Ophthalmic device for phototherapy

Abstract

Methods, systems, and devices related to phototherapy using ophthalmic lenses are disclosed. In one example aspect, an optical device includes an ophthalmic lens and a frame including a frame front configured to support the ophthalmic lens. The frame includes two temples configured to allow a user to wear the optical device. The optical device includes a coating deposited in a plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens. The optical device includes a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame. The light source is controllable to emit a light beam directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that portions of the light reflected by the plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens form a spectrum having different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user.

Description

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 362,374, filed on April 1, 2022, entitled “DICHROIC WAVELENGTH SELECTIVE COATINGS ON OPHTHALMIC LENSES FOR LIGHT THERAPY,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This patent document relates to systems, devices, and processes that implement wavelength selection techniques for performing different types of light therapy. Background Art

[0004] Ophthalmic devices (e.g., wearable glasses, contact lenses) are used to help correct vision errors and help people see more clearly. These lenses use materials with different refractive indices to bend light to help the eye focus images correctly.

[0005] Advances in technology have led to additional uses for ophthalmic devices, such as augmented reality, where films and coatings added to lenses combined with artificial light help superimpose images and videos over normal vision. Another application for expanding ophthalmic lenses is in the field of light therapy, where an electronic light source works with the lens to provide additional light to the user to provide treatment. Summary of the invention

[0006] This patent document describes, among other things, technology related to an ophthalmic device that can provide different types of light therapy using a combination of (one or more) light sources and a coating area on an ophthalmic lens. Some embodiments of the disclosed technology can track a user's eye movements and environmental changes to help the user adaptively select the light therapy that is most suitable for the user through the disclosed device.

[0007] In one example aspect, an optical device includes an ophthalmic lens and a frame including a frame front configured to support the ophthalmic lens. The frame includes two temples configured to allow a user to wear the optical device. The optical device includes a coating deposited in a plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens. The plurality of sub-regions are coated using different coating formulations and are located near a periphery of the ophthalmic lens and substantially outside a field of view of a user of the optical device. The optical device includes a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame. The light source is controllable to emit a light beam directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that portions of the light beam reflected by the plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens form a spectrum having different wavelength bands, the different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user. When the optical device is in operation, the light spectrum is reflected into a pupil of the user as part of a light therapy session.

[0008] In another example aspect, a method for providing light therapy to a user using an optical device is disclosed. The optical device includes an ophthalmic lens, a coating deposited in multiple sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens, a frame having two temples, and a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame. The light source is controllable to emit light directed to the coating of the ophthalmic lens so that a portion of the light reflected by the multiple sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens forms a spectrum with different wavelength bands, and the different wavelength bands correspond to different therapeutic effects on the user. The method includes controlling the light source via a controller of the optical device to emit light to the ophthalmic lens so that a portion of the light is reflected by the ophthalmic lens into the pupil of the user, and transmitting information about the ophthalmic lens and the light source to a remote device via a communication model of the optical device so that the user can track the performance of the light therapy on the remote device.

[0009] These and other aspects are described in this document. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1A An example optical arrangement in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0011] Figure 1B Another example optical device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0012] Figure 2A is an example diagram showing how reflected and transmitted light beams interact.

[0013] Figure 2B An example of the final transmission spectrum of a dichroic coating on an ophthalmic lens in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0014] Figure 3A Example coatings on eyeglass lenses are shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0015] Figure 3B Another example coating on an eyeglass lens in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0016] Figure 4A An example configuration of a light source coupled to a temple of an optical device is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0017] Figure 4B Another example configuration of multiple light sources coupled to the temples of an optical device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0018] Figure 5 An example configuration of a waveguide design in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0019] Fig. 6A An example of a planar mirror with parallel surfaces of waveguides is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0020] Figure 6B An example of a curved mirror with parallel surfaces of a waveguide in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0021] Figure 6C An example of a curved mirror with non-parallel surfaces of a waveguide in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0022] Figure 7 An example optical device with one or more sensors in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0023] Figure 8 An example optical device having one or more capturers in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown.

[0024] Fig. 9 An example user interface of a remote user device is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0025] Fig.10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing system that may implement at least some of the operations described herein.

[0026] Fig.11 is a flowchart representation of a method for providing light therapy to a user in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Wavelength-based reflection and transmission can have special uses in light therapy. For example, light of different wavelengths can have different therapeutic effects on users. This patent document discloses technology that can be implemented in various embodiments to provide optical devices to provide different types of light therapy (e.g., to help maintain the correct sleep wave cycle, regulate mood and / or enhance performance) without introducing any interference to the user's daily activities. By reflecting light of a specific wavelength to the user while allowing other wavelengths to travel through, the disclosed technology enables the desired wavelength to be reflected to the user and minimizes interference with the user's normal vision. In some embodiments, by depositing a dichroic coating and / or a waveguide design on an ophthalmic lens, wavelength-based reflection in different wavelength bands can be achieved to achieve different therapeutic effects on the user. The disclosed technology enables precise control of the wavelength and position of the reflected light entering the user's eyes to provide more refined control of the stimulation of light perception in the eye, thereby allowing researchers / clinicians to optimize the effects of light therapy without interfering with the user's regular daily activities.

