Lens element

Abstract

A lens element intended to be worn in front of the eye of a wearer, the lens element comprising: - a dioptric area having a dioptric power based on a prescription of the eye of the wearer; and - a plurality of at least two optical elements having an optical function that does not focus an image on the retina of the eye of the wearer, wherein the dioptric area comprises a plurality of separate island areas, the dioptric area being formed as an area other than the optical elements, and each dioptric island area being within one optical element.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application PCT / EP2021 / 058488 entitled "Lens Element", with application number 202180020694.3 and application date of March 31, 2021. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a lens element designed to be worn in front of a person's eyes to suppress or reduce the development of refractive abnormalities such as myopia or hyperopia, and also to an associated processing method for obtaining such a lens.

[0003] This disclosure further relates to a mold for a lens element intended to be worn in front of a person's eye. Background Technology

[0004] Myopia is characterized by the eye focusing distant objects in front of its retina. Concave lenses are typically used to correct myopia, while convex lenses are typically used to correct hyperopia.

[0005] It has been observed that some individuals, particularly children, experience inaccurate focusing when using conventional single-vision lenses to correct their vision, especially when observing objects at near distances (i.e., under near vision conditions). Because of this focusing defect in some myopic children who are corrected for distance vision, images of nearby objects are formed behind the retina (even in the fovea region).

[0006] This focusing deficit may influence the development of myopia in these individuals. It can be observed that, for most of these individuals, the myopia deficit tends to worsen over time.

[0007] Foveal vision corresponds to the visual state of an object being viewed, which is formed by the eye in the central area of ​​the retina called the fovea.

[0008] Peripheral vision corresponds to the perception of scene elements that are laterally offset relative to the object being viewed, the images of which are formed on the peripheral portion of the retina, away from the fovea.

[0009] Ophthalmic corrections provided to subjects with refractive errors are typically tailored to their foveal visual acuity. However, it is well known that peripheral vision correction must be reduced relative to the correction determined for foveal visual acuity. In particular, studies in monkeys have shown that significant defocusing behind the retina, occurring far from the fovea, can lead to eye elongation and thus potentially exacerbate myopia.

[0010] Therefore, there seems to be a need for a lens element that can inhibit or at least slow down the development of refractive abnormalities in the eye, such as myopia or hyperopia. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Therefore, this disclosure proposes a lens element intended to be worn in front of a wearer's eye, the lens element comprising:

[0012] - A refractive region having refractive power based on a prescription for the wearer's eye; and

[0013] - Multiple or at least two optical elements that have the optical function of not focusing the image onto the retina of the wearer's eye, for example, in order to slow the development of refractive errors in the eye.

[0014] The refractive region comprises multiple independent island-shaped regions, forming a region outside of optical elements, with each refractive island-shaped region located within an optical element.

[0015] Advantageously, optical elements configured not to focus images onto the wearer's retina reduce the eye's natural tendency to deform, particularly elongate, the retina. Therefore, the development of refractive errors in the eye is slowed.

[0016] Furthermore, the refractive region comprises multiple separate island regions, each of which is formed within the optical element, allowing for improved correction of refractive errors in the wearer's eye.

[0017] In other words, the lenses disclosed herein allow for a reduction in the development of refractive errors in the wearer's eyes, while maintaining perfect vision by efficiently correcting the refractive errors.

[0018] According to further embodiments that can be considered individually or in combination:

[0019] -At least some, for example, all, of the optical elements have a ring shape surrounding the refractive region; and / or

[0020] - At least two, for example, all optical elements are continuous; and / or

[0021] - The optical element has an external shape that can be inscribed within a circle with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.8 mm and less than or equal to 3.0 mm; and / or

[0022] - Optical elements are positioned along multiple concentric rings; and / or

[0023] - Optical elements are positioned on a structured mesh; and / or

[0024] - Structured networks are square networks, hexagonal networks, triangular networks, or octagonal networks; and / or

[0025] - The network structure is a random network, such as a Voronoi network; and / or

[0026] - At least one, for example all, optical elements have the optical function of focusing an image at a location outside the retina under standard wearing conditions; and / or

[0027] - The optical elements are configured such that the average focal point of the light rays passing through each optical element is at the same distance from the retina; and / or

[0028] - At least one, for example, all optical elements have aspherical optical functionality under standard wearing conditions; and / or

[0029] - At least one, for example all, optical elements have cylindrical power, and / or

[0030] - At least some, for example, all, of the optical elements have a constant optical power and a discontinuous first derivative between two consecutive optical elements; and / or

[0031] -At least some, for example, all, of the optical elements have varying optical power and discontinuous first derivatives between two consecutive optical elements; and / or

[0032] - The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the average spherical mirror of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward a peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0033] - The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the cylindrical aspect ratio of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward a peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0034] - The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens of the optical element increases from the center of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0035] - The refractive region includes the optical center, and the optical element is configured such that along any segment passing through the optical center of the lens, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens power of the optical element increases from the optical center toward the peripheral portion of the lens; and / or

[0036] - The refractive region includes a distance reference point, a near reference point, and a meridian connecting the distance and near reference points. The optical element is configured such that, under standard wearing conditions, along any horizontal segment of the lens, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens of the optical element increases from the intersection of the horizontal segment and the meridian toward the peripheral portion of the lens; and / or

[0037] - The average spherical and / or cylindrical lens amplification functions along these sections vary depending on the position of the section along the meridian; and / or

[0038] -The average spherical and / or cylindrical lens amplification functions along these segments are asymmetric; and / or

[0039] - The optical element is configured such that, under standard wearing conditions, at least one segment is a horizontal segment; and / or

[0040] - The average spherical and / or cylindrical lens of the optical element increases from a first point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment, and decreases from a second point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment, the second point being closer to the periphery of the segment than the first point; and / or

[0041] -The average spherical and / or cylindrical lens amplification function along at least one segment is a Gaussian function; and / or

[0042] -The average spherical and / or cylindrical lens amplification function along at least one segment is a quadratic function; and / or

[0043] - The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the size of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0044] - The function of optical element size variation is monotonic; and / or

[0045] - The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the size of the optical element increases from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0046] - The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the size of the optical element decreases from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0047] - The size of the optical element increases from a first point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment, and decreases from a second point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment, the second point being closer to the periphery of the segment than the first point; and / or

[0048] - The optical element is configured such that the size of the independent island-shaped region forming the refractive region 12 varies from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment along at least one segment of the lens; and / or

[0049] - The function governing the size variation of independent island-like regions is monotonic; and / or

[0050] - The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the size of the independent island-shaped region forming the refractive region 12 increases from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0051] - The optical element is configured such that the size of the independent island-like region forming the refractive region 12 along at least one segment of the lens decreases from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0052] - The size of the independent island-shaped region forming the refractive region 12 increases from a first point of the lens segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, and decreases from a second point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, the second point being closer to the peripheral portion of the segment than the first point; and / or

[0053] - The function for increasing the size of the optical element along at least one segment and / or the independent island-like region is a Gaussian function; and / or

[0054] - The function for increasing the size of the optical element along at least one segment and / or the independent island-like region is a quadratic function; and / or

[0055] - At least a portion, such as all, of the optical elements are located on the front surface of the lens element; and / or

[0056] - At least some, for example all, of the optical elements are located on the posterior surface of the ophthalmic lens; and / or

[0057] - At least some, for example all, of the optical elements are located between the anterior and posterior surfaces of the ophthalmic lens; and / or

[0058] - At least a portion, such as all, of the spherical mirrors of the optical elements, such as the average spherical mirror, are eccentrically enlarged within the optical elements; and / or

[0059] - The lens element further includes at least four optical elements, which are organized into at least two consecutive groups of optical elements; and / or

[0060] - Each group of consecutive optical elements is organized into at least two concentric rings with the same center, and each concentric ring of the group of consecutive optical elements is defined by the inner diameter of the smallest circle tangent to at least one optical element in the group and the outer diameter of the largest circle tangent to at least one optical element in the group.

