Ophthalmic lens comprising an asymmetric

Abstract

An ophthalmic lens (1), a film for use in an ophthalmic lens (1) and a method (500) of manufacturing an ophthalmic lens (1) are described. The lens (1) has an optical axis. The lens (1) comprises a layer (3) disposed on a surface of a substrate (5). The layer (3) has a basic refractive index and comprises at least one gradient index optical element (7a, 7b) having an asymmetric refractive index profile. The at least one gradient index optical element (7a, 7b) focuses light from a far point source on the optical axis to a point at a first distance from the optical axis (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to ophthalmic lenses having a layer comprising at least one gradient index refractive element having an asymmetric refractive index profile, films used in such lenses, and methods of making such lenses. Background Art

[0002] Many people, including children and adults, need ophthalmic lenses to correct myopia (short-sightedness), and many adults need ophthalmic lenses to correct presbyopia (age-related inability to adapt and therefore focus on near objects). Ophthalmic lenses may also be needed to correct hyperopia (far-sightedness), astigmatism, or keratoconus (a condition in which the cornea gradually bulges to form a cone).

[0003] Without optical correction, a myopic eye focuses incoming light from distant objects to a location in front of the retina. Thus, the light converges toward a plane in front of the retina, then diverges away from that plane and is out of focus when it reaches the retina. Conventional lenses (e.g., spectacle lenses and contact lenses) used to correct myopia reduce the convergence (for contact lenses) or cause divergence (for spectacle lenses) of incoming light from distant objects before it reaches the eye, so that the location of the focal point is shifted onto the retina.

[0004] In presbyopia, the lens cannot effectively change shape to accommodate near objects, and therefore a person suffering from presbyopia cannot focus on near objects. Conventional lenses (e.g., spectacle lenses and contact lenses) used to correct presbyopia include bifocal or progressive lenses that include an area optimized for near vision and an area optimized for distance vision. Presbyopia can also be treated using bifocal or multifocal lenses or single vision lenses (where a different prescription is provided for each eye, one eye is provided with a distance vision lens, and one eye is provided with a near vision lens).

[0005] It was proposed several decades ago that the progression of myopia in children or young adults could be slowed or prevented by undercorrection (i.e., moving the focus toward the retina but not completely onto the retina). However, such an approach necessarily results in a reduction in distance vision compared to the vision obtained with a lens that fully corrects myopia. Furthermore, it is now questionable whether undercorrection is an effective way to control developing myopia. A newer approach is to provide lenses with both fully corrected areas that provide distance vision and areas that are undercorrected or intentionally induce myopic defocus. Lenses that increase the scattering of light in specific areas compared to light that passes through the fully corrected areas of the lens can also be provided. It has been proposed that these approaches can prevent or slow the development or progression of myopia in children or young adults while providing good distance vision.

[0006] Where a lens has a zone that provides defocus, the zone that provides full correction for distance vision is often referred to as the base power zone, and the zone that provides undercorrection or intentionally induced myopic defocus is often referred to as the additional power zone or myopic defocus zone (because the refractive power is more positive or less negative than the power of the hyperopic corrective base power zone). The surface (usually the front surface) of the additional power zone has a radius of curvature that is smaller than the radius of curvature of the hyperopic power zone, and therefore provides more positive or less negative refractive power to the eye. The additional power zone is designed to focus incoming parallel light (i.e., light from a distance) into the eye in front of the retina (i.e., closer to the lens), while the hyperopic power zone is designed to focus light and form an image at the retina (i.e., farther away from the lens). When the lens wearer is viewing a near object and uses accommodation to focus light passing through the hyperopic power zone, the additional power zone will focus the light in front of the retina.

[0007] In the case of lenses that increase light scattering in specific areas, features that increase scattering can be introduced into the lens surface or can be introduced into the material used to form the lens. For example, scattering elements can be produced into the lens surface by thermal or mechanical or light induced methods, or embedded in the lens. The scattering elements can be, for example, laser induced material changes to form optical elements embedded in the lens material.

[0008] A known type of contact lens that reduces myopia progression is a bifocal contact lens available under the name MISIGHT (CooperVision). This bifocal lens differs from bifocal or multifocal contact lenses configured to improve vision for presbyopes in that the bifocal lens is configured with specific optical dimensions to enable an adaptable person to use the distance vision correction (i.e., base power) for viewing both distant and near objects. The treatment area of ​​the bifocal lens with added power also provides a myopic defocused image at both distant and near viewing distances.

[0009] While these lenses have been found to be beneficial in preventing or slowing the development or progression of myopia, the annular add power zone may produce undesirable visual side effects. Light focused in front of the retina by the annular add power zone diverges from the focal point to form a defocused ring at the retina. As a result, wearers of these lenses may see a ring or 'halo' around the image formed on the retina, especially for small bright objects (such as street lamps and car headlights). Also, in theory, the wearer could utilize the additional annular add power zone to focus on near objects, rather than using the eye's natural accommodation (i.e., the eye's natural ability to change focus) to bring near objects into focus; in other words, the wearer could inadvertently use the lens in the same manner as a presbyopia correction lens, which is undesirable for young subjects.

[0010] Further lenses have been developed that can be used to treat myopia. In these lenses, the annular region is configured so that no single on-axis image is formed in front of the retina, thereby preventing this image from being used to focus on near objects and avoiding the need for the eye to accommodate. Instead, a distant point light source is imaged by the annular region to an annular focal line at the near add power focal plane, resulting in a small spot size of light on the retina at the distance focal plane, without a surrounding 'halo' effect.

[0011] For treating myopia, it has been recognised that it may be beneficial to provide a lens that introduces additional myopic defocus. For treating presbyopia, it may be beneficial to provide a lens that produces an extended depth of focus.

[0012] It is recognized that known lenses that include a therapeutic portion for introducing defocus are generally designed to provide a specific treatment to the lens wearer. The lenses can be expensive and complex in design, and over time, if the needs of the lens wearer change, they may need to purchase different lenses that provide different levels of correction.

[0013] The present 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 in correcting or improving vision associated with presbyopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, keratoconus or other refractive abnormalities. Summary of the invention

[0014] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an ophthalmic lens according to technical solution 1.

[0015] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a film according to technical solution 22.

[0016] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method according to technical solution 23.

[0017] Of course, it will be appreciated that features described with respect to one aspect of the disclosure may be incorporated into other aspects of the disclosure. For example, the method of the disclosure may incorporate features described with respect to the apparatus of the disclosure and vice versa. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Example embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings.

[0019] Figure 1A is a cross-sectional view of an ophthalmic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A a top view of the lens (i.e., looking toward the surface that faces forward when the lens is in use on the eye);

[0021] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A and 1B A top view of one of the GRIN optical elements of the lens;

[0022] Figure 1D yes Figure 1C A perspective view of the GRIN optical element shown in FIG.

[0023] Figure 1E It is a display Figure 1C and 1D A diagram of the refractive index distribution of the GRIN optical element shown in FIG.

[0024] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of an ophthalmic lens according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A a top view of the lens (i.e., looking toward the surface that faces forward when the lens is in use on the eye);

[0026] Figure 2C is formed Figure 2A and 2B A top view of one of the GRIN optical elements of the inner ring of the GRIN element in the lens;

[0027] Figure 2D is formed Figure 2A and 2B A top view of one of the GRIN optical elements of the outer ring of GRIN elements in the lens;

[0028] Figure 2E yes Figure 2C A perspective view of the GRIN optical element shown in FIG.

[0029] Figure 2F yes Figure 2D A perspective view of the GRIN optical element shown in FIG.

[0030] Figure 2G It is a display Figures 2C to 2F A diagram of the refractive index distribution of the GRIN optical element shown in FIG.

[0031] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of an ophthalmic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A top view of a lens;

[0033] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A and 3B A top view of one of the GRIN optical elements of the lens;

[0034] Figure 3D It is displayed around Figure 3C A graph of the refractive index profile in the circumferential direction of one of the GRIN optical elements shown in FIG.