[0028] Figure 1A-1B An example optical device according to one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. Figure 1A As shown, optical device 100 may be implemented as a pair of corrective lenses or spectacles. Figure 1A-1B The example shown in includes two ophthalmic lenses, but in some embodiments, one ophthalmic lens is used. The optical device includes a frame having a frame front configured to support one or more ophthalmic lenses. The frame also includes two temples that allow a user to wear the optical device on their face. In some embodiments, the frame is configured to reduce its size when not in use, such as a foldable or collapsible frame.

[0029] The optical device is configured to generate a spectrum with different wavelength bands using a combination of (one or more) light sources and a reflective coating on an ophthalmic lens. Figure 1A-1B In the example shown, the light source is embedded in one of the temples and positioned behind the protective cover. The light source can be controlled to emit a light beam. The emitted light beam is directed toward the ophthalmic lens and reflected by one or more segments of the ophthalmic lens to produce a spectrum of reflected light with different wavelengths, the different wavelengths corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user. Figure 1B As shown, when the optical device is in operation, a portion of the light from the light source is reflected by the ophthalmic lens into the pupil of the user.

[0030] In some embodiments, the reflection of light is achieved by depositing a dichroic coating on at least a portion of the lens. The principle of dichroic reflection is based on constructive and destructive interference of multiple thin film coatings. Figure 2Ais an example diagram showing how reflected and transmitted light beams interact. When light hits a surface at an interface of materials with different refractive indices, part of the light is reflected while another part is transmitted. This effect is governed by the Fresnel equations. When the transmitted light hits the next interface, the same phenomenon occurs. The reflected and transmitted light from the interface can then interfere with each other based on the incident angle, phase, and wavelength of the light.

[0031] Mathematical models and computer algorithms can be used to solve for the final reflection and transmission spectral curves when considering the different layers, thicknesses and refractive indices of the coating. Figure 2B An example of the final transmission spectrum of a dichroic coating on an ophthalmic lens according to one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. The final spectrum can be used for phototherapy purposes to allow therapeutic wavelengths to be reflected or passed through. Figure 2B As shown, the final transmission spectrum can include different peaks in different wavelength bands suitable for different types of light therapy. One type of light therapy is bright light therapy related to circadian rhythms, sleep, and mental health. Circadian rhythm entrainment occurs when light is exposed to the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells found at the back of the human eye. The photopigment melanopsin present in these cells converts light into biological signals and is sensitive to wavelengths of approximately 490nm. Therefore, a high reflection or high transmission band centered around a wavelength of 490nm is useful for bright light therapy applications because it allows blocking or enhancing relevant light to signal neurobiological changes. Figure 2B Graph 201 is an example of such a transmission curve optimized for the melanopsin effect, where a large amount of light in the wavelength band 450-490 nm (211) is reflected back to the user.

[0032] Figure 2B Other examples of coating transmission curves including multi-wavelength transmission bands are also shown. Figure 2B Graph 203 shows a spectrum where at least a portion (>30%) of a first light band 213 below 420 nm is reflected, and at least a portion (20%-25%) of a second light band 215 between 450 nm and 470 nm is reflected. A third light band 217 around 620 nm is also partially (5%) reflected back to the user. Figure 2B Graph 205 of shows another spectrum where a first band of light 219 (approximately 460 nm) and a second band of light 221 (approximately 650 nm) are fully reflected to the user. Using multiple wavelength bands, a smart light therapy device (such as network-enabled glasses and / or corrective lenses) can be implemented such that a dichroic coating on the lenses of the glasses can reflect light in different bands (e.g., from the environment or from an electronic light source embedded within the glasses) to achieve different therapeutic effects. Reflecting ambient light can reduce the amount of light entering the user's eyes, while reflecting the light source of the optical device can increase the amount of light reaching the user.

[0033] Different wavelength bands are suitable for different types of treatments, such as seasonal depression, treatment of skin healing, and / or treatment of myopia. For example, blue light in the range of 450-550nm, with a peak at 490nm, targets the melanopsin photopigment and has the highest impact on circadian rhythms and depression-related symptoms. Green light (465-625nm) with a peak at about 540nm has been shown to have additional anti-anxiety effects. Red and yellow light (525-675nm) have an impact in simulating the dawn and dusk response of humans. In addition, near-infrared light has health benefits, such as improving blood flow and enhancing cognitive function. Outside of circadian rhythms, light therapy with multiple wavelength ranges has also been shown to treat eye diseases and skin problems. For example, UV (100-400nm) and blue light (400-550nm) have been shown to promote children's regular eye development and prevent myopia.

[0034] In some embodiments, multiple coating operations can be performed through a mask so that the ophthalmic lens is partially coated or has different sections of the lens with different coating formulations. Dichroic coating can be performed by a vapor deposition method, where coating materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2), magnesium fluoride (MgF2), titanium oxide, zirconium oxide and other optical oxides are deposited as thin films onto a substrate. Dichroic coatings can easily be over 30 layers of materials with various refractive indices. The application of these coatings is complex and requires special manufacturing considerations. In addition to dichroic coatings, anti-reflective coatings applied to lenses also employ similar principles of using constructive and destructive interference to minimize light reflections on the lens. Anti-reflective coatings typically include 2-3 layers of material.

