a can be sufficient to illuminate (e.g. a high-power LED) a plurality of light reflectors 420 and the reflectivity of the light reflectors 420 can be reduced. In the examples of FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C , a light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 can be directly inlaid in the lens 130 and thus the effects of adverse disturbances can be reduced. For example, the lens 130 can protect the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 from being soiled (e.g. by the fingerprint of the user while operating the eye-wear 100) or from the effects of stray beams that can fall between the lens 130 and the eye 110 of the user. FIGS. 5A-5C The arrangements illustrated in

[0109] According to different embodiments, the eye-wear 100 can comprise a sensor that can activate the light emission pattern 400. The sensor can be a motion sensor, for example an accelerometer for measuring linear acceleration and tilt angle. Non-limiting examples of accelerometers include: single-axis accelerometers and multi-axis accelerometers. For example, the accelerometer can detect a change in the position of the head of the user (e.g. lowering the gaze during reading) and activate the light source comprising one or more light emitters 410 to illuminate the lens 130, 130' to stimulate the on-pathway of the visual system of the user.

[0110] Advantageously, the light emission pattern 400 according to different embodiments of the disclosure can stimulate the on-pathway of the user's visual system by inducing a contrast polarity. The light emission pattern 400 can modify the user's visual environment by providing a stimulus that modifies (e.g., increases) the peripheral luminance and adjusts the contrast of the original image. For example, the light emission pattern 400 can provide small spots (e.g., long focal length) on the retina of the user's eye 110 to stimulate the on-pathway of the user's visual system. These small spots also preserve the details of the original image while stimulating the on-pathway of the user. In other words, the modified image provided to the user's eye can include the original image with a plurality of pixels within the original image modified. For example, the modified image can correspond to the original image with inverted contrast. Further, the light emission pattern 400 can be configured to provide myopia correction using a reflector with a spherical power. The light emission pattern 400 can also stimulate the on-pathway of the user's visual system by blurring (e.g., reducing high spatial frequency content) and / or changing (e.g., increasing or decreasing) the spatial frequency of portions of the image. Accordingly, the light emission pattern 400 can provide a device for both myopia control and correction.

[0111] According to different embodiments, the eyewear 100 comprising the transmission pattern 300 and / or the light emission pattern 400 can be electronic passive. Advantageously, the on-pathway of the user's visual system does not require a power supply, for example, but by an external power supply or by a battery. Thus, the electronic passive eyewear 100 can be mobile as the user does not have to take into account the requirement of an external power supply easily available, or the need to change the battery.

[0112] FIG. 6 A schematic view of an eyewear 100 according to another embodiment is shown by way of example. The eyewear 100 can further comprise an image sensor 610, an image processing circuit 620 and an image projector 630. The eyewear 100 can be based on the transmission pattern 300 and / or the light emission pattern 400 described above. The image sensor 610 can be configured to capture an image of the user's visual environment. The image processing circuit 620 can be configured to process the image captured by the image sensor 610. The image projector 630 can be configured to project the processed image on the user's eye 110. The image projector 630 can be configured to project the processed image on the user's eye 110 by using the transmission pattern 300 and / or the light emission pattern 400. FIGS. 1A-5CThe eyewear 100 is described and repetitive descriptions will be omitted. The image sensor 610, the image processing circuit 620 and the image projector 630 can be integrated on the eyewear 100. For example, the image sensor 610, the image processing circuit 620 and the image projector 630 can be on the frame 140 of the eyewear 100, for example on the front portion of the frame 140 of the eyewear 100. The image sensor 610 can be a sensor that detects the raw image and transmits the raw image to the image processing circuit 620. The image processing circuit 620 can be configured to modify the raw image to produce a modified image, for example, the image processing circuit 620 can include an algorithm for producing the modified image. Moreover, the image processing circuit 620 can also be configured to control the light emission pattern 400 and control when the modified image can be provided to the retina of the eye 110 of the user. The image processing circuit 620 can be further configured to transmit the modified image to the image projector 630. Then, the image projector 630 can project the modified image for the user to see the modified image when wearing the eyewear 100. For example, the image projector 630 can generate the light emission pattern 400.