[0035] Figure 4 is a front view of a pair of glasses including lenses according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 5A is a top view of a film used in an ophthalmic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 5B According to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the lens is applied Figure 5A a cross-sectional view of a small portion of a membrane; and

[0038] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method of manufacturing a lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an ophthalmic lens having an optical axis. The lens comprises a layer disposed on a surface of a substrate. The layer has a base refractive index and comprises at least one gradient index optical element having an asymmetric refractive index profile, such that the at least one gradient index (GRIN) optical element focuses light from a distant point source on the optical axis to a point at a first distance from the optical axis of the lens.

[0040] The optical axis of the lens is defined with reference to a distant point source. Light from a distant point source on the optical axis of the lens (which may be referred to hereinafter as an on-axis distant point source) will be focused onto the optical axis of the lens. The optical axis may be along the centerline of the wafer. For example, when the wafer is a contact lens, the optical axis is typically along the centerline of the lens. However, the optical axis may of course not be along the centerline of the lens; this may be the case for spectacle lenses, where the position of the optical axis of the lens will be determined by the wearer's pupil distance, which, depending on the geometry of the lens, may not coincide with the centerline of the lens.

[0041] The lens may be a lens for preventing or slowing the development or progression of myopia. The lens may be a lens for correcting or improving vision associated with presbyopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, keratoconus or another refractive abnormality.

[0042] The layer may cover the entire surface of the lens, or substantially all of the surface of the lens. Alternatively, the layer may cover a portion of the surface of the lens. The layer may cover a central portion of the surface of the lens, for example, the portion configured to be located in front of the eye of the lens wearer when the lens is in use. The layer may cover an annular area of ​​the surface surrounding the center of the lens. There may be peripheral areas of the lens that are not covered by the layer.

[0043] The base refractive index of the layer may be uniform. The base refractive index of the layer may be between 1.3 and 1.8, preferably about 1.5. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have an average refractive index greater than the base refractive index. Alternatively, each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have an average refractive index less than the base refractive index. Light passing through the layer from a distant point source on the axis will be focused to a focal point on the optical axis of the lens. The base refractive power focal plane may be defined as a surface that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens and passes through the focal point of the lens. As used herein, the term surface does not refer to a physical surface, but to a surface that can be drawn through the point that will focus light from a distant object. This surface is also called an image plane (even though it may be a curved surface) or an image shell. The eye focuses light onto a curved retina, and in a perfectly focusing eye, the curvature of the image shell will match the curvature of the retina. Therefore, the eye does not focus light onto a flat mathematical plane. However, in the art, the curved surface of the retina is generally referred to as a plane. Light from an on-axis point source that passes through the layers is focused to a focal point on the optical axis of the lens at the base power focal plane.

[0044] In the context of the present disclosure, each of at least one GRIN optical element is an element having a varying refractive index and an asymmetric refractive index distribution caused by the varying refractive index in a plane parallel to the surface of the layer. Each element may be substantially cylindrical, or cylindrical with an elliptical or oval cross-section, and may have its cylindrical axis perpendicular to the plane of the layer. Each element may be substantially spherical or substantially cubic. Each element may have a circular, elliptical, oval or square cross-section in a plane parallel to the surface of the layer. Each element may have a circular, elliptical, oval or square cross-section and a flat surface flush with the surface of the layer. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the refractive index variation across at least one GRIN optical element will be asymmetric in at least one lateral direction (i.e., a direction extending parallel to the surface of the layer). Due to the asymmetric refractive index distribution, light traveling from a distant point source on the axis through at least one GRIN optical element will be directed toward a point that is not on the optical axis of the lens (i.e., an off-axis focus).

[0045] Each of the at least one GRIN optical element is a lens having its own local optical axis, which is tilted relative to the optical axis of the lens due to the asymmetric refractive index distribution. The local optical axis of each of the at least one GRIN optical element is defined with reference to a distant point source. Light from a distant point source on the local optical axis of the GRIN optical element (which may be referred to as an on-axis distant point source hereinafter) will be focused onto the optical axis of the GRIN optical element. A GRIN optical element having an asymmetric refractive index variation in a direction parallel to the surface of the layer (i.e., a transverse direction) will have a local optical axis tilted relative to the optical axis of the layer of the lens having a base refractive index, and therefore, light from the on-axis distant point source passing through each of the GRIN optical elements will be focused to a point at a first distance from the optical axis of the lens. The focal power of each of the GRIN optical elements will depend on the refractive index distribution of the GRIN optical element.

[0046] Any or all of the at least one GRIN optical element may be configured such that light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical element forms a small spot of light centered on the optical axis of the lens at the base power focal plane. Thus, although each of the GRIN optical elements may focus light toward an off-axis focus, the approximate superposition of an image formed by light passing through a region of the lens having a base refractive index and a defocused image formed by light passing through the GRIN optical element may improve the quality or contrast of the image formed at the retina, and may improve the vision of the lens wearer. Alternatively, any or all of the at least one GRIN optical element may be configured such that light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical element does not intersect the optical axis of the lens at the base power focal plane. This may result in reduced contrast or reduced image quality of the image formed at the retina, which may be advantageous in reducing myopia progression.

[0047] The asymmetric refractive index variation may be a radial refractive index variation, i.e., the refractive index may vary extending radially outward from a point at the center of the GRIN optical element and in a plane parallel to the surface of the layer (i.e., a transverse plane). The asymmetric refractive index variation may be in a circumferential direction, i.e., the refractive index may vary around the circumference of the GRIN element in a plane parallel to the surface of the layer, and the refractive index variation may be different along different meridians of the GRIN optical element.

[0048] An asymmetric refractive index variation may be a variation in a linear direction parallel to the surface of the layer.

[0049] An asymmetric refractive index variation may be a combination of variation in a linear direction in the transverse plane and variation in the radial and / or circumferential directions.

[0050] Advantageously, GRIN elements can provide defocus. It is believed that defocus can help prevent or slow the progression of myopia. It is believed that defocus can help correct or improve vision associated with presbyopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, keratoconus or other refractive abnormalities. GRIN optical elements can be configured so that they provide random refractive index modulation across layers, thereby increasing the spread of light across the retina and reducing image contrast.

[0051] The refractive index variation of any of the at least one GRIN optical element may be defined by an asymmetric polynomial function.

[0052] The layer may comprise a plurality of GRIN elements. The layer may comprise a plurality of GRIN elements randomly distributed across the layer. The plurality of GRIN elements may be randomly distributed across portions of the layer. The layer may comprise a plurality of GRIN optical elements arranged to form at least one annular ring. The at least one annular ring may be circular, oval, or elliptical in shape. The at least one annular ring may be centered on the optical axis of the lens. The plurality of GRIN optical elements may be arranged to form at least two concentric annular rings positioned at different radial distances from the optical axis of the lens.

[0053] For spectacle lenses, distributing GRIN optical elements across a relatively large area of ​​the lens can be advantageous because this can enable the defocus caused by the GRIN optical elements to be maintained as the lens wearer's eye moves relative to the lens. Multiple GRIN optical elements distributed across a spectacle lens can enable maintaining a consistent myopic defocus.

[0054] GRIN optical elements can be positioned at regular intervals across the entire layer or a portion of a layer. GRIN optical elements can be arranged at the grid points of a triangular lattice. GRIN optical elements can be arranged at the grid points of a square or rectangular lattice.

[0055] The GRIN optical elements may be arranged to form an annular pattern on the layer. The annular pattern may leave a central region of the lens free of GRIN optical elements. The lens may have a central region with a diameter of up to 8 mm that does not have GRIN optical elements. The annular pattern may include a single ring or multiple concentric rings.

[0056] The layer may comprise at least one second annular ring of GRIN optical elements positioned at a different radial distance from the optical axis of the lens.

[0057] At least two of the GRIN optical elements may be substantially identical, i.e., they may have the same size and shape, and they may have the same asymmetric refractive index profile. In this case, the at least two GRIN optical elements may focus light from an on-axis distant point source toward a point that is not on the optical axis of the lens and is located on the same focal plane. The refractive index profiles of the at least two GRIN elements may vary so that when the lens is positioned on the eye, light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical elements will be located at a surface that is closer to the back surface of the lens than the base refractive power focal plane. The refractive index profiles of the at least two GRIN elements may vary so that when the lens is positioned on the eye, light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical elements will be focused at a surface that is farther from the back surface of the lens than the base refractive power focal plane.

