Ophthalmic lens with photopolymer layer with GRIN element

Abstract

Ophthalmic lenses (118) having a layer (100) having a substantially refractive index provided on a surface of the lens (118) are described. The layer (100) includes at least one gradient index optical element (102). The ophthalmic lenses (118) can be eyeglass lenses or contact lenses. Methods of making such lenses (118) are also described.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of prior U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 227,381, filed July 30, 2021, pursuant to 35 U.S. SC §119(e), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to ophthalmic lenses having a layer comprising a gradient index refractive element and methods for manufacturing such lenses. Background Technology

[0003] Many people, including children and adults, need glasses to correct nearsightedness (myopia), and many adults need glasses to correct presbyopia (age-related maladaptation and therefore difficulty focusing on near objects). Glasses may also be needed to correct farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, or keratoconus (a condition where the cornea gradually bulges out to form a cone shape).

[0004] Myopic eyes focus incoming light from distant objects in front of the retina. Therefore, the light converges towards the plane in front of the retina and diverges towards the retina, becoming out of focus upon reaching it. Conventional lenses used to correct myopia (such as spectacle lenses and contact lenses) reduce the convergence (for contact lenses) or cause divergence (for spectacle lenses) of incoming light from distant objects before it reaches the eye, causing the focal point to shift onto the retina. Decades ago, it was suggested that the progression of myopia in children or young adults could be slowed or prevented by undercorrection, which involves shifting the focal point towards, but not completely towards, the retina. However, this method inevitably results in decreased distance vision compared to the vision achieved using lenses that fully correct myopia. Furthermore, the effectiveness of undercorrection in controlling developing myopia is now questionable. A newer approach is to provide lenses with areas that provide full correction for distance vision and areas that are undercorrected or intentionally induce myopic defocus. Lenses that increase light scattering in specific areas can also be provided compared to light passing through the fully corrected area of ​​the lens. These methods have been suggested to prevent or slow the development or progression of myopia in children or young adults while providing good distance vision.

[0005] In lenses with zones that provide defocus, the zone that provides full correction for distance vision is typically called the basic refractive power zone, while the zone that provides undercorrection or intentionally induced myopic defocus is typically called the supplementary refractive power zone or myopic defocus zone (because the refractive power is more positive or less negative than that of the distance zone). The surface of the supplementary refractive power zone (usually the anterior surface) has a smaller radius of curvature than that of the distance refractive power zone and therefore provides a more positive or less negative refractive power to the eye. The supplementary refractive power zone is designed to focus incoming parallel light (i.e., light from a distance) in front of the retina (i.e., closer to the lens) within the eye, while the distance refractive power zone is designed to focus light and form an image at the retina (i.e., farther from the lens).

[0006] In the case of lenses that increase light scattering in a specific region, the scattering-enhancing feature can be introduced into the lens surface or into the material used to form the lens. For example, the scattering element can be burned into or embedded in the lens. The scattering element can be a laser ablation optical element embedded in the lens material.

[0007] One known type of contact lens for reducing myopia progression is the bifocal contact lens, available under the name MISIGHT (CooperVision, Inc.). This bifocal lens differs from bifocal or multifocal contact lenses configured to improve presbyopic vision because it is configured with specific optical dimensions to allow the adaptable person to use distance correction (i.e., the basic diopter) to see both distant and near objects. The treatment area of ​​a bifocal lens with added diopter also provides a myopic defocused image at both distant and myopic distances.

[0008] While these lenses have been found to be beneficial in preventing or slowing the development or progression of myopia, the ring-shaped refractive zone can cause undesirable visual side effects. Light focused by the ring-shaped refractive zone in front of the retina diverges from its focal point, forming a defocusing ring at the retina. Therefore, wearers of these lenses may see a ring or "halo" around the retina, especially for bright, small objects such as streetlights and car headlights. Furthermore, theoretically, wearers can use the extra focal point in front of the retina, rather than the eye's natural accommodation (i.e., the eye's natural ability to change focus), to focus nearby objects, which is caused by the ring-shaped refractive zone; in other words, wearers can inadvertently use the lenses in the same way as they would with presbyopic lenses, which is undesirable for younger subjects.

[0009] Additional lenses have been developed for the treatment of myopia, designed to eliminate halos observed around the image at the focal distance, as seen in MISIGHT (Cooper Optics) lenses and other similar lenses described above. In these lenses, the annular region is configured such that no single on-axis image is formed in front of the retina, thus preventing the use of such an image to avoid requiring the eye to adapt to nearby targets. Instead, the distant light source is imaged from the annular region to the annular focal line at the near-addition focal plane, resulting in a small spot size on the retina at the far focal plane without the surrounding "halo" effect.