[0061] - At least some, for example, all of the optical elements are concentrically arranged around the optical center of the surface of the lens element on which the optical elements are located; and / or

[0062] - The diameter of the concentric rings of the optical elements ranges from 9.0 mm to 60 mm; and / or

[0063] - The optical element further includes an optical element radially positioned between two concentric rings; and / or

[0064] - The refractive region is formed as a region other than the region formed as multiple optical elements; and / or

[0065] - For each circular region with a radius between 2 mm and 4 mm, the geometric center is located at a distance greater than or equal to the radius + 5 mm from a reference frame facing the pupil of a user looking straight ahead under standard wearing conditions; the ratio between the sum of the areas of the optical element portions within the circular region and the area of ​​the circular region is between 20% and 70%; and / or

[0066] - At least one optical element is a multifocal refractive microlens; and / or

[0067] - At least one multifocal refractive microlens includes cylindrical power; and / or

[0068] - At least one multifocal refractive microlens includes an aspherical surface, with or without any rotational symmetry; and / or

[0069] -At least one optical element is a toric refractive microlens; and / or

[0070] - At least one multifocal refractive microlens includes a tortuous surface; and / or

[0071] - At least one optical element is made of a birefringent material; and / or

[0072] - At least one optical element is shaped to form a focal point in front of the retina of the human eye; and / or

[0073] - At least one optical element is a multifocal binary component; and / or

[0074] - At least one optical element is a pixelated lens; and / or

[0075] -At least some, for example, all, of the optical functions include higher-order optical aberrations; and / or

[0076] - The refractive zone is further configured to provide the wearer with a second power, different from the first power, under standard wearing conditions and for foveal visual acuity; and / or

[0077] - The difference between the first optical power and the second optical power is greater than or equal to 0.5D.

[0078] This disclosure further relates to a method for processing a lens element intended to be worn in front of a wearer's eye, wherein the method includes:

[0079] - Provide an initial lens element comprising at least one support surface, the at least one support surface comprising a plurality of at least two optical elements having an optical function that prevents the image from being focused onto the retina of the wearer's eye, for example, in order to slow the development of refractive errors in the eye.

[0080] - Process at least a portion of a plurality of optical elements so that a portion of the surface of the optical elements has a surface parallel to the supporting surface.

[0081] Advantageously, the process of fabricating multiple optical elements to have a surface parallel to the support surface on a portion thereof improves efficiency, reduces costs and resources required, and improves the manufacturing process of lens elements that reduce the development of refractive errors in the wearer's eye while maintaining good visual acuity in the wearer.

[0082] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a mold for a lens element comprising a plurality of optical elements having a target optical function, the mold comprising:

[0083] - A first molded element having a first surface having a first curvature, and including a plurality of first surface elements having a curvature substantially the same as the first curvature and a plurality of second surface elements having at least a second curvature different from the first curvature, the first surface elements being separate island elements;

[0084] - A second molded element having a second surface

[0085] - A washer with an inner and outer surface.

[0086] The first surface of the first molding element, the second surface of the second element, and the inner surface of the gasket form a molding cavity, into which molding material will be filled.

[0087] According to further embodiments that can be considered individually or in combination:

[0088] - Each first surface element is located within a second surface element; and / or

[0089] -At least some, for example all, of the second surface elements have, for example, an annular shape surrounding the first surface; and / or

[0090] - At least two, for example, all of the second surface elements are continuous; and / or

[0091] - The second surface element has an external shape that can be inscribed within a circle with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.8 mm and less than or equal to 3.0 mm; and / or

[0092] - The second surface element is positioned along multiple concentric rings; and / or

[0093] - The second surface element is positioned on the structured mesh; and / or

[0094] - Structured networks are square networks, hexagonal networks, triangular networks, or octagonal networks; and / or

[0095] - The network structure is a random network, such as a Voronoi network; and / or

[0096] -At least one, for example all, of the second surface elements has an aspherical surface; and / or

[0097] -At least one, for example, all of the second surface elements have a complex surface; and / or

[0098] - At least some, for example all, of the second surface elements have constant curvature and discontinuous first derivatives between two consecutive second surface elements; and / or

[0099] - At least some, for example all, of the second surface elements have varying curvature and discontinuous first derivatives between two consecutive second surface elements; and / or

[0100] - The second surface element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the mold, the average curvature of the second surface element varies from a point in the segment toward a peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0101] - The second surface element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the mold, the lenticular lens of the second surface element varies from a point in the segment toward a peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0102] - The second surface element is configured such that along at least one segment of the mold, the average curvature and / or lenticularity of the second surface element increases from the center of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment; and / or

[0103] - The average curvature and / or cylindrical lens amplification function along the segment vary depending on the position of the segment along the meridian; and / or

[0104] - The average curvature and / or cylinder amplification function along the said segment are asymmetric; and / or

[0105] - The average curvature and / or cylindricalness of the optical element increases from a first point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment, and decreases from a second point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment, the second point being closer to the periphery of the segment than the first point; and / or

[0106] - The average curvature and / or cylindrical lens amplification function along at least one segment is a Gaussian function; and / or

[0107] -The average curvature and / or cylindrical lens amplification function along at least one segment is a quadratic function; and / or

[0108] - The curvature of at least some, for example all, of the second surface elements increases eccentrically within the optical element; and / or

[0109] - The mold further includes at least four second surface elements, which are organized into at least two sets of consecutive second surface elements; and / or

[0110] - Each group of consecutive second surface elements is organized into at least two concentric rings with the same center, and each group of consecutive second surface elements is defined by the inner diameter of the smallest circle tangent to at least one second surface element in the group and the outer diameter of the largest circle tangent to at least one second surface element in the group.

[0111] -At least a portion, such as all, of the concentric rings of the second surface elements are centered on the center of the first surface of the mold on which the second surface elements are disposed; and / or

[0112] - The diameter of the concentric ring of the second surface element is between 9.0 mm and 60 mm; and / or

[0113] -The mold further includes a second surface element radially positioned between two concentric rings; and / or

[0114] - The difference between the first curvature and the second curvature is greater than or equal to 0.5D. Attached Figure Description

[0115] Non-limiting embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0116] Figure 1 This is a plan view of a lens element according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0117] Figure 2 This is a general outline view of a lens element according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0118] Figure 3 A close-up view of an optical element according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0119] Figures 4a to 4d An example of the organization of optical elements on a lens element according to this disclosure is shown;

[0120] Figure 5 An example of the organization of optical elements on a lens element according to this disclosure is shown;

[0121] Figure 6a The astigmatic axis γ of the lens is shown in the TABO convention;

[0122] Figure 6b This demonstrates the cylindrical axis γ in the conventions used to characterize aspherical surfaces. AX ;

[0123] Figure 7 and Figure 8The optical system of the eye and lenses is shown in general terms;

[0124] Figures 9a to 9b A method for manufacturing lens elements intended to be worn in front of a wearer's eye is demonstrated; and

[0125] Figure 10 An exploded view of a mold for a lens element according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0126] The elements in the accompanying drawings are shown for simplicity and clarity only and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures may be enlarged relative to other elements to aid in understanding the embodiments disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0127] This disclosure relates to a lens element intended to be worn in front of a wearer's eye.