[0058] Substantially identical GRIN optical elements positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis of the lens (e.g., GRIN optical elements arranged in circular concentric rings centered on the optical axis) can focus light toward off-axis points that are equidistant from the optical axis from the lens and located on the same focal plane. Thus, the focal points formed by light passing through these GRIN optical elements can form a circular ring at the focal plane. Similarly, substantially identical GRIN optical elements can be arranged to form an elliptical or oval ring centered on the optical axis, and the focal points formed by light passing through these GRIN optical elements from distant on-axis point sources can form an elliptical or oval ring at the focal plane.

[0059] At least two of the GRIN optical elements may have different asymmetric refractive index profiles. In this case, at least two GRIN optical elements will have different local optical axes. For a first and second GRIN element having different refractive index profiles and positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis of the lens, light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the first GRIN optical element may be focused to a point a first distance away from the optical axis of the lens, and light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the second GRIN optical element may be focused to a point a second, different distance away from the optical axis of the lens. The focal point of each of the GRIN optical elements will depend on the asymmetric refractive index profiles of the GRIN elements, and the positions of the GRIN optical elements.

[0060] At least two of the GRIN optical elements having different refractive index profiles may focus light toward different focal planes.

[0061] Each of the plurality of GRIN optical elements may have a different refractive index variation. Alternatively, some GRIN optical elements may have the same refractive index variation and other elements may have different refractive index variations. The plurality of GRIN optical elements may be distributed such that GRIN optical elements with the same or similar refractive index variation may be clustered or grouped in an ordered arrangement. A layer may be divided into a plurality of distinct portions, wherein each portion includes a GRIN optical element with the same or similar refractive index variation.

[0062] There may be a correlation between the refractive index profile of each of the at least one GRIN optical element and the radial position of the element from the optical axis of the lens. GRIN optical elements positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis of the lens (e.g., positioned around a ring centered on the optical axis of the lens) may have the same refractive index profile. GRIN elements positioned at different radial distances from the optical axis of the lens may have different refractive index profiles.

[0063] GRIN optical elements positioned at a greater radial distance from the optical axis of the lens may have a refractive index profile that results in greater power than GRIN optical elements positioned at a smaller radial distance from the optical axis of the lens. When the lens is in use, the GRIN optical elements positioned at a greater radial distance from the optical axis of the lens may focus light from a distant on-axis point source toward a surface closer to the posterior surface of the lens than the GRIN optical elements positioned at a smaller radial distance from the optical axis of the lens.

[0064] The lens may include GRIN optical elements forming a first annulus centered on the optical axis of the lens, and the GRIN elements may have a first refractive index profile. The lens may include GRIN elements forming a second annulus centered on the optical axis of the lens at a greater radial distance than the first annulus, and the GRIN elements may have a second, different refractive index profile. The first refractive index profile may cause the GRIN elements forming part of the first annulus to focus light toward a first focal plane, and the second refractive index profile may cause the GRIN elements forming part of the second annulus to focus light toward a second focal plane. When the lens is worn by a user, the first focal plane and / or the second focal plane may be closer to the back surface of the lens than the base focal plane. The first focal plane may be closer to the back surface of the lens than the second focal plane. The first focal plane may be farther from the back surface of the lens than the second focal plane.

[0065] The lens may include GRIN optical elements forming a plurality of concentric annular rings. The GRIN optical elements within the same annular ring may have the same refractive index profile. The GRIN optical elements forming different annular rings may have different refractive index profiles. An annular ring positioned at a greater radial distance from the optical axis of the lens may include a GRIN element having a refractive index variation that results in a greater focal power of the element. When the lens is in use, the annular ring positioned at a greater radial distance from the optical axis of the lens may include a GRIN element that focuses light toward a surface closer to the rear surface of the lens than an annular ring positioned at a smaller radial distance from the optical axis of the lens. Alternatively, the annular ring positioned at a greater radial distance from the optical axis of the lens may include a GRIN element with a smaller focal power. When the lens is in use, the annular ring positioned at a greater radial distance from the optical axis of the lens may include a GRIN element that focuses light toward a surface farther from the rear surface of the lens than an annular ring positioned at a smaller radial distance from the optical axis of the lens.

[0066] Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may produce additional scattering of light incident on the GRIN optical element compared to light incident on the remainder of the layer.

[0067] Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index difference of at least 0.001, preferably at least 0.005, compared to the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index of 0.001 greater than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index of 0.005 greater than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index of 0.005 less than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index of 0.001 less than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index difference of less than 0.1, preferably less than 0.025, compared to the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index of 0.1 greater than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a maximum refractive index of 0.025 greater than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index of 0.1 less than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index that is 0.025 less than the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive index that is equal to the base refractive index. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive power between -25D and +25D, preferably between -0.25D and +25.0D. For lenses used to prevent or slow the development or progression of myopia, each GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive power between -0.25D and +25.0D. For lenses used to prevent or slow the development or progression of hyperopia, each GRIN optical element may have a minimum refractive power between 0.0 and -25.0D.

[0068] The layer has a finite thickness, and each of the at least one GRIN optical element may extend through the thickness of the layer. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may extend only halfway through the thickness of the layer. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may be embedded within the layer. The thickness of the layer may be uniform. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may be embedded within the layer without changing the thickness of the layer or the thickness of the lens. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a uniform thickness. Each of the at least one GRIN element may have a flat surface flush with the surface of the layer.

[0069] The layer may be a cross-linked polymer layer comprising at least one GRIN optical element. The layer may have been formed from a matrix of uncross-linked polymer. The layer may be bonded to a substrate. The layer may be bonded to a substrate using plasma. The layer may be bonded to a substrate. The layer may be bonded to a substrate using a curable adhesive.

[0070] The layer may be disposed on the front surface of the substrate. The layer may be disposed on the back surface of the substrate. The layer may be disposed on both the front and back surfaces of the substrate. The layer may be a film that has been applied to the surface of the substrate. The layer may include HX film. The layer may be a film applied to a substrate during manufacture of the lens. The layer may be releasably bonded or otherwise applied to the substrate, i.e., it may be easily removed from the lens. The layer may be reusable, such that the layer may be easily removed and reapplied to the same substrate or a different substrate.

[0071] The layer may be a coating disposed on a surface of a substrate. The coating may be applied to the substrate during substrate processing. The coating may be sprayed onto the substrate. The coating may be bonded to the surface of the substrate. The coating may be irreversibly applied to the lens, for example, the bond between the coating and the substrate may be a permanent bond.

[0072] The substrate may be a film for application to the surface of a lens. The film may be a flexible transparent film. For contact lenses, the film 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 eyeglass lenses, the film 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.

[0073] The film may be applied to the front surface of the lens.

[0074] The substrate may be applied to the lens during manufacture of the lens. The substrate may be releasably bonded or otherwise applied to the lens, i.e., it may be easily removed from the lens. The substrate may be reusable, such that the substrate may be easily removed and reapplied to the same substrate or a different substrate.

[0075] Alternatively, the substrate may be a lens.

[0076] The lens may be a spectacle lens. The spectacle lens may include PMMA, CR-39, polycarbonate, Trivex, or crown glass. The lens may be a contact lens. The layer may be disposed on the front surface of the lens. In the context of the present disclosure, the front surface of the lens is the front-facing or outer surface of the lens when the lens is worn by a lens wearer.

[0077] The lens may be circular in shape. The lens may be elliptical in shape. The lens may be oval in shape. The lens may be rectangular in shape. The lens may be square in shape. The front surface of the lens may have a width between 1200 mm and 1200 mm. 2 With 3000mm 2 The area between the lens and the lens can be formed of transparent glass or rigid plastic (such as polycarbonate). The lens can be substantially planar and can have at least one curved surface that provides the lens's refractive power.

