Method for imparting gradient pattern of light-influencing properties to optical element

Abstract

A method of imparting at least one light influencing property in a gradient pattern to an optical element. The method includes (a) providing an optical substrate having first and second surfaces; (b) depositing a first composition on the first surface of the optical substrate to provide a first treated surface area and an untreated surface area, the first composition comprising a material providing light-affecting properties; (c) depositing a second composition on the optical substrate of (b) to provide a second treated surface area on the untreated surface area and a portion of the first treated surface area to form a first overlapping area; (d) rotating the optical substrate of (c), thereby providing an optical element having light influencing properties in a gradient pattern.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a Chinese patent application filed on December 28, 2016, with application number 201680091925.9 and invention name “Method for imparting light-affecting properties to optical elements in a gradient pattern”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for imparting light-influencing properties to an optical element in a gradient pattern. The present invention also relates to an optical element having such light-influencing properties in a gradient pattern. Background Art

[0003] Gradient tinting methods are known for tinting optical elements, such as lenses. Gradient tinting effects provide functional advantages, as lenses typically have a higher color density at the top of the lens for improved distance viewing and a lesser color density at the bottom of the lens, as well as an aesthetic effect for fashion and style.

[0004] In addition, there are known methods for applying photochromic compositions to optical elements. For example, the photochromic material can be incorporated into a substrate component used to form the optical element. Alternatively, the photochromic material can be applied to the surface of the optical element and allowed to penetrate into the surface area (known as imbibition). In addition, the photochromic material can be applied to the optical element as a coating by known methods (e.g., spin coating, dip coating, spray coating, etc.).

[0005] Methods for achieving gradient photochromic optical elements have been disclosed. Typically, gradient tinting of eyeglass lenses is accomplished by dipping or immersing the lens in a dye bath. This process requires more precise and reproducible processing than that required for solid tinting or coloring. In addition, some optical substrates, such as polycarbonate lens materials, are very difficult to absorb dyes. Although methods have been developed to overcome these processing difficulties, such methods generally require additional manufacturing steps, thereby adding additional manufacturing costs.

[0006] Also known in the art are methods of preparing optical elements having a photochromic composition applied thereto in a controlled, predetermined pattern on at least one surface of the optical element using an inkjet printing device to provide a linear gradient color pattern on the optical element when the optical element is exposed to actinic radiation. These inkjet application techniques require strict control of the viscosity of the photochromic composition to maintain controlled application of the composition and prevent clogging of the jet.

[0007] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a cost effective and efficient method of imparting gradient patterned light-affecting properties to optical elements.It is also desirable to provide optical articles having gradient patterned light-affecting properties obtainable by the methods described herein. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present invention provides a method for imparting at least one light-affecting property in a gradient pattern to an optical element. The method comprises (a) providing an optical substrate having a first surface and a second surface; (b) depositing a first composition on a portion of the first surface of the optical substrate to provide a first treated surface region and an untreated surface region, the first composition comprising a material providing at least one light-affecting property; (c) depositing at least one second composition on the optical substrate of (b) to provide at least a second treated surface region on at least a portion of the untreated surface region and on a portion of the first treated surface region to form a first overlapping region; (d) rotating the optical substrate of (c) to provide an optical element having a light-affecting property in a gradient pattern on its first surface. The present invention also provides an optical element having at least one light-affecting property in a gradient pattern, which can be obtained by the method described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 The transmittance (%T, CIE Y transmittance) recorded at different positions for the lens of Example 2 is shown.

[0010] Figure 2 The green light transmission recorded from top to bottom (reading from left to right) at different positions for the lens of Example 3 is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges or ratios disclosed herein should be understood to include any and all sub-ranges or sub-ratios contained therein. For example, the range or ratio "1 to 10" should be considered to include any and all sub-ranges (including endpoints) between a minimum value of 1 and a maximum value of 10. That is, all sub-ranges or sub-ratios start with a minimum value of 1 or greater and end with a maximum value of 10 or less, such as, but not limited to, 1 to 6.1; 3.5 to 7.8; and 5.5 to 10.

[0012] As used herein and in the claims, the term "polymer" and similar terms, such as "polymeric", refer to homopolymers (prepared from a single monomer), copolymers (prepared from two or more different monomers), and graft polymers, including but not limited to comb-graft polymers, star-graft polymers, and dendritic graft polymers.

[0013] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the articles "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless expressly and unequivocally limited to one referent. In addition, for the purposes of this specification, all numerical values ​​expressing amounts of ingredients, reaction conditions and other properties or parameters used in this specification are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about" unless otherwise indicated. Therefore, it should be understood that the numerical parameters listed in the following specification and the appended claims are approximate values ​​unless otherwise indicated. At the very least, and not intending to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, numerical parameters should be read in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0014] As mentioned above, the present invention relates to a method for imparting at least one light-affecting property in a gradient pattern to an optical element. The method comprises (a) providing an optical substrate having a first surface and a second surface; (b) depositing a first composition on a portion of the first surface of the optical substrate to provide a first treated surface region and an untreated surface region, the first composition comprising a material providing at least one light-affecting property; (c) depositing at least one second composition on the optical substrate of (b) to provide at least a second treated surface region on at least a portion of the untreated surface region and a portion of the first treated surface region to form a first overlapping region; (d) rotating the optical substrate of (c) to provide an optical element having a light-affecting property in a gradient pattern on its first surface.

[0015] As used herein, the term "light-influencing property" and similar terms refer to the ability of the material to be altered by absorbing (or filtering) incident optical radiation (e.g., visible light, ultraviolet (UV) and / or infrared (IR) radiation) impinging on the material. More specifically, the light-influencing property can be light polarization, for example with the aid of a polarizer and / or a dichroic dye; a change in light absorption properties, for example, by using a chromophore that changes color when exposed to actinic radiation, such as a photochromic material; simultaneous polarization and change in light absorption properties, for example, by using a photochromic-dichroic material; transmission of only a portion of the incident optical radiation, for example, by using a fixed hue, such as a conventional dye; or by a combination of one or more of such light-influencing functions.