[0113] According to different embodiments, the image sensor 610 can be connected to the image processing circuit 620. The image sensor 610 can be within a camera, for example a digital camera located on the front portion of the frame 140. The lens of the camera can focus and direct the incident light emitted from the raw image onto the image sensor 610. For example, the image sensor 610 can include millions of pixels to sense the light and can further include a mosaic color filter to sense different colors from the raw image. For example, the image sensor 610 can include red, blue, green, yellow filters. The image sensor 610 can be a solid-state device that converts light waves into electrical signals to form a digital image of the raw image. For example, the image sensor 610 can include a charge-coupled sensor (e.g., CCD), an active pixel sensor (e.g., CMOS sensor), a LiveMOS sensor. The image sensor 610 can transmit the digital image of the raw image to the image processing circuit 620.

[0114] According to different embodiments, the circuitry can comprise analog circuitry or components, digital circuitry or components, or mixed circuitry or components. According to alternative embodiments, any other type of implementation of the respective functionality, which will be described in more detail below, can also be understood as "circuitry". Digital circuitry can be understood as any type of logic- implementing entity, which can be a special-purpose circuit or a processor executing software, firmware, or any combination thereof stored in memory. Thus, in different embodiments, "digital circuitry" can be hard-wired logic circuitry or programmable logic circuitry, such as a programmable processor, e.g., a microprocessor (e.g., a complex instruction set computer (CISC) processor or a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) processor). "Digital circuitry" can also include a processor executing software, e.g., any type of computer program, e.g., using virtual machine code, such as Java.

[0115] FIG. 7 An example of an algorithm 700 that can be implemented by the image processing circuitry 620 is illustrated according to different embodiments. The algorithm can be implemented to produce a modified image. The algorithm 700 can comprise, in step 710, mapping a plurality of positive contrast regions within the original image. For example, the contrast of a region within the original image, at its center and periphery, can be measured, and the relative contrast of the region at its center and periphery can be expressed as a "measured positive contrast threshold". The measurement can be performed over a predetermined spatial frequency range, e.g., in the range of 0.1 cycles / visual angle degree (cpd) to 60 cpd, e.g., in the range of 0.5 cpd to 30 cpd. When the measured positive contrast threshold exceeds a predetermined positive contrast threshold, a map of positive contrast regions can be mapped. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2C Examples of positive contrast regions are provided. In other words, the plurality of positive contrast regions can stimulate the ON-pathway of the visual system.

[0116] The algorithm 700 can further comprise, in step 720, mapping, mapping a plurality of negative contrast regions within the original image. For example, the contrast of a region within the original image, at its periphery and center, can be measured, and the relative contrast of the region at its periphery and center can be expressed as a "measured negative contrast threshold". The measurement can be performed over a predetermined spatial frequency range, e.g., in the range of 0.1 cpd to 60 cpd, e.g., in the range of 0.5 cpd to 30 cpd. When the measured negative contrast threshold exceeds a predetermined negative contrast threshold, a map of negative contrast regions can be mapped. FIG. 2B and FIG. 2D Examples of negative contrast regions are provided. In other words, the plurality of negative contrast regions can stimulate the OFF-pathway of the visual system.

[0117] According to different embodiments, the mapping of the plurality of positive contrast regions and the plurality of negative contrast regions can be provided by implementing an edge detection algorithm on the original image. The edge detection algorithm can have a predetermined kernel size. For example, the edge detection algorithm can comprise a Laplacian of Gaussian (LoG) filter. The LoG filter can highlight regions of rapid intensity variation and provide edge detection in the original image. Since the Laplacian filter can be sensitive to noise, certain regions of the original image can be smoothed by applying a Gaussian filter prior to applying the Laplacian filter.

[0118] The algorithm 700 can comprise, in a step 730, computing a modified image by modifying the original image on the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions to obtain a global difference between the first global ratio GR1 and the second global ratio GR2. For example, the modified image can be computed by modifying a plurality of regions of the on-path of stimulation (e.g. light stimuli on a dark background, and / or image portions of low spatial frequency). As another example, the modified image can be computed by modifying a plurality of regions of the off-path of stimulation (e.g. dark stimuli on a light background, and / or image portions of high spatial frequency). For example, the modified image can comprise a target modified image, which can correspond to the original image comprising an equal or higher proportion of positive contrast regions compared to negative contrast regions. For example, the modified image can comprise a complete contrast inversion of the original image. As another example, the target modified image can correspond to the original image comprising image portions that can be blurred (e.g. reducing high spatial frequency content). In other examples, the target modified image can correspond to the original image comprising image portions having a modified spatial frequency. For example, the spatial frequency of the image can be increased. In another example, the spatial frequency of the image can be decreased. The target modified image can be stored on the eyewear 100, for example within a memory disposed on the eyewear 100. According to different embodiments, the modified image can be a superposition of the original image and the target modified image.

