Apparatus and method for controlling axial growth using ophthalmic lens

Abstract

An apparatus and method for controlling axial growth with an ophthalmic lens. An ophthalmic lens includes: a lens body that directs light toward a central focal point of a central region of a retina of an eye when the lens body is disposed relative to the eye; and a plurality of isolated positive optical features formed on the lens body, the plurality of isolated positive optical features directing peripheral light to a central region in the eye away from the retina when the lens body is disposed relative to the eye, wherein the plurality of isolated positive optical features also cause peripheral light to be directed away from a central region of the retina and each of the plurality of isolated positive optical features has a focal point in front of the retina and each is off-axis relative to the central focal point, each individual isolated positive optical feature producing a controlled defocus effect.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Emmetropia is a visual state in which a viewer sees objects clearly both near and far. The cornea and lens work together to focus light entering the eye onto the central area of ​​the retina. Emmetropia is achieved when the combined refractive power of the cornea and lens focuses light precisely onto the central portion of the retina.

[0002] Myopia is a visual condition in which objects near the viewer appear clear but objects farther away from the viewer become increasingly blurred. Myopia is sometimes referred to as nearsighted. Myopia may be caused by any number of conditions and causes. An important factor for many cases of myopia includes the elongated axial length of the eye. Myopia occurs when the focus of focused light entering the eye is formed in front of the retina. In other words, the focus of the light rays entering the eye converges not far from the retina.

[0003] Another condition that is affected by the axial length of the eye is hyperopia. This condition causes the viewer to see distant objects clearly, while objects closer to the viewer appear blurry. Although this condition can occur for many reasons, a person is typically hyperopic if the focus of focused light entering the eye is formed behind the retina.

[0004] The axial length of the eye grows during childhood. When young people begin their young adulthood, the eye generally stops growing and the axial length of the eye becomes more stable. Therefore, if the growth of the axial length of the eye can be controlled during the childhood and adolescence period, myopia or hyperopia can be reduced or even eliminated in the child's adult age. What is needed is a device, system and method for controlling the growth of the axial length of the eye during any stage of life when the axial length of the eye is capable of growing. Summary of the invention

[0005] Many representative embodiments are provided to illustrate the various features, characteristics and advantages of the disclosed subject matter. It should be understood that the features, characteristics, advantages, etc. described in conjunction with one embodiment can be used alone or in various combinations and sub-combinations with other features described in conjunction with other embodiments.

[0006] In one embodiment of the principles described herein, an ophthalmic lens includes a lens body configured to contact an eye. The lens body includes an optic zone configured to direct light toward a central region of a retina of the eye. At least one optical feature of the lens body has a property of selectively directing light into the eye away from the central region of the retina. The ophthalmic lens can be a contact lens, a soft contact lens, a rigid gas permeable contact lens, an implantable lens, or a combination thereof.

[0007] In some cases, the optical features are printed features. Such printed features can be formed using a pad printing process, a lithographic printing process, an etching printing process, a dot matrix printing process, a laser printing process, a tamp printing process, a liquid jet printing process, other printing processes, or a combination thereof.

[0008] The optical features may be formed on the front surface of the ophthalmic lens. In examples where the lens body is made of multiple layers, the optical features may be formed on an interior or exterior surface of any of the layers. Such interior or exterior surface may be on another surface of an intermediate layer or an anterior or posterior layer.

[0009] The optical features may be made of silicone materials, hydrogel materials, optical materials, colored materials, or combinations thereof. The optical features may be formed in any suitable location on the ophthalmic lens so that the features do not reduce the optical clarity of the lens by blocking central light to focus light on the central region of the retina. In some cases, the optical features are formed in a non-viewing region of the ophthalmic lens. In some examples, the optical features have a hexagonal shape, a Fresnel-type shape, or a hemispherical shape, but the optical features may have any suitable shape.

[0010] In some examples, the optical feature has the same refractive index as the material comprising the lens body. In other examples, the optical feature has a different refractive index than the material of the lens body. The optical feature may have a property of directing light into the peripheral region of the retina, focusing light precisely onto the peripheral region of the retina, focusing light in front of the peripheral region of the retina, focusing light behind the peripheral region of the retina, or a combination thereof. The property may have an effect on controlling the growth of the axial length of the eye, controlling myopia, preventing myopia, controlling hyperopia, preventing hyperopia, other effects, or a combination thereof.

[0011] The optical feature may be incorporated into the lens body without affecting the curvature field of the ocular lens. The optical feature may also be one of a plurality of independent optical features incorporated into the ocular lens that are independently adjusted to direct light toward a specific area of ​​the retina. Such optical features may have different sizes, different shapes, different refractive indices, different focusing powers, other different characteristics, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the optical feature is a lenslet, such as a hexagonal lenslet, a hemispherical lenslet, a lenslet of another shape, or a combination thereof. In alternative examples, the optical feature includes a Fresnel-type shape, a toric shape, another type of shape, or a combination thereof.

[0012] In another embodiment of the principles described herein, an ophthalmic lens has a body configured to contact an eye. The lens body has an optic zone shaped to direct light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina. At least one isolated feature of the lens body has a property of directing light into the eye away from the central region of the retina.