[0010] It is recognized that known lenses containing a treatment component for inducing myopic defocus are generally designed to provide specific treatment to the lens wearer. Lenses can be expensive and complex in design, and over time, if the wearer's needs change, they may need to purchase different lenses offering varying degrees of correction.

[0011] This invention seeks to provide a simple and cost-effective alternative to known lenses for preventing or slowing the progression of myopia. Such lenses may also be beneficial for correcting or improving vision associated with presbyopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, keratoconus, or other refractive errors. Summary of the Invention

[0012] According to a first aspect, this disclosure provides an ophthalmic lens. The lens has a layer having a basic refractive index provided on the surface of the lens. The layer includes at least one gradient index (GRIN) optical element.

[0013] According to a second aspect, this disclosure provides a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens. The method includes providing an ophthalmic lens and applying a coating or film to the lens, wherein the layer has a basic refractive index and includes at least one GRIN optical element.

[0014] It should be understood that features described with respect to one aspect of this disclosure may be incorporated into other aspects of this disclosure. For example, the methods of this disclosure may be incorporated into features described with reference to the apparatus of this disclosure, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1A This is a schematic top view of an eyeglass lens having a layer of a basic refractive index provided on the surface of the lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the layer comprising a plurality of GRIN optical elements;

[0016] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the lens;

[0017] Figure 1C It includes, for example Figure 1A and 1B The image shows a perspective view of a pair of eyeglasses with lenses, which are lenses according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 2A This is a schematic top view of a contact lens having a layer of a basic refractive index provided on the surface of a lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the layer comprising a plurality of GRIN optical elements;

[0019] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the lens;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic top view of a lens having a layer comprising an annular region surrounding a central region according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the annular region comprises a plurality of GRIN elements arranged on grid points of a triangular grid (the grid lines are shown for illustrative purposes and are not physical lines).

[0021] Figure 4This is a schematic top view of a lens with layers according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the layers comprising a plurality of GRIN elements arranged on grid points of a square (the grid lines are shown for illustrative purposes and are not physical lines);

[0022] Figure 5 It is a graph showing the refractive index variation of a GRIN element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic top view of a lens having a layer including an annular region surrounding a central region according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a portion of the annular region includes a plurality of GRIN elements;

[0024] Figure 7A A cross-section of a layer applied to a lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the layer comprises a plurality of GRIN elements;

[0025] Figure 7B A cross-section of a layer applied to a lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the layer comprises a plurality of cuboid GRIN scattering elements;

[0026] Figure 7C The image shows a cross-section of a layer applied to a lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the layer comprises a plurality of spherical GRIN scattering elements, each element having a refractive index that varies radially outward from the center of each element;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic top view of a lens having a layer comprising two concentric annular regions surrounding a central region, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein each annular region comprises a plurality of GRIN elements; and

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic top view of a lens having a layer comprising a plurality of concentric annular regions according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein each annular region has an oscillating change in refractive index. Detailed Implementation

[0029] According to a first aspect, this disclosure provides an ophthalmic lens. The lens has a layer having a basic refractive index provided on the surface of the lens. The layer includes at least one gradient index optical element.

[0030] Lenses can be used to prevent or slow the development or progression of myopia. Lenses can also be used to correct or improve vision associated with presbyopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, keratoconus, or other refractive errors.

[0031] The layer may cover the entire surface of the lens, or substantially cover the entire surface of the lens. Alternatively, the layer may cover a portion of the lens surface. The layer may cover the central portion of the lens surface, for example, a portion configured to be located in front of the wearer's eye. The layer may cover a ring-shaped area surrounding the center of the lens. There may be peripheral areas of the lens that are not covered by the layer.

[0032] The basic refractive index of the layer can be constant. The basic refractive index of the layer can be between 1.3 and 1.8, preferably about 1.5. Each of at least one GRIN optical element can have an average refractive power greater than the basic refractive power. Alternatively, each of at least one GRIN optical element can have an average refractive power less than the basic refractive power.

[0033] In the context of this disclosure, each of at least one gradient index (GRIN) optical element is an element with a varying refractive index. The variation in refractive index can be a lateral variation across the element, i.e., in a direction parallel to the surface of the layer. The variation in refractive index can be a radial variation, i.e., the refractive index can vary radially outward from a point. The variation in refractive index can be an axial variation, i.e., in a direction normal to the surface of the layer. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have both a lateral and an axial variation in refractive index. The variation in refractive index of each of at least one GRIN optical element can be a linearly varying refractive index gradient, or a gradient with a variation profile defined by a quadratic function.