[0016] As used herein, the term "gradient pattern" refers to a gradual and ultimately visually discernible change in one or more light-affecting properties over an area of ​​an optical element. The gradual change may occur across the surface of the optical element in one direction. For example, when the optical element is a lens, the change in the light-affecting property may occur from the bottom of the lens to the top of the lens. That is, a gradual change in at least one light-affecting property may occur such that the light-affecting property gradually changes from the bottom to the top of the lens, or vice versa. In addition, the gradient pattern may be a radial gradient pattern, in which the gradual change in one or more light-affecting properties occurs radially from one or more "points" of the surface of the optical element (e.g., the surface of the lens) to the outer periphery or surrounding area of ​​the optical element. The one or more points from which the radial gradient pattern extends outward to the surrounding area may or may not be located in the central area of ​​the optical element.

[0017] Optical components

[0018] The optical element can be any optical element known in the art. Typically, the optical element is selected from lenses, windows, display elements, goggles, visors, masks, automotive transparent parts, such as skylights and lampshades, aerospace transparent parts and wearable transparent parts. In addition, before depositing the above-mentioned composition (one or more), the optical element used in the method of the present invention can be substantially transparent, or it can have a uniform color (for example, the optical element can be colored).

[0019] In a specific embodiment, the optical element is a lens. The lens can be an ophthalmic lens. As used herein, the term "optical" refers to or is related to light and / or vision. As used herein, the term "ophthalmic" refers to or is related to the eye and vision. Non-limiting examples of ophthalmic elements include corrective and non-corrective (plano) lenses, including single-vision or multi-vision lenses, which can be segmented or non-segmented multi-vision lenses (such as but not limited to bifocal lenses, trifocal lenses and progressive lenses), and other elements for correcting, protecting or enhancing (cosmetic or other aspects) vision, including but not limited to contact lenses, intraocular lenses, magnifying lenses and protective lenses or visors. As used herein, the term "display" refers to a visible or machine-readable representation of information in text, numbers, symbols, designs or drawings. Non-limiting examples of display elements and devices include screens and monitors. As used herein, the term "window" refers to a hole suitable for allowing radiation to be transmitted therethrough.

[0020] The optical element may include any optical substrate known in the art. The substrate may include a polymeric organic material selected from the group consisting of a thermosetting polymeric organic material, a thermoplastic polymeric organic material, or a mixture of such polymeric organic materials. The polymeric organic material may be selected from the group consisting of poly(methacrylic acid C1-C 12alkyl esters), poly(oxyalkylene dimethacrylates), poly(alkoxylated phenol methacrylates), cellulose acetate, cellulose triacetate, cellulose acetate propionate, cellulose acetate butyrate, poly(vinyl acetate), poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(vinyl chloride), poly(vinylidene chloride), thermoplastic polycarbonates, polyesters, polyurethanes, polythiocarbamates, polysulfi thiourethane), poly(urea-urethane), poly(ethylene terephthalate), polystyrene, poly(α-methylstyrene), co-poly(styrene-methyl methacrylate), co-poly(styrene-acrylonitrile), polyvinyl butyral, or a polymer prepared from: bis(allyl carbonate) monomer, multifunctional acrylate monomer, multifunctional methacrylate monomer, diethylene glycol dimethacrylate monomer, diisopropenylbenzene monomer, ethoxylated bisphenol A dimethacrylate monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate monomer, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate monomer, ethoxylated phenol dimethacrylate monomer, alkoxylated polyol polyacrylate monomer, styrene monomer, urethane acrylate monomer, glycidyl acrylate monomer, glycidyl methacrylate monomer, diallylidene pentaerythritol monomer, or a mixture of these monomers.

[0021] Substrates suitable for preparing optical elements of the present invention generally have a refractive index of at least 1.55 and may include non-plastic substrates such as glass. More often, substrates commonly used in optical applications are used, including polyol (allyl carbonate) monomers, such as allyl diglycol carbonate, such as diethylene glycol bis (allyl carbonate), which is sold by PPG Industries, Inc. under the registered trademark CR-39; poly (urea) urethane polymers, which are prepared, for example, by the reaction of a polyurethane prepolymer and a diamine curing agent, and one such polymer composition is produced by PPG Industries, Inc. Industries, Inc. under the registered trademark TRIVEX; polyol (meth)acryloyl terminated carbonate monomers; diethylene glycol dimethacrylate monomers; ethoxylated phenol methacrylate monomers; diisopropenylbenzene monomers; ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate monomers; ethylene glycol dimethacrylate monomers; poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate monomers; urethane acrylate monomers; poly(ethoxylated bisphenol A dimethacrylate); poly(vinyl acetate); poly(vinyl alcohol); poly(vinyl chloride); poly(vinylidene chloride); polyethylene; polypropylene; polyurethane; polythiocarbamate; thermoplastic polycarbonates, such as carbonate-linked resins derived from bisphenol A and phosgene, one such material being sold under the registered trademark LEXAN by Sabic Global Technologies; polyesters, such as those sold under the registered trademark MYLAR by Dupont Teij in Films; poly(ethylene terephthalate); polyvinyl butyral; poly(methyl methacrylate), such as those sold by Arkema France Corporation under the registered trademark PLEXIGLAS sold materials, and by making a multifunctional isocyanate and a polymer prepared by reacting a polythiol or polyepisulfide monomer, which is homopolymerized or copolymerized and / or trimerized with a polythiol, a polyisocyanate, a polyisothiocyanate and optionally an ethylenically unsaturated monomer or a vinyl monomer containing a halogenated aromatic group. Copolymers of such monomers and blends of the polymers and copolymers with other polymers are also contemplated, for example, to form an interpenetrating network product.

[0022] As previously described, in the method of the present invention, a first composition is deposited on a portion of a first surface of an optical substrate (eg, any of the above) to provide a first treated surface region and an untreated surface region. The first composition comprises a material that provides at least one light-affecting property.

[0023] When the light-affecting property to be imparted is light polarization, the first composition may contain one or more dichroic dyes known in the art. Non-limiting examples of suitable conventional dichroic compounds include azomethines, indigoids, thioindigoids, merocyanines, indans, quinophthalone dyes, perylenes, phthalopyrines, tribenzophenones, and phthalocyanines. The dichroic material may also include a polymerizable dichroic compound. That is, the dichroic material may include at least one group that is capable of polymerization (i.e., a "polymerizable group"). For example, although not limited herein, in a non-limiting embodiment, the at least one dichroic compound may have at least one alkoxy, polyalkoxy, alkyl or polyalkyl substituent terminated with at least one polymerizable group.