[0078] 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 front surface of the eye. It will be appreciated that such a contact lens will provide clinically acceptable supraorbital movement and will not be combined with one or both eyes of a person. The contact lens may be in the form of a corneal lens (e.g., a lens that rests on the cornea of ​​the eye). In embodiments where the lens is a contact lens, the lens may have a diameter between 60 mm and 100 mm. 2 With 750mm 2 The lens may have a surface area between 10 mm and 15 mm. The lens may have a circular shape. The lens may have an oval shape. The lens may have an elliptical shape. The lens may have a diameter between 10 mm and 15 mm.

[0079] The lens can be a hard contact lens. The lens can be a hard high oxygen permeable contact lens.

[0080] The contact lens may be a toric contact lens. For example, a toric contact lens may include an optical zone that is shaped to correct a person's astigmatism. The lens may be a scleral contact lens.

[0081] The lens can be a soft contact lens, such as a hydrogel contact lens or a silicone hydrogel contact lens.

[0082] The lens may include an elastomeric material, a silicone elastomeric material, a hydrogel material, or a silicone hydrogel material, or a combination thereof. As understood in the field of contact lenses, a hydrogel is a material that maintains water in equilibrium and does not have a silicone-containing chemical. A silicone hydrogel is a hydrogel containing a silicone-containing chemical. As described in the background of the present disclosure, the hydrogel material and the silicone hydrogel material have an equilibrium water content (EWC) of at least 10% to about 90% (wt / wt). In some embodiments, the hydrogel material or the silicone hydrogel material has an EWC of from about 30% to about 70% (wt / wt). In contrast, as described in the background of the present disclosure, the silicone elastomeric material has a water content of from about 0% to less than 10% (wt / wt). Typically, the silicone elastomeric material used with the method or apparatus of the present disclosure has a water content of from 0.1% to 3% (wt / wt). Examples of suitable lens formulations include those with the following United States Adopted Names (USAN): methafilcon A, ocufilcon A, ocufilcon B, ocufilcon C, ocufilcon D, omafilcon A, omafilcon B, comfilcon A, enfilcon A, stenfilcon A, fanfilcon A, etafilcon A, senofilcon A, senofilcon B, senofilcon 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 the like.

[0083] Alternatively, the lens may include, consist essentially of, or consist of a silicone elastomeric material. For example, the lens may include, consist essentially of, or consist of a silicone elastomeric material having a Shore A hardness of from 3 to 50. The Shore A hardness may be determined using conventional methods as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., using method DIN 53505). Other silicone elastomeric materials may be obtained, for example, from NuSil Technology or Dow Chemical Company.

[0084] The lens may have an optical zone. The optical zone covers the portion of the lens that is optically functional. The optical zone is configured to be positioned above or in front of the pupil of the eye when in 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 the optical zone. 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, thereby making the lens easier to handle. For contact lenses, the peripheral zone may provide ballasting to prevent rotation of the lens, and / or provide a shaped area that improves the comfort of the lens wearer. The peripheral zone may extend to the edge of the lens. In embodiments of the present disclosure, a layer comprising at least one of the GRIN optical elements may cover the optical zone, but it may be the case that it does not cover the peripheral zone.

[0085] 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.

[0086] The layer may be a photopolymer layer. Each of the at least one gradient index optical element may be a photocured gradient index optical element. Each of the GRIN optical elements may have been formed using photocuring.

[0087] Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a width between 1 μm and 5 mm, preferably between 10 μm and 2 mm. Each of the at least one GRIN optical element may have a width between 1 μm and 5 mm, preferably between 10 μm and 2 mm. 3 With 5mm 3 between, preferably between 10 μm 3 With 2mm 3 The plurality of GRIN optical elements may occupy between 5% and 80% of the volume of the layer. The plurality of GRIN optical elements may cover between 20% and 80% of the surface area of ​​the layer. A layer may contain between 2 and 5000 GRIN optical elements.

[0088] The lens may have a central region and an annular region surrounding the central region. The layer may cover a portion of the annular region. It may be the case that the layer does not cover the central region and therefore the central region may not have 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 an area that may extend around the entire outer edge of the central region or may extend around a portion of the outer edge of the central region. The annular region may be circular, oval or elliptical in shape. The annular region may include multiple GRIN optical elements. Multiple GRIN optical elements may be distributed around the entire annular region or may be distributed across a portion of the annular region.

[0089] The layer may comprise a plurality of concentric annular regions separated radially by regions of the layer having a base refractive index.

[0090] The lens may further include an adhesive disposed between the layer and the surface of the substrate. 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 substrate during manufacture of the lens. The adhesive may permanently bond the layer to the surface of the substrate. Alternatively, the layer may be bonded to the surface of the surface. The layer may be permanently or irreversibly bonded to the surface of the substrate.

[0091] The lens may further include a protective layer disposed on the front surface of the layer comprising at least one gradient refractive index optical element. When the lens is in normal use and worn by the lens wearer, the front surface of the layer comprising at least one GRIN optical element is the front-facing surface or outer surface of the layer. The protective layer may cover all or part of the front surface of the layer comprising 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 triacetate cellulose (TAC). The protective layer may include a substance with negligible birefringence. The protective layer may be impermeable. The protective layer may be scratch-resistant. The protective layer may have a basic refractive index. The protective layer may provide a degree of UV protection. The protective layer may be bonded to the layer comprising at least one of the GRIN optical elements using an adhesive.

[0092] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a film for use as a layer in an ophthalmic lens. The lens has an optical axis. The lens includes a substrate. The lens may include any of the features set forth above. The film has a base refractive index and includes at least one gradient index optical element having an asymmetric refractive index profile. The film may be disposed on a surface of a lens substrate such that at least one of the gradient index optical elements focuses light from a distant point source on the optical axis toward a point a first distance from the optical axis.

[0093] The film may have any of the properties of the layers described above. Advantageously, the film may be applied to a wearer's existing lenses, thus reducing the cost of their treatment.

[0094] The film may be a cross-linked polymer film comprising at least one of the gradient index optical elements. The film may have been formed from a matrix of uncross-linked polymer. The film may be HX membrane.

[0095] The film may have been cut, formed or shaped to have an area suitable for application to an eyeglass lens or a contact lens. The film may be configured or sized and shaped for use with an eyeglass lens and may have a diameter between 300 mm and 100 mm. 2 With 5000mm 2 Between, preferably between 1000mm 2 With 3000mm 2 The film can be used for application to eyeglass lenses and can be circular, oval, elliptical, square or rectangular in shape. The film can be configured or sized and shaped for application to contact lenses and can have an area between 60 mm and 100 mm. 2 With 750mm 2 The film can be used for application to contact lenses and can be circular, oval, elliptical, square or rectangular in shape. The film can be used for application to contact lenses and can have a diameter between 6 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 16 mm.

[0096] The film may have a uniform thickness. For contact lenses, the film 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 film 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.

[0097] Each of the at least one gradient index optical element may be a photocured optical element. Each of the gradient index optical elements may have been formed using photocuring. Each of the gradient index optical elements may have been formed using photocuring using a digital light projection system, a direct laser writing system, or a collimated LED or laser light source. A high resolution 3D photocurable system (e.g., a laser illumination system based on a two-photon confocal microscope) may be used to photocure each of the GRIN elements.

[0098] The film may be configured to be easily removable from an ophthalmic lens. The film may be reusable such that the film may be easily removed and reapplied to the same lens or a different lens. Advantageously, this may allow for flexibility in the lens wearer's prescription, since if the lens wearer's prescription changes, the film may be applied to or removed from their existing lens.

[0099] The film may have an adhesive surface for bonding to the surface of the lens substrate. Before being applied to the lens substrate, the adhesive surface of the film may be covered by a protective film. The protective film may include a polymer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE) or triacetyl cellulose (TAC). The protective film may be transparent. The protective film may be a flexible film. The adhesive surface may be an adhesive (e.g., an epoxy-based adhesive) layer.