[0128] In the remainder of this specification, terms such as “upper,” “bottom,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “front,” “back,” or other words indicating relative position may be used. These terms should be understood in the context of wearing the lens element.

[0129] In the context of this disclosure, the term "lens element" can refer to an uncut optical lens or an eyeglass lens or ophthalmic lens that has been edged to fit a particular eyeglass frame, and an optical device adapted for positioning on an ophthalmic lens. The optical device can be positioned on the front or rear surface of the ophthalmic lens. The optical device can be an optical patch. The optical device can be adapted for removable positioning on the ophthalmic lens, such as a clip configured to clip onto an eyeglass frame including the ophthalmic lens.

[0130] According to this disclosure, the lens element 10 is adapted to a wearer and is intended to be worn in front of the wearer's eyes.

[0131] like Figure 1 As indicated herein, the lens element 10 includes:

[0132] - Refractive area 12, and

[0133] - Multiple consecutive optical elements 14.

[0134] like Figure 1 As shown, the refractive region 12 comprises multiple separate island-shaped regions.

[0135] In the sense of this disclosure, if independent images are produced, the two optical elements are considered to be independent.

[0136] Specifically, when illuminated by a parallel beam of light "under central vision," each "individual continuous optical element" forms a spot associated with it on a plane in image space. In other words, when one of the "optical elements" is hidden, the spot disappears even if that optical element is continuous with another optical element.

[0137] The refractive region is preferably formed as a region other than the region formed by multiple optical elements. In other words, the refractive region is a region complementary to the region formed by multiple optical elements.

[0138] The refractive zone 12 is configured to provide the wearer with a first optical power based on a prescription for correcting refractive errors in the wearer's eye, under standard wearing conditions, particularly for foveal visual acuity.

[0139] Wearing conditions should be understood as the position of the lens element relative to the wearer's eyes, defined by factors such as the anterior tilt angle, corneal-to-lens distance, pupil-to-corneal distance, center of rotation (CRE)-to-pupil distance, CRE-to-lens distance, and wrap angle.

[0140] The corneal-to-lens distance is the distance between the cornea and the posterior surface of the lens along the visual axis of the eye in its primary position (which is usually considered to be horizontal), for example, equal to 12 mm.

[0141] The pupil-corneal distance is the distance between the pupil and the cornea along the visual axis of the eye, and is usually equal to 2 mm.

[0142] The distance from the CRE to the pupil is the distance along the visual axis of the eye between the cornea at its center of rotation (CRE) and the cornea, for example, equal to 11.5 mm.

[0143] The distance from the CRE to the lens is the distance between the CRE of the eye and the posterior surface of the lens along the visual axis of the eye in the first eye position (which is usually considered to be horizontal), for example, equal to 25.5 mm.

[0144] The tilt angle is the angle in a vertical plane between the intersection of the posterior surface of the lens and the visual axis of the eye in the first eye position (which is usually considered to be horizontal), and the normal to the posterior surface of the lens and the visual axis of the eye in the first eye position. For example, it is equal to -8°.

[0145] The wrap angle is the angle in the horizontal plane between the posterior surface of the lens and the visual axis of the eye in the first eye position (which is usually considered to be horizontal), between the normal of the posterior surface of the lens and the visual axis of the eye in the first eye position, for example, equal to 0°.

[0146] Examples of standard wearer conditions can be defined by an 8° anterior tilt angle, a 12mm corneal-to-lens distance, a 2mm pupil-to-corneal distance, an 11.5mm CRE-to-pupil distance, a 25.5mm CRE-to-lens distance, and a 0° wrap angle.

[0147] The term "prescription" should be understood as a set of optical properties, including power, astigmatism, and prism deviation, determined by an ophthalmologist or optometrist to correct visual defects, for example, by means of a lens positioned in front of the wearer's eyes. For example, a prescription for myopia includes a power value and an astigmatism value with an axis for distance vision.

[0148] Although this disclosure does not cover progressive lenses, the wording used in this specification is consistent with that in document WO2016 / 146590. Figures 1 to 10 The concept of progressive lenses was demonstrated. Technicians can adjust these definitions for single-vision lenses.

[0149] A progressive lens includes at least one, but preferably two, non-rotationally symmetric aspherical surfaces, such as, but not limited to, progressive surfaces, regression surfaces, torus surfaces, or non-torus surfaces.

[0150] As is known, the minimum curvature CURV at any point on an aspherical surface min Defined by the following formula:

[0151]

[0152] Among them, R max Let be the local maximum radius of curvature, expressed in meters, and CURV min It is expressed in diopters.

[0153] Similarly, the maximum curvature CURV at any point on an aspherical surface max It can be defined by the following formula:

[0154]

[0155] Among them, R min Let be the local minimum radius of curvature, expressed in meters, and CURV max It is expressed in diopters.

[0156] It can be noted that when the surface is locally spherical, the local minimum radius of curvature R min and local maximum radius of curvature R max They are the same, and correspondingly, the minimum and maximum curvatures CURV min and CURV max The same applies. When the surface is aspherical, the local minimum radius of curvature R...min and local maximum radius of curvature R max They are different.

[0157] From minimum and maximum curvature CURV min and CURV max These expressions are denoted as SPH min and SPH max The minimum and maximum spherical mirrors can be inferred based on the surface type considered.

[0158] When the surface under consideration is the side surface of an object (also known as the front surface), these expressions are as follows:

[0159] as well as

[0160] Where n is the refractive index of the lens's constituent material.

[0161] When the surface under consideration is the lateral surface of the eyeball (also known as the posterior surface), these expressions are as follows:

[0162] as well as

[0163] Where n is the refractive index of the lens's constituent material.

[0164] As is well known, the average spherical mirror SPH at any point on an aspherical surface mean It can also be defined using the following formula:

[0165]

[0166] Therefore, the expression for the mean spherical mirror depends on the surface under consideration:

[0167] If the surface is a side surface of the object, then

[0168] If the surface is the lateral surface of the eyeball, then

[0169] Also through the formula CYL=|SPH max -SPH min | Define the cylindrical lens CYL.

[0170] Any aspherical properties of a lens can be represented by the local average spherical and cylindrical power. When the cylindrical power is at least 0.25 diopters, the surface can be considered locally aspherical.

[0171] For aspherical surfaces, the local cylindrical lens axis γAX can be further defined. Figure 6a This demonstrates the astigmatic axis γ as defined in the TABO convention, while Figure 6b The cylindrical axis γAX is shown in the conventions defined for characterizing aspherical surfaces.

[0172] The cylinder axis γAX is the angle of orientation of the maximum curvature CURVmax relative to the reference axis and in the selected direction of rotation. In the convention defined above, the reference axis is horizontal (with an angle of 0°) and the direction of rotation is counterclockwise for each eye when looking at the wearer (0° ≤ γAX ≤ 180°). Therefore, a cylinder axis value of +45° γAX represents a tilt-oriented axis that extends from the upper right quadrant to the lower left quadrant when looking at the wearer.

[0173] Furthermore, progressive multifocal lenses can also be defined by optical properties, taking into account the condition of the person wearing the lenses.

[0174] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the optical system of the eye and lenses, therefore illustrating the definitions used in this specification. More precisely, Figure 7 The stereo diagram representing this system shows the parameters α and β used to define the gaze direction. Figure 8 It is a view in a vertical plane that is parallel to the front-back axis of the wearer's head and passes through the center of eye rotation, with parameter β equal to 0.