[0035] Different sections of the lens may be coated differently so as to reflect light from different light sources (eg, light coupled into the lens or ambient light) in different ways. Figure 3A Example coatings on eyeglass lenses according to one or more embodiments of the present technology are shown. In some embodiments, eyeglass lens 300 includes at least partially coated segments 301, 302, 303. Segments 301, 302, and 303 can all be coated to work with corresponding light sources coupled to the frame to reflect light having a specific wavelength band. In some embodiments, the lens is divided into multiple segments, for example, segments 304, 305, 306, 307, at least some of which are coated differently from other segments. For example, segment 305 can be coated with an anti-reflective coating to minimize light reflections in the user's field of view. Segments 304, 306, and 307 can be coated with a dichroic coating to reflect light of different wavelengths. Figure 3BAnother example coating on eyeglass lenses according to one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. Segments outside the user's field of view and near the periphery of the lens (e.g., segments 312, 314, 316) are coated with dichroic coatings using different formulations to reflect light in different wavelength bands. Segments within the user's field of view (e.g., 318) can be coated with anti-reflective coatings to allow light to pass through and minimize reflections.

[0036] In some embodiments, the coating can be first applied to a substrate (e.g., a film or sheet of material that is smaller than the base lens), and then the substrate is assembled to the lens. In addition, the coating can be applied to the surface on the lens subdivisions, and then the lens subdivisions are bonded together to form a complete lens.

[0037] Figure 4A An example configuration 400 of a light source coupled to a temple of an optical device is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology. In this example, a light source 401 (shown in dashed lines) is embedded in the temple of the optical device and positioned behind a protective cover. The light source 401 is configured to emit light to a first sub-region 411 of the lens. The light source 401 is also configured to emit light to a second sub-region 413 on the lens. In some embodiments, the protective cover includes a filter. For example, the filter can be liquid crystal display (LCD) based to filter out unwanted light in selected locations before the light strikes the ophthalmic lens. The filter can also perform specific filtering by polarization or color / wavelength.

[0038] like Figure 4A As shown, sub-regions 411 and 413 are located near the periphery of the lens and substantially outside the user's field of view to reduce the impact on the user's normal vision. The light source 401 and sub-regions 411, 413 allow the reflected light beam to form a spectrum with different wavelengths. The sub-regions 411, 413 can be coated with different formulations so that the light beam is selectively reflected by the coating on the ophthalmic lens. The combination of the light source and the dichroic coating can produce reflected light in a desired wavelength band to provide a corresponding therapeutic effect to the user.

[0039] In some embodiments, the light source(s) may be configured to emit light outside the visible range, such as infrared light. In some embodiments, an anti-reflective coating may be deposited on the lens to interact with the back-reflected light 415 to eliminate back reflections.

[0040] Figure 4BAnother example configuration 450 of multiple light sources coupled to temples of an optical device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. In this example, a protective cover is removed to expose the multiple light sources. The light sources are coupled to corresponding temples of the frame. Each light source includes one or more lighting elements, such as a light emitting diode (LED) or a liquid crystal display (LCD) backlit by one or more LEDs. Figure 4B In the specific example shown, each of light sources 421 and 423 includes an LED. Light source 425 includes three LEDs. Each LED is configured to output wavelengths specific to different intended treatments. For example, the three LEDs can be configured to emit light with different colors (e.g., yellow, green, blue) for different types of therapies / treatments. Blue light (e.g., in the range of 400-500nm, with a peak at about 490nm) may be more suitable for circadian rhythm therapy, while green light slightly below the most sensitive range may be more suitable for treating seasonal depression. A combination of light sources (e.g., light sources with different numbers of LEDs) can help achieve the desired therapeutic effect for the user.

[0041] In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens may include a waveguide to produce the desired reflected light. The waveguide includes a base substrate (e.g., glasses and / or lenses) where light enters and travels through total internal reflection and gradually couples out of the substrate into the user's eye while maintaining the integrity of the original projected image. The waveguide is used as a method to expand the exit pupil of the display so that an image can be formed even when the position of the user's pupil changes relative to the waveguide. Some examples of waveguides include geometric waveguides, diffractive waveguides, holographic waveguides, and / or combinations thereof. In addition, the base substrate can be either a flat surface or a curved surface.

[0042] Figure 5 An example configuration 500 of a waveguide design according to one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. In this example, an ophthalmic lens 501 includes a group of surfaces embedded therein. The group of surfaces forms a waveguide 503 to gradually guide light into the user's eye. A light source 505 is positioned near the ophthalmic lens (e.g., embedded in the temple of the frame) to emit light 511 into the lens 501. In some embodiments, the light source is configured to generate collimated or partially collimated light to the waveguide. In this example, the collimated light enters the lens in a substantially vertical manner and travels by total internal reflection before being guided by the waveguide 503 to the user's pupil (511a, 511b). For example, the light source can be positioned in an angled projection with the waveguide, where the light traverses the temple of the glasses, the frame, and / or the space between the human eye / head. In some embodiments, the waveguide may not enforce an exact match to the retina (e.g., a 1:1 pixel match / correspondence between the scene and the eye's perception), as long as the important areas are projected in the correct color for health and therapeutic purposes.

[0043] In some embodiments, before the light source enters the waveguide, a portion of the light may first be reflected or filtered, for example, via a reflective coating / film. The coating / film may be metal-based or holographic. For example, a portion of the reflected light may be directed toward the user's eye for an initial form of treatment.

[0044] In some embodiments, a geometric waveguide can be used to implement the disclosed technology. The geometric waveguide can be coated with a dichroic coating so that it only reflects incident angles between 10 and 30 degrees (e.g., preferably between 12 and 26 degrees) to minimize the visual impact on direct vision through the lens. In some embodiments, the waveguide can be a diffractive waveguide (e.g., where the outcoupling feature is a very small surface geometry change to allow for a change in direction) or a holographic waveguide (e.g., where the three-dimensional geometry in the holographic film enables light to be outcoupled from internal reflections of the waveguide). In some embodiments, the holographic or diffractive waveguide can be arranged on other surfaces of the eyeglasses, such as the inner or outer surface of the lens. In some embodiments, the waveguide can achieve a reflective surface through aluminum or silver on the lens, for example, via thermal evaporation or sputtering coating.