[0034] GRIN elements can be lenses. Advantageously, GRIN elements can provide defocus. Defocus is believed to help prevent or slow the progression of myopia. Defocus is also believed to help correct or improve vision associated with presbyopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, keratoconus, or other refractive errors.

[0035] Each of at least one GRIN optical element can cause additional scattering of light incident on the GRIN optical element compared to the light incident on the remaining portion of the layer. Alternatively, each of at least one GRIN optical element can reduce the scattering of light incident on the GRIN optical element compared to the light incident on the remaining portion of the layer. Each of at least one GRIN optical element can have a minimum refractive index variation of at least 0.001, preferably at least 0.005, compared to the basic refractive index. Each of at least one GRIN optical element can have a minimum refractive index greater than the basic refractive index by 0.001. Each of at least one GRIN optical element can have a minimum refractive index greater than the basic refractive index by 0.005. Each of at least one GRIN optical element can have a maximum refractive index less than the basic refractive index by 0.005. Each of at least one GRIN optical element can have a maximum refractive index less than the basic refractive index by 0.001. Compared to the basic refractive index, each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index variation of less than 0.1, preferably less than 0.025. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index greater than the basic refractive index by 0.1. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index greater than the basic refractive index by 0.025. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index less than the basic refractive index by 0.1. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index less than the basic refractive index by 0.025. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum diopter between -25D and 25D, preferably between -0.25D and 25D.

[0036] Each of at least one GRIN optical element may extend through the thickness of the layer. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may extend through the middle of the thickness of the layer. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may be embedded within the layer.

[0037] The layer may be a cross-linked polymer layer containing at least one GRIN optical element. The layer may also be formed from a matrix of an uncross-linked polymer.

[0038] A layer may be provided on the front surface of the lens. In the context of this disclosure, when the lens is worn by a lens wearer, the front surface of the lens is the forward or outer surface of the lens.

[0039] The layer may be a film applied to the surface of the lens. The layer may include... HX film. The layer may be a film applied to the lens during lens manufacturing. The layer may be permanently bonded or otherwise applied to the lens. The layer may be releasably bonded or otherwise applied to the lens, i.e., it may be easily removed from the lens. The layer may be reusable, allowing it to be easily removed and reused on the same or different lenses.

[0040] The layer can be a coating provided on the surface of the lens. The coating can be applied to the lens during the lens manufacturing process. The coating can be bonded to the surface of the lens. The coating can be irreversibly applied to the lens; for example, the bond between the coating and the lens can be permanent.

[0041] The lens can be an eyeglass lens. The lens can be round. The lens can be oval. The lens can be ovate. The lens can be rectangular. The lens can be square. The front surface of the lens can have a diameter between 1200 mm. 2 With 3000mm 2 The area between the lenses. The lenses can be made of clear glass or rigid plastic (such as polycarbonate). The lenses can be generally flat and may have at least one curved surface that provides the lens's refractive power.

[0042] The lens may be a contact lens. As used herein, the term contact lens refers to an ophthalmic lens that can be placed on the anterior surface of the eye. It should be understood that this contact lens will provide clinically acceptable supraocular movement and will not be combined with the person's eye or binoculars. The contact lens may be in the form of a corneal lens (e.g., a lens placed on the cornea of ​​the eye). In embodiments where the lens is a contact lens, the lens may have a diameter of 60 mm. 2 With 750mm 2 The surface area between [a certain value]. Lenses can be circular. Lenses can be oval. Lenses can be elliptical. Lenses can have a diameter between 10mm and 15mm.

[0043] The lenses can be rigid contact lenses. The lenses can be rigid, gas-permeable contact lenses.

[0044] Contact lenses can be toric or polygonal. For example, a toric or polygonal contact lens may include an optical zone shaped to correct a person's astigmatism.

[0045] The lenses can be soft contact lenses, such as hydrogel contact lenses or silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

[0046] Lenses may comprise elastomer materials, silicone elastomer materials, hydrogel materials, or silicone hydrogel materials, or combinations thereof. As understood in the field of contact lenses, a hydrogel is a material that maintains water in equilibrium and is free of silicone chemicals. A silicone hydrogel is a hydrogel that contains silicone chemicals. The hydrogel materials and silicone hydrogel materials described in the context of this disclosure have an equilibrium water content (EWC) of at least 10% to about 90% (wt / wt). In some embodiments, the hydrogel materials or silicone hydrogel materials have an EWC of from about 30% to about 70% (wt / wt). In contrast, silicone elastomer materials described in the context of this disclosure have a water content of from about 0% to less than 10% (wt / wt). Typically, silicone elastomer materials used in this method or apparatus have a water content of from 0.1% to 3% (wt / wt). Examples of suitable lens formulations include those with the following US Adopted Names (USAN): Metafilcon A, Ocufilcon A, Ocufilcon B, Ocufilcon C, Ocufilcon D, Omafilcon A, Omafilcon B, Comfilcon A, Enfilcon A, Stenfilcon A, Fanfilcon A, Etafilcon A, and Senofilcon A. Sanoficon B, Sanoficon C, Narafilcon A, Narafilcon B, Balafilcon A, Samfilcon A, Lotrafilcon A, Lotrafilcon B, Somofilcon A, Riofilcon A, Delefilcon A, Verofilcon A, Kalifilcon A, Lehfilcon A, and similar products.