[0013] The isolated feature can be a molded feature integrally formed in the ophthalmic lens. In other examples, the isolated feature is a printed feature. The isolated feature can be formed on the front surface of the ophthalmic lens or on the inner surface of a layer of a lens body made of multiple layers.

[0014] In yet another embodiment of the principles described herein, a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens includes: forming a spin-cast mold having a lens mating surface by forming a contour on a first side of a mold material, wherein the contour includes at least one recess; applying a liquid lens material to the first side of the spin-cast mold, rotating the spin-cast mold so that the liquid lens material centrifugally flows through the first side of the spin-cast mold and fills the recess in the contour; and at least partially solidifying the liquid lens material to form an ophthalmic lens having at least one protrusion formed by the at least one recess while rotating the spin-cast mold.

[0015] In yet another embodiment of the principles described herein, a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens includes: forming a spin-cast mold having a lens mating surface by forming a contour on a first side of a mold material, wherein the contour includes at least one protrusion; applying a liquid lens material to the first side of the spin-cast mold; rotating the spin-cast mold so that the liquid lens material flows centrifugally over the first side of the spin-cast mold and covers the protrusion in the contour; and at least partially solidifying the liquid lens material to form an ophthalmic lens having at least one recess formed by the at least one protrusion while rotating the spin-cast mold.

[0016] In yet another embodiment of the principles described herein, a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens includes: forming a casting mold including a lens mating surface by forming a profile on a first side of a mold material, the profile including at least one recess; applying a liquid lens material to the first side of the casting mold, securing a back mold so that the liquid lens material flows over the first side of the casting mold and into the recess within the profile, and at least partially curing the liquid lens material to form an ophthalmic lens having at least one protrusion formed by the at least one recess. In other embodiments, a method includes: depositing an optical material on a support surface of an ophthalmic lens, the ophthalmic lens including an optic zone shaped to direct light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina when worn on an eye of a user, and the deposited optical material has a property of directing light into the eye away from the central region of the retina.

[0017] The Summary of the Invention is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the Detailed Description in a simplified form. The Summary of the Invention and the Background Art are not intended to identify the key concepts or essential aspects of the disclosed subject matter, nor should they be used to restrict or limit the scope of the claims. For example, the scope of the claims should not be limited based on whether the listed subject matter includes any or all aspects mentioned in the Summary of the Invention and / or solves any of the problems mentioned in the Background Art. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of the principles described herein and are a part of the specification. The illustrated embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims.

[0019] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ocular lens for directing light into an eye according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ocular lens for directing light into an eye according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ocular lens for directing light into an eye according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an injection molding machine configured to form a rotational casting mold to manufacture an ophthalmic lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of forming a spin casting mold to manufacture an ophthalmic lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a mold for making a rotational casting mold for an ophthalmic lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a rotational casting mold for an ophthalmic lens in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin casting mold having a liquid lens material according to principles of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin-casting mold that centrifugally diffuses liquid lens material across the contours of the spin-casting mold in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig. 9is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a rotating structure for forming and curing a rotational casting mold to manufacture an ophthalmic lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.10 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig.11 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig.12 is a partial cross-sectional perspective illustration of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens having features for directing light off-axis toward a peripheral region of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.13 is an enlarged view of one embodiment of a feature for directing light toward the periphery of the retina in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.14 is an enlarged view of one embodiment of a feature for directing light toward the periphery of the retina in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 15-18 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of an ophthalmic lens according to principles of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 19-21 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of features of an ophthalmic lens according to principles of the present disclosure.

[0036] Fig. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of multiple layers of a lens body having features to direct light toward the periphery of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig.23 is a perspective view of an embodiment of one layer of a lens body having features to direct light toward the periphery of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0038] Fig.24 is a perspective view of a portion of a lens body including features of varying capabilities in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

[0039] Fig.25 is a perspective view of an entire lens body including features of different capabilities according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0040] Fig.26 is a close-up view of an array of features having different capabilities in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0041] Fig. 27is a cross-sectional view of an ocular lens directing light with different focal points into the eye according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0042] Fig.28 A lens body including a plurality of hemispherical lenslets formed on a lens body according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0043] Fig.29 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a lens body including a Fresnel-type cross-section according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0044] Fig.30 is a rear view of an internal Fresnel-type lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig.31 is a rear view of an internal Fresnel-type toric lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0046] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The growth of the axial length of the eye may be affected by visual feedback received on the retina. This visual feedback may be used to balance the axial length of the eye with the combined focusing capabilities of the cornea and lens. The eye uses the focus of light focused on the retina to determine when the axial length of the eye is balanced. Such visual feedback may be based on the entire surface area of ​​the retina rather than just the central portion of the retina dedicated to central vision. Therefore, if the periphery of the retina, which has a larger surface area than the central region, receives visual feedback to extend the axial length, the eye may respond by growing to increase the axial length of the eye. This may occur when the central vision is already balanced. Therefore, such visual feedback may cause the central vision to become out of focus.

[0048] The principles described in this disclosure include ophthalmic lenses for controlling light directed toward the peripheral region of the retina. The principles described herein also include methods for making such ophthalmic lenses and associated components.