[0024] When the light-affecting property imparted is a change in light absorption properties, for example, by using a chromophore that changes color upon exposure to actinic radiation, the first composition (and any second and / or further compositions) may comprise a photochromic material. Non-limiting examples of photochromic materials useful in the methods of the present invention include at least one selected from pyrans, spiropyrans, Oxazine, Spiro Specific but non-limiting examples of suitable photochromic materials may include indeno-fused naphthopyrans, naphtho[1,2-b]pyrans, naphtho[2,1-b]pyrans, spirofluoren[1,2-b]pyrans, phenanthropyrans, quinolinopyrans, fluoranthopyrans, spiropyrans, benzopyrans, fluoranthopyrans, spiropyrans, benzopyrans, benzo[1,2-b]pyrans, fluoranthopyrans, spiropy ... Oxazine, naphthoxy Oxazine, spiro(dihydroindole)naphtho Oxazine, spiro(dihydroindole)pyridobenzo Oxazine, spiro(dihydroindole)fluoranthene Oxazine, spiro(dihydroindole)quinoline Mixtures of such photochromic compounds are contemplated.

[0025] As used herein, the term "photochromic" and similar terms, such as "photochromic compound", include thermoreversible photochromic compounds, and non-thermoreversible photochromic compounds, and mixtures thereof. As used herein, the term "thermoreversible photochromic compound / material" refers to a compound / material that is capable of changing from a first state (i.e., an unactivated or transparent state) to a second state (i.e., an activated or colored state) in response to actinic radiation, and recovering to the first state in response to thermal energy. The term "non-thermoreversible photochromic compound / material" as used herein refers to a compound / material that is capable of changing from a first state (i.e., a transparent or unactivated state) to a second state (i.e., an activated or colored state) in response to actinic radiation; and recovering to the first state in response to actinic radiation of a wavelength (one or more) substantially the same as the absorption (one or more) of the colored state. It should be understood that any photochromic coating known in the art can be used as the first composition (and any second and / or additional compositions) in the method of the present invention. For example, suitable photochromic coatings may include those described in US Pat. No. 7,1894,56 at column 20, line 49 to column 24, line 6, the cited portions of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0026] When the light-affecting property imparted is the simultaneous polarization and change of light absorption properties, the first composition (and any subsequently applied second and further compositions) may comprise a photochromic-dichroic material. The term "photochromic-dichroic" refers to the display of photochromic and dichroic (i.e., linear polarization) properties under certain conditions, which are at least detectable by an instrument. Thus, the photochromic-dichroic compound has an absorption spectrum of at least visible radiation that changes in response to at least actinic radiation, and is capable of absorbing one of the two orthogonal plane polarization components of at least transmitted radiation more strongly than the other (i.e., capable of exhibiting dichroism). In addition, as with the conventional photochromic compounds discussed previously, the photochromic-dichroic compounds disclosed herein may be thermally reversible. That is, the photochromic-dichroic compound may switch from a first state to a second state in response to actinic radiation and return to the first state in response to thermal energy.

[0027] For example, according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein, the photochromic-dichroic compound may have a first state and a second state (the first state having a first absorption spectrum and the second state having a second absorption spectrum different from the first absorption spectrum), and may be adapted to switch from the first state to the second state in response to at least actinic radiation, and to return to the first state in response to thermal energy. In addition, the photochromic-dichroic compound may be dichroic (i.e., linearly polarizing) in one or both of the first state and the second state. For example, although not required, the photochromic-dichroic compound may be linearly polarizing in an activated state and non-polarizing in a bleached or faded (i.e., unactivated) state. As used herein, the term "activated state" refers to the photochromic-dichroic compound when the photochromic-dichroic compound is exposed to sufficient actinic radiation to cause at least a portion of the photochromic-dichroic compound to transition from the first state to the second state. In addition, although not required, the photochromic-dichroic compound may be dichroic in both the first and second states. Although not limiting herein, for example, the photochromic-dichroic compound can linearly polarize visible radiation in both the activated state and the bleached state. In addition, the photochromic-dichroic compound can linearly polarize visible radiation in the activated state and can linearly polarize UV ​​radiation in the bleached state.

[0028] Non-limiting examples of photochromic-dichroic compounds suitable for use in the first and any subsequently applied second and additional compositions used in the methods of the present invention may include those described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 0012998A1, paragraphs

[0089] to

[0339] , which disclosure is incorporated herein by reference. Mixtures of any of the above-described photochromic-dichroic materials may be used.

[0029] When the light-affecting property imparted is the transmission of only a portion of the incident light radiation, the first composition (and any subsequently applied second and further compositions) may comprise fixed coloring materials, such as conventional dyes. Non-limiting examples of these conventional dyes are those which may be selected from azomethines, indigoids, thioindigos, merocyanines, indans, quinophthalone dyes, perylenes, phthalopyrines, tribenzophenones, and phthalocyanines. those of the group consisting of oxazines, indoloquinoxales, imidazo-triazines, tetrazines, azo and (poly)azo dyes, benzoquinones, naphthoquinones, anthraquinones and (poly)anthraquinones, anthrapyrimidinones and mixtures thereof.

[0030] It should be noted that the first composition (and, where desired, any subsequently applied second and / or further compositions) may contain more than one material imparting the same or different light-affecting properties. That is, more than one light-affecting property may be imparted to the optical element.

[0031] In addition to one or more materials imparting one or more light-affecting properties, the first composition (and, when desired, any second and / or additional compositions) may include one or more polymer components. Examples of suitable polymer components may include, but are not limited to, the following polymers or their precursors: polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polyacrylate and polycaprolactam. The composition (one or more) may be a thermoplastic composition or a thermosetting composition. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the composition may be a curable composition.