[0045] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the waveguide includes parallel surfaces of a given lens shape (e.g., a flat surface of the lens). In other embodiments, the waveguide may include non-parallel surfaces corresponding to a curved lens (e.g., having varying angles relative to the substrate). Figure 6A-6C Various examples of lenses and waveguides are shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology. Fig. 6A An example of a planar mirror with parallel surfaces of waveguides is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology. Figure 6B An example of a curved lens with parallel surfaces of a waveguide according to one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. In this example, the lens surface has a consistent curvature, so the use of parallel surfaces in the waveguide can properly guide the reflected light into the user's eyes. Figure 6C An example of a curved lens with non-parallel surfaces of a waveguide according to one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. In this example, the surface of the lens has a varying curvature. Thus, the waveguide includes non-parallel surfaces positioned to account for light with different incident angles for proper reflection.

[0046] In some embodiments, the optical device further includes a controller that communicates with the light source to control the operation of the light source (e.g., turning the light source on / off, setting a schedule for when the light source is on, adjusting the intensity of the light source, etc.). The controller can be coupled to the frame (e.g., positioned behind the light source, such as Figure 4A-4B). In some embodiments, the output angle of the light source can be adjusted via a controller so that the light source (e.g., including one or more LEDs) can be directed to different sub-areas of an ophthalmic lens coated with different materials. The flexible and adaptive combination of light sources and different coating areas enables a wide range of light therapy that can be performed on the user. In some embodiments, one or more batteries are also coupled to different components of the optical device (e.g., the controller and the light source) to provide power to the optical device.

[0047] In some embodiments, the optical device includes one or more sensors configured to track eye position and / or eye movement of the user. The one or more sensors communicate with the controller so that the optical device can adaptively adjust the light output into the waveguide based on the eye movement detected by the sensor to obtain the best position to place the projected light into the user's eye. Figure 7 An example optical device 700 with one or more sensors in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. (One or more) sensors 701a-c can be positioned on the frame of the optical device, facing the user, to detect eye movement. Based on the detected eye or pupil movement (e.g., drowsiness, anxiety level, etc.), a controller of the optical device can adjust parameters of the light source (e.g., by adaptively adjusting the light source, such as the wavelength(s) of the emitted light, the length and / or duration of the light emission) to adjust the light therapy performed on the user.

[0048] In some embodiments, the optical device includes a capture model (eg, a camera) to gather information of the external environment in order to determine the ideal location / type of treatment to be performed on the user. Figure 8 An example optical device 800 with one or more capturers in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. The capturers 801a, 801b can be implemented as cameras positioned on a frame of the optical device. The cameras 801a-b face outwardly toward the external environment to capture desired information. The capturers 801a-b communicate with a controller so that the controller can adjust parameters of the light source (e.g., by adaptively adjusting the light source, such as the wavelength(s) of the emitted light, the length and / or duration of the light emission) in order to adjust the light therapy performed on the user.

[0049] In some embodiments, the controller includes a communication module (e.g., a Bluetooth module, a WiFi module, and / or a cellular module) that communicates with one or more software programs deployed on a remote user device to facilitate control and adjustment of the light therapy. For example, an application can be deployed on a user device (e.g., a mobile phone or tablet device) to allow a user to configure / change parameters of the light therapy. Fig. 9An example user interface for a remote user device according to one or more embodiments of the present technology is shown. For example, a user can adjust the intensity of a light source via a user interface and a controller. As another example, a user can configure a schedule for light therapy throughout the day using different intensities of light and / or different wavelengths to achieve a desired therapeutic effect. As another example, light sources can be adjusted individually via different tabs on a user interface. In some embodiments, the system can monitor the status of a battery of the optical device via a controller of the optical device and notify the user to charge the battery when necessary.

[0050] Fig.10 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a computing system 1000 that can implement at least some of the operations described herein (e.g., a controller of an optical device, a software program deployed on a remote user device). As shown, the computing system 1000 may include: one or more processors 1002, a main memory 1006, a non-volatile memory 1010, a network interface device 1012, a video display device 1018, an input / output device 1020, a control device 1022 (e.g., a keyboard and a pointing device), a drive unit 1024 including a storage medium 1026, and a signal generating device 1030, which are communicatively connected to a bus 1016. The bus 1016 represents one or more physical buses and / or point-to-point connections connected by appropriate bridges, adapters, or controllers. For simplicity, Fig.10 Various common components (eg, cache memory) are omitted. Rather, computing system 1000 is intended to illustrate a hardware device on which the components shown or described with respect to the examples of the figures and any other components described in this specification may be implemented.

[0051] The computing system 1000 may take any suitable physical form. For example, the computing system 1000 may share an architecture similar to that of a server computer, a personal computer (PC), a tablet computer, a mobile phone, a game console, a music player, a wearable electronic device, a network-connected ("smart") device (e.g., a television or home assistant device), an AR / VR system (e.g., a head-mounted display), or any electronic device capable of executing a set of instructions that specifies an action to be taken by the computing system 1000. In some embodiments, the computing system 1000 may be an embedded computing system, a system on a chip (SOC), a single board computer system (SBC), or a distributed system (such as a grid of computing systems), or include one or more cloud components in one or more networks. Where appropriate, one or more computing systems 1000 may perform operations in real time, near real time, or in batch mode.