[0119] The step 730 can also be configured to obtain the first global ratio GR1, which can be defined as a difference between a sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions of the original image and a sum of contrasts of the plurality of negative contrast regions For example, the aggregation of positive contrast regions of the on-path of stimulation (e.g. mapped in the step 710) and the aggregation of negative contrast regions of the off-path of stimulation (e.g. mapped in the step 720) can be obtained. The sum of contrasts of the plurality of positive contrast regions of the original image and the sum of contrasts of the plurality of negative contrast regions The differences can be determined to obtain a first overall ratio GR1. In other words, the first overall ratio GR1 represents the difference between all regions of the stimulation-activated pathway and all regions of the stimulation-deactivated pathway within the original image; for example, GR1 = - .

[0120] Step 730 can also be configured to obtain a second overall ratio GR2, which is defined as the sum of the contrasts of multiple positive contrast regions of the modified image. The sum of the contrasts of multiple negative contrast regions The difference between them. The sum of positive contrast areas. The sum of negative contrast regions As described in steps 710 and 720, a map can be plotted in the modified image, and the aggregation of positive contrast regions of stimulus-on pathways and negative contrast regions of stimulus-off pathways in the modified image can be obtained. The sum of the positive contrast regions of the modified image... Sum of negative contrast areas The differences between them can be determined to obtain a second overall ratio GR2. In other words, the second overall ratio GR2 represents the difference between all regions of the stimulation-enabled pathways of the modified image and all regions of the stimulation-disabled pathways of the visual system; for example, GR2 = - .

[0121] At step 730, algorithm 700 may further include determining the overall difference, which can be defined as the difference between a first overall ratio G1 and a second overall ratio G2, for example, overall difference = GR1 - GR2. In other words, the overall difference may be the sum of multiple positive contrast regions of the modified image. The sum of multiple negative contrast regions The comparison between the two is the sum of multiple positive contrast regions in the original image. The sum of multiple negative contrast regions The comparison between the original and modified images allows the overall differences to be used to obtain parameters that must be made to the original image to produce the desired modified image. For example, comparing the original and modified images enables the image processing circuitry 620 to determine what adjustments must be made in the eyewear 100 to produce the desired modified image.

[0122] Based on the overall difference obtained at step 730, at step 740, algorithm 700 may include the calculation of adjustment parameters for further modifying the original image. The adjustment parameters may include parameters for modifying the original image to produce the desired modified image. FIGS. 8A-9CA diagram showing adjustment parameters that can be used to obtain a modified image is shown by way of example and will be explained below.

[0123] FIG. 8A Region 800 can be represented within the original image and can be a positive or negative contrast region. Region 800 can include a center 810 of the region and can also include a surrounding region 820 that can surround the center 810. According to different embodiments, the adjustment parameters can include modifying the light intensity of the center 810 of the region. For example, the light intensity of the center 810 of the region can be modified to be brighter or can be modified to be darker such that the difference in contrast between the center 810 and the surrounding region 820 can be reduced. As another example, a negative contrast region can be changed to a positive contrast region.

[0124] FIG. 8B Region 830 can be represented within the original image and can be a positive or negative contrast region. Region 830 can include a center 840 of the region and can also include a surrounding region 850 that can surround the center 840. According to different embodiments, the adjustment parameters can include modifying the light intensity of the surrounding region 850 of the region. For example, the light intensity of the surrounding portion 850 can be modified to be brighter or can be modified to be darker such that the difference in contrast between the center 840 and the surrounding region 850 can be reduced. As another example, a negative contrast region can be changed to a positive contrast region.

[0125] According to different embodiments, the adjustment parameters can include blurring (e.g., reducing high spatial frequency content) of a positive contrast region, or a negative contrast region. For example, the borders of a positive contrast region or a negative contrast region can be blurred to reduce the difference in contrast between the region and the surrounding portion of the image, which will be explained with reference to FIGS. 9A-9C As another example, an image interpolation algorithm can be applied to the edges around a positive or negative contrast region to blur the edges.