[0175] Mark the center of eye rotation as Q'. Figure 8 The axis Q'F', shown as a dashed line, is a horizontal axis passing through the center of eye rotation and extending in front of the wearer; that is, it corresponds to the axis Q'F' of the dominant viewing angle. This axis cuts through the aspherical surface of the lens at a point known as the fitting cross, which exists on the lens and allows the optician to position the lens within the frame. The point where the posterior surface of the lens intersects the axis Q'F' is point O. If O is located on the posterior surface, it can be the fitting cross. The apex sphere, with a center Q' and radius q', is tangent to the posterior surface of the lens at a point on the horizontal axis. As an example, a radius q' of 25.5 mm corresponds to a commonly used value and provides satisfactory results when wearing the lens.

[0176] Given the gaze direction (by) Figure 7 The solid line in the diagram represents the position of the eye as it rotates around Q' and the point J on the top of the ball; angle β is the angle formed between the axis Q'F' and the projection of the line Q'J onto the horizontal plane including the axis Q'F'; this angle appears Figure 7 On the schematic diagram. Angle α is the angle formed between the axis Q'J and the projection of the line Q'J onto the horizontal plane including the axis Q'F'; this angle appears Figure 7 and Figure 8The diagram illustrates this. Therefore, a given gaze angle corresponds to point J on the top sphere or to a pair of (α,β). The larger the value of the gaze drop angle in the positive direction, the greater the gaze drop; and the larger the value in the negative direction, the greater the gaze rise.

[0177] In a given gaze direction, the image of point M located at a given object distance in object space is formed between two points S and T corresponding to a minimum distance JS and a maximum distance JT, which will be the sagittal local focal length and the tangential local focal length, respectively. An image of a point at infinity in object space is formed at point F'. Distance D corresponds to the posterior coronal plane of the lens.

[0178] The ergorama function is a function that relates the typical distance of an object point to each gaze direction. Typically, in distance vision following the dominant gaze direction, the object point is at infinity. In near vision following a gaze direction that substantially corresponds to an angle α of approximately 35° and an angle β of approximately 5° toward the nose, the object distance is approximately 30 cm to 50 cm. For further details regarding possible definitions of the ergorama function, see U.S. Patent US-A-6,318,859. This document describes the ergorama function, its definition, and its modeling methods. For the methods disclosed herein, the point may or may not be at infinity. The ergorama function may be a function of the wearer's refractive error or the wearer's subtraction.

[0179] Using these factors, the wearer's optical power and astigmatism can be defined for each gaze direction. Consider the object point M at the object distance given by the Igma function for the gaze direction (α, β). In object space, for the point M on the corresponding ray, the object proximity ProxO is defined as the reciprocal of the distance MJ between point M and point J on the apex sphere:

[0180]

[0181] This allows for the calculation of object proximity within a thin lens approximation for all points on the top sphere, which is used to determine the Eigma function. For a real lens, object proximity can be considered as the reciprocal of the distance between the object point and the front surface of the lens on the corresponding ray.

[0182] For the same gaze direction (α, β), the image of a point M with a given object proximity is formed between two points S and T corresponding to the minimum focal length and the maximum focal length (which will be the sagittal focal length and the tangential focal length, respectively). The quantity ProxI is called the image proximity of point M:

[0183]

[0184] By analogy with the case of using thin lenses, for a given gaze direction and a given object proximity, that is, for the point of the object in space on the corresponding ray, the optical power Pui can be defined as the sum of the image proximity and the object proximity.

[0185] Pui=Pr oxO+Pr oxl

[0186] Using the same notation, astigmatism Ast is defined for each gaze direction and given object proximity as follows:

[0187]

[0188] This definition corresponds to astigmatism in the beam of light produced by the lens. It can be noted that the definition gives a typical value for astigmatism in the dominant gaze direction. The astigmatism angle, often referred to as the axial position, is angle γ. Angle γ is measured in the reference frame {Q', xm, ym, zm} associated with the eye. It corresponds to the angle by which the image S or T is formed, and this angle depends on the convention used for the direction zm in the combining plane {Q', zm, ym}.

[0189] Under wearing conditions, the possible definitions of lens power and astigmatism can therefore be calculated as illustrated in the paper by B. Bourdoncle et al. entitled “Ray tracing through progressive ophthalmic lenses” (International Conference on Lens Design, 1990, ed. DT Moore, Proceedings of the British Society for Optical and Photonic Instrumentation).

[0190] The refractive region 12 can be further configured to provide a second optical power to the wearer, specifically for foveal vision, based on the wearer's position, which is different from the first optical power.

[0191] In the sense of this disclosure, two optical powers are considered to be different when the difference between them is greater than or equal to 0.5D.

[0192] When a person's refractive error corresponds to myopia, the second optical power is greater than the first optical power.

[0193] When a person's refractive error corresponds to hyperopia, the second optical power is less than the first optical power.

[0194] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, each individual island-shaped region constituting the refractive region 12 is formed within an optical element 14. In other words, each optical element 14 surrounds an island-shaped region.

[0195] The lens element according to this disclosure includes at least two optical elements 14.

[0196] At least one, preferably all, of the plurality of optical elements 14 have the optical function of not focusing the image onto the retina of the wearer’s eye, particularly for peripheral vision and preferably for central and peripheral vision.

[0197] In the sense of this disclosure, “focusing” should be understood as producing a focused spot with a circular cross-section, which can be reduced to the size of a point in the focal plane or a diffraction spot.

[0198] Advantageously, this optical function of the optical element reduces retinal distortion in the wearer's eye under peripheral vision, allowing for a slowing of the development of refractive errors in the eyes of people wearing lens elements.

[0199] according to Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figures 4a to 4b In the preferred embodiment of this disclosure, at least some, for example all, of the optical elements have an annular shape surrounding the refractive region.

[0200] Advantageously, this configuration provides good resegmentation of the refractive region and the optical elements, thereby allowing for better correction of refractive errors in the wearer's eye while maintaining the effective function of the optical elements in reducing or at least slowing the development of said refractive errors.

[0201] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the plurality of at least two optical elements are continuous. Figures 4b to 4d An example of a continuous optical element is shown in the sense of this disclosure.

[0202] In the sense of this disclosure, if there are all paths that support and connect two optical elements located on the surface of the lens element, then the two optical elements are continuous, and if along the path, one optical element does not reach the base surface on which the optical element is located.

[0203] When at least two optical elements are located on a spherical surface, the base surface corresponds to the spherical surface. In other words, if there is a path supported by and connecting two optical elements located on the spherical surface, the two optical elements are continuous, and if along the path, one optical element may not reach the spherical surface.

[0204] When at least two optical elements are located on aspherical surfaces, the base surface corresponds to a locally spherical surface that best suits the aspherical surface. In other words, if there exists a path that supports and connects two optical elements located on the aspherical surface, the two optical elements are continuous, and if along the path, one optical element may not reach the locally best suited spherical surface.

[0205] Advantageously, having continuous optical elements helps improve the aesthetics of the lens elements and makes them easier to manufacture.

[0206] The lens element may include at least four optical elements, which are organized into at least two consecutive groups of optical elements. Figure 4c Examples of optical elements are shown, which are organized into four consecutive groups of optical elements.

[0207] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the optical element has a specific size. In particular, the optical element has an external shape that can be inscribed within a circle with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.8 mm and less than or equal to 3.0 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 1.0 mm and less than 2.0 mm.

[0208] According to embodiments of this disclosure, optical elements are positioned online.

[0209] The network on which the optical elements are located can be a structured network, such as... Figure 1 and Figures 4a to 4d As shown.