[0052] The network interface device 1012 enables the computing system 1000 to mediate data in the network 1014 with entities external to the computing system 1000 via any communication protocol supported by the computing system 1000 and the external entities. Examples of the network interface device 1012 include a network adapter card, a wireless network interface card, a router, an access point, a wireless router, a switch, a multilayer switch, a protocol converter, a gateway, a bridge, a bridge-router, a hub, a digital media receiver and / or a repeater, and all wireless elements mentioned herein.

[0053] The memory (e.g., main memory 1006, non-volatile memory 1010, machine-readable medium 1026) can be local, remote, or distributed. Although shown as a single medium, the machine-readable medium 1026 may include multiple media (e.g., centralized / distributed databases and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions 1028. The machine-readable (storage) medium 1026 may include any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the computing system 1000. The machine-readable medium 1026 may be non-transitory or include a non-transitory device. In this context, a non-transitory storage medium may include a tangible device, meaning that the device has a specific physical form, although the device can change its physical state. Thus, for example, non-transitory means that the device remains tangible despite the change in state.

[0054] Although embodiments have been described in the context of a fully functional computing device, various examples can be released as program products in various forms. Examples of machine-readable storage media, machine-readable media, or computer-readable media include recordable media such as volatile and non-volatile memory devices 1010, removable flash memory, hard drives, optical disks, and transmission media such as digital and analog communication links.

[0055] In general, the routines executed to implement the examples herein may be implemented as part of an operating system or a specific application, component, program, object, module, or sequence of instructions (collectively referred to as a "computer program"). A computer program typically includes one or more instructions (e.g., instructions 1004, 1008, 1028) disposed in various memories and storage devices in a computing device at various times. The instructions, when read and executed by the processor 1002, cause the computing system 1000 to perform operations to execute elements related to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig.111 is a flowchart representation of a method 1100 for providing light therapy to a user using an optical device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology. The optical device includes: an ophthalmic lens; a coating deposited in a plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens; a frame having two temples; and a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame (e.g., Figure 1A ). The light source is controllable to emit light directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that portions of the light reflected by multiple regions of the ophthalmic lens form a spectrum having different wavelength bands (e.g., as Figure 2B ), different wavelength bands correspond to different treatment effects on the user. The method includes controlling the light source via a controller of the optical device at operation 1110 to emit light to the ophthalmic lens, so that a portion of the light is reflected by the ophthalmic lens into the pupil of the user. The method also includes transmitting information about the ophthalmic lens and the plurality of light sources with a remote device at operation 1120 to enable the user to track the performance of the light therapy on the remote device.

[0057] In some embodiments, the different therapeutic effects include at least a first therapeutic effect related to circadian rhythm or sleep, and a second circadian rhythm related to depression. For example, the peak wavelength of one of the plurality of light sources may be in the range between 490 nm and 495 nm. In some embodiments, one of the different wavelength bands is at least partially outside the visible spectrum.

[0058] In some embodiments, the method includes filtering light from a light source via a filter positioned between the light source and the ophthalmic lens before the light reaches the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the optical device includes a set of surfaces embedded in the ophthalmic lens, and the method includes adaptively adjusting a first light source of a plurality of light sources to emit light into the ophthalmic lens such that the light enters a first side of the ophthalmic lens and is gradually reflected back to a user by the set of surfaces in the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the set of surfaces includes at least one surface that is not parallel to the remaining surfaces in the set (e.g., Figure 6A-6C In some embodiments, the grouped surfaces include a dichroic coating to reflect light at an incident angle between 12 and 26 degrees. In some embodiments, the grouped surfaces include a diffractive waveguide or a holographic waveguide.

[0059] In some embodiments, the method includes detecting, by a sensor of the optical device, movement of a pupil of the user, and adaptively adjusting one of the plurality of light sources based on the movement of the pupil of the user. In some embodiments, the method includes adjusting, via a controller of the optical device, an intensity of one of the plurality of light sources coupled to each of two temples of the frame. In some embodiments, the method includes arranging, via a controller of the optical device, an operating length of one of the plurality of light sources coupled to each of two temples of the frame. In some embodiments, the method includes monitoring, via a controller of the optical device, a status of a battery of the optical device. In some embodiments, the method includes capturing, via a capture module of the optical device, information about an external environment of the user.

[0060] The disclosed technology also embodies a manufacturing process for applying dichroic coatings to ophthalmic lenses, which require special considerations during the coating deposition process.

[0061] Embodiments of the process of the present invention include providing a machine or apparatus for deposition. The machine maintains a pressure in the deposition chamber that takes into account the outgassing of the ophthalmic lens substrate. An example is to maintain the pressure at 5.5E-3Pa so that it provides a partial vacuum sufficient for clean deposition while controlling the outgassing of the substrate. Note that 5.5E-3Pa is only an example pressure. Depending on the nature of the ophthalmic lens substrate and the environmental conditions, the vacuum pressure maintained may be different.

[0062] In addition, the temperature of the process and the substrate may also be controlled to ensure good surface bonding but without causing melting of the entire substrate. One method of controlling the temperature is by slowing down the ion jet process, such as turning on the ion jet process only when the substrate temperature is below a threshold value, and turning off the jet when the temperature is above a second threshold value. Other temperature control methods may be used to achieve the same effect. The ophthalmic lens substrate may be machined before or after the coating process. In addition, the substrate may be cleaned, polished, and inspected for surface defects before being secured into the machine via a fixture for dichroic coating deposition (whether machined or not).