[0126] FIGS. 9A-9C A diagram showing modification of an image by the image processing circuit 620 is shown by way of example. FIG. 9A An original image 900a can be represented, FIG. 9B An original image including a drawing of multiple negative contrast regions 900b can be represented, and FIG. 9C A modified image 900c can be represented. The original image 900a can include a negative contrast region 910 (e.g., a dark stimulus on a light background). For example, the negative contrast region 910 can include a man's hat and tie in the original image 900a. Reference is made to FIG. 6 , FIG. 7 and FIG. 9BImage processing circuitry 620 can be configured at step 720 to map a plurality of negative contrast regions in the original image 900a. A map of negative contrast region 910 can be drawn if it has a surrounding contrast to its center exceeding a predetermined negative contrast threshold. For example, the contrast of the area surrounding hat 920 to hat 910 itself (e.g., its center) can exceed a predetermined negative contrast threshold, and therefore, the negative contrast region can be mapped. A similar process can be performed to map the remaining negative contrast regions in the original image 900a (e.g., the tie area mapped in image 900b). Image processing circuitry 620 can be further configured to obtain an overall difference at step 730 and calculate adjustment parameters based on the overall difference at step 740. According to various embodiments, the adjustment parameters may include blurring of the negative contrast regions (e.g., reducing high spatial frequency content). FIG. 9C As shown in the modified image 900c, the edge adjacent to the negative contrast region 910 can be blurred 940, thereby reducing the contrast difference between the areas surrounding the negative contrast region 910 and the negative contrast region 920. The boundary surrounding the blurred region 940 is for illustrative purposes only.

[0127] According to various embodiments, the modified image may correspond to an original image with modified (e.g., increased) positive contrast. For example, the modified image may correspond to an image portion of the original image having a corresponding positive contrast region. For example, the modified image may include a positive contrast region in proportion equal to or greater than the proportion of negative contrast regions in the modified image. As another example, the modified image may correspond to an original image with inverted contrast. According to various embodiments, the modified (e.g., increased) positive contrast may also be provided by altering (e.g., increasing or decreasing) the spatial frequency, and / or blurring (e.g., reducing high spatial frequency content) the negative contrast region or the positive contrast region. Accordingly, when a user wears the eye-worn device 100, the conduction pathways of the user's visual system can be stimulated.

[0128] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 can modify certain portions of the original image. For example, instead of modifying all positive or negative contrast regions in the original image, the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to modify only the periphery of the positive or negative contrast regions in the original image. As another example, contrast reversal, spatial frequency alteration (e.g., increase or decrease), and / or blurring of positive or negative contrast regions (e.g., reduction of high spatial frequency content) can be provided within 20 degrees outside the viewing angle of the original image. Therefore, the image processing circuit 620 does not destroy or distort the original image, but only alters certain portions of the original image, thereby allowing the user to easily see and recognize the content of the modified image.

[0129] According to various embodiments, the eyewear 100 may further include an image projector 630. The image projector 630 may include optical devices connected to the image processing circuitry 620 to project a modified image (or move a modified image) in real time. For example, the image projector 630 may be a digital image projector that uses a laser to project the modified image to stimulate the conduction pathways of the user's visual system. The image projector 630 may project the modified image onto a projection screen, for example, on lenses 130, 130' of the eyewear 100. The image projector 630 may further include a retinal projector (e.g., a virtual retinal display) that may project the modified image directly onto the retina of the user's eye 110. Non-limiting examples of image projectors include liquid crystal display projectors, liquid crystal on silicon projectors, and digital light processing projectors. According to various embodiments, the image projector 630 may generate a light emission pattern 400.

[0130] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 may be further configured to control the light intensity pattern 160, for example, the light emission pattern 400. (See reference) FIGS. 5A-6 In some embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 may keep the light source disabled (or the light source may be omitted entirely), such that, according to different embodiments, the modified image can be projected onto the clear lenses 130, 130'. Alternatively or further, the image processing circuit 620 may be configured to activate a light source including one or more light emitters 410a, 410b, 410c, such that the light emission pattern 400 and / or the modified image generated by the image processing circuit 620 can be used.

[0131] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to control when the modified image can be provided to the user. For example, the image processing circuit 620 can be activated to provide the modified image when the ratio of on-pathways to off-pathways (on / off ratio) is below a predetermined on / off threshold, and deactivated once the on / off ratio is greater than the predetermined threshold (e.g., when on-pathways dominate, or when on-pathways and off-pathways are balanced). According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 can also be activated or deactivated after a predetermined duration threshold.