[0032] The curable resin composition generally includes a first reactant (or component) having a functional group, such as a hydroxyl functional polymer reactant; and a second reactant (or component) being a cross-linking agent having a functional group, the functional group being reactive to the functional group of the first reactant and being able to form a covalent bond with the functional group of the first reactant. The first and second reactants of the curable resin composition may each independently include one or more functional substances, and each is present in an amount sufficient to provide a cured coating having a combination of desired physical properties (e.g., smoothness, solvent resistance, and hardness).

[0033] Examples of curable resin compositions that can be used with the curable resin composition include, but are not limited to, curable resin compositions comprising epoxide-functional polymers, such as (meth)acrylic polymers containing glycidyl (meth)acrylate residues, and epoxide-reactive crosslinkers (e.g., containing active hydrogens such as hydroxyls, thiols, and amines); curable resin compositions comprising active hydrogen-functional polymers, such as hydroxyl-functional polymers and blocked (or blocked) isocyanate-functional crosslinkers; and curable resin compositions comprising active hydrogen-functional polymers, such as hydroxyl-functional polymers and aminoplast crosslinkers.

[0034] For some aspects of the invention, the colorant composition comprises a material that imparts light-affecting properties and a curable urethane (or polyurethane) resin composition. Such a curable urethane composition typically contains an active hydrogen functional polymer, such as an amino functional polymer or a hydroxyl functional polymer; and a blocked (or blocked) isocyanate functional crosslinking agent. Active hydrogen functional polymers are well known in the art. Hydroxy functional polymers that can be used in such compositions include, but are not limited to, hydroxyl functional vinyl polymers, hydroxyl functional polyesters, hydroxyl functional polyurethanes, and mixtures thereof, which are recognized in the art.

[0035] Vinyl polymers having active hydrogen groups (e.g., hydroxyl functional groups) can be prepared by free radical polymerization methods known in the art. For some aspects of the present invention, hydroxyl functional vinyl polymers are prepared from mostly (meth)acrylate monomers and are referred to herein as "hydroxyl functional (meth)acrylic polymers".

[0036] Hydroxy functional polyesters useful in curable compositions comprising blocked isocyanate functional crosslinkers can be prepared by methods recognized in the art. Typically, a diol and a dicarboxylic acid or a diester of a dicarboxylic acid are reacted in a ratio such that the molar equivalents of hydroxyl groups are greater than the molar equivalents of carboxylic acid groups (or ester groups of carboxylic acids), while removing water or alcohol from the reaction medium.

[0037] hydroxyl Functional carbamate Esters can be prepared by methods recognized in the art. Typically, one or more difunctional isocyanates are reacted with one or more substances having two active hydrogen groups (e.g., diols or dithiols) such that the ratio of active hydrogen groups to isocyanate groups is greater than 1, as known to those skilled in the art.

[0038] "Blocked (or blocked) isocyanate crosslinker" refers to a crosslinker having two or more blocked isocyanate groups that can be unblocked (or deblocked) under curing conditions (e.g., at elevated temperatures) to form free isocyanate groups and free blocking groups. The free isocyanate groups formed by unblocking the crosslinker are generally capable of reacting with active hydrogen groups of an active hydrogen-functional polymer (e.g., with hydroxyl groups of a hydroxyl-functional polymer) and forming substantially permanent covalent bonds therewith.

[0039] The isocyanate or mixture of isocyanates of the blocked isocyanate crosslinking agent typically has two or more isocyanate groups (e.g., 3 or 4 isocyanate groups). Examples of suitable isocyanates that can be used to prepare the blocked isocyanate crosslinking agent include, but are not limited to, monomeric diisocyanates such as α,α'-xylylene diisocyanate, α,α,α',α'-tetramethylxylylene diisocyanate, and 1-isocyanato-3-isocyanatomethyl-3,5,5-trimethylcyclohexane (isophorone diisocyanate or IPDI), and dimers and trimers of monomeric diisocyanates containing isocyanurate, urea (uret idino), biuret (bi ruet) or allophanate linking groups, such as trimers of IPDI.

[0040] The blocked isocyanate crosslinking agent can also be selected from oligomeric blocked isocyanate functional adducts. As used herein, "oligomeric blocked polyisocyanate functional adducts" refer to substances that are substantially free of polymer chain extension. Oligomeric blocked polyisocyanate functional adducts can be prepared by methods recognized in the art, for example, from compounds containing three or more active hydrogen groups (e.g., trimethylolpropane (TMP)) and isocyanate monomers (e.g., 1-isocyanato-3,3,5-trimethyl-5-isocyanatomethylcyclohexane (IPDI)) in a molar ratio of 1:3. In the case of TMP and IPDI, oligomeric adducts (e.g., "TMP-3IPDI") having an average isocyanate functionality of 3 can be prepared by adopting starvation feed and / or dilute solution synthesis techniques recognized in the art. The three free isocyanate groups of each TMP-3IPDI adduct are then blocked with blocking groups (e.g., linear or branched C2-C8 alcohols).

[0041] In order to catalyze the reaction between the isocyanate groups of the blocked polyisocyanate crosslinking agent and the active hydrogen groups of the active hydrogen functional polymer, one or more catalysts are usually present in the curable photochromic coating composition, and its amount is, for example, 0.1 to 5% by weight, based on the total resin solids of the composition. The category of useful catalysts includes, but is not limited to, urethanization catalysts, such as organotin compounds, such as tin (II) octoate and dibutyltin (IV) dilaurate, and bismuth compounds, zinc compounds and salts thereof, zirconium compounds and salts thereof, carboxylates and tertiary amines, such as diazabicyclo [2.2.2] octane. A mixture of catalysts can be used.

[0042] The composition that can be used for the inventive method optionally also comprises solvent.The example of suitable solvent may include but is not limited to acetate, alcohol, ketone, glycol, ether, aliphatic compound, alicyclic compound and aromatic compound.The example of suitable acetate includes but is not limited to ethyl acetate, butyl acetate and glycol acetate.The example of suitable ketone includes but is not limited to methyl ethyl ketone and methyl-N-amyl ketone.The example of suitable aromatic compound includes but is not limited to toluene, naphthalene and xylene.In one aspect of the invention, one or more solvents can be added to each of the first reactant and the second reactant.Suitable solvent blends can include, for example, one or more acetate, propanol and derivatives thereof, one or more ketones, one or more alcohols, and / or one or more aromatic compounds.