[0100] The film may be disposed on a substrate. The substrate may contact a first surface of the film, and a second opposing surface of the film may be an adhesive surface. Thus, if the film is bonded to an ophthalmic lens using an adhesive surface, the substrate may become the front / front-facing / outer surface of the lens film when the film is applied to the lens. The substrate may be configured to provide a protective layer when the film is applied to the surface of the ophthalmic lens. The substrate may include polycarbonate (PC). The substrate may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or triacetyl cellulose (TAC). The substrate may include a substance with negligible birefringence. The substrate may be impermeable. The substrate may be scratch-resistant. The substrate may have a basic refractive index. The substrate may provide a degree of UV protection.

[0101] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens. The lens has an optical axis. The lens includes a layer disposed on a surface of a substrate. The layer has a base refractive index and includes at least one gradient refractive index optical element having an asymmetric refractive index distribution. The at least one gradient refractive index optical element focuses light from a distant point source on the optical axis to a point at a first distance from the optical axis. The lens may include any of the features described above. The method includes providing a lens having an optical axis. The method includes providing a layer having a base refractive index, wherein the layer includes at least one gradient refractive index optical element having an asymmetric refractive index distribution. The method includes applying the layer to a surface of a lens substrate so that light from a distant point source on the optical axis passing through the layer is focused to a point on the optical axis, and light from a distant point source on the optical axis passing through the at least one gradient refractive index optical element is focused to a point at a first distance from the optical axis.

[0102] Manufacturing the lens may include forming a female mold part having a concave lens forming surface and a male mold part having a convex lens forming surface. The method may include filling a gap between the female mold part and the male mold part with a bulk lens material. The method may further include curing the bulk lens material to form the lens.

[0103] The lens may be a molded contact lens. The lens may be formed by a cast molding process, a spin casting molding process, or a turning process, or a combination thereof. As understood by those skilled in the art, cast molding refers to molding a lens by placing a 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.

[0104] Manufacturing a lens may include applying an adhesive to a surface of a substrate and applying a layer to a surface of a lens substrate using the adhesive. Manufacturing a lens may include bonding a layer to a surface of a lens substrate. Manufacturing a lens may include applying an adhesive to a surface of a layer and applying the layer to a lens using the adhesive. The method may include cutting, shaping or shaping a layer to have an area suitable for application to an eyeglass lens or a contact lens.

[0105] Providing the layer may include providing a photocurable film. Providing the film may include photocuring at least one region of the film using a digital light projection system, thereby producing at least one photocured gradient index refractive element.

[0106] In the context of the present disclosure, a photocured GRIN optical element is a GRIN element that has been formed by photocuring or photopolymerization. A photocured GRIN optical element may be produced from photopolymerizable or photocurable molecules or other photocurable elements. Photocuring may result in a laterally varying refractive index across the photocured area. The photocurable molecules may be dispersed within the film. The photocurable molecules may be dispersed within a cross-linked polymer matrix, or within a resin.

[0107] In the context of the present disclosure, a digital light projection (DLP) system is a light illumination system used to direct light toward a photocurable film, thereby enabling photocuring of areas of the film. The DLP system used has a wavelength suitable for photopolymerization or photocuring of the target film material. For example, for HX film, the DLP system may have a wavelength in the range between 440nm to 660nm. The pixel resolution of the DLP system may be less than 100μm, preferably less than 30μm, and more preferably less than 10μm. The DLP system may be a commercial DLP system, for example, a 3DLP9000-LED.9" WQXGA light engine with a 460nm wavelength and a 30nm pixel resolution. The DLP system may include a microelectromechanical system (MEMS). The DLP system may include a digital mirror device. The digital mirror device may guide light and / or control light transmission toward the film.

[0108] The DLP system can be used to illuminate an entire film or an area of ​​a film. The DLP system can be used to photocuring individual photocurable elements or molecules, or multiple individual photocurable molecules. Multiple individual photocurable molecules can be photocured sequentially or simultaneously. The DLP system can be used to illuminate an annular area of ​​a film or multiple concentric annular areas of a film.

[0109] Using a digital light projection system may include using a grayscale image to control the projection of light onto the film. The grayscale image may provide a template for projecting light from the DLP system onto the film. The grayscale image may be a .bmp image. The grayscale image may shield some areas of the film so that these areas are not exposed to light from the DLP system while exposing at least one area of ​​the film to light from the DLP system. The grayscale image may expose multiple areas to light from the DLP system. The areas of the film exposed to light from the DLP system may be photocured to produce a photocured GRIN optical element.

[0110] A method of making a lens may include generating a design for a film, wherein the design has a desired pattern of photocured GRIN optical elements with an asymmetric refractive index profile. The method may include generating a grayscale image using the design.

[0111] The grayscale image may be designed to produce any arrangement of the photocured GRIN elements described above, wherein the GRIN optical elements have an asymmetric refractive index profile. The grayscale image may include multiple pores that enable light from the DLP system to reach the film. Areas of the film illuminated by light from the DLP system may be photocured. The image may include blocking or shielding multiple portions of the film from light. Areas of the film not illuminated by light from the DLP system will not be photocured. The image may include multiple pores arranged in a pattern. The desired pattern of the photocured GRIN optical elements may be an array of GRIN optical elements arranged on a lattice point of the film, and in this case, the image may include multiple pores arranged on the lattice point. The lattice may be a triangular lattice, a square lattice, or a cubic lattice.

[0112] The method may include modeling a desired asymmetric refractive index profile for each of at least one photocured GRIN element, and determining at least one exposure condition required to produce the desired asymmetric refractive index profile.

[0113] Modeling can be used to determine the intensity of exposure and / or the duration of exposure and / or the wavelength of exposure required to photocure a GRIN element having a desired asymmetric refractive index profile. The conditions may depend on the characteristics of the DLP system, such as the wavelength, intensity, and type of light source. The conditions may depend on the film properties, such as the film material and film thickness. Modeling can be performed using any suitable modeling software (e.g., MATLAB®). TM). Modeling can be performed using experimental (measured) data or theoretical (predicted) data. The predicted data can be based on known properties of the film material and / or the DLP system. The desired refractive index profile for each of the photocured GRIN elements can be defined by an asymmetric polynomial function, or can be approximated by an asymmetric polynomial function. The desired asymmetric refractive index profile can be modeled for a single photocured GRIN element or for multiple photocured GRIN elements. For a film comprising multiple GRIN optical elements, the desired asymmetric refractive index profile for each of at least one photocured GRIN element can be the same, or each of the photocured GRIN elements can have a different desired asymmetric refractive index profile.

[0114] The modeling step may include measuring or plotting a refractive index variation map that varies depending on exposure conditions. The exposure conditions may be light intensity, duration of exposure, or wavelength of light. The map may be generated as a map with a non-planar surface. The map may be generated as a 3D map. The map may be iteratively updated and / or optimized to produce the desired refractive index distribution of the photocured GRIN optical element. The map may be a refractive index variation map of a single photocured GRIN optical element or a plurality of photocured GRIN optical elements. The map may be used to generate a refractive index gradient pixel matrix for use in a DLP imaging system. The pixel matrix may identify the required exposure conditions for each pixel of the DLP imaging system to produce the required refractive index variation across the membrane. The refractive index gradient pixel matrix may be configured to produce a single photocured GRIN optical element, or between 2 and 5000 photocured GRIN elements distributed across the membrane. The refractive index gradient pixel matrix may be configured to produce photocured GRIN elements across an area between 20% and 80% of the membrane.

[0115] The modeling step may include converting the refractive index variation map into a digital light projection intensity map. The digital light projection intensity map may be a pixel matrix for a DLP system. The digital light projection intensity map may be generated from a refractive index gradient pixel matrix. When a grayscale image is generated for use in a DLP system, a digital light projection intensity map may be used. The digital light projection intensity map may be used to determine the required exposure conditions for use in a DLP system. The DLP intensity map may be used to generate a .bmp image. The image may be an 8-bit map. The exposure conditions may depend on the film type, the desired pattern or arrangement of the photocured GRIN optical element, the film properties, and the properties of the DLP imaging system. Therefore, the digital light projection intensity map may be used to control the light projection onto the film by determining the required exposure conditions.