[0049] Light directed toward the peripheral region of the retina can provide a stimulus that the eye can view as visual feedback to determine the growth rate of the eye. In some examples, the light directed toward the peripheral region of the retina is focused precisely on the peripheral region of the retina. By causing the focus of the peripherally directed light to be precisely on the retina, the eye can change the growth rate of the eye so that the axial length of the eye is in continuous balance with the focusing ability of the eye. This can cause the eye to grow more slowly or stop growing altogether.

[0050] In other examples, the light may be focused not far from the peripheral area of ​​the retina. Thus, the focus of the directed light is in front of the retina. Such stimulation may cause the eye to have peripheral myopia. This may have the effect of causing the eye to grow more slowly or stop growing altogether.

[0051] Generally, young children begin with a hyperopic condition where the focus is formed behind the retina. Thus, the eye has an early stimulus that causes the eye to grow in a manner that corrects the balance between the eye's focusing ability and axial length. In the case of a child with a central hyperopic condition, light can be directed to a peripheral area of ​​the retina with the goal of focusing behind the retina. This provides additional stimulus to the eye to adjust its growth and / or shape, which corrects the eye's central vision.

[0052] Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 that directs light into an eye 12 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the ophthalmic lens 10 is placed on the eye 12. Ambient light rays 14, 16, 18 enter the eye 12 after having passed through the ophthalmic lens 10. These light rays are focused by a viewing zone 20 of the ophthalmic lens 10 toward a central region 22 of the retina 24. A focal point 25 of the light rays 14, 16, 18 is formed on the central region 22 of the retina 24, which facilitates the eye to clearly see objects both near and far from the eye.

[0053] Other ambient light rays 26, 28, 30 also enter the eye 12 through the eye lens 10. Unlike the light rays 14, 16, 18, these light rays 26, 28, 30 are refracted. The light rays 26, 28, 30 are directed toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , light rays 26, 28, 30 are focused on a peripheral region 32 of the retina 24. This may prompt the eye 12 to have a stimulus indicating that the eye's focusing power and axial length 34 are balanced. Thus, the eye 12 may be induced to maintain its current ratio between focusing power and axial length 34.

[0054] Unlike light rays 14, 16, 18, light rays 26, 28, 30 are refracted because light rays 26, 28, 30 pass through the ophthalmic lens 10 at an exemplary feature 36 having a different refractive property than the refractive property in the optic zone 20 of the ophthalmic lens 10. According to an exemplary embodiment, the feature 36 may be made of a material having a different refractive index than the material constituting the optic zone 20 of the ophthalmic lens 10. This feature may include materials such as silicone materials, hydrogel materials, tefilcon, tetrafilconA, crofilcon, helfilcon A&B, mafilcon, polymacon, hioxifilcon B, lotrafilcon A, lotrafilcon B, galyfilcon A, senofilcon A, sifilcon A, comfilcon A, enfilcon A, lidofilcon B, surfilcon A, lidofilcon A, alfafilcon A. omafilcon A, vasurfilcon A, hiofilcon A, hiofilcon D, nelfilcon A, hilafilcon A, acofilcon A, bufilcon A, deltafilcon A, phemfilcon A, bufilcon A, perfilcon, etafilcon A, focofilcon A, ocufilcon B, ocufilcon C, ocufilcon D, ocufilcon E, ocufilcon F, phemfilcon A. methafilcon A. methafilcon B. vilfilcon A. Other types of polymers or combinations thereof. These materials may include various combinations of monomers, polymers, and other materials to form the final polymer. For example, the common components of these materials may include HEMA, HEMA-GMA, and the like.

[0055] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens 10 has a thickness of about 0.01 mm to about 0.14 mm. The thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 can vary at different locations on the ophthalmic lens 10. For example, the ophthalmic lens 10 can be thicker near the outer edge of the ophthalmic lens 10 than in the optic zone 20. In some examples, the feature 36 can be an additive feature that adds to the thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10. In other examples, the feature 36 is a subtractive feature that reduces the thickness of the lens. In still other examples, the feature 36 replaces a material that otherwise constitutes the ophthalmic lens 10. For example, a partition of the ophthalmic lens can be replaced with the material that constitutes the feature 36.

[0056] The features 36 may be formed in any number of ways, including, but not limited to, designing the features into a casting mold configured to form a cast-molded contact lens or a spin-casting mold used to form a spin-cast soft contact lens, forming the features in an intermediate layer of a composite lens, adding material to the outer surface 38 of the ophthalmic lens 10 via deposition via a printing process or a multi-stage curing process, etc. In exemplary embodiments including printed features 36, such printing processes may include pad printing processes, lithographic printing processes, etching printing processes, dot matrix printing processes, laser printing processes, tamping printing processes, liquid jet printing processes, other printing processes, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the features are added to the surface of the ophthalmic lens by another mechanism, such as spraying techniques, vapor deposition techniques, droplet techniques, coating techniques, other types of techniques, or combinations thereof.

[0057] According to one exemplary embodiment, the feature 36 is configured to direct light into a peripheral region of the retina that may be integrally formed in the ophthalmic lens 10. In such an example, the feature 36 is made of the same material as the rest of the ophthalmic lens 10. According to this embodiment, the refractive index of the feature 36 is the same as the refractive index of the material of the ophthalmic lens 10. However, the geometry of the feature 36, the increased thickness of the feature 36, the refractive properties of the feature 36, or another property of the feature 36 may result in causing the light rays 26, 28, 30 to be selectively directed toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24.