[0210] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the optical element is positioned on a structured mesh, which is a square mesh, a hexagonal mesh, a triangular mesh, or an octagonal mesh. For example, Figure 4a and Figure 4b A hexagonal mesh of optical elements 14 is shown, these optical elements having an annular shape surrounding the refractive region 12. In particular, the geometric centers of the optical elements can be organized on the mesh, for example, a hexagonal mesh, a square mesh, a triangular mesh, or an octagonal mesh.

[0211] exist Figure 1 and Figure 4c In the illustrated embodiment, the optical elements are positioned along multiple concentric rings.

[0212] The concentric rings of an optical element can be circular rings.

[0213] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the lens element further includes at least four optical elements. These at least four optical elements are organized into at least two groups of optical elements, each group being organized into at least two concentric rings having the same geometric center, the concentric rings of each group of consecutive optical elements being defined by an inner diameter and an outer diameter.

[0214] The inner diameter of the concentric rings of each group of optical elements corresponds to the smallest circle tangent to at least one optical element in the group. The outer diameter of the concentric rings of the optical elements corresponds to the largest circle tangent to at least one optical element in the group.

[0215] For example, a lens element may include n optical element rings, f inner 1This refers to the inner diameter of the concentric rings closest to the optical center of the lens element, f. outer 1 This refers to the outer diameter of the concentric rings closest to the optical center of the lens element, f. inner n This refers to the inner diameter of the ring closest to the periphery of the lens element, and f outer n It refers to the outer diameter of the concentric rings closest to the periphery of the lens element.

[0216] The distance D between the two concentric rings i and i+1 of the continuous optical elements i It can be represented as:

[0217] D i =|f inner i+1 -f outer i |

[0218] Among them, f outer i This refers to the outer diameter of the first optical element ring i and f inner i+1 This refers to the inner diameter of the second optical element ring i+1, which is sequential to the first optical element ring and closer to the periphery of the lens element.

[0219] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, optical elements are organized into a concentric ring centered on the optical center of the surface of a lens element, wherein the optical elements are disposed on the surface of the lens element and connected to the geometric center of each optical element.

[0220] For example, a lens element may include n optical element rings, where f1 refers to the diameter of the ring closest to the optical center of the lens element, and f n It refers to the diameter of the ring closest to the periphery of the lens element.

[0221] The distance D between the two concentric rings i and i+1 of the continuous optical elements i It can be represented as:

[0222]

[0223] Among them, f i This refers to the diameter of the first optical element ring i, and f i+1 This refers to the diameter of the second optical element ring i+1, which follows the first optical element ring and is closer to the periphery of the lens element.

[0224] Where, d i This refers to the diameter of the optical element on the first optical element ring, and d i+1 This refers to the diameter of the optical element on the second optical element ring, which follows the first ring and is closer to the periphery of the lens element. The diameter of the optical element corresponds to the diameter of the circle in which the inner optical element is shaped.

[0225] Advantageously, the optical center of the lens element coincides with the center of the concentric rings of the optical element. For example, the geometric center of the lens element, the optical center of the lens element, and the center of the concentric rings of the optical element coincide.

[0226] In the sense of this disclosure, the term “overlapping” should be understood as being very close together, for example, less than 1.0 mm apart.

[0227] The distance D between two consecutive concentric rings i It can vary depending on i. For example, the distance D between two consecutive concentric rings. i It can vary between 1.0mm and 5.0mm.

[0228] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the distance D between two concentric rings of continuous optical elements i The diameter is greater than 1.00 mm, preferably 2.0 mm, and more preferably 4.0 mm.

[0229] Advantageously, there is a distance D greater than 1.00 mm between the two concentric rings of continuous optical elements. i This allows for the management of a larger refractive area between these optical element rings, thus providing better visual acuity.

[0230] In other words, the inventors have observed that, for a given value of the above ratio, the organization of continuous optical elements into concentric rings, wherein the distance between these rings is greater than 2.0 mm, allows the annular region providing the refractive area to be more easily manufactured than the refractive area managed when the optical elements are arranged in a hexagonal grid or randomly arranged on the surface of the lens element, thereby providing better correction of eye refractive errors and thus providing better visual acuity.

[0231] According to the embodiments disclosed herein, all optical elements of the lens element have the same diameter di.

[0232] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as i increases toward the periphery of the lens element, the distance D between the two consecutive concentric rings i and i+1... i It can be increased.

[0233] The diameter of the concentric rings of the optical element can range from 9mm to 60mm.

[0234] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the lens element includes an optical element configured with at least two concentric rings, preferably more than five, and more preferably more than ten concentric rings. For example, the optical element may be configured with 11 concentric rings centered on the optical center of the lens.

[0235] exist Figure 1 In this configuration, the optical elements are positioned along a set of five concentric rings. The optical power and / or cylindrical lens strength of the microlenses can vary depending on their position along the concentric rings.

[0236] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the lens element may further include optical elements 14 radially positioned between two concentric rings. For example, only four optical elements may be placed between the two concentric rings; preferably, more optical elements may be placed between the two rings.

[0237] Alternatively, optical elements can be placed on a random structured net, such as a Voronoi net, e.g. Figure 5 As shown.

[0238] Advantageously, placing optical elements on a random structure limits the risk of light scattering or diffraction.

[0239] According to embodiments disclosed herein, at least a portion, such as all, of the optical elements have a constant optical power and discontinuous first derivatives between two consecutive optical elements. In other words, no region is left between the junctions of two consecutive optical elements without a spherical lens.

[0240] Alternatively, at least some, for example all, of the optical elements have varying optical power and continuous first derivatives between the junctions of two consecutive optical elements.

[0241] To achieve this change, two constant focal lengths can be used, one positive and one negative. The area of ​​the negative focal length is much smaller than the area of ​​the positive focal length, thus the overall focal length exhibits a positive focal length effect.

[0242] like Figure 2 As shown, the lens element 10 according to this disclosure includes an object-side surface F1 formed as a convex curved surface facing the object side, and an eye-side surface F2 formed as a concave surface having a curvature different from that of the object-side surface F1.

[0243] According to embodiments disclosed herein, at least some, such as all, of the optical elements are located on the front surface of the lens element.

[0244] At least some, for example all, of the optical elements may be located on the rear surface of the lens element.

[0245] At least some, such as all, of the optical elements may be located between the front and rear surfaces of the lens element. For example, the lens element may include regions with different refractive indices that form the optical elements.

[0246] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least some, such as all, of the optical elements have the optical function of focusing an image onto a location other than the retina.

[0247] Preferably, at least 50%, for example at least 80%, for example all optical elements have the optical function of focusing the image on a location other than the retina for peripheral vision.

[0248] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, at least for peripheral vision, all optical elements are configured such that the average focal point of light passing through each optical element is at the same distance from the wearer's retina.

[0249] The optical function, particularly the refractive function, of each optical element can be optimized to provide a focused image at a constant distance from the wearer's retina, especially in peripheral vision. This optimization requires adjusting the refractive function of each optical element according to its position on the lens element.

[0250] In particular, the inventors have determined that the dot pattern of the beam of light passing through the spherical 3D-shaped microlens analyzed under peripheral vision (30° from the center of the pupil) is not a single point.

[0251] In order to obtain a point, the inventors have determined that the optical element should have cylindrical power, for example, having a tortuous surface shape.

[0252] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least one, for example all, of the optical elements have aspherical optical functions under standard wearing conditions.

[0253] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, at least one, for example all, of the optical elements has cylindrical power.

[0254] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the optical element is configured such that, at least along a segment of the lens, the average spherical mirror of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment.

[0255] The optical element can be further configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, for example, the same segment along which the average spherical lens change of the optical element is traversed, the cylindrical lens changes from a point in said segment (e.g., the same point as the average spherical lens) toward the peripheral portion of said segment.