[0132] FIG. 10 A plot 1000 showing an example of a mechanism to determine the predetermined on / off threshold is shown. The x-axis of the plot 1000 can represent the radial frequency (RF radius, measured in pixels) which can be a measure of the granularity of the image. For example, a higher RF radius (e.g., > 5 pixels) can represent areas of lower spatial frequency (e.g., coarse details), while a lower RF radius (e.g., < 5 pixels) can represent areas of higher spatial frequency (e.g., fine, sharp details) within the image. A radius threshold of 5 pixels is used to illustrate the present embodiments, however another predetermined radius threshold can also be used, for example, greater than 2 pixels. The y-axis of the plot 700 can represent the on / off ratio of the image. For example, an image can contain areas that stimulate both the on-pathways and off-pathways of the visual system. A higher on / off ratio (e.g., > 1) can indicate that the image contains a higher proportion of areas that stimulate the on-pathways (e.g., on-pathways dominate) compared to areas that stimulate the off-pathways. Conversely, a lower on / off ratio (e.g., < 1) can indicate that the image contains a lower proportion of areas that stimulate the on-pathways (e.g., off-pathways dominate) compared to areas that stimulate the off-pathways. Curves 1010 and 1020 can represent the on / off ratio at different RF radii within an indoor and outdoor environment, respectively. The plot 1000 indicates that visual images in an outdoor environment (e.g., curve 1020) provide a higher on / off ratio compared to visual images in an indoor environment (e.g., curve 1010). For example, the predetermined on / off threshold that can be used by the image processing circuit 620 to start modifying the image can be an on / off threshold of 1.5. To illustrate, the image processing circuit 620 can be activated to provide the modified image once the on / off ratio of the original image is below 1.5, and deactivated and stop providing the modified image once the on / off ratio of the original image exceeds 1.5.

[0133] Depending on the implementation, the predetermined on / off threshold can be user-specific, for example, based on the severity of the myopia, the user's myopia risk, or environmental factors. For example, the on / off threshold may be higher (e.g., ≥ 1.6) for myopic users or users with a genetic predisposition to myopia. As another example, the on / off threshold may be higher (e.g., ≥ 1.8) for users who spend most of their time indoors.

[0134] According to various embodiments, the eye-wearing device 100 can continuously monitor the on- and off-paths of the original image seen by the user, for example, by estimating the stimulation of the on- and off-paths based on the original image. As another example, the image sensor 610 can continuously transmit the original image in real time to the image processing circuit 620 for mapping positive and negative contrast regions (e.g., FIG. 7 Steps 710 and 720). The image processing circuit 620 can be configured to modify the original image if the on / off ratio is lower than a predetermined on / off threshold. In other words, the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide a modified image (e.g., perform...) if the on / off threshold is lower than a predetermined on / off threshold. FIG. 7 (Steps 730 and 740). According to different embodiments, once the on / off ratio exceeds a predetermined on / off threshold, the image processing circuit 620 may stop providing the modified image.

[0135] According to different embodiments, examples of different control parameters for eyewear 100 based on on / off thresholds and / or predetermined durations will be provided below.

[0136] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 can continuously provide modified images while the user wears the eye-worn device 100. For example, the image processing circuit 620 can provide modified images regardless of whether the user is engaged in an activity primarily dominated by the conduction pathway or an activity dominated by the deactivation pathway. Therefore, the conduction pathways of the user's visual system can be continuously stimulated. This may be beneficial for users with severe myopia, as continuous stimulation of the conduction pathways can slow the progression of myopia.

[0137] According to different embodiments, when a user engages in activities that primarily stimulate the shutdown pathway, the image processing circuit 620 can provide modified images for a predetermined period of time. For example, when a user starts playing a computer game (e.g., when the shutdown pathway is dominant), the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide modified images for the first 15 minutes of the computer game.

[0138] According to different embodiments, when the user engages in activities that stimulate the off-pathway (e.g., reading classic white-on-black text), the on / off ratio can be lower than the predetermined on / off ratio, and the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide the modified image immediately. When the user stops reading and engages in activities that can provide a balance between the on-pathway and the off-pathway, or activities that preferentially stimulate the on-pathway, the image processing circuit 620 can stop modifying the original image immediately.