[0047] Alternatively, the lens may include, consist substantially of, or consist of a silicone elastomer material. For example, the lens may include, consist substantially of, or consist of a silicone elastomer material having a Shore A hardness from 3 to 50. The Shore A hardness can be determined using conventional methods, as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., using method DIN 53505). Other silicone elastomer materials, for example, are available from NuSil Technology or Dow Chemical Company.

[0048] The lens may have an optical zone. The optical zone encompasses the portion of the lens that has optical functions. The optical zone is configured to be positioned above or in front of the pupil of the eye during use. The optical zone may be surrounded by a peripheral zone. The peripheral zone is not part of the optical zone but is located outside of it. For contact lenses, the peripheral zone may be located above the iris when the lens is worn. The peripheral zone may provide mechanical functions, such as increasing the size of the lens to make it easier to handle. For contact lenses, the peripheral zone may provide ballast to prevent lens rotation and / or provide a shaping area to improve the comfort of the lens wearer. The peripheral zone may extend to the edge of the lens. In embodiments of this disclosure, a layer comprising at least one GRIN optical element may cover the optical zone, but may not cover the peripheral zone.

[0049] The layer may have a uniform thickness. For contact lenses, the layer may have a thickness between 1 μm and 100 μm, preferably between 10 μm and 20 μm, and more preferably between 14 μm and 18 μm. For spectacle lenses, the layer may have a thickness between 1 μm and 1000 μm, preferably between 10 μm and 20 μm, and more preferably between 14 μm and 18 μm.

[0050] In embodiments of this disclosure, a layer may include a plurality of GRIN elements distributed across a region of the layer. The plurality of GRIN optical elements may be distributed across an entire region of the layer. The plurality of GRIN optical elements may be distributed across a portion of the layer. The plurality of GRIN optical elements may be randomly distributed across an entire layer or a portion of the layer. The GRIN optical elements may be arranged in a regular pattern across an entire layer or a portion of the layer. For spectacle lenses, providing a plurality of GRINs distributed across a region of the lens can be advantageous because this allows for maintaining defocus (caused by the GRIN elements) as the wearer's eye moves relative to the lens. A plurality of GRIN elements distributed across a spectacle lens allows for consistent myopic defocus.

[0051] GRIN optics can be positioned at regular intervals across the entire layer or a portion of a layer. GRIN optics can be arranged on points of a triangular grid. GRIN optics can be arranged on points of a square or rectangular grid. GRIN optics can be arranged to form a ring pattern on the layer. A ring pattern can leave the central area of ​​the lens without GRIN optics. The lens can have a central area with a diameter up to 8 mm, which may be without GRIN optics. The ring pattern can include a single ring or multiple concentric rings.

[0052] The layer may be a photopolymer layer. Each of at least one gradient index optical element may be a photocurable gradient index optical element. Each GRIN optical element may have been formed using photocuring.

[0053] Each of at least one gradient exponential optical element may have a radially varying refractive index distribution defined by a quadratic function. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a varying refractive index distribution defined by a higher-order polynomial function. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a varying refractive index distribution defined by a Gaussian function.

[0054] Each of the multiple GRIN elements may have the same refractive index change. Each of the multiple GRIN elements may have different refractive index changes. Some GRIN elements may have the same refractive index change, while others may have different refractive index changes. Multiple GRIN optical elements can be distributed such that GRIN optical elements with the same or similar refractive index changes can be clustered or grouped in an orderly arrangement. The film can be divided into multiple distinct sections, each containing GRIN optical elements with different refractive index changes.

[0055] Each of at least one gradient index optical element may have a width between 10 μm and 5 mm. Each of at least one GRIN optical element may have a width of 100 μm. 3 and 3mm 3 The volume varies. Multiple GRIN optics can occupy between 5% and 80% of the layer volume. Multiple gradient exponential optics can cover between 20% and 80% of the layer surface area. A layer can contain between 2 and 5000 gradient exponential optics.