[0116] The method may include exposing the film to light from the DLP system using a grayscale image and / or a digital light projection intensity map to control the light projection onto the exposure across the film. The method may include waiting a minimum amount of time for the film to develop. The method may include flood curing or flood exposing the film using the DLP system or using a UV oven after waiting the minimum amount of time for the film to develop.

[0117] The DLP system may include optics that cause a nonlinear intensity response. The method may involve determining whether there is a significant nonlinear response at any or all pixels. If there is a significant nonlinear response, the method may include adapting the digital light projection intensity map to account for the nonlinear response.

[0118] The desired refractive index profile for each of the at least one GRIN optical element can produce a photocured GRIN optical element having a diameter between about 1 μm and 5.0 mm. The modeled refractive index profile can be configured to produce at least one photocured GRIN optical element having a diameter between about 1 μm and 5.0 mm. The modeled refractive index profile can be optimized or iteratively optimized to produce at least one photocured GRIN optical element having a diameter between about 1 μm and 5.0 mm. The desired refractive index profile for each of the at least one photocured GRIN optical element can produce a photocured GRIN optical element having a diameter between about 1 μm and 5.0 mm. 3 With 5mm 3 The desired refractive index profile of each of the at least one photocured GRIN optical element can produce a disk-shaped photocured GRIN element or a spherical photocured GRIN element having an asymmetric distribution in a direction parallel to the surface of the film. The modeled refractive index profile can be optimized or iteratively optimized to produce at least one photocured GRIN optical element having any of the properties described above.

[0119] The method may include applying the film to the surface of the lens or lens substrate after photocuring. The film may be placed on the second substrate before being removed from the second substrate and applied to the lens or lens substrate for photocuring. The second substrate may be a glass slide. The film may be applied to the surface of the lens before photocuring. The film may be bonded to the surface of the lens using an adhesive (e.g., 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 the manufacture of the lens. The adhesive layer may be applied to the back surface of the film before the film is applied to the lens surface. The adhesive may permanently bond the film to the surface of the lens. The adhesive may releasably bond the film to the surface of the lens.

[0120] Before applying the film to the lens or lens substrate (this can be before or after photocuring the area of ​​the film), the film can be cut or shaped to be suitable for application to an ophthalmic lens. The film can be cut or shaped to cover the entire surface of the lens or a portion of the surface of the lens. The film can be cut or shaped to be circular, oval or elliptical. The film can be cut or shaped to cover the optical zone of the lens, or the area of ​​the lens that will be positioned in front of the retina of the lens wearer when the lens is worn by the lens wearer.

[0121] Prior to photocuring, a protective layer may be applied to the surface of the film. The method may include removing the protective layer prior to photocuring. The protective layer may include polypropylene.

[0122] After applying the photocured film to the lens, the method may include applying a protective layer to the front surface of the lens (i.e., on top of the photocured layer). The protective layer may cover all or part of the front surface of the film containing at least one photocured 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 triacetate cellulose (TAC). The protective layer may include a substance with negligible birefringence. The protective layer may be impermeable. The protective layer may be scratch-resistant. The protective layer may have a basic refractive index. The protective layer may provide a degree of UV protection. The protective layer may be bonded to the film containing at least one photocured GRIN optical element using an adhesive.

[0123] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, providing the layer may include using a collimated LED / laser light source to photocuring 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 photocuring at least one region of the photocurable layer. Providing the layer may include using a high-resolution photopolymerization process and employing a high-resolution gradient intensity photomask (i.e., a chrome or resist-coated glass photomask used in projection lithography).

[0124] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the layer may include a coating. The coating may be applied directly to the lens surface or lens substrate surface by various coating methods, such as spray coating, spin coating, solution casting, liquid phase surface deposition, or vapor phase surface deposition. Before applying the coating to the lens surface or lens substrate surface, the surface may be treated, for example, using plasma treatment, to improve bonding or adhesion to the coating layer.

[0125] According to an ophthalmic lens 1 ( Figure 1A ) has an optical axis 2 and comprises a layer 3 arranged on the front surface of a substrate 5 (in this case, the substrate 5 forms part of the lens 1). The layer 3 has a uniform thickness and a uniform basic refractive index. The layer 3 covers the front surface of the lens 1. Light from an on-axis distant point source passing through a region of the layer 3 having a basic refractive index will be focused to a light spot 11 on the optical axis 2 of the lens 1. The light spot 11 is located Figure 1A On the basic refractive power focal plane 13 shown in.

[0126] like Figure 1A to 1B, layer 3 includes a plurality of GRIN optical elements 7a, 7b arranged in concentric circles 9a, 9b (dashed lines 9a, 9b are provided as a guide to the eye and do not represent a structural feature of the lens 1). Each of the GRIN optical elements 7a, 7b is substantially cylindrical in shape with an elliptical cross-section in a plane parallel to the surface of the layer 3. Each of the GRIN optical elements 7a, 7b has a refractive index profile that varies in both the radial direction and the transverse direction in a plane perpendicular to the cylindrical axis of the element 7a, 7b (i.e., a plane parallel to the surface of the layer 3), resulting in an asymmetric refractive index profile across the elements 7a, 7b. Figure 1C yes Figure 1A and 1B A top view of one of the GRIN optical elements 7a of the lens 1 shown in FIG. 1 , and Figure 1D The same element 7a is shown in perspective. The refractive index across the surface of element 7a varies in a plane perpendicular to the cylindrical axis of element 7a, varies radially outward from point 'X' in a plane parallel to the front surface of layer 3, and varies laterally in a direction parallel to the front surface of layer 3 indicated by arrow 'Y'. The refractive index profile is constant (i.e., does not vary) in a direction 'Z' parallel to the cylindrical axis of element 7a (see Figure 1D ). The refractive index variation has an asymmetric distribution 22 in the direction 'Y', such as Figure 1E As shown in .

[0127] The GRIN elements 7a forming the inner circle 9a all have the same refractive index distribution (eg Figure 1C and 1D ) and are all positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis 2 of the lens 1. Since the GRIN optical element 7a has an asymmetric refractive index distribution, such as Figures 1C to 1E , so the local optical axis of the GRIN element 7a is tilted relative to the optical axis 2 of the lens 1. Light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the region of the layer 3 having the base refractive index is focused to a light spot 11 on the optical axis. Light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical element 7a is focused away from the optical axis 2 of the lens 1. The GRIN optical elements 7a are arranged in a circle 9a centered on the optical axis 2 of the lens 1, and light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical elements 7a forming the inner ring 9a will form focal points 15a, 15b ( Figure 1A When the lens 1 is worn by a lens wearer, the GRIN elements 7a forming the inner ring 9a focus light from a distant point source on the axis toward the additional power focal plane 17, which is aligned with the base power focal plane 13 ( Figure 1AThe additional power focal plane 17 is closer to the back surface of the lens 1 (i.e., farther from the retina, or closer to the cornea) than shown in FIG. The local optical axis of each of the GRIN optical elements 7a intersects the optical axis of the lens, and light rays from on-axis far-point sources passing through the GRIN optical elements 7a forming the inner ring 9a are guided so that a small spot size of unfocused light is formed at the base power surface 13. This can improve the quality of the image formed at the retina of the lens wearer.

[0128] The GRIN optical elements 7b forming the outer ring 9b all have the same characteristics as the GRIN optical elements 7a forming the inner ring 9a (eg Figures 1C to 1E The GRIN optical elements 7a forming the outer ring 9b are all positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis 2 and at a greater radial distance from the optical axis 2 than the GRIN optical elements 7a forming the inner ring 9a.