[0058] In some examples, ophthalmic lens 10 is a contact lens, a soft contact lens, a rigid gas permeable contact lens, an implantable lens, another type of lens, or a combination thereof. Figure 1In the example of , the visual zone 20 does not have the feature 36. Therefore, the feature has only a little or no effect on the central vision of the eye. However, multiple independent features 36 will divert some of the light of the contact lens 10 into the non-visual area (which will not enter the eye in other ways), or will enter the eye in a different way. Therefore, due to the off-axis positioning of the optical features 36, an increased amount of light enters the eye 12. At least most of the light that would otherwise enter the eye and travel toward the peripheral area 32 of the eye 12 in the absence of the feature 36 continues to enter the eye 12 without the help of the feature 36. Such light already provides visual feedback to the eye that affects eye growth. However, the additional light redirected into the eye by the feature 36 can be controlled to offset the visual feedback, enhance the visual feedback, modify the visual feedback, or otherwise provide stimulation that affects eye growth. The added visual feedback can be used to control myopia progression or prevent myopia from occurring in some cases. The amount of light directed to the peripheral area 32 of the retina 24 can be selected based on the amount of light required to obtain the desired effect on eye growth. In some cases, a relatively small amount of additional light directed from feature 36 may be sufficient to achieve the desired result. In other cases, however, directing more light may be beneficial to overcome the strong natural stimulus that causes undesirable axial length growth.

[0059] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 that directs light into an eye 12 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, feature 36 directs light toward a peripheral region 32 of the retina, but the focus 25 of the directed light is formed in front of the retina 24. Thus, the light rays 26, 28, 30 directed by feature 36 induce a peripheral myopic condition. Such stimulation may indicate a stopped growth or slow growth of the axial growth of the eye 12. In some examples, such peripheral myopic stimulation may provide a stronger stimulus to the eye 12 to change the growth of the eye without adversely affecting the user's vision because the light in the visual zone is corrected to focus on the retina. In some examples, it may be desirable to direct the redirected light rays 26, 28, 30 to focus not far from the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 to treat the myopic condition because such stimulation indicates that the axial length 34 is too long.

[0060] Figure 3is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 for directing light into an eye 12 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, feature 36 directs light toward a peripheral region 32 of the retina, but a focus 25 of the directed light is formed behind the retina 24. Thus, the light rays 26, 28, 30 directed by feature 36 induce a peripheral hyperopic condition. Such stimulation may be indicative of increasing the axial length of the eye 12. In some examples, such peripheral hyperopic stimulation may provide stimulation to the eye 12 to alter the growth rate of the eye. In some examples, it may be desirable to direct the redirected light rays 26, 28, 30 to focus behind the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 to treat the hyperopic condition because such stimulation indicates that the axial length 34 is too short. Similar to Figure 2 In the embodiment shown in the figure, a Figure 3 The desired stimulation will not adversely affect the user's immediate optical experience.

[0061] Although the invention has been described with reference to focusing the redirected light within a three-dimensional space about the retina 24, Figure 1-3 , but feature 36 may direct light into the surrounding space of vitreous cavity 40 of eye 12 for any appropriate reason. For example, light may be directed into the surrounding space without a predetermined focus. In other examples, such as Figure 1-3 As described in , light can be directed into the peripheral space with a predetermined focus. In some cases, light can be directed into the peripheral space of vitreous cavity 40 for treating conditions other than myopia and hyperopia. For example, light can be directed into the peripheral space for treating other conditions, for entertainment purposes, for communicating with a device implanted in the eye, for other purposes, or a combination thereof.

[0062] Furthermore, for illustrative purposes, the retina is depicted using a limited number of features that direct light to a limited area. Figure 1-3 . Multiple independent features can focus light to multiple areas of the retina. Each of the independent features can be customized to the specifics of the eye. For example, some features can include different degrees of focusing power, refractive properties, shapes, sizes, materials, thicknesses, other physical properties, other chemical properties, other properties, or combinations thereof. Different optical features of the same eye lens can independently focus light in front of, on, or behind the retina. In other examples, different areas of the retina receive different intensities of redirected light.

[0063] In some examples, the features are configured so that the wavelengths of light redirected are not separate. In other words, the features may together direct all wavelengths within the visible light spectrum. However, in some examples, at least some of the features may be configured to redirect only selected wavelengths of light toward the peripheral region of the retina.

[0064] Figure 4A-9 The various components that may be used in certain examples for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens 10 having features 36 are illustrated. Although the present exemplary systems and methods are described below primarily in the context of spin-cast contact lenses formed in injection-molded spin-cast molds 42, the present systems and methods are equally applicable to lenses manufactured by spin-casting, cast molding, and / or turning.