[0056] Each of at least one GRIN optical element may extend through the thickness of the layer. Each of at least one GRIN element may extend through a portion of the thickness of the layer. Each of at least one GRIN element may be dispersed within the layer. Each of at least one GRIN element may be approximately cubic or spherical in shape.

[0057] The lens may have a central region and an annular region surrounding the central region. A layer containing at least one gradient index optical element may cover a portion of the annular region. The layer may not cover the central region, and therefore the central region may not contain any GRIN optical elements. The layer may cover the entire annular region or a portion of the annular region. As used herein, the term annular region refers to a region that may extend around the entire outer edge of the central region or may extend partially around the outer edge of the central region. The shape of the annular region may be circular, oval, or elliptical. The annular region may contain multiple GRIN optical elements. The multiple GRIN optical elements may be distributed around the entire annular region or distributed across a portion of the annular region. The multiple gradient index optical elements may be arranged periodically around the annular region. The layer may contain multiple concentric annular regions, and each of the concentric annular regions may contain at least one GRIN optical element. Each concentric annular region may contain multiple GRIN elements. The multiple GRIN optical elements may cover a portion of each annular region. An angle θ is used to define the position around the annular region, where θ varies between 0° and 360°. Multiple GRIN optical elements can cover the same θ angle range for each annular region (i.e., the GRIN elements in each annular region can be in phase, where the maximum and minimum values ​​of each annular region are at the same θ value), or they can occupy different θ angle ranges (i.e., the GRIN elements in each annular region can be out of phase, where the maximum and minimum values ​​of each element are at different θ values). Therefore, at least one GRIN element in the first annular region can be out of phase with at least one GRIN element in the adjacent second annular region.

[0058] At least one GRIN element in the first annular region may be in phase with at least one GRIN element in the adjacent second annular region.

[0059] If a layer contains multiple concentric annular regions, then the refractive index changes around each of the annular regions can be in the same phase or out of phase.

[0060] The layer may comprise a plurality of concentric annular regions radially spaced apart by regions of the layer having a fundamental refractive index. Alternatively, the layer may comprise a plurality of concentric annular regions adjacent to each other, such that there are no regions with a fundamental refractive index between the annular concentric gradient exponential optical elements.

[0061] The layer can have a thickness between 1 μm and 70 μm.

[0062] The lens may further include an adhesive provided between the layer and the lens surface. The adhesive may include a transparent adhesive, such as an epoxy-based adhesive. The adhesive may be an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer may be applied to the front surface of the lens during lens manufacturing. The adhesive layer may be applied to the rear surface of the layer during lens manufacturing. The adhesive can permanently bond the layer to the lens surface. Alternatively, the layer may be bonded to the lens surface. The layer may be permanently or irreversibly bonded to the lens surface.

[0063] The lens may further include a protective layer provided on the front surface of the layer containing at least one GRIN optical element. The front surface of the layer containing at least one GRIN optical element is the front or outer surface of the layer when the lens is in normal use and worn by the lens wearer. The protective layer may cover all or part of the front surface of the layer containing at least one GRIN optical element. The protective layer may be a transparent layer. The protective layer may include polycarbonate (PC). The protective layer may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or cellulose triacetate (TAC). The protective layer may include a material with negligible birefringence. The protective layer may be waterproof. The protective layer may be scratch resistant. The protective layer may have a basic refractive index. The protective layer provides a certain level of UV protection. The protective layer may be bonded to the layer containing at least one GRIN optical element using an adhesive.

[0064] According to a second aspect, this disclosure provides a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens. The lens has a layer providing a lens surface. The layer has a basic refractive index and includes at least one gradient index optical element. The method includes providing the ophthalmic lens and applying a coating or film to the lens to form the layer. The lens may include any of the features described above. Providing the lens may include manufacturing the lens. Manufacturing the lens may include forming a female mold component having a concave lens forming surface and a male mold component having a convex lens forming surface. The method may include filling the gap between the female mold component and the male mold component with a bulk lens material. The method may further include curing the bulk lens material to form the lens.

[0065] The lens can be a molded contact lens. The lens can be formed by casting, rotational casting, or lathe machining, or a combination thereof. As those skilled in the art will understand, molding refers to molding a lens by placing lens forming material between a female mold part having a concave lens component forming surface and a male mold part having a convex lens component forming surface.

[0066] The layer may be a film. Applying the film to the lens may include bonding the layer to the lens using an adhesive. The adhesive may be a transparent adhesive. The adhesive may be applied to the rear surface of the layer containing at least one GRIN element. Before applying the layer containing at least one GRIN element, the adhesive may be applied to the front surface of the lens.