[0139] According to different embodiments, when the user engages in activities that stimulate the off-pathway, the on / off ratio can be lower than the predetermined on / off ratio, and the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide the modified image after a predetermined duration, e.g., 10 minutes after the user starts the activities. When the user stops reading and engages in activities that can provide a balance between the on-pathway and the off-pathway, or activities that preferentially stimulate the on-pathway, the image processing circuit 620 can stop modifying the original image immediately.

[0140] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide the modified image within a time window. For example, when the user engages in activities that predominantly stimulate the off-pathway, the modified image can be provided within a time window to avoid sudden contrast inversion, changed (e.g., increased or decreased) spatial frequency, and / or blurring (e.g., reducing high spatial frequency content) of the image. For example, during the first 15 minutes after the user starts the activities that predominantly stimulate the off-pathway, the user can see both the original image and the modified image simultaneously.

[0141] According to different embodiments, the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide the modified image according to a periodic contrast pattern. FIG. 11 A plot 1100 of periodic contrast inversion according to different embodiments is shown by way of example. A line 1120 can represent when the image processing circuit 620 starts modifying the image, e.g., when the on / off ratio is lower than the predetermined on / off threshold (e.g., the off-pathway is dominant). A line 1130 can represent the slowing down of the provision of the modified image. In other words, the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide the modified image immediately and slow down the provision of the modified image to the user within a time window. For example, the line 1120 can represent the duration when the user sees only the modified image, and the line 1130 can represent the duration when the user sees both the original image and the modified image. The periodic contrast inversion can be repeated as long as the user engages in activities that predominantly stimulate the off-pathway. According to different embodiments, the frequency of the periodic contrast inversion can be in the range of 0.5 Hz to 2 Hz, e.g., 0.5 Hz to 1 Hz.

[0142] According to different embodiments, the eyewear 100 can further comprise a light sensor. The light sensor can measure the illumination, i.e. the brightness of the light source. For example, the light sensor can detect whether the user can be in an outdoor or indoor environment. For example, an outdoor environment can provide a higher illumination (e.g. > 1000 lux) compared to an indoor environment (e.g. < 1000 lux). Non-limiting examples of light sensors include: photovoltaic cells, phototransistors, photoresistors, phototubes, photodiodes. The light sensor can be connected to the image processing circuit 620 and the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide a modified image when it detects that the user is indoors (e.g. measured brightness < 1000 lux).

[0143] According to different embodiments, the eyewear 100 can further comprise a detection device (e.g. determination circuit) that can detect whether the user is in an outdoor or indoor environment. The intrinsic statistical structure of natural images in an outdoor environment can be different from images in an indoor environment. The eyewear 100 can comprise such a detection device and the image processing circuit 620 can be configured to provide a modified image when it detects that the user is indoors. Accordingly, the modified image of the on-pathway of stimulation can be provided only in an indoor environment.

[0144] Advantageously, the eyewear 100 comprising the image sensor 610, the image processing circuit 620 and the image projector 630 can provide a real-time analysis of the visual environment by providing an immediate, real-time identification and input of the proportion of positive contrast regions and the proportion of negative contrast regions in the original image. For example, the image processing circuit 620 can provide an input on the relative intensity of the regions of the on-pathway of stimulation and the off-pathway in the original image. The image processing circuit 620 can also provide a modified image that can contain an equal or higher proportion of positive contrast regions compared to negative contrast regions so that the on-pathway of the user’s visual system can be stimulated. Furthermore, the contrast inversion, the change (e.g. increase or decrease) of spatial frequency and / or the blurring (e.g. reduction of high spatial frequency content) can only apply to certain parts or regions of the original image and thus can not hinder the interpretation of the original image. This can be particularly advantageous for complex images (e.g. maps, weather maps, graphs) in which a complete contrast inversion, a changed (e.g. increased or decreased) spatial frequency and / or a blurring of the entire image would make it difficult for the user to interpret the content of the original image. Accordingly, the eyewear 100 can advantageously stimulate the on-pathway of the user’s visual system and allow the user to easily identify and recognize the content of the image. The eyewear 100 can further prevent the onset of myopia in emmetropic users or control the progression of myopia in myopic users.

[0145] Several examples of the present disclosure relate to the control of myopia and an increase in on-pathway stimulation compared to off-pathway stimulation of the human eye, e.g., where the light adjustment means can be configured to provide an increased positive contrast signal amount and / or a decreased negative contrast signal amount. The present disclosure also contemplates embodiments (e.g., of an eyewear) that control hyperopia by increasing off-pathway stimulation compared to on-pathway stimulation, e.g., where the light adjustment means can be configured to provide a decreased positive contrast signal amount and / or an increased negative contrast signal amount.