[0065] With spin-cast contact lenses, the features present on the front surface of the lens are typically designed into the mold used to make the lens. Figure 4A 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a mold 42 for producing an ophthalmic lens 10 manufactured in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, an injection molding process is used to form the mold 42. As shown, a standard injection molding machine can be used to form the mold 42. Specifically, the material for the mold is fed to a cylinder 152 through a funnel 150. The cylinder 152 may include a screw 154 or another type of mechanism configured to move the molding material along the length of the cylinder 152. In addition, a heating mechanism 156 is applied to the cylinder to melt or at least soften the molding material as it passes through the cylinder 152. At the nozzle 158 of the cylinder 152, the molding material is extruded into a cavity 160 formed by the first portion 162 and the second portion 164.

[0066] like Figure 4A and 4B As shown in FIG. 1 , the cavity 160 includes a male mold tool 48 and a female mold tool 47 that are aligned with each other. The extrusion force of the molding material entering the cavity 160 causes the molding material to fill all empty spaces within the cavity 160 (including the space between the male mold tool 48 and the female mold tool 47). The geometric shapes of the male mold tool 48 and the female mold tool 47 are transferred to the resulting rotational casting mold 42 for rotationally casting the ophthalmic lens 10. Figure 4B and 5 As illustrated in , the male tool 48 of the rotational casting mold 42 may include a protrusion 49 that resembles the desired shape and size of the feature 36 .

[0067] In order to generate the features 36 having the desired optical properties, the male mold tool 48 is precision machined to match the desired features on the final ophthalmic lens to be produced according to the present exemplary system and method. Any number of precision machining and forming methods may be used to form the male mold tool, including but not limited to a DAC ophthalmic lathe, an Optoform ophthalmic lathe, an FTS tool, 5-axis diamond milling, 3-dimensional nanoprinting, nanolithography, fused deposition, etc. After the molding material has had sufficient time to harden within the cavity 160, the first portion 162 and the second portion 164 are separated and the mold is removed via the ejector pins 166.

[0068] The liquid lens material 52 may be applied to the contour 54 of the spincast mold 42 formed by the male mold tool 48. The spincast mold 42 with the liquid lens material 52 may be loaded into a rotating structure 68 or a rotating tube configured to rotate the spincast mold 42 so that the liquid lens material 52 is spread centrifugally throughout the contour 54 into the desired shape of the ophthalmic lens, including filling the recesses 55 of the contour 54. A curing agent (i.e., temperature, actinic radiation, or another type of curing agent) is exposed to the liquid lens material 52 while the spincast mold 42 is rotating. Thus, the liquid lens material 52 forms an ophthalmic lens 10 having features 36 formed on the front surface 38 of the ophthalmic lens.

[0069] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin casting mold for an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the spin casting mold 42 has a base 56 with a plurality of cutouts 58, 60, 62 configured to allow inert gas to pass between the molds during the spinning and curing process. The profile 54 of the spin casting mold 42 is shaped to form the front surface of the ophthalmic lens 10. The recess 55 formed in the profile 54 corresponds to the protrusion formed in the male mold tool 46.

[0070] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spincasting mold 42 having a liquid lens material 52 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the liquid lens material 52 is deposited within a profile 54 of the spincasting mold.

[0071] Liquid lens material 52 can be made of any material suitable for use in contact lenses. For example, liquid lens material 52 can be made of any silicone material, hydrogel material. Such materials may be formed from polymers such as tefilcon, tetrafilcon A, crofilcon, helfilcon A&B, mafilcon, polymacon, hioxifilcon B, lotrafilcon A, lotrafilcon B, galyfilcon A, senofilconA, sifilconA, comfilconA, enfilcon A, lidofilcon B, surfilcon A, lidofilcon A, alfafilcon A, omafilcon A, vasurfilcon A, hiofilcon A, hiofilcon D, nelfilcon A, hilafilconA, acofilcon A, bufilcon A, deltafilcon A, phemfilcon A, bufilcon A, perfilcon, etafilcon A, focofilcon A, ocufilcon B, ocufilcon C, ocufilcon D, ocufilcon E, ocufilcon F, phemfilcon A, methafilcon A. methafilcon B. vilfilcon A. Other types of polymers, monomers or combinations thereof These materials may include various combinations of monomers, polymers and other materials to form liquid lens materials.

[0072] In one embodiment, the liquid lens material is made of a hydrogel polymer without any silicone. This may be desirable to increase the wettability of an eye contact lens. In another embodiment, the liquid lens material is made of a silicone hydrogel material.

[0073] The shape and size of the ophthalmic lens 10 may be determined based on a variety of factors, including the shape and size of the user's eyes and the various optical properties to be achieved by the optic zone of the ophthalmic lens. The total thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 may be about 0.1 mm to about 0.14 mm. The thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 may vary gradually at different locations of the ophthalmic lens 10. For example, the ophthalmic lens 10 may be thicker near the outer edge of the ophthalmic lens 10 than in the optic zone. However, the feature 36 may cause the cross-sectional thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 to vary dramatically in an isolated location across the front surface 38 of the ophthalmic lens 10.

[0074] Figure 8is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin casting mold 42 that centrifugally spreads liquid lens material 52 across a contour 54 of the spin casting mold 42 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the spin casting mold 42 is centered around a rotating structure ( Fig. 9 The rotating structure 68 is rotated at a certain speed and in such a way that the desired rear surface 70 of the eye lens 10 is formed.