[0067] Alternatively, the layer may include a coating. The coating can be applied directly to the lens surface using various coating methods, such as spraying, spin coating, solution casting, liquid phase surface deposition, or vapor phase surface deposition. Before applying the coating to the lens surface, the lens surface may be treated, for example, using plasma treatment, to improve adhesion or bonding with the coating.

[0068] The step of forming the layer may include photocuring at least one region of the photocurable layer to generate at least one photocurable gradient index optical element. A digital light projection system may be used to photocur at least one region of the photocurable layer. Alternatively, a direct laser writing system may be used to photocur at least one region of the photocurable layer. Alternatively, a collimated LED / laser source may be used to photocur at least one region of the photocurable layer. A high-resolution 3D photocurable system (e.g., a laser illumination system based on a two-photon confocal microscope) may be used to photocur at least one region of the photocurable layer.

[0069] In the exemplary embodiments described below, the lens may be a spectacle lens or a contact lens. The lens may have a circular shape. The lens may have an oval shape. The lens may have an elliptical shape. In the case of a spectacle lens, the lens may have a diameter of 300mm. 2 With 5000mm 2 Between, preferably within 1000mm 2 With 3000mm 2 The area between. In the case of contact lenses, the lens may have a diameter of 60mm. 2 With 750mm 2 The surface area between [a certain value]. Contact lenses may have a diameter between 6 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 16 mm.

[0070] Figure 1A This is a schematic top view of a spectacle lens 118 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, having a layer 100 having a basic refractive index provided on the front surface of the lens 118, the layer 100 comprising a plurality of GRIN optical elements 102. The layer 100 is in the form of a film. The basic refractive index of the film 100 is constant and the film has a uniform thickness. The layer 100 comprises a plurality of GRIN optical elements 102. The layer 100 covers the front surface of the lens 118. Each GRIN optical element 102 has a refractive index gradient that varies continuously and laterally across the element in a direction parallel to the front surface of the layer 100. Each element 102 has the same refractive index variation. Light incident on the GRIN elements 102 in a direction generally perpendicular to the layer 100 is more scattered than light incident on the remainder 104 of the layer 100 having the basic refractive index. The GRIN elements 102 are distributed at regular intervals across the surface of the film 100, covering approximately 70% of one of the surfaces of the film. Each of the GRIN optical elements 102 is a photocurable optical element. Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A cross-section of the lens 118, showing the layer 100 provided on the front surface of the lens 118.

[0071] Figure 1C It includes, for example Figure 1AThe image shows a perspective view of a pair of eyeglasses 122 with lens 118. The pair of eyeglasses 122 contains... Figure 1A The two lenses described herein, if in use, are positioned in front of the wearer's pupil. As described above, layer 100 covers the front surface of each spectacle lens 118. Layer 100 contains a plurality of GRIN optical elements 102, and the remainder 104 in the layer has a basic refractive index.

[0072] Figure 2A This is a schematic top view of a contact lens 218 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, having a layer 200 having a basic refractive index provided on the surface of the lens 218, the layer 200 comprising a plurality of GRIN optical elements 202. The layer 200 covers the front surface of the lens 218 and has a uniform thickness. The GRIN elements 202 cover approximately 70% of the front surface of the layer 200. The basic refractive index of the layer 200 is constant. The GRIN optical elements 202 are distributed across the surface of the layer 200 at regular intervals. Each GRIN optical element 202 has a refractive index gradient that is continuous and laterally varied across element 202, and each element 202 has the same refractive index variation. Light incident on the GRIN elements 202 is more scattered than light incident on the remainder 204 of the layer 200 having the basic refractive index. The layer 200 includes a coating applied to the lens 218 during the manufacturing process. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The side view of lens 218 shown in the image.

[0073] Figure 3 This is a schematic top view of contact lens 318, similar to... Figure 2A Lens 218 is shown in the diagram. Contact lens 318 has a layer 300 provided on the front surface of lens 318. Layer 300 has an annular shape, covers an annular region 306 of lens 300, and surrounds a central region 308 of lens 318. According to an embodiment of this disclosure, layer 300 includes a plurality of GRIN optical elements 302 arranged on the grid points of a triangular grid 310. The grid lines are shown for illustrative purposes and are not physical lines. Layer 300 has a uniform thickness. GRIN elements 302 traverse approximately 70% of the front surface of layer 300. The fundamental refractive index of layer 300 is constant. GRIN optical elements 302 are arranged on the grid points of a triangular grid 310 spanning the surface of layer 300. The central region 308 of lens 318 is not covered by layer 300, and therefore, this central region 308 does not contain any GRIN elements. The peripheral region 320 of lens 318 is also not covered by layer 300, and therefore does not contain any GRIN elements 302. Each GRIN optical element 302 has a continuous and laterally varying refractive index gradient across element 302, and each element 302 has the same refractive index variation.