[0146] While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details can be made therein. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should not be indicated by the specific embodiments, but by the following claims, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalents of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. An eye-wearing device (100) for a user to see an image while wearing the eye-wearing device, comprising: A light adjustment device (120) is configured to provide projected light (150) which is perceived by the user's eye (110) when facing a first surface of the light adjustment device (120), so that the user sees a modified image modified from the original image; The light adjustment device (120) includes a light intensity pattern (160). The light intensity pattern (160) is an arrangement of multiple elements. The pattern provided by the light intensity pattern (160) is configured to adjust or change the light intensity, brightness, or contrast emitted from the original image. The light adjustment device (120) is configured to provide an increased amount of positive contrast signal to the retina of the user's eye (110) in the modified image compared to the original image. The positive contrast signal corresponds to the presence of light-colored stimuli on a dark background. The positive contrast is arranged to blur the image or one or more image portions and / or increase or decrease the spatial frequency of the image or one or more image portions and / or reverse the contrast of the image or one or more image portions.

2. The eye-wearing device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The modified positive contrast signal is provided by adjusting the light intensity pattern (160) generated by the transmission pattern (300) on at least one lens (130) of the eyewear (100).

3. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 2. in, The transmission pattern (300) includes a plurality of minority regions (310) with higher transmittance than the majority region (320), the plurality of minority regions being a hole pattern, and the majority region (320) being the remaining regions that do not include the plurality of minority regions (310).

4. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 3. in, The plurality of minority regions (310) are formed as through holes in the lens (130).

5. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 3. in, The difference between the plurality of minority regions (310) and the majority regions (320) lies in the coating.

6. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 1. in, The modified positive contrast signal is provided by adjusting the light intensity pattern (160) generated by the light emission pattern (400).

7. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 6. in, The light adjustment device (120) includes a light source, which includes one or more light emitters (410) arranged on the eyewear (100) for generating the light emission pattern (400).

8. The eyepiece (100) as described in claim 7. in, The light adjustment device (120) includes a plurality of light reflectors (420) for generating the light emission pattern (400) by reflecting light from the one or more light emitters (410).

9. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 8. in, The plurality of light reflectors (420) are selected from prisms, mirrors and liquid crystals.

10. The eye-wearing device (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The eye-wearing device (100) includes an image projector (630) to generate the light emission pattern (400).

11. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 10. in, The eye-wearing device (100) further includes an image sensor (610) and an image processing circuit (620) configured to modify the original image to generate the modified image and control the light intensity pattern.

12. The eye-wearing device (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The image processing circuit (620) is configured to map a plurality of positive contrast regions (710) of the original image, each of the plurality of positive contrast regions having a center-to-surround contrast exceeding a predetermined positive contrast threshold.

13. The eyepiece (100) as described in claim 12. in, The image processing circuit (620) is configured to map a plurality of negative contrast regions (720) of the original image, each of the plurality of negative contrast regions having a surrounding-to-center contrast exceeding a predetermined negative contrast threshold.

14. The eyepiece (100) as described in claim 12. in, The image processing circuit (620) is configured to map a plurality of negative contrast regions (720) of the original image, each of the plurality of negative contrast regions having a surrounding-to-center contrast exceeding a predetermined negative contrast threshold. The image processing circuit (620) is configured to calculate the modified image by modifying the image in the plurality of positive contrast regions or the plurality of negative contrast regions to obtain the overall difference (730) between the first overall ratio (GR1) and the second overall ratio (GR2). Wherein, the first overall ratio (GR1) is defined as the difference between the sum of the contrast of the plurality of positive contrast regions and the sum of the contrast of the plurality of negative contrast regions in the original image. Furthermore, the second overall ratio (GR2) is defined as the difference between the sum of the contrast of the plurality of positive contrast regions and the sum of the contrast of the plurality of negative contrast regions of the modified image.

15. The eyepiece (100) as described in claim 14. in, The image processing circuit (620) is configured to calculate adjustment parameters (740) based on the overall difference between the first overall ratio (GR1) and the second overall ratio (GR2).

16. The eye-wearing device (100) as described in claim 1. in, The modified image corresponds to the original image with inverted contrast.

Images