[0043] The compositions useful in the process of the present invention may contain one or more additives, such as rheological additives for flow and wetting, such as poly (2-ethylhexyl) acrylate, auxiliary resins for modifying and optimizing coating properties, antioxidants hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) and ultraviolet light absorbers (UVA), such as hydroxyphenylbenzotriazole, hydroxybenzophenone, hydroxyphenyl-s-triazine, oxanal ide. Examples of useful antioxidants, HALS and UVA include those commercially available from BASF under the trademarks IRGANOX and TINUVIN.

[0044] As previously described, the first composition is deposited on a portion of the first surface of the optical substrate to provide a first treated surface area and an untreated surface area. The first composition is typically deposited on at least 15% of the first surface of the optical substrate. For example, the first composition may be deposited on at least 15% of the first surface of the optical substrate. For example, the first composition may be deposited on at least 25% of the first surface of the optical substrate. For example, the first composition may be deposited on at least 35% of the first surface of the optical substrate. For example, the first composition may be deposited on at least 50% of the first surface of the optical substrate.

[0045] Subsequently, at least one second composition is deposited on the optical substrate to provide at least a second treated surface region on at least a portion of the untreated surface region and a portion of the first treated surface region, thereby forming a first overlapping region. In a specific example, the second composition is deposited on a portion of the first treated surface region to form the first overlapping region and is deposited on the entire untreated surface region to form the second treated surface region.

[0046] Alternatively, the second composition is deposited on a portion of the first treated surface area to form a first overlapping area, and is deposited on only a portion of the untreated surface area to form a second treated surface area and a remaining untreated surface area. In this case, the method may further include depositing at least one additional composition on at least a portion of the second treated surface area to form a second overlapping area, and depositing on at least a portion of the remaining untreated surface.

[0047] The method contemplates repeated deposition of one or more additional compositions on the remaining untreated surface to form additional overlapping regions. Each overlapping region thus defined can have a width of 1 to 25 millimeters. For example, the width of the overlapping region can be in the range of 5 to 20 millimeters. For example, the width of the overlapping region can be in the range of 8 to 12 millimeters.

[0048] The at least one second composition and any subsequently deposited additional composition may be the same or different from each other and may be the same or different from the first composition. The at least one second composition and / or the at least one additional composition may comprise any composition previously described with respect to the first composition. In a specific example, the at least one second composition provides at least one light-affecting property that may be the same or different from the light-affecting property imparted by the first composition.

[0049] The first, second and any additional compositions may be deposited on the surface of the optical substrate by any application means known in the art. For example, the first, second and any additional compositions may be applied to the optical substrate surface by spraying techniques, including ultrasonic spraying techniques, curtain application techniques, liquid dispenser devices, and by inkjet application techniques.

[0050] In a specific example of the present invention, during the deposition of the first composition, the optical substrate is placed at an angle of 15 ° to 50 ° to the horizontal. This deposition angle helps to remove excess deposited liquid composition from the surface of the optical substrate. In addition, during the deposition of at least one second composition and / or at least one additional composition, the optical substrate is placed at an angle of 15 ° to 50 ° to the horizontal. The various angles during the deposition of at least one second composition and / or at least one additional composition may be the same or different from the deposition angle of the first composition. Similarly, the deposition angles of the second composition and any additional composition (one or more) may be different from each other, provided that the optical substrate is placed at an angle of 15 ° to 50 ° to the horizontal.

[0051] Once the first composition, at least one second composition and any subsequently deposited additional compositions are deposited in a predetermined pattern, the optical substrate thus prepared is subjected to a spinning technique to provide an optical element having one or more light-affecting properties in a gradient pattern on its surface. The spinning can be done in one or more stages. In a specific example of the present invention, the optical substrate is first spun at a speed of 200 rpm to less than 1000 rpm for 2 to 20 seconds, and then spun at a speed of 1000 rpm to 2000 rpm for 2 to 20 seconds.

[0052] The optical substrate prepared by the above method can be subjected to conditions to achieve drying of the composition and / or curing of any reactive components comprising the deposited composition. As used herein, the term "dried" or "drying" refers to exposure of the optical element to ambient conditions or elevated temperatures to evaporate any solvent present in the composition deposited thereon. The composition can be at least partially cured to promote at least partial reaction of any reactive components present in the composition (one or more). Both radiation curing and thermal curing conditions are contemplated.

[0053] In addition to the above-mentioned composition layer (one or more), the optical element prepared by the method of the present invention may optionally further include one or more layers. Examples of such additional layers include, but are not limited to, primer coatings and films (usually applied to the optical element surface (one or more) before depositing the first composition); protective coatings and films applied before or after the composition is deposited on the surface of the optical substrate, including transition coatings and films; wear-resistant coatings and films; anti-reflective coatings and films; polarizing coatings and films; and combinations thereof. As used herein, the term "protective coating or film" refers to a coating or film that can prevent wear or abrasion, provide a property transition from one coating or film to another, prevent the influence of polymerization chemicals and / or prevent degradation due to environmental conditions (such as moisture, heat, ultraviolet light, oxygen, etc.).

[0054] As used herein, the term "transitional coating and film" refers to a coating or film that helps create a gradual change in properties or compatibility between two coatings or films or between a coating and a film. For example, although not limited herein, a transitional coating can help create a gradual change in hardness between a relatively hard coating and a relatively soft coating. Non-limiting examples of transitional coatings include radiation-cured acrylate-based films as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,452,611 B2, which is specifically incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] As used herein, the term "wear resistant coatings and films" refers to protective polymeric materials that exhibit wear resistance greater than a standard reference material, such as CR- The wear resistance of the polymer is tested by a method equivalent to ASTM F-735 Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Transparent Plas tics and Coatings Using the Oscillat ing Sand Method. Non-limiting examples of wear-resistant coatings may include, but are not limited to, wear-resistant coatings containing organosilanes, organosiloxanes, wear-resistant coatings based on inorganic materials such as silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide and / or zirconium oxide, organic wear-resistant coatings of the UV-curable type, oxygen barrier coatings, UV shielding coatings and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of commercially available hard coating products include and HI- coatings, available from SDC Coatings, Inc. and PPG Industries, Inc., respectively.