[0075] Fig. 9 The rotating structure 68 illustrated in FIG. 5 includes a central loading area 72 configured to accommodate the spin casting mold 42 containing the liquid lens material 52. The central loading area 72 may be formed by a glass tube, a metal tube, or another type of structure that holds the spin casting mold 42 in a stacked orientation. In examples where actinic radiation is used as a curing agent, the rotating structure 68 is an opaque material that includes sufficient openings to allow the actinic radiation to enter the central loading area 72. Fig. 9 In the example of FIG. 4 , the rotating structure 68 includes glass sidewalls 74 that hold the rotational casting molds 42 in a stacked orientation. The rotating structure 68 also includes an area 76 that can be used to attach to a rotational drive, such as a motor.

[0076] The rotating structure 68 is programmed to rotate in a precise manner to form the desired rear surface 70 of the ocular lens 10, which is the surface of the ocular lens intended to contact the eye. The program that causes the rotating structure 68 to rotate can be modified to create the desired contour for an individual prescription. The curing agent is applied to the liquid lens material 52 while the rotating structure 68 rotates the rotational casting mold 42. Therefore, the ocular lens 10 is formed while the rotating structure rotates. In some examples, the ocular lens is completely cured within the rotating structure. However, in other examples, the ocular lens 10 can be completely cured during multiple curing stages. For example, the ocular lens can be cured in the rotating structure 68 to a certain extent that the liquid lens material 52 retains its shape but is not completely cured. At this stage, the rotational casting mold with the ocular lens can be removed from the rotating structure to complete the curing in a more cost-effective environment. A rotating structure compatible with the principles described herein is described in U.S. Patent Publication 2012 / 0133064 issued to Stephen D. Newman. All contents disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication 2012 / 0133064 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0077] Fig.10 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method 78 for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the method 78 includes: forming a mold having a lens mating surface by forming a contour in a first side of a mold material, where the contour includes at least one negative optical feature (step 80). According to an exemplary embodiment, the contour can be a mold having a lens mating surface formed in a first side of a mold material, wherein the contour includes at least one negative optical feature (step 80). Figure 4A-5The method may further include applying a lens material to a first side of the mold (step 82) and rotating the mold so that the liquid lens material flows centrifugally through the first side of the spincast mold and fills at least one negative optical feature formed on the contour (step 84). The liquid lens material is then at least partially cured to form an ocular lens having at least one protrusion formed by at least one recess while rotating in the spincast mold (step 86). The optical feature may be any feature in the peripheral space of the vitreous cavity of the eye that redirects light toward the peripheral retina when worn on the eye.

[0078] Although the above description of the invention with respect to ophthalmic lenses has been described with specific reference to forming protrusions on the front surface of the ophthalmic lens to create the features Figure 4A-10 Examples described herein, however any suitable mechanism for forming an ophthalmic lens and its associated features may be used in accordance with the principles described in the present disclosure. For example, a different material may be applied to a spin casting mold and cured only within the recess to form a protrusion prior to applying the liquid lens material. In such an example, the protrusion is formed using a different material than the remainder of the lens body. In a subsequent curing process, such a protrusion may be bonded to the remainder of the lens body. Additionally, the protrusion may be formed outside of the spinning process and may be bonded to the body of the ophthalmic lens by a curing process, a bonding process, or by any other type of suitable process for adding optical features to a contact lens.

[0079] In still other examples, features are deposited on the lens body. Fig.11 One such example is described in . In this example, a method 88 includes depositing 90 an optical material on a support surface of an ophthalmic lens, on which the ophthalmic lens includes an optic zone shaped to direct light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina when worn on an eye of a user, and the deposited optical material includes properties that selectively direct peripheral light into the eye away from the central region of the retina when worn on the eye.

[0080] In such an example, the optical material can be made of the same material as the lens body, or the optical material can be made of a different type of material with a different refractive index. In either case, the features can be formed so that they direct light toward the peripheral region of the retina. The features can be deposited on the anterior, posterior, or intermediate surface of the lens body using printing techniques. Such printing techniques can include, but are not limited to: pad printing, lithographic printing, etching printing, dot matrix printing, dye sublimation and carrier sheets (laser printing), using a photosensitive element that receives subsequent laser processing, other types of printing techniques, or combinations thereof.

[0081] In one example, the printing method is a tamping printing technique. The tamping printing technique includes a pad printing method that uses a laser etched pad to transfer material to form features to an ophthalmic lens. The pad tamps a reservoir of such material each time before it tamps the ophthalmic lens. Machines capable of printing in this manner are available from TAMPOPRINTAG, headquartered in Korntal-Münchingen, Germany.

[0082] In another embodiment, such a material can be printed on an ophthalmic lens using a liquid jet printing system. In one embodiment, the material has liquid properties that can be ejected from a piezo inkjet cartridge, a thermal inkjet cartridge, another type of cartridge, or a combination thereof. Such a liquid can include a silicone material.

[0083] Fig.12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 having features 36 that direct light off-axis toward a peripheral region of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the ophthalmic lens 10 includes an optic zone 20 and a non-optic zone 92. The features 36 are formed in the non-optic zone 92. Figure 13-14 Feature 36 formed in a hexagonal shape 94 is depicted.