[0129] GRIN optical element 7b is arranged in a circle centered on optical axis 2 of lens 1. It has the function of focusing light from a distant point source on the axis passing through GRIN optical element 7b to form focal points 19a, 19b ( Figure 1A 9a). The ring of foci 19a, 19b will have a larger radius than the ring of foci 15a, 15b formed by light passing through the inner ring 9a of the GRIN optical element 7a. The refractive index profile of the GRIN optical element 7b forming the outer ring 9b is the same as the refractive index profile of the GRIN optical element 7a forming the inner ring 9a. When the lens 1 is worn by a wearer, the GRIN optical element 7b forming the outer ring 9b will focus light toward the same additional power focal plane 17 as the GRIN element 7a forming the inner ring 9a. The local optical axis of each of the GRIN optical elements 7b intersects the optical axis of the lens, and light rays from on-axis distant point sources passing through the GRIN optical element 7b forming the outer ring 9b are guided so that a small spot size of unfocused light is formed at the base power surface 13. This can improve the quality of the image formed at the retina of the lens wearer.

[0130] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, an ophthalmic lens 101 ( Figure 2A ) is centered on the optical axis 102 and comprises a layer 103 disposed on the front surface of a substrate 105 (in this case, the substrate 105 forms part of the lens 101). The layer 103 has a uniform base refractive index and a uniform thickness. The layer 103 covers the front surface of the lens 101. Light from an on-axis distant point source passing through a region of the layer 103 having the base refractive index will be focused to a spot 111 on the optical axis 102 of the lens 101. The spot 111 is located on the base power focal plane 113.

[0131] like Figure 2B, layer 103 includes a plurality of GRIN optical elements 107a, 107b arranged in concentric circles 109a, 109b (dashed lines 109a, 109b are provided as a guide to the eye and do not represent a structural feature of lens 101). Each of the GRIN optical elements 107a, 107b is substantially cylindrical in shape with an elliptical cross-section. Each of the GRIN optical elements 107a, 107b has a refractive index profile that varies in both radial and lateral directions in a plane perpendicular to the cylindrical axis of the element 107a, 107b (i.e., a plane parallel to the surface of layer 103), resulting in an asymmetric refractive index profile across the elements 107a, 107b, as shown in FIG. Figures 2C to 2G The GRIN elements 107a forming the inner circle 109a all have the same refractive index variation (eg Figure 2B , 2C , 2E and 2G) and are all positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis 102. Figure 2C is a top view of one of the GRIN optical elements 107a as part of the inner circle 109a. Figure 2E The same element 107a is shown in perspective. The refractive index across the surface of the element 107a in a plane perpendicular to the cylindrical axis of the element 107a varies radially outward from point X in a plane parallel to the front surface of the layer 103, and varies laterally in a direction parallel to the front surface of the layer 103 indicated by arrow 'Y'. The refractive index profile is constant (i.e., does not vary) in the direction 'Z' parallel to the cylindrical axis of the element 107a, as shown in FIG. Figure 2E The refractive index variation has an asymmetric distribution 122a in the direction 'Y', as shown in FIG. Figure 2G As shown in .

[0132] Since all of these GRIN elements 107a have Figure 2C and 2E , and because they are positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis 102, light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical element 107a will be focused away from the optical axis 102 and will form focal points 115a, 115b ( Figure 2A When the lens 101 is worn by a lens wearer, the refractive index profile of the GRIN optical element 107a causes light from an on-axis distant point source to be focused at a low-add power focal plane 117 that is closer to the back surface of the lens 101 than the base power focal plane 113.

[0133] Figure 2D is a top view of one of the GRIN optical elements 107b as part of the inner ring 109b. Figure 2F109a. The same element 107b is shown in perspective. This element 107b exhibits a different magnitude of refractive index variation than the GRIN optical element 107a that forms part of the inner ring 109a. The refractive index across the surface of the element 107b in a plane perpendicular to the cylindrical axis of the element 107b varies radially outward from point X in a plane parallel to the front surface of the layer 103, and varies laterally in a direction parallel to the front surface of the layer 103 indicated by arrow 'Y'. The refractive index profile is constant (i.e., does not vary) in a direction 'Z' parallel to the cylindrical axis of the element 107b, as shown in FIG. Figure 2F The refractive index variation has an asymmetric distribution 122b in the direction 'Y', as shown in FIG. Figure 2G As shown in .

[0134] The GRIN optical elements 107b forming the outer ring 109b also all have the same refractive index variation, but these elements 107b have a different refractive index profile than the GRIN optical elements 107a forming the inner ring 109a. The GRIN optical elements 107b forming the outer ring 109b are all positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis 102, and at a greater radial distance from the optical axis 102 than the GRIN optical elements 107a forming the inner ring 109a. The GRIN optical elements 107b forming the outer ring 109b have different focal powers than the GRIN optical elements 107a forming the inner ring 109a. The local optical axes of the GRIN optical elements 107b forming the portion of the outer ring 109b are more tilted relative to the optical axis 102 of the lens 101 than the local optical axes of the GRIN optical elements 107a forming the portion of the inner ring 109a. Light from a distant on-axis point source passing through the GRIN optical element 107b forming the outer ring 109b is focused to form a ring of focal points 119a, 119b, as shown in FIG. Figure 2A The rings of focal points 119a, 119b have a larger radius than the rings of focal points 115a, 115b formed by light passing through the inner ring 109a of the GRIN optical element 107a, and the light passing through the outer ring GRIN optical element 107b is focused at an off-axis point on a high-add power focal plane 123, which is closer to the back surface of the lens 101 than the base power focal plane 113, and closer to the back surface of the lens 101 than the low-add power focal plane 117.

[0135] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, an ophthalmic lens 201 ( Figure 3A) is centered on the optical axis 202 and comprises a layer 203 disposed on the front surface of a substrate 205 (in this case, the substrate 205 forms part of the lens 201). The base refractive index of the layer 203 is uniform and the layer 203 has a uniform thickness. The layer 203 covers the front surface of the lens 201. Light from an on-axis distant point source that passes through a region of the layer 203 having the base refractive index will be focused to a spot 211 on the optical axis 202 of the lens 201. The spot 211 is located Figure 3A On the basic refractive power focal plane 213 shown in .

[0136] Figure 3B exhibit Figure 3A Schematic top view of lens 201. Layer 203 includes a plurality of GRIN optical elements 207 arranged in a random pattern across layer 203. GRIN optical elements 207 have a circular cross-section in the plane of layer 203 and have a circumferential direction (in Figure 3C and 3D The asymmetric refractive index distribution of element 207 in the direction of arrow 'W' shown in FIG. 207 and continuously changing in the radial direction. The asymmetric refractive index variation of element 207 in the direction 'W' is caused by Figure 3D The GRIN elements 207 all have the same refractive index variation, such as Figure 3C and 3D , but they are positioned at different radial distances from the optical axis 202. Because the GRIN element 207 has an asymmetric refractive index profile, light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical element 207 will be focused away from the optical axis 202. When the lens 201 is worn by a wearer, the GRIN optical element 207 focuses the light toward an off-axis focus on the add power focal plane 217, which is closer to the back surface of the lens 211 than the base power focal plane 213, as shown in FIG. Figure 3A As shown in .

[0137] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A and 3B GRIN element 207 has a circular cross-section and an asymmetric refractive index profile that varies in the circumferential direction indicated by arrow 'W' and in the radial direction. Figure 3C The dotted curve in the figure shows the refractive index distribution in the direction of arrow 'W'. Figure 3D is plotted as curve 222 .

[0138] Figure 4 is a string containing something like Figure 2A and 2B101 is a front view of a pair of spectacles 325 having a lens 301 of the lens 101 shown in FIG. The pair of spectacles 325 contains two lenses 301. Each lens 301 is centered on an optical axis 302 and includes a layer 303 disposed on the front surface of a substrate (in this case, the substrate forms part of the lens 301). The base refractive index of the layer 303 is uniform and the layer 303 has a uniform thickness. The layer 303 covers the front surface of the lens 301. Light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the base layer 303 of the lens 301 will be focused to a spot on the optical axis 302 of the lens 301 at the base refractive power focal plane (not shown).