[0056] For certain aspects, the wear-resistant coating or film (commonly referred to as a hard coating) can be selected from hard coating materials recognized in the art, such as organosilane wear-resistant coatings. Organosilane wear-resistant coatings, commonly referred to as hard coatings or silicone-based hard coatings, are well known in the art and are commercially available from various manufacturers (e.g., SDC Coatings, Inc. and PPG Industries, Inc.). Reference is made to U.S. Patent No. 4,756,973, column 5, lines 1-45; U.S. Patent No. 5,462,806, column 1, line 58 to column 2, line 8 and column 3, line 52 to column 5, line 50, the disclosures of which describe organosilane hard coatings, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Reference is also made to the disclosure of organosilane hard coatings in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,731,264, 5,134,191, 5,231,156 and International Patent Publication No. WO 94 / 20581, which are also incorporated herein by reference. The hard coating can be applied by coating methods recognized in the art, such as, but not limited to, roller coating, spray coating, curtain coating and spin coating.

[0057] Non-limiting examples of suitable antireflective coatings and films include single layers, multiple layers, or films of metal oxides, metal fluorides, or other such materials, which may be deposited on the articles disclosed herein (or on films applied to articles), for example, by vacuum deposition, sputtering, etc. Non-limiting examples of suitable conventional photochromic coatings and films include, but are not limited to, coatings and films comprising conventional photochromic materials.

[0058] In embodiments of the present invention wherein at least the first composition comprises a material selected from the group consisting of dichroic dyes, photochromic-dichroic dyes, and mixtures thereof, the first surface of the optical substrate comprises an alignment layer thereon.

[0059] For example, the alignment layer may include at least a portion of a coating that includes an at least partially ordered alignment medium. Non-limiting examples of suitable alignment media that can be used in combination with various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein may include photo-aligned materials, rubbing alignment materials, and liquid crystal materials. Due to the structure of the liquid crystal material, the liquid crystal material is generally capable of being ordered or aligned so as to present a general direction (genera l di rect ion). More specifically, because the liquid crystal molecules have a rod-like or disc-like structure, a rigid long axis, and a strong dipole, the liquid crystal molecules can be ordered or aligned by interaction with an external force or another structure so that the long axis of the molecule presents a direction roughly parallel to the common axis. For example, although not limited herein, the molecules of the liquid crystal material can be aligned with a magnetic field, an electric field, linearly polarized infrared radiation, linearly polarized ultraviolet radiation, linearly polarized visible radiation, or shear force. The liquid crystal molecules can also be aligned with the oriented surface. That is, the liquid crystal molecules can be applied to an already oriented surface, such as by rubbing, grooving, or a photo-alignment method, and then aligned so that the long axis of each liquid crystal molecule presents an orientation roughly parallel to the general direction of the surface orientation. Non-limiting examples of liquid crystal materials suitable for use as alignment media according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include liquid crystal polymers, liquid crystal prepolymers, liquid crystal monomers, and liquid crystal mesogens. As used herein, the term "prepolymer" refers to a partially polymerized material.

[0060] Liquid crystal monomers suitable for use in conjunction with the various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include monofunctional as well as multifunctional liquid crystal monomers. In addition, according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein, the liquid crystal monomers can be crosslinkable liquid crystal monomers, and can also be photo-crosslinkable liquid crystal monomers. As used herein, the term "photo-crosslinkable" refers to a material, such as a monomer, prepolymer, or polymer, that can be crosslinked when exposed to actinic radiation. For example, photo-crosslinkable liquid crystal monomers include those liquid crystal monomers that can be crosslinked when exposed to ultraviolet radiation and / or visible radiation with or without the use of a polymerization initiator.

[0061] Non-limiting examples of cross-linkable liquid crystal monomers suitable for use in various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include liquid crystal monomers having functional groups selected from acrylates, methacrylates, allyls, allyl ethers, alkynes, amino groups, anhydrides, epoxides, hydroxides, isocyanates, blocked isocyanates, siloxanes, thiocyanates, thiols, ureas, vinyls, vinyl ethers, and mixtures thereof. Non-limiting examples of photo-cross-linkable liquid crystal monomers suitable for use in at least partial coatings of alignment facilities according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include liquid crystal monomers having functional groups selected from acrylates, methacrylates, alkynes, epoxides, thiols, and mixtures thereof.

[0062] Liquid crystal polymers and prepolymers suitable for use in conjunction with various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include main chain liquid crystal polymers and prepolymers and side chain liquid crystal polymers and prepolymers. In main chain liquid crystal polymers and prepolymers, rod-shaped or disc-shaped liquid crystal mesogens are mainly located in the polymer main chain. In side chain polymers and prepolymers, rod-shaped or disc-shaped liquid crystal mesogens are mainly located in the side chains of the polymer. In addition, according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein, the liquid crystal polymer or prepolymer can be cross-linkable and can also be photo-cross-linkable.

[0063] Non-limiting examples of liquid crystal polymers and prepolymers suitable for use in the various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include, but are not limited to, main chain and side chain polymers and prepolymers having functional groups selected from the group consisting of acrylates, methacrylates, allyls, allyl ethers, alkynes, amino groups, anhydrides, epoxides, hydroxides, isocyanates, blocked isocyanates, siloxanes, thiocyanates, thiols, ureas, vinyls, vinyl ethers, and mixtures thereof. Non-limiting examples of photo-crosslinkable liquid crystal polymers and prepolymers suitable for use in at least partial coatings of alignment facilities according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include those polymers and prepolymers having functional groups selected from the group consisting of acrylates, methacrylates, alkynes, epoxides, thiols, and mixtures thereof.

[0064] Liquid crystal mesogens suitable for use in conjunction with the various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include thermotropic liquid crystal mesogens and lyotropic liquid crystal mesogens. In addition, non-limiting examples of liquid crystal mesogens suitable for use in conjunction with the various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include columatic (or rod-like) liquid crystal mesogens and discotic (or disk-like) liquid crystal mesogens.