[0084] like Fig.12 , the viewing zone 20 is configured to focus central light 96 passing through the viewing zone on the retina 24 into a central region 22 on the eye wearing the ophthalmic lens 10. The viewing zone 20 is located in front of the pupil of the eye. A non-viewing region 92 often delimits the scope of the viewing zone 20 and constitutes the remainder of the ophthalmic lens 10. The non-viewing region 92 may be located on the iris, and in some cases may be located on portions of the conjunctiva and sclera of the eye. Traditionally, light passing through the non-viewing region 92 of the ophthalmic lens 10 would not enter the eye because such light would contact areas of the eye (such as the iris and sclera) that do not allow light to enter. However, in contrast to conventional lenses, the features 36 incorporated into the ophthalmic lens 10 direct peripheral light rays 98 (which would otherwise not be on a trajectory to enter the eye) into the pupil at an angle designed to direct peripheral light toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24.

[0085] The peripheral light 98 redirected into the eye does not have an effect on the central vision of the eye because the peripheral light 98 is directed into the peripheral region 32 of the retina that processes peripheral vision. Therefore, the peripheral light 98 directed toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 can be deliberately defocused in order to provide the desired stimulus to the eye. For example, the redirected peripheral light 98 can be focused precisely on the retina. In some cases, such a stimulus can indicate that the axial length of the eye is in proper proportion to the focusing power of the eye. In other examples, the redirected light 98 is focused so as not to reach the retina. In some cases, such a stimulus indicates that the axial length of the eye is too long for the focusing power of the eye, thereby slowing or stopping the axial growth of the eye. In still other cases, the redirected light 98 can be focused behind the retina, which can create a stimulus indicating that the axial length of the eye is too short for the focusing power of the eye. Depending on the ability of the eye to grow, the eye can be encouraged to grow in such a way that the balance between the axial length of the eye and the focusing power of the eye is improved at least in part based on the stimulus.

[0086] The amount of light redirected to the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 is based on the number of features 36, the refractive index of the features 36, the shape of the features 36, other factors, and combinations thereof. The ophthalmic lens 10 can be customized for the condition of the eye. For example, in the case where the professional feels that strong stimulation is desirable, more features 36 can be added to the ophthalmic lens to redirect more light or the focusing power of the selected features can be increased. In other examples, materials with certain refractive indices or features with different shapes can be used to achieve the desired intensity of stimulation. Likewise, the intensity of the stimulation can be reduced by scaling these parameters down as needed based on the condition of different eyes.

[0087] Fig.13 and 14 36. As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment, the hexagonal shape 94 may include six adjacent sides 100 surrounding a center plane 102. The sides 100 may be at angles that precisely direct light to a desired portion of the vitreous cavity of the eye. The height of the hexagonal shape 94 may depend on the desired angles of the sides 100. Further, the angles of the sides 100 may also determine the width, length, and other dimensions of the features 36. The density and spacing of the features may also be determined by the desired intensity of the stimulus. The junctions between the sides 100 and between the sides 100 and the center 102 may be rounded, beveled, sharp, or otherwise contoured to provide desired optical properties or to facilitate manufacturing.

[0088] Although this example has been described with reference to features 36 having a hexagonal shape 94, any suitable type of shape may be used in accordance with the principles described herein. Figure 15-18Other arrangements of features with different shapes that may be used to redirect light toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 are depicted. Fig.15 In the example of , the feature includes a diamond shape 104. Fig.16 In the example of , the feature includes a triangular shape 106. Fig.17 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the feature includes a circular shape 108 . Fig.18 A single feature 36 is depicted that surrounds a majority of the non-optic zone 110. In this example, the shape may be a ring that is deposited or otherwise formed on the front surface 38 of the ophthalmic lens or formed in an intermediate layer of the lens. In such an example, the material used to make the feature 36 having a solid shape 110 may include a dye, pigment, another type of colorant that may cause an eye wearing such an ophthalmic lens 10 to appear to have the eye color of the feature 36. Such an ophthalmic lens 10 may be worn by a person who wishes to change their eye color.

[0089] Figure 19-21 Depicts various cross-sectional views of feature 36 according to principles described in this disclosure. For example, Fig.19 Features 36 are disclosed that are deposited on a front surface 38 of an ophthalmic lens. In this example, an interface 112 exists between the deposited material of the features 36 and the lens body 114. The deposited material may have properties that promote its adhesion to the lens body 114. Such properties may include electrostatic attraction, adhesive components, cross-linking of polymers, another type of property, or a combination thereof. Such features may be used in conjunction with Fig.11 Described process.

[0090] Fig. 20 Depicts a feature 36 formed integrally with the lens body 14. Such a feature may be used in conjunction with Figure 4A-10 In such an example, the cross-sectional thickness 113 of the ophthalmic lens 10 is increased at the isolated location 111 of the ophthalmic lens. Fig.21 A feature 36 is depicted that includes an isolated change in the progressive curve of the front surface 38 due to an intermediate layer formed in the composite lens. Fig.21 As shown in FIG. 1 , a composite lens is shown that includes a front surface 38, an intermediate layer 115 including features 36, and a rear layer forming a rear surface 70. Figure 22-31 Additional details are provided for composite lenses including multiple layers.