[0256] Advantageously, the optical element is configured such that along at least one segment of the lens, the average spherical and / or average cylindrical lens of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, allowing for alteration of the defocus of light in front of the retina in myopia, or alteration of the defocus of light behind the retina in hyperopia.

[0257] In other words, the inventors have observed that configuring an optical element such that the average spherical mirror of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment along at least one segment of the lens helps to slow the development of refractive abnormalities of the eye, such as myopia or hyperopia.

[0258] The optical element can be configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens of the optical element increases from the center of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment.

[0259] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the optical element is configured such that, under standard wearing conditions, at least one segment is a horizontal segment.

[0260] Lens elements, particularly refractive regions, may include an optical center, and optical elements may be configured such that along any segment passing through the optical center of the lens, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens of the optical element varies, for example, increases, from the optical center toward the peripheral portion of the lens.

[0261] Lens elements, particularly the refractive region, may include a distance reference point, a near reference point, and a meridian connecting the distance and near reference points. In this embodiment, the optical elements may be configured such that, under standard wearing conditions, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens power of the optical elements varies, for example, increases, from the point where the horizontal segment intersects the meridian toward the peripheral portion of the lens along any horizontal segment of the lens.

[0262] Preferably, according to such an embodiment, the optical element is configured such that, under standard wearing conditions, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens of the optical element increases from the intersection of the horizontal segment and the meridian toward the peripheral portion of the lens along any horizontal segment of the lens.

[0263] The meridian corresponds to the trajectory at the intersection of the primary gaze direction and the lens surface.

[0264] The variation function of the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens along the segment, such as the increase function, can vary depending on the position of the segment along the meridian.

[0265] In particular, the variation function of the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens along the segment, such as the amplification function, can be asymmetrical. For example, under standard fitting conditions, the amplification function of the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens is asymmetrical along the vertical and / or horizontal segments.

[0266] The average spherical and / or cylindrical lens can be increased along at least one horizontal segment according to an amplification function, which is a Gaussian function. The Gaussian function can be different between the nasal and temporal portions of the lens to account for the asymmetry of the human retina.

[0267] Alternatively, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens can vary along at least one horizontal segment according to an amplification function, which is a quadratic function. This quadratic function can differ between the nasal and temporal portions of the lens to account for the asymmetry of the human retina.

[0268] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the average spherical and / or cylindrical lens of the optical element increases from a first point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment and decreases from a second point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, the second point being closer to the peripheral portion of the segment than the first point.

[0269] Table 1 illustrates such an embodiment, which provides the average spherical mirror of the optical element based on the radial distance from the optical element to the optical center of the lens element.

[0270] In the example in Table 1, the optical element is a microlens placed on the front surface of a sphere with a curvature of 329.5 mm, and the lens element is made of an optical material with a refractive index of 1.591. The wearer's prescribed optical power is -6D. The optical element should be worn under standard wearing conditions, and the wearer's retina is considered to have 0.8D of defocus at an angle of 30°.

[0271] The optical element is determined to have 2D peripheral defocus.

[0272] Distance from the optical center (mm) The average spherical mirror (D) of an optical element 0 1.992 5 2.467 7.5 2.806 10 3.024 15 2.998 20 2.485

[0273] Table 1

[0274] As shown in Table 1, starting from the optical center near the lens element, the average spherical mirror of the optical element increases towards the periphery of the segment, and then decreases towards the periphery of the segment.

[0275] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the average cylindrical lens of the optical element increases from a first point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment and decreases from a second point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, the second point being closer to the peripheral portion of the segment than the first point.

[0276] Such embodiments are shown in Tables 2 and 3, which provide the magnitude of the cylindrical vector projected onto a first direction Y corresponding to the local radial direction and a second direction X orthogonal to the first direction.

[0277] In the example in Table 2, the optical element is a microlens placed on the front surface of a sphere with a curvature of 167.81 mm, and the lens element is made of an optical material with a refractive index of 1.591. The wearer's prescribed optical power is -6D. The optical element should be worn under standard wearing conditions, and the wearer's retina is considered to have 0.8D of defocus at an angle of 30°. The optical element is determined to have 2D of peripheral defocus.

[0278] In the example in Table 3, the optical element is a microlens placed on the front surface of a sphere with a curvature of 167.81 mm, and the lens element is made of an optical material with a refractive index of 1.591. The wearer's prescribed optical power is -1D. The optical element should be worn under standard wearing conditions, and the wearer's retina is considered to have 0.8D of defocus at an angle of 30°.

[0279] The optical element is determined to have 2D peripheral defocus.

[0280]

[0281] Table 2

[0282]

[0283]

[0284] Table 3

[0285] As shown in Tables 2 and 3, starting from the optical center near the lens element, the cylindrical lens of the optical element increases towards the periphery of the segment, and then decreases towards the periphery of the segment.

[0286] For example, optical elements can be regularly distributed along a circle centered on the optical center of the refractive region.

[0287] The optical element on a circle with a diameter of 10 mm and centered on the optical center of the refractive region can be a microlens with an average spherical lens of 2.75D.

[0288] The optical element on a circle with a diameter of 20 mm and centered on the optical center of the refractive region can be a microlens with an average spherical lens of 4.75D.

[0289] The optical element on a circle with a diameter of 30 mm and centered on the optical center of the refractive region can be a microlens with an average spherical lens of 5.5D.

[0290] The optical element on a circle with a diameter of 40 mm and centered on the optical center of the refractive region can be a microlens with an average spherical lens of 5.75D.

[0291] The cylindrical lenses of different optical elements can be adjusted based on the shape of the human retina.

[0292] According to an embodiment of the invention, the optical element 14 is configured such that along at least one segment of the lens, the size of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment.

[0293] The size of the optical element 14 can increase along the segment of the lens element toward the periphery of the lens element.

[0294] In addition, the size of the optical element 14 increases from a first point of the segment toward the periphery of the segment and decreases from a second point of the segment toward the periphery of the segment, the second point being closer to the periphery of the segment than the first point.

[0295] In particular, the size of the independent island-shaped region forming the refractive region 12 can increase along the segment of the lens element toward the periphery of the lens element.

[0296] In addition, the size of the independent island-shaped region forming the refractive region 12 can increase from a first point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, and decrease from a second point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, the second point being closer to the peripheral portion of the segment than the first point.

[0297] Alternatively, the size of the optical element 14 may be reduced along the segment of the lens element toward the periphery of the lens element.

[0298] In addition, the size of the optical element decreases from a first point of the segment toward the periphery of the segment and increases from a second point of the segment toward the periphery of the segment, the second point being closer to the periphery of the segment than the first point.

[0299] In particular, the size of the independent island-shaped region forming the refractive region 12 can be reduced along the segment of the lens element toward the periphery of the lens element.

[0300] In addition, the size of the independent island-shaped region forming the refractive region 12 can decrease from a first point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, and increase from a second point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, the second point being closer to the peripheral portion of the segment than the first point.

[0301] According to embodiments disclosed herein, under standard wearing conditions and for peripheral vision, at least one of the optical elements has a non-focusing optical function.

[0302] Preferably, under standard wearing conditions and for peripheral vision, at least 50%, for example at least 80%, for example all of the optical elements 14 have non-focusing optical functions.

[0303] In the sense of this disclosure, "non-focusing optical function" should be understood as having no single focus under standard wearing conditions and for peripheral vision.

[0304] Alternatively, this optical function of the optical element reduces the deformation of the wearer's retina, allowing for a slowing of the development of refractive errors in the eyes of people who wear lens elements.

[0305] At least one optical element with non-focusing optical function is transparent.