[0065] In a specific example of the invention, the alignment layer may include an ordered liquid crystal material, such as any of those discussed above, having an irreversibly fixed first general direction, and the dichroic dye and / or the photochromic-dichroic dye may be aligned in a second general direction parallel to the first general direction. Non-limiting examples of such alignment layers comprising ordered liquid crystal materials are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,256,921 at column 82, line 62 to column 84, line 11, the cited portion of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0066] In addition, the alignment layer may include a polymer sheet oriented in a first general direction, and the dichroic dye and / or the photochromic-dichroic dye may be aligned in a second general direction parallel to the first general direction. In a specific example of the present invention, the alignment layer may be linearly polarizing and may include an oriented polymer sheet of polyvinyl alcohol, vinyl butyral, polyethylene terephthalate, polyalkyl (meth)acrylate, polyamide, poly(amide-ether) block copolymer, poly(ester-ether) block copolymer, poly(ether-urethane) block copolymer, poly(ester-urethane) block copolymer and / or poly(ether-urea) block copolymer. As used herein, the term "oriented polymer sheet" refers to a polymer sheet having at least a first general (alignment) direction (e.g., a first general direction imparted to the sheet by stretching).

[0067] The alignment layer can be linearly polarized and can include an optical quality polymer sheet or film containing a dispersed phase of polymer particles disposed in a continuous birefringent matrix, which can be oriented in one or more directions. The size and shape of the dispersed phase particles, the volume fraction of the dispersed phase, the film thickness and the orientation are selected to obtain the desired degree of total transmittance and diffuse reflectance of radiation of the desired wavelength in the film. Such sheets / films and their preparation are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,867,316, column 6, line 47 to column 20, line 51, the cited portion of which is incorporated herein by reference. When linearly polarized, the alignment layer may also include a birefringent multilayer optical film described in U.S. Patent No. 5,882,774, column 2, line 63 to column 18, line 31, the cited portion of which is incorporated herein by reference. In addition, the alignment layer may also include a dual component polarizer (i.e., a dichroic and reflective polarizing component), such as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,096,375, column 3, line 7 to column 19, line 46, the cited portion of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0068] The dichroic material and / or photochromic-dichroic material present in the first composition is aligned in a second general direction, i.e., along the long axis of the dichroic compound and / or photochromic-dichroic compound, and the second general direction is at least parallel to the first general direction of the alignment layer. As used herein with respect to the ordering or alignment of materials or structures, the term "general direction" refers to the main arrangement or orientation of the material, compound or structure. In addition, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a material, compound or structure may have a general direction even if there is some variation in the arrangement of the material, compound or structure, provided that the material, compound or structure has at least one main arrangement.

[0069] Various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein will now be illustrated in the following examples.

[0070] Example

[0071] Part I: Coating composition

[0072] Four coating compositions were prepared according to Table 1 below.

[0073] Table 1. Preparation of coating compositions

[0074]

[0075]

[0076] Use organic solvent Each composition was adjusted with 100 (available from ExxonMobil Chemical) to obtain the respective viscosities shown in each of the following examples. Viscosities were measured at 20°C using a Brookfield DVI I+Pro viscometer, Model RVDV-II+PCP.

[0077] Part II: Coating Procedure

[0078] Example 1

[0079] A base 5CR-39 Plano lens (purchased from Omega Opt ix) with a diameter of 75 mm was mounted on an adjustable lens mount at a 45 degree angle to the horizontal. The top of the lens was defined as the uppermost portion of the lens when the lens was on the lens mount, and the bottom of the lens was defined as the lowermost portion of the lens.

[0080] Coating composition A adjusted to a viscosity of 200 cPs was manually applied horizontally along the center of the lens with a 5 ml disposable plastic pipette and allowed to flow to the bottom. Coating composition A adjusted to a viscosity of 100 cPs was then applied in a similar manner to the lens to an area extending from 10 cm from the top of the lens to a 10 mm overlap on the previous coating. Coating composition B adjusted to a viscosity of 100 cPs was applied to the previously uncoated portion of the top. The coating was allowed to flow over the previous coating for 15 seconds.

[0081] The lens prepared above was then spun on a spin coater at 800 rpm for 20 seconds with an acceleration of 1000 Rad / s. 2 The coating was then cured in a thermal oven at 120°C for 90 minutes.

[0082] Example 2

[0083] A basic 5CR-39 Plano lens (available from Omega Opt ix) with a diameter of 75 mm was mounted on an adjustable lens mount at a 35 degree angle from horizontal.

[0084] A disposable 5 mL pipette was used to horizontally dispense a coating composition C adjusted to a viscosity of 250 cPs along the center of the lens and allowed to flow to the bottom of the lens. A coating composition C adjusted to a viscosity of 150 cPs was dispensed along a horizontal line 10 mm above the center of the lens. The coating was then allowed to flow downward along the lens face until it overlapped with the initial coating. A coating composition D adjusted to a viscosity of 120 cPs was then applied again to the remaining uncoated portion of the lens using a disposable 5 ml pipette. This coating covered the previously uncoated area and was allowed to flow all the way to the bottom of the lens over the first two coatings.

[0085] The lens prepared above was then rotated and cured as in Example 1.

[0086] Example 3

[0087] A base 5.25CR-39 Plano lens (available from Omega Opt ix) with a diameter of 75 mm was mounted on an adjustable lens mount at an angle of 80 degrees from horizontal.

[0088] Two Sealey Airbrush AB 932V.3 kits were purchased from Sealey Group, Bury, St. Edmunds, Suffolk, UK. 5 mL of coating composition C adjusted to a viscosity of 150 cPs was added to the first brush. 5 mL of coating composition D adjusted to a viscosity of 150 cPs was added to the second brush. The top 40 mm was sprayed using brush 1, while the remaining 35 mm was sprayed using brush 2, with an overlap of about 20 mm between the two coatings. The brushes were moved in a horizontal path, extending beyond the edge of the lens, indexing down until the entire volume of coating was discharged. The combination of spraying and gravity flow produced the overlap. The orientation of the coating was opposite to that of the first two embodiments, in which the top of the lens received a coating composition without a photochromic dye. The lens prepared above was then rotated and cured as in Example 1.