[0063] Example solutions for implementing the disclosed technology include at least the following:

[0064] 1. An optical device, comprising: an ophthalmic lens; a frame, comprising a frame front portion configured to support the ophthalmic lens, the frame comprising two temples configured to allow a user to wear the optical device; and a coating, the coating being deposited in a plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens. The plurality of sub-regions are coated using different coating formulations, and the plurality of sub-regions are located near the periphery of the ophthalmic lens and substantially outside the field of view of a user of the optical device. The device comprises a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame. The light source is controllable to emit a light beam directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens, such that portions of the light beam reflected by the plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens form a spectrum having different wavelength bands, the different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user. When the optical device is in operation, the spectrum is reflected into the pupil of the user as part of a light therapy session.

[0065] 2. An optical device according to claim 1, wherein the different therapeutic effects include at least one of: a first therapeutic effect related to circadian rhythm or sleep, or a second circadian rhythm related to depression.

[0066] 3. An optical device according to Option 1 or 2, wherein the peak wavelength of the light beam from the light source is approximately 490 nm.

[0067] 4. An optical device according to any one of options 1 to 3, comprising: a filter positioned between the light source and the ophthalmic lens, wherein the filter is configured to filter the light from the light source before it reaches the ophthalmic lens.

[0068] 5. The optical device according to any one of options 1 to 4 further includes: a sensor coupled to the frame, configured to track the movement of the user's pupil, wherein the light source is adaptively adjusted based on the movement of the pupil detected by the sensor.

[0069] 6. The optical device according to any one of options 1 to 5 also includes: a controller that communicates with the light source to control the operation of the light source.

[0070] 7. An optical device according to Option 6, wherein the controller includes a communication module configured to exchange information about the ophthalmic lens and the light source coupled to each of the two temples with a remote device.

[0071] 8. An optical device according to Option 6 or 7, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the intensity of the light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame.

[0072] 9. An optical device according to any one of options 6 to 9, wherein the controller is configured to arrange the operating length of the light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame.

[0073] 10. The optical device according to any one of options 6 to 9 further includes: a battery embedded in the frame, wherein the controller is coupled to the battery to monitor the status of the battery.

[0074] 11. The optical device according to any one of schemes 1 to 10 further includes: a capture module configured to capture information about the external environment of the user.

[0075] 12. An optical device according to any one of options 1 to 11, wherein the frame is foldable or retractable.

[0076] 13. An optical device, comprising: an ophthalmic lens; a frame including a frame front portion configured to support the ophthalmic lens, the frame including two temples configured to allow a user to wear the optical device; a coating, the coating deposited in at least one sub-region of the ophthalmic lens. The at least one sub-region is located near the periphery of the ophthalmic lens and substantially outside the field of view of a user of the optical device. The plurality of light sources are coupled to each of the two temples of the frame. The plurality of light sources are individually controllable to emit a light beam directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that a portion of the light beam reflected by the at least one sub-region of the ophthalmic lens forms a spectrum having different wavelength bands, the different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user. When the optical device is in operation, the spectrum is reflected into the pupil of the user as part of a light therapy session.

[0077] 14. An optical device according to Option 13, wherein one of the different wavelength bands is at least partially outside the visible spectrum.

[0078] 15. The optical device according to Option 13 or 14 also includes: a group of surfaces embedded in the ophthalmic lens, wherein the light source can be adaptively adjusted to emit light into the ophthalmic lens so that the light enters the first side of the ophthalmic lens and is gradually reflected back to the user by the group of surfaces in the ophthalmic lens.

[0079] 16. An optical device according to claim 15, wherein the grouped surfaces include a dichroic coating to reflect light at an incident angle between 12 and 26 degrees.

[0080] 17. An optical device according to Option 15 or 16, wherein the grouped surfaces include diffractive waveguides or holographic waveguides.

[0081] 18. A method of providing light therapy to a user, comprising: controlling a light source of the optical device via a controller of the optical device to emit light to an ophthalmic lens of the optical device such that a portion of the light is reflected by the ophthalmic lens into a pupil of the user. The optical device comprises the ophthalmic lens, a coating deposited in a plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens, a frame having two temples, and the light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame. The light source is controllable to emit a light beam directed to the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that a portion of the light beam reflected by the plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens forms a spectrum having different wavelength bands, the different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user. The method comprises communicating information about the ophthalmic lens and the light source with a remote device via a communication module of the optical device so that the user can track the performance of the light therapy on the remote device.

[0082] 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the different therapeutic effects include at least a first therapeutic effect related to circadian rhythm or sleep, and a second circadian rhythm related to depression.

[0083] 20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the peak wavelength of the light source is in the range between 490 nm and 495 nm.

[0084] 21. The method of any one of schemes 18 to 20, comprising: filtering the light from the light source before it reaches the ophthalmic lens via a filter positioned between the light source and the ophthalmic lens.

[0085] 22. A method according to any one of options 18 to 21, wherein the optical device includes a group of surfaces embedded in the ophthalmic lens, and the method includes: adaptively adjusting the light source via the controller of the optical device to emit light into the ophthalmic lens, so that the light enters the first side of the ophthalmic lens and is gradually reflected back to the user by the group of surfaces in the ophthalmic lens.

[0086] 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the group of surfaces includes at least one surface that is not parallel to the remaining surfaces in the group.