[0306] Advantageously, discontinuous optical elements are not visible on the lens element and do not affect the aesthetics of the lens element.

[0307] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a lens element may include an ophthalmic lens that carries a refractive region and a clip that carries at least two optical elements, which are adapted to be removably attached to the ophthalmic lens when the lens element is worn.

[0308] Advantageously, when a person is in a distant environment, such as outdoors, they can separate the clip from the ophthalmic lens and eventually replace it with a second clip that does not have either of the two optical elements. For example, the second clip may include a sun protection tint. A person can also use the ophthalmic lens without any additional clip.

[0309] Optical elements can cover specific areas of a lens element, such as the center or any other area.

[0310] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the central region of the lens corresponds to a region centered on the optical center of the lens element, excluding any optical elements. For example, the lens element may include an empty region centered on the optical center of the lens element and having a diameter equal to 9 mm, which does not include any optical elements.

[0311] The optical center of a lens element can correspond to the fitting point of the lens.

[0312] Alternatively, optical elements can be disposed on the entire surface of a lens element.

[0313] Optical element density or focal length can be adjusted based on the area of ​​the lens element. Typically, optical elements can be positioned at the periphery of the lens element to increase the optical element's influence on myopia control, thereby compensating for peripheral astigmatism caused by, for example, the peripheral shape of the retina.

[0314] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, each circular region of the lens element with a radius between 2 mm and 4 mm includes a geometric center located at a distance from the optical center of the optical element, the distance being greater than or equal to the radius + 5 mm, and the ratio between the sum of the areas of the optical element portions within the circular region and the area of ​​the circular region is between 20% and 70%, preferably between 30% and 60%, and more preferably between 40% and 50%.

[0315] The surface considered when determining the area ratio can be along the slope of the optical element or by using the projected surface on the refractive area.

[0316] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least one, and for example all, of the optical elements are shaped to form a caustic surface in front of the retina of the human eye. In other words, such optical elements are configured such that each cross-sectional plane (if any) of the luminous flux concentration is located in front of the retina of the human eye.

[0317] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least one, for example all, optical elements having aspherical optical functions are multifocal refractive microlenses.

[0318] In the sense of this disclosure, "multifocal refractive microlenses" include bifocal (with two powers), trifocal (with three powers), and progressive multifocal lenses with continuously varying powers, such as aspheric progressive surface lenses, and with an axis of symmetry and a continuously varying surface power that is rotationally symmetric about said axis.

[0319] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least one, preferably more than 50%, more preferably more than 80% of the optical elements are aspherical micromirrors. In the sense of this disclosure, aspherical micromirrors have a continuous power evolution on their surface.

[0320] The asphericity of an aspherical micromirror can range from 0.1D to 3D. The asphericity of an aspherical micromirror corresponds to the ratio between the optical power measured at a first point on the optical element and the optical power measured at a second point on the micromirror element, with the first and second points located at different radial distances from the geometric center of the optical element.

[0321] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the absolute value of the optical power of the aspherical microlens at the first point is between 2.0D and 7.0D, and the absolute value of the optical power at the second point is between 1.5D and 6.0D.

[0322] Before coating the surface of the lens element on which the optical element is disposed, the asphericity of the aspherical microlens can vary according to the radial distance from the optical center of the lens element.

[0323] Furthermore, after coating the surface of the lens element on which the optical element is disposed, the asphericity of the aspherical microlens can be further varied according to the radial distance from the geometric center of the lens element.

[0324] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least one multifocal refractive microlens has a toric surface. A toric surface is a surface of rotation that can be generated by rotating a circle or arc about an axis of rotation (ultimately positioned at infinity) that does not pass through its center of curvature.

[0325] Toric lenses have two distinct radial profiles that are perpendicular to each other, thus producing two different powers.

[0326] The toric and spherical components of a toric lens produce astigmatic beams instead of a single focal point.

[0327] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least one, and for example all, optical elements having aspherical optical functions are toric microlenses. For example, toric microlenses with a spherical power greater than or equal to 0 diopter (δ) and less than or equal to +5 diopter (δ) and a cylindrical power greater than or equal to 0.25 diopter (δ).

[0328] As a specific embodiment, the toric refractive microlens can be a pure cylindrical lens, meaning that the minimum meridional power is zero, while the maximum meridional power is strictly positive, for example, less than 5 diopters.

[0329] Optical components can be manufactured using various techniques, such as direct surface treatment, molding, casting or injection molding, embossing, film deposition, or photolithography.

[0330] This disclosure further relates to a method for processing a lens element intended to be worn in front of a wearer's eyes.

[0331] like Figure 9a As shown, the method includes step S2 of providing an initial lens element. The initial lens element includes at least one support surface, which includes a plurality of at least two optical elements having an optical function that prevents the image from being focused on the retina of the wearer's eye, for example, in order to slow the development of refractive errors in the eye.

[0332] Advantageously, at least two of the plurality of optical elements have at least a first surface that is different from the support surface.

[0333] The method further includes step S4, during which at least a portion, such as all, of the plurality of optical elements are processed to have a surface parallel to the support surface on the surface of a portion of the optical elements. This processing step S4 is shown in Figure 9b In the diagram, the translation of surface 18, which is equivalent to the supporting surface, along the axis of symmetry of the supporting surface is represented by the dashed surface.

[0334] Advantageously, the method disclosed herein allows for improvements in efficiency, cost reduction, and resource requirements, as well as in the manufacturing process of lens elements that reduce the development of refractive errors in the wearer's eye while maintaining good visual acuity in the wearer.

[0335] The method disclosed herein allows for adjustments. Figure 9b The level of the cut height on the surface shown by the dashed line is used to adjust the density of optical elements on the lens element.

[0336] The supporting surface can be identical, regardless of the wearer's prescription, and the optical function of the lens element is adjusted via the opposite surface (i.e., the surface without the optics). Such an embodiment is advantageous in terms of cost and logistics. In practice, the lens elements provided in step S2 are typically obtained using molds that are manufactured with very high costs. Having the same supporting surface for a wide range of prescriptions allows for a reduction in the number of different molds required, and thus reduces cost and logistics. During the processing steps, for example, a portion of the first surface of the optics is removed using a surface finishing method to obtain a second surface with the same curvature as the supporting surface.

[0337] This disclosure further relates to a mold for a lens element comprising a plurality of optical elements having a target optical function.

[0338] like Figure 10 As shown, the mold 20 includes a first molding element 21 having a first molding surface 24. The first molding surface 24 may be a spherical surface having a first curvature.

[0339] The first molded surface 24 includes a plurality of first surface elements 26. Each first surface element 26 has a spherical surface with a curvature substantially the same as the first curvature.

[0340] A portion, preferably all, of the plurality of first surface elements 26 have an axis of symmetry (Di).

[0341] The plurality of first surface elements 26 have an external shape that can be inscribed within a circle (C) with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.8 mm and less than or equal to 3.0 mm. The circle (C) can be a surface of the surface element, for example, a planar projection onto a plane orthogonal to the axis of symmetry of the surface element.

[0342] The axis of symmetry of each first surface element 26 may correspond to the center of the circle in which each surface element is correspondingly inscribed.

[0343] The first molded surface 24 further includes a plurality of second surface elements 28. Each second surface element 28 has a spherical surface with a second curvature that differs from the first curvature, for example, the second curvature is greater than the first curvature.

[0344] The plurality of second surface elements 28 of the first molded element 21 may correspond to the optical element 14 placed on the surface of the lens element 10.

[0345] Although the first molded surface 24 and the first and second surface elements are described in detail as spherical, this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and any of the surfaces, for example, all of the surfaces may be aspherical surfaces.