[0089] Section III: Test Procedures and Results

[0090] Example 1

[0091] The lens of Example 1 was exposed to 365 nm ultraviolet light at a distance of about 14 cm for about 10 minutes to activate the photochromic material. Visual inspection of the activated sample observed a gradual decrease in darkness from the bottom to the top of the lens related to the position maintained during coating.

[0092] Example 2

[0093] The lens of Example 2 was irradiated for 400 seconds using an Oriel Apex II luminator Model 71228 arc lamp purchased from Newport Corporation. The absorbance spectrum was recorded at three locations on the lens (corresponding to 5 mm from the top of the lens, the center of the lens, and 5 mm from the bottom of the lens relative to the positions defined during the coating procedure). The spectrum was measured using a spectrophotometer. The corresponding percent transmittance (%T, CIE Y transmittance) at the three points was recorded in Figure 1 , and shows the increase in transmittance (i.e., decrease in darkness) from the bottom to the top of the lens.

[0094] Example 3

[0095] A white diffuse LED light source from Edmunds (set to full intensity) was used as the backlight. Prior to use, the white light LED was allowed to warm up for >20 minutes. A UV LED engine from Innovations in Optics (with a 385nm LED, using a model LLS5008 power supply (manufactured by Lambda) in constant current mode at 0.6A and 3.03V) was placed approximately 22cm above the backlight surface. Digital images of the lenses were acquired before and after activation using a Stingray F145C camera available from AVT with a 50mm lens at aperture f / 11 (lens available from Edmunds). Prior to activating the lens of Example 3, a digital image of the unactivated lens was acquired. The exposure time was adjusted to obtain an image within the measurable range of the camera. Once the exposure time was set, the unactivated image was collected. Then, the light from the camera was blocked and a dark image was collected. The lens was activated using a UV light source for approximately 5 minutes by rotating the UV light source on top of the lens. After activation, the UV source was rotated out of position and the final activated image of the gradient lens was obtained. For each of the above images, four exposures were collected and averaged. The red, green and blue transmittance of the lens was calculated using the following formula, corresponding to the red, green and blue response of the camera:

[0096] % Transmittance = 100*((activated image - dark image) / (unactivated image - dark image))

[0097] The transmittance data from the digital image is analyzed in an area of ​​approximately 20mm x 45mm and is approximately centered on the lens, with the major axis of the rectangle running from top to bottom. Note that if the gradient image is not precisely aligned with the camera, the digital % transmittance image is rotated so that the gradient is approximately oriented vertically. The individual % transmittances within the 5x5mm squares are recorded in a horizontal strip from top to bottom of the lens (relative to the position maintained during coating). For each of the red, green, and blue responses of the image, the 5x5mm squares are averaged for each "row" of % transmittance values. The "green response transmittance" peaks approximately at 550nm and is plotted as the green % transmittance as a function of distance below the lens. The lens of Example 3 provides a smooth gradient, as shown below Figure 2 As shown, where the lower transmittance corresponds to the top of the lens.

[0098] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific details of certain embodiments of the invention, it is not intended that such details should be viewed as limitations on the scope of the invention unless they are included in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for imparting to an optical element at least one light-influencing property in a gradient pattern, the method comprising: (a) providing an optical substrate having a first surface and a second surface; (b) depositing a first composition comprising a material providing at least one light-affecting property on a portion of the first surface of the optical substrate to provide a first treated surface region and an untreated surface region; (c) depositing at least one second composition on the optical substrate of (b) to provide at least a second treated surface region on at least a portion of the untreated surface region and on a portion of the first treated surface region to form a first overlap region having a width in the range of 5 to 25 mm; and (d) rotating the optical substrate of (c) to provide an optical element having light-affecting properties on a first surface thereof in a non-uniform linear pattern in one direction.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one second composition is deposited on a portion of the first treated surface area to form a first overlapping area and is deposited on the entire untreated surface area to form a second treated surface area.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein in (c), the second composition is deposited on a portion of the first treated surface area to form a first overlapping area, and is deposited on a portion of the untreated surface area to form a second treated surface area and a remaining untreated surface area.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein in (c), at least one additional composition is deposited on at least a portion of the second treated surface area to form a second overlapping area and on at least a portion of the remaining untreated surface area.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein: During deposition of the at least one second composition and the at least one additional composition, the optical substrate is placed at an angle of 15° to 50° to the horizontal, and the angle during deposition of the at least one second composition and the at least one additional composition is the same as or different from the angle during deposition of the first composition.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising (e) subjecting the optical substrate of (d) to thermal curing and / or radiation curing conditions.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first composition is deposited on at least 25% of the first surface of the optical substrate.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one second composition comprises a material providing at least one light-influencing property.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first composition comprises a material selected from the group consisting of fixed tinted dyes, photochromic dyes, photochromic-dichroic dyes, dichroic dyes, and mixtures thereof.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the at least one second composition comprises a material providing at least one light-affected property selected from the group consisting of fixed coloring dyes, photochromic dyes, photochromic-dichroic dyes, dichroic dyes and mixtures thereof.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: During deposition of the first composition, the optical substrate is positioned at an angle of 15° to 50° from horizontal.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein in (d), the rotating is performed in two stages so that the optical substrate of (c) is first subjected to the rotating speed of 200 rpm to less than 1000 rpm for a period of 2 to 20 seconds and then subjected to the rotating speed of 1000 rpm to 2000 rpm for a period of 2 to 20 seconds.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the light-influencing property is selected from polarization, photochromism, tint and a combination of any of the foregoing light-influencing properties.

14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the optical element is selected from the group consisting of a lens, a window, a display element, a visor, a sun shield, an automotive transparency, an aerospace transparency, and a wearable display.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the optical element is a lens.

16. The method of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the first surface of the optical substrate of (a) comprises an alignment layer thereon, and the at least first composition comprises a material selected from the group consisting of dichroic dyes, photochromic-dichroic dyes, and mixtures thereof.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the alignment layer comprises: (i) an ordered liquid crystal material having a first general direction which is irreversibly fixed, and the dichroic dye and / or the photochromic-dichroic dye is aligned in a second general direction which is parallel to the first general direction; or (ii) A polymer sheet having a first general direction, and the dichroic dye and / or the photochromic-dichroic dye is aligned in a second general direction parallel to the first general direction.

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