[0087] 24. A method according to embodiment 22 or 23, wherein the grouped surfaces include a dichroic coating to reflect light at an incident angle between 12 and 26 degrees.

[0088] 25. A method according to any one of options 22 to 24, wherein the grouped surfaces include diffractive waveguides or holographic waveguides.

[0089] 26. The method according to any one of options 18 to 25 includes: detecting movement of the user's pupil by a sensor of the optical device; and adaptively adjusting the light source based on the movement of the user's pupil.

[0090] 27. The method of any one of options 18 to 26 comprises: adjusting the intensity of the light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame via the controller of the optical device.

[0091] 28. The method of any one of options 18 to 27 comprises: arranging, via the controller of the optical device, an operating length of a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame.

[0092] 29. The method according to any one of schemes 18 to 28 includes: monitoring the status of a battery of the optical device via the controller of the optical device.

[0093] 30. The method of any one of claims 18 to 29, comprising capturing information about the user's external environment via a capture module of the optical device.

[0094] 31. A method for coating one or more sub-regions of an ophthalmic lens, comprising: positioning the lens in a chamber; controlling the temperature of the chamber via an ion spraying process, wherein the control comprises turning on the ion spraying process when the temperature is below a first threshold and turning off the spraying process when the temperature exceeds a second threshold; and performing vapor deposition of a dichroic coating on the one or more sub-regions of the lens.

[0095] Scheme 32. An application of depositing a dichroic wavelength selective coating on an ophthalmic lens for phototherapy.

[0096] 33. A method of depositing a dichroic coating on an ophthalmic lens according to claim 1, wherein the coating can be applied using a vapor deposition machine or device.

[0097] 34. Computational methods can be used to prepare dichroic coating formulations for deposition according to Scheme 32, wherein the calculations can take into account phototherapy requirements, coating properties, prescription, refractive index, and lens geometry.

[0098] 35. The machine or apparatus according to Option 2 may include an ion beam spray process to surface treat the ophthalmic lens substrate during the coating process.

[0099] 36. A vapor deposition machine or apparatus according to Option 33, wherein the ambient pressure can be controlled to provide a partial vacuum that prevents the substrate and coating material from undergoing excessive degassing while providing sufficient vacuum for clean deposition.

[0100] 37. The machine or apparatus according to claim 33 may include temperature control means to ensure that the average temperature of the substrate remains below its melting point.

[0101] 38. A temperature control method according to Scheme 37, wherein the temperature can be controlled by reducing the intensity of the beam injection.

[0102] 39. A method for reducing beam injection intensity according to claim 38, wherein the ion beam can be turned on and off based on various temperature thresholds.

[0103] 40. The ophthalmic lens according to claim 32 can be machined before and after the coating process to achieve its final form factor.

[0104] 41. A machined ophthalmic lens according to Option 40, wherein a polishing process can be used on the substrate before and / or after the coating process to achieve a clean surface.

[0105] 42. A deposition machine or apparatus according to claim 33, wherein a fixture can be used to position the lens substrate during the coating process.

[0106] 43. Deposition of coatings on lenses, wherein the lens can be partially coated, or a combination of different wavelength-based coatings based on the location of the lens.

[0107] 44. Partial deposition of a coating according to Option 43 on a lens, wherein the partial coating can be achieved by means of a mask during the deposition process.

[0108] 45. Application of a coating to a lens, wherein the coating can be first deposited on a substrate which is then assembled or adhered to an ophthalmic lens.

[0109] 46. ​​Application of a coating on a lens, wherein the coating can be first deposited on subdivided parts of the lens, and the subdivided parts are joined together to form a complete ophthalmic lens.

[0110] The various operations disclosed herein may be implemented using a processor / controller configured to include or be coupled to a memory storing processor executable code that causes the processor / controller to perform various computations and information processing. The processor / controller may also generate appropriate information and send / receive appropriate information to / from various system components, as well as appropriate input / output (IO) capabilities (e.g., wired or wireless) to send and receive commands and / or data.

[0111] The various information and data processing operations described herein may be implemented in one embodiment by a computer program product embodied in a computer-readable medium, including computer executable instructions, such as program codes, executed by a computer in a networked environment. Computer-readable media may include removable and non-removable storage devices, including but not limited to read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), etc. Therefore, the computer-readable medium described in this application includes non-transitory storage media. Typically, a program module may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. Computer executable instructions, associated data structures, and program modules represent examples of program codes for executing the steps of the methods disclosed herein. Such a specific sequence of executable instructions or associated data structures represents an example of a corresponding action for implementing the functions described in such steps or processes.

[0112] Although this patent document contains many details, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of any invention or the content that may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to a particular embodiment of a particular invention. Certain features described in this patent document in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments individually or in any suitable sub-combination. In addition, although features may be described above as working in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from the claimed combination may be cut out of the combination in some cases, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of the sub-combination.

[0113] Similarly, while operations are depicted in a particular order in the drawings, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve the desired results. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described in this patent document should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments.

[0114] Only a few implementations and examples are described, and other implementations, enhancements, and variations can be made based on what is described and illustrated in this patent document.