[0346] In the sense of this disclosure, aspherical surface elements have a continuous evolution of their height on their surface.

[0347] Along a section of the second surface element 28, that is, a section passing through the axis of symmetry (Di) of the second surface element, the curvature of the second surface element increases from the intersection of the axis of symmetry and the surface of the second surface element to a first point, and decreases from the first point to the periphery of the second surface element.

[0348] At least one, preferably 50%, more preferably greater than 80%, of the plurality of second surface elements 28 may have a toric surface. A toric surface is a surface of revolution, which can be generated by rotating a circle or arc about an axis of rotation (ultimately located at infinity) that does not pass through its center of curvature. The toric surface element has two distinct radial profiles that are perpendicular to each other. The toric surface element may be a pure cylindrical lens, meaning that the minimum meridian is zero and the maximum meridian is strictly positive.

[0349] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least two of the plurality of second surface elements 28 are discontinuous. In the sense of this disclosure, the two second surface elements are discontinuous if, for all paths connecting the two surface elements, the first curvature of the first surface 24 of the first molded element 21 can be measured at least along a portion of each path.

[0350] According to embodiments of this disclosure, at least two of the plurality of second surface elements 28 are continuous. In the sense of this disclosure, two surface elements are continuous if, for at least one path connecting the two surface elements, the first curvature of the first surface 24 of the first molded element 21 cannot be measured along said at least one path.

[0351] For example, at least some, such as all, of the plurality of first surface elements 26 and / or second surface elements 28 may be positioned on the structured net.

[0352] According to embodiments disclosed herein, at least a portion, such as all, of the plurality of first surface elements 26 and / or second surface elements 28 are arranged on the first surface 24 of the first molding element 21 in a rotationally symmetrical manner about an axis, for example, centered on the geometric center of the first surface 24 of the first molding element 21. In other words, at least a portion of the plurality of first surface elements 26 and / or second surface elements 28 may be regularly distributed along at least one circle centered on the geometric center of the first surface 24 of the first molding element 21.

[0353] According to embodiments disclosed herein, at least a portion, such as all, of the plurality of first surface elements 26 and / or second surface elements 28 are arranged in at least one ring on the first surface 24 of the first molding element 21.

[0354] The plurality of first surface elements 26 and / or second surface elements 28 may be further organized in concentric rings on the first surface of the first molding element. For example, the plurality of first surface elements 26 and / or second surface elements 28 are positioned along a set of 11 concentric rings on the entire first surface 24 of the first molding element 21. The concentric rings of surface elements may be centered on the geometric center of the first surface 24 of the first molding element 21.

[0355] The average curvature of the plurality of second surface elements 28 can be the same for all second surface elements in the same concentric ring. In particular, the average curvature of the central region of the second surface elements 28 in the same concentric ring is the same.

[0356] According to other embodiments of this disclosure, the plurality of first surface elements 26 and / or second surface elements 28 can be organized into different patterns, such as hexagonal patterns, triangular patterns, square patterns, and Voronoi patterns.

[0357] The plurality of second surface elements 28 can be configured such that, along at least one segment of the first molding element 21, the average curvature of the plurality of second surface elements increases from a point in the segment toward the periphery of the segment.

[0358] The plurality of second surface elements 28 can be configured such that the average curvature of at least one segment along the geometric center of the first surface 24 of the first molding element 21 increases from the geometric center toward the peripheral portion of the segment.

[0359] The plurality of second surface elements 28 can be configured such that along at least one segment of the first molding element 21, for example, a segment passing through the geometric center of the first surface of the first molding element, the average curvature of the plurality of second surface elements 28 increases from a first point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment and decreases from a second point of the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment, the second point being closer to the peripheral portion of the segment than the first point.

[0360] For each circular region with a radius between 4 mm and 8 mm, including the geometric center of the first surface 24 of the first molded element 21 at a distance greater than or equal to the radius + 5 mm, the ratio of the sum of the areas of the plurality of surface elements located within the circular region to the area of ​​the circular region is between 20% and 70%.

[0361] Preferably, the first surface elements 26 are independent island-shaped elements.

[0362] Preferably, the second surface element 28 has an annular shape. More preferably, each second surface element 28 surrounds the first surface element 26.

[0363] The mold 20 further includes a second molding element 22 having a second surface. Figure 10 The second surface 25 of the second molding element 22 is not shown because it faces the first surface 24 of the first molding element.

[0364] The mold 20 further includes a washer 23. The washer 23 has an annular shape and includes an outer surface 23a and an inner surface 23b. The washer 23 further includes an opening 27.

[0365] The gasket 23 seals the first molding element 21 and the second molding element 22 together to form a molding cavity 30. The molding cavity 30 is defined by a first surface 24 of the first molding element 21, including a first surface element 26 and a second surface element 28, a second surface 25 of the second molding element 22, and an inner surface 23a of the gasket 23.

[0366] The molding cavity 30 of the mold 20 for the lens element 10 is filled with molding material through opening 27. Although shown in the gasket 23, opening 27 may alternatively be placed on the first or second molding element. For example, the molding material may be casting material injected into the molding cavity through opening 27 of the gasket 23. The casting material in the molding cavity further polymerizes into lens material to form the lens element 10.

[0367] Alternatively, the molding material can be a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material, in a first liquid state at a first temperature, is injected into the molding cavity 30 through opening 27. During cooling, the thermoplastic material changes from the first liquid state to a second solid state corresponding to the lens material of the lens element 10.

[0368] Many further modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when referring to the foregoing illustrative embodiments, which are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, which is defined only by the appended claims.

[0369] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a (a) or (an)" does not exclude a plural. The mere fact that different features are described in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these features cannot be used advantageously. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A lens element intended to be worn in front of a wearer's eye, the lens element comprising: - A refractive region having refractive power based on a prescription for the wearer's eye; as well as - A plurality of optical elements having the optical function of not focusing an image onto the retina of the wearer's eye, wherein the optical elements have one of the optical functions of focusing an image at a location outside the retina under standard wearing conditions and aspherical optical functions under standard wearing conditions. The refractive region comprises multiple independent island-shaped regions, and each refractive island-shaped region is located within an optical element. The optical element is positioned on a structured mesh, which is a square mesh, a hexagonal mesh, a triangular mesh, or an octagonal mesh. For each circular region of the lens element, with a radius between 2 mm and 4 mm and including a geometric center located at a distance from the optical center of the optical element, the ratio between the sum of the areas of the optical element portions within the circular region and the area of ​​the circular region is between 20% and 70%, and the distance is greater than or equal to the radius + 5 mm.

2. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the optical element has an annular shape surrounding the refractive region.

3. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, The optical element has an external shape that can be inscribed within a circle with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.8 mm and less than or equal to 3.0 mm.

4. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, At least one of the optical elements has cylindrical power.

5. The lens element of claim 4, wherein, All of the optical elements described have cylindrical power.

6. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the average spherical mirror of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment.

7. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, The optical element is configured such that, along at least one segment of the lens, the cylindrical lens of the optical element varies from a point in the segment toward the peripheral portion of the segment.

8. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the optical element is located on the front surface of the lens element.

9. The lens element of claim 8, wherein, All of the optical elements are located on the front surface of the lens element.

10. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the optical element is located between the front and rear surfaces of the lens element.

11. The lens element of claim 10, wherein, All of the optical elements are located between the front and rear surfaces of the lens element.

12. The lens element of claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the spherical mirror of the optical element is eccentrically enlarged within the optical element.

13. The lens element of claim 12, wherein, The spherical mirrors of all the optical elements are enlarged eccentrically within the optical element.

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