[0074] Figure 4This is a schematic top view of contact lens 418, similar to... Figure 3 Lens 318 is shown in the diagram. Contact lens 418 has a layer 400 provided on the front surface of lens 418. A portion of layer 400 covering the central region 408 of lens 418 does not have GRIN optical elements 402. A portion of layer 400 covering the peripheral region 420 of lens 418 also does not have GRIN optical elements 402. According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a portion of layer 400 covering the annular region 406 of lens 400 includes a plurality of GRIN elements 402 arranged on grid points of square 410. Grid lines are shown for illustrative purposes and are not physical lines. Each GRIN optical element 402 has a refractive index gradient that is continuous and laterally varied across element 402, and each element 402 has the same refractive index variation.

[0075] Figure 5 Figure 512 illustrates the refractive index variation of a GRIN element that can be contained in a layer according to an embodiment of the invention. The GRIN element has a varying refractive index distribution defined by a quadratic function, such that the maximum refractive index is located at the center of the element, and the refractive index decreases radially outward from the center of the element. Compared to regions of the film that do not contain GRIN optical elements, the refractive index variation results in increased scattering of light incident on the GRIN optical elements.

[0076] Figure 6 This is a schematic top view of a contact lens 618 having a layer 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The layer 600 includes an annular region 606 (shown as regions 606a and 606b) surrounding a central region 608, wherein a portion of the annular region 606a includes a plurality of GRIN elements 602. A portion of the layer 600 covering the peripheral region 620 of the lens 618 also lacks GRIN optical elements 602. The eye-shaped lens 618 is similar to... Figure 2A In the eye-shaped glasses described in section B, however, in this embodiment, the GRIN optical elements 602 are regularly distributed across a portion of the surface of the annular region 606a, while the remainder of the annular region 606b does not contain any GRIN optical elements 602. Light incident on the GRIN elements 602 is more scattered than light incident on the remainder 604, which has a basic refractive index.

[0077] Figure 7AA cross-section of a layer 700 applied to a lens 718 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the layer 700 comprises a plurality of GRIN elements 702. The GRIN optical elements 702 are distributed across the surface of the layer 700 at regular intervals. The layer 700 is in the form of a film. Each GRIN optical element 702 has a refractive index gradient that varies continuously and laterally across the element in a direction parallel to the surface of the film. The refractive index of each GRIN optical element 702 is constant in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the film. Each element 702 has the same refractive index variation. The fundamental refractive index of the film 700 is constant and the film 700 has a uniform thickness. The film 700 is applied to the lens 718 during a manufacturing process.

[0078] Figure 7B A cross-section of a layer 800 applied to a lens 818 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the layer 800 comprises a plurality of cuboid GRIN elements 802. The layer 800 is in the form of a film, and the GRIN optical elements 802 are photocurable optical elements dispersed within the thickness of the layer 800. Each GRIN optical element 802 has a refractive index gradient that varies radially outward from the center of the element 802 in a direction parallel to the surface of the layer 800. Each element 802 has the same refractive index variation. The fundamental refractive index of the film 800 is constant, and the film 800 has a uniform thickness. The film 800 is applied to the lens 818 during a manufacturing process.

[0079] Figure 7C A cross-section of a layer 900 applied to a lens 918 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the layer 900 comprises a plurality of spherical GRIN elements 902. The layer 900 is in the form of a film, and the GRIN optical elements 902 are photocurable optical elements dispersed within the thickness of the film 900. Each GRIN optical element 902 has a refractive index gradient that varies radially outward from the center of the element 902, and each element 902 has the same refractive index variation. The fundamental refractive index of the film 900 is constant, and the film 900 has a uniform thickness. The film 900 is applied to the lens 918 during a manufacturing process.

[0080] Figure 8This is a schematic top view of a contact lens 1018 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, having a layer 1000 comprising two concentric annular regions 1006i and 1006ii surrounding a central region 1008, wherein each annular region contains a plurality of GRIN elements 1002. Each GRIN optical element 1002 has a refractive index gradient that is continuous and laterally varied across the element 1002, and each element 1002 has the same refractive index variation. The concentric annular regions 1006i and 1006ii are separated by annular regions 1024 of the layer 1000 having a basic refractive index. The GRIN optical elements 1002 are distributed at regular intervals across the surfaces of the concentric annular regions 1006i and 1006ii. The region of the layer 1000 covering the central portion 1008 of the lens does not contain any GRIN optical elements 1002. The region of the layer 1000 covering the peripheral region 1020 of the lens 1018 does not contain any GRIN optical elements 1002. Each of the GRIN optical elements 1002 has an average refractive power greater than the basic refractive power of the remaining 1004 which has a basic refractive index.