[0139] Each layer 303 includes a plurality of GRIN optical elements 307a, 307b arranged in concentric circles 309a, 309b (dashed lines are provided as a guide to the eye and do not represent structural features of the lens 301). Each of the GRIN optical elements 307a, 307b has a refractive index profile that varies in both radial and lateral directions across the elements 307a, 307b parallel to the plane of the layer 303, resulting in an asymmetric profile. The GRIN elements 307a forming the inner circle 309a all have the same refractive index variation and are all positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis 302. Because the GRIN elements 307a have an asymmetric refractive index profile, light from an on-axis distant point source that passes through the GRIN optical element 307a will be focused away from the optical axis 302. The GRIN optical elements 307a are arranged in a circle centered on the optical axis 302 of each mirror 301, and light from a distant point source passing through the GRIN optical elements 307a forming the inner ring 309a will form a ring of focus.

[0140] The GRIN optical elements 307b forming the outer ring 309b also all have the same refractive index variation, but these elements 307b have a different refractive index variation than the GRIN optical elements 307a forming the inner ring 309a. The GRIN optical elements 307b forming the outer ring 309b are all positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis 302, and at a greater radial distance from the optical axis 302 than the GRIN optical elements 307a forming the inner ring 309a. Light from a distant point source on the axis passing through the GRIN optical elements 307b forming the outer ring 309b will form a ring of focal points. This ring of focal points will have a larger radius than the ring of focal points formed by light passing through the inner ring 309a of the GRIN optical elements 307a. The refractive index profile of the GRIN optical elements 307b forming the outer ring 309b is different from the refractive index profile of the GRIN optical elements 307a forming the inner ring 309a. When the lens 301 is worn by a wearer, light passing through the GRIN optical elements 307a forming the inner ring 309a will be focused to a point on a first focal plane, and light passing through the GRIN optical elements 307b forming the outer ring 309b will be focused to a point at a second, different focal plane. When the lens 301 is worn by the lens wearer, both the first and second focal planes will be closer to the back surface of the lens 301 than the base power focal plane.

[0141] Figure 5A A schematic top view of a film 403 for use in an ophthalmic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The film 403 includes HX membrane and has been cut into 500mm 2 The film 403 has a circular shape with an area of ​​. The film has a base refractive index and a constant thickness. The film 403 includes a plurality of GRIN optical elements 407 that have been formed by photocuring and are randomly distributed across the film 403. Each GRIN optical element 407 has a circular cross-section in the plane of the film and a refractive index distribution that varies asymmetrically in the circumferential direction. Several GRIN elements 407 have different asymmetric refractive index distributions. Figure 5B Shown through the contact lens 401 applied to the substrate 405 Figure 5A401. The GRIN optical element 407 extends through the thickness of the film 403. The lens 401 is centered on an optical axis 402, which extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the film 403. Light from an on-axis distant point source that passes through a portion of the film 403 having a base refractive index will be focused to a point on the optical axis 402. Because the GRIN optical elements 407 have an asymmetric refractive index profile, the local optical axis of each GRIN element 407 is tilted relative to the optical axis 402 of the lens 401. Therefore, light from an on-axis distant point source that passes through each GRIN element 407 will be focused to an off-axis focus. Because different GRIN optical elements 407 have different asymmetric refractive index profiles, the local optical axes of the elements 407 can be tilted by different amounts, and the GRIN optical elements 407 can have different focal powers.

[0142] Figure 6 is a flow chart showing a method 500 of manufacturing an ophthalmic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In a first step 531, an ophthalmic lens centered on an optical axis is provided. In a second step 533, a layer comprising a plurality of GRIN optical elements having an asymmetric refractive index profile is provided. In a third step 535, the method includes applying the layer to the front surface of the lens. Once the film is disposed on the surface of the lens, light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the layer is focused to a point on the optical axis of the lens. Light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical element will be focused at an off-axis focus.

[0143] Although the present disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to specific example embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure lends itself to many different variations not explicitly described herein. By way of example only, specific possible variations will now be described.

[0144] In the example embodiments of the present disclosure described above, each GRIN element has a refractive index profile that results in a higher power than the base refractive index of the lens. In other example embodiments, the GRIN elements may have a refractive index profile that results in a lower power than the base refractive index of the lens.

[0145] In the example embodiments described above, the layer is applied to the surface of the lens. In other embodiments, the layer can be applied to a substrate, which can then be applied to the surface of the lens.

[0146] Although in the foregoing description, reference is made to integral bodies or elements with known obvious or foreseeable equivalents, such equivalents are incorporated herein as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the present disclosure that should be interpreted as covering any such equivalents. The reader will also appreciate that integers or features of the present disclosure described as advantageous, convenient, or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. In addition, it should be understood that such optional integers or features, although potentially beneficial in some embodiments of the present disclosure, may not be desirable and therefore may not exist in other embodiments.

Claims

1. An ophthalmic lens having an optical axis, the lens comprising a layer disposed on a surface of a substrate, the layer having a base refractive index and comprising at least one gradient index optical element having an asymmetric refractive index profile, such that the at least one gradient index optical element focuses light from a distant point source on the optical axis to a point at a first distance from the optical axis.

2. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the layer comprises a plurality of the gradient index optical elements randomly distributed across the layer.

3. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the layer comprises a plurality of the gradient index optical elements arranged to form at least one annular ring.

4. The ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein at least two of the gradient index optical elements have the same asymmetric refractive index profile and focus light towards the same focal plane.

5. An ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein at least two of the gradient refractive index optical elements have different asymmetric refractive index profiles, wherein a first gradient refractive index optical element focuses light from an on-axis distant point source towards a light point at a first distance from the optical axis of the lens, and a second gradient refractive index optical element focuses light from an on-axis distant point source towards a light point at a second, different distance from the optical axis of the lens.

6. The ophthalmic lens of any preceding claim, wherein gradient index optical elements positioned at the same radial distance from the optical axis of the lens have the same refractive index profile.

7. An ophthalmic lens according to claim 6, wherein the gradient refractive index optical element forming a first annular ring at a first radial distance from the optical axis of the lens has a first refractive index distribution, and wherein the gradient refractive index optical element forming a second concentric annular ring at a greater radial distance from the optical axis of the lens has a second different refractive index distribution.

8. An ophthalmic lens according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein a gradient refractive index optical element positioned at a larger radial distance from the optical axis of the lens has a refractive index distribution that results in greater focal power than a gradient optical element positioned at a smaller radial distance from the optical axis of the lens.

9. The ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein the layer is disposed on the front surface of the substrate.

10. The ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein the layer is a film that has been applied to a surface of the substrate.

11. The ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein the layer is a coating disposed on a surface of the substrate.

12. The ophthalmic lens of any preceding claim, wherein the substrate is a film for application to a surface of the lens.

13. The ophthalmic lens of any preceding claim, wherein the substrate is the lens.

14. The ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein the lens is a spectacle lens.

15. The ophthalmic lens of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the lens is a contact lens.

16. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein the lens is a hard contact lens.

17. The ophthalmic lens of any preceding claim, wherein the layer is a photopolymer layer, wherein each of the at least one gradient index optical element is a photocured gradient index optical element.

18. The ophthalmic lens of any preceding claim, wherein each of the at least one gradient index optical element has a refractive index profile defined by an asymmetric polynomial function.

19. The ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the at least one gradient index optical element has a diameter or width between 1 μm and 5 mm.

20. The ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein the gradient index optical element occupies between 20% and 80% of the surface area of ​​the layer.

21. An ophthalmic lens according to any preceding claim, wherein light from an on-axis point source passing through the layer is focused to a focal point on the optical axis of the lens at a base refractive power focal plane, and wherein any or all of the gradient refractive index optical elements are configured so that light from an on-axis distant point source passing through the GRIN optical element forms a small spot size of light centered on the optical axis of the lens at the base refractive power focal plane.

22. A film for use as the layer in an ophthalmic lens according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the film has a base refractive index, and wherein the film comprises at least one gradient index optical element having an asymmetric refractive index profile.

23. A method of manufacturing an ophthalmic lens according to any one of claims 1 to 21, said method include: providing a lens having an optical axis; and providing a layer having a base refractive index, the layer comprising at least one gradient index optical element having an asymmetric refractive index profile; and The layer is applied to the surface of the lens substrate such that the at least one gradient index optical element focuses light from a distant point source on the optical axis to a point a first distance from the optical axis.

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