Claims

1. An optical device, comprising: ophthalmic lenses; a frame including a frame front configured to support the ophthalmic lens, the frame including two temples configured to allow a user to wear the optical device; a coating, said coating being deposited in a plurality of sub-regions of said ophthalmic lens, wherein the plurality of sub-regions are coated using different coating formulations, and wherein the plurality of sub-regions are located near a periphery of the ophthalmic lens and substantially outside a field of view of a user of the optical device; and a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame, wherein the light source is controllable to emit a light beam directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that a portion of the light beam reflected by the plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens forms a spectrum having different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user; Wherein, when the optical device is in operation, the spectrum is reflected into the user's pupil as part of a light therapy session.

2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein: The different therapeutic effects include at least one of: a first therapeutic effect related to circadian rhythm or sleep, or a second circadian rhythm related to depression.

3. The optical device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The peak wavelength of the light beam from the light source is about 490 nm.

4. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: A filter is positioned between the light source and the ophthalmic lens, wherein the filter is configured to filter light from the light source before the light reaches the ophthalmic lens.

5. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a sensor coupled to the frame, configured to track movement of the user's pupil, Wherein the light source is adaptively adjusted based on the movement of the pupil detected by the sensor.

6. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: A controller is in communication with the light source to control the operation of the light source.

7. The optical device according to claim 6, wherein: The controller includes a communication module configured to exchange information about the ophthalmic lens and the light source coupled to each of the two temples with a remote device.

8. The optical device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust the intensity of a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame.

9. An optical device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein: The controller is configured to schedule an operating length of a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame.

10. The optical device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, further comprising: A battery, embedded in the frame, The controller is coupled to the battery to monitor the status of the battery.

11. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising: The capture module is configured to capture information about the external environment of the user.

12. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The frame is foldable or collapsible.

13. An optical device comprising: ophthalmic lenses; a frame including a frame front configured to support the ophthalmic lens, the frame including two temples configured to allow a user to wear the optical device; a coating, said coating being deposited in at least one sub-region of said ophthalmic lens, wherein the at least one sub-region is located near a periphery of the ophthalmic lens and substantially outside a field of view of a user of the optical device; and a plurality of light sources coupled to each of the two temples of the frame, wherein the plurality of light sources are individually controllable to emit light beams directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that a portion of the light beam reflected by the at least one sub-region of the ophthalmic lens forms a spectrum having different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user; Wherein, when the optical device is in operation, the spectrum is reflected into the user's pupil as part of a light therapy session.

14. The optical device according to claim 13, wherein: One of the different wavelength bands is at least partially outside the visible spectrum.

15. The optical device according to claim 13 or 14, further comprising: A set of surfaces, embedded in said ophthalmic lens, Wherein, the light source is adaptively adjustable to emit light into the ophthalmic lens such that the light enters the first side of the ophthalmic lens and is gradually reflected back to the user by the set of surfaces in the ophthalmic lens.

16. The optical device according to claim 15, wherein: The set of surfaces includes a dichroic coating to reflect light at incident angles between 12 and 26 degrees.

17. An optical device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The set of surfaces comprises diffractive waveguides or holographic waveguides.

18. A method of providing light therapy to a user, comprising: controlling, via a controller of the optical device, a light source of the optical device to emit light to an ophthalmic lens of the optical device such that a portion of the light is reflected by the ophthalmic lens into a pupil of the user, wherein the optical device comprises the ophthalmic lens, a coating deposited in a plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens, a frame having two temples, and the light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame, wherein the light source is controllable to emit a light beam directed toward the coating of the ophthalmic lens such that a portion of the light beam reflected by the plurality of sub-regions of the ophthalmic lens forms a spectrum having different wavelength bands corresponding to different therapeutic effects on the user; and Information about the ophthalmic lens and the light source is communicated with a remote device via a communication module of the optical device to enable the user to track the performance of the light therapy on the remote device.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The different therapeutic effects include at least a first therapeutic effect related to circadian rhythm or sleep, and a second circadian rhythm related to depression.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: The peak wavelength of the light source is in the range between 490 nm and 495 nm.

21. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, comprising: Light from the light source is filtered before reaching the ophthalmic lens via a filter positioned between the light source and the ophthalmic lens.

22. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein: The optical device comprises a set of surfaces embedded in the ophthalmic lens, the method comprising: The light source is adaptively adjusted via a controller of the optical device to emit light into the ophthalmic lens such that the light enters a first side of the ophthalmic lens and is progressively reflected by the set of surfaces in the ophthalmic lens back toward the user.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein: The set of surfaces includes at least one surface that is not parallel to the remaining surfaces in the set.

24. The method according to claim 22 or 23, wherein: The set of surfaces includes a dichroic coating to reflect light at incident angles between 12 and 26 degrees.

25. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein: The set of surfaces comprises diffractive waveguides or holographic waveguides.

26. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 25, comprising: detecting movement of the user's pupil by a sensor of the optical device; as well as The light source is adaptively adjusted based on movement of the user's pupil.

27. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 26, comprising: The intensity of a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame is adjusted via a controller of the optical device.

28. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 27, comprising: An operating length of a light source coupled to each of the two temples of the frame is arranged via a controller of the optical device.

29. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 28, comprising: A status of a battery of the optical device is monitored via a controller of the optical device.

30. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 29, comprising: Information about the user's external environment is captured via a capture module of the optical device.

31. A method of coating one or more sub-regions of an ophthalmic lens, comprising: positioning the lens in the chamber; Controlling the temperature of the chamber via the ion injection process, Wherein, the control comprises starting the ion ejection process when the temperature is lower than a first threshold value, and shutting down the ejection process when the temperature exceeds a second threshold value; and Vapor deposition of a dichroic coating is performed on the one or more sub-regions of the lens.

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