[0081] Figure 9 This is a schematic top view of a lens 1118 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, having a layer 1100 comprising an annular peripheral region 1120 surrounding a central region 1108 and a layer 1100 comprising a plurality of concentric annular regions 1106a to d, each annular region 1106a to d comprising a plurality of GRIN optical elements 1102a to d. GRIN optical elements (one of 1102a to d) are distributed around each annular region 1106a to d such that the positioning of GRIN optical element 1102b around one of the annular regions 1106b is out of phase with the positioning of GRIN optical elements (1102a and 1102c) in adjacent annular regions 1106a / 1106c. The concentric annular regions 1106a to d are radially separated by regions of layers 1104a to c having a basic refractive index. In other embodiments of the present disclosure (not shown), the concentric annular regions may be adjacent to each other, i.e., not separated by regions having a basic refractive index.

[0082] Although this disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is applicable to many different variations not specifically described herein. Specific possible variations will now be described by way of example only.

[0083] In exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, each GRIN element may have an average refractive index higher than the fundamental refractive index. In other exemplary embodiments, each GRIN element may have an average refractive index lower than the fundamental refractive index.

[0084] Although references have been made in the foregoing description to integers or elements having known obvious or foreseeable equivalents, such equivalents are incorporated herein as individually set forth. The true scope of this disclosure should be determined with reference to the claims, which should be construed as covering any such equivalents. The reader should also understand that integers or features of this disclosure described as advantageous, convenient, or similar are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent technical solution. Furthermore, it should be understood that such optional integers or features, while advantageous in some embodiments of this disclosure, may not be desirable and therefore may not be present in other embodiments.

Claims

1. An ophthalmic lens having a layer having a substantially refractive index provided on a surface of the lens, and the layer comprising a plurality of gradient index optical elements distributed above a region of the layer; wherein each gradient index optical element is a lens, and each gradient index optical element has a refractive index of 100 µm. 3 With 3 mm 3 The volume between, and each gradient exponential optical element has a radial variation and a lateral variation of refractive index across the element.

2. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the layer is provided on the front surface of the lens.

3. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the layer is a film applied to the surface of the lens.

4. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the layer is a coating provided on the surface of the lens.

5. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the lens is a spectacle lens.

6. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the lens is a contact lens.

7. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 6, wherein the lens is a rigid contact lens.

8. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the plurality of gradient index optical elements are distributed on the grid points of a triangular lattice across the region of the layer.

9. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the layer is a photopolymer layer, and each of the plurality of gradient index optical elements is a photocurable gradient index optical element.

10. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of gradient index optical elements has a radially varying refractive index distribution defined by a quadratic function.

11. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of gradient index optical elements has a diameter or width between 10 μm and 2 mm.

12. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the plurality of gradient index optical elements occupy between 20% and 80% of the surface area of ​​the layer.

13. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 or claim 2, having a central region and an annular region surrounding the central region, wherein the layer comprising each of the plurality of gradient index optical elements covers a portion of the annular region.

14. The ophthalmic lens of claim 13, wherein a plurality of gradient index optical elements are arranged periodically around the annular region.

15. The ophthalmic lens of claim 13, wherein the layer comprises a plurality of concentric annular regions, each annular region comprising at least one gradient exponential optical element.

16. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein at least one gradient index optical element in the first annular region is out of phase with at least one gradient index optical element in the adjacent second annular region.

17. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein the annular region is radially separated by a region of the layer having the basic refractive power.

18. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein the annular regions are adjacent to each other.

19. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the layer has a thickness between 1 μm and 70 μm.

20. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising an adhesive provided between the layer and the surface of the lens.

21. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a protective layer provided on the front surface of the layer comprising a plurality of gradient index optical elements.

22. A method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens, the method comprising: Provide ophthalmic lenses; and A layer is formed on the surface of the lens, wherein the layer has a basic refractive index and contains a plurality of gradient exponential optical elements; Each gradient exponential optical element is a lens, and each gradient exponential optical element has a focal length of 100 µm. 3 With 3 mm 3 The volume between, and each gradient exponential optical element has a radial variation and a lateral variation of refractive index across the element.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein forming the layer comprises applying a coating or film to the surface of the lens.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the layer is a film and wherein the step of applying the film to the lens includes bonding the film to the lens using an adhesive.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein the layer is a coating, and wherein a plasma coating is used to apply the layer to the lens.

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