[0091] Fig. 221 is an exploded perspective view of multiple layers of a composite lens body 114 having features 36 that direct light toward the periphery of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the lens body 114 includes a front layer 116, an intermediate layer 118, and a rear layer 120. The intermediate layer 118 may include features 36 for redirecting light. Such features 36 may be deposited on or integrally formed with the intermediate layer 118. Each of the layers 116, 118, 120 may be cross-linked together. In some examples, the intermediate layer 118 may include a color enhancement material that may or may not constitute a feature 36 to induce a different appearance of the eye, such as a surface change in iris color.

[0092] According to an exemplary embodiment, the front layer 116 may be formed using any suitable contact lens manufacturing process, including but not limited to spin casting, cast molding, and / or turning. In one embodiment, the first lens layer is formed using molding and spin and cure techniques. A portion of the liquid polymeric material is poured into a mold, spun, and cured to form the first lens layer. The spinning and curing steps may be partial so that the first lens layer is not fully cured before being inserted into the intermediate layer.

[0093] The mold used to form the first lens layer can be any mold suitable for use in the formation of a contact lens. In one embodiment, the mold is laser etched to impart the desired optical properties to the final contact lens. The mold can be designed and shaped in any of a variety of ways to achieve the desired optical properties of the final contact lens product. In addition, the amount of liquid polymeric material poured into the mold is generally not limited and can be adjusted based on the desired final properties of the contact lens, including physical properties such as thickness and various optical properties.

[0094] The polymeric material used to form the front layer 116 can be any of the materials described above. In one embodiment, the polymeric material used to form the first lens layer is at least substantially a complete hydrogel polymer (such as HEMA-GMA). In another embodiment, the polymeric material can include a silicone hydrogel material.

[0095] The spinning and curing steps may be varied during the formation of the front layer 116 based on the desired properties of the final contact lens. For example, it is generally desirable to cure the first lens layer sufficiently to allow it to support the intermediate layer 118 and the back layer 120, but not so much that it does not adequately bond to the intermediate and back layers when added.

[0096] In one exemplary embodiment, the intermediate layer 118 including the desired features 36 is formed separately and inserted into a mold on the front layer 116. According to this exemplary embodiment, the intermediate layer 118 is positioned adjacent to the front layer 116, followed by addition of polymeric material and subsequent spinning and curing to form the back layer 120. Alternatively, after partial curing, the desired features 36 may be formed into the back side of the front layer 116 that was partially cured in situ, followed by secondary dosing of polymeric material and formation of the back layer 120. Any number of forming methods may be used to form features on the back surface of the front layer 116, including but not limited to stamping, etching, material addition processes, or any printing method suitable for use in printing on contact lenses (such as pad printing, tamping printing, lithographic printing, etching printing, dot matrix printing, liquid jet printing, dye sublimation, and carrier sheets (laser printing) and printed photosensitive elements that receive subsequent laser processing.

[0097] In one embodiment, the same mold is used to form the front layer 116, the middle layer 118, and the back layer 120. Alternatively, separate molds may be used to form one or more layers. The mold may be any mold suitable for use in forming a contact lens.

[0098] Fig.23 is a perspective view of an assembled composite contact lens having an anterior layer 116 of a lens body 114 including features 36 that direct light toward the periphery of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, layer 116 includes features incorporated on the posterior surface 70 of anterior layer 116 after printing, embossing, or stamping. In such an example, posterior layer 120 may be bonded to anterior layer 116. In other examples, posterior layer 120 may have features 36 formed on anterior surface 38, and anterior layer 116 may be positioned on anterior surface 38 of posterior layer 120 such that features 36 are between anterior layer 116 and posterior layer 120.

[0099] Figure 24-26 This illustrates the design flexibility that can be achieved by incorporating an intermediate layer into a composite lens. Fig.24 As illustrated in FIG, a plurality of lenslet features 36 having, for example, a hexagonal shape 94 (including a central face 102 and side faces 100) are formed in the non-viewing region of the intermediate layer of the composite lens. As illustrated, the use of precision tooling methods (such as 3D nanoprinting and nanolithography) allows for precise design and sequencing of the lenslet features 36 on the intermediate layer. As illustrated in FIG. Fig.24 As illustrated in , the lenslet features 36 have different powers ranging from 1 to 4. According to an exemplary embodiment, the power zones exhibited by the lenslet features 36 may be random within the specified power range, or sequentially designed for a specific desired effect. Fig.25is a perspective view of an entire lens body including an intermediate layer that enables lenslet features 36 to have different powers in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Similarly, Fig.26 A more compact grouping of lenslet features 36 is shown having a hexagonal shape 94. Fig.26 As illustrated in , the present systems and methods provide a high level of precision and flexibility when designing a lens for a desired treatment.

[0100] Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of an ocular lens directing light of varying focus and intensity into the eye in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Fig. 27 As illustrated in FIG. 1 , through high precision manufacturing techniques and the use of hexagonal lenslet features 36, different light focuses and intensities can be generated by a single lens. As shown, an ophthalmic lens 10 including a plurality of hexagonal lenslet features 36 can direct light with different focal points 271 to the peripheral region of the retina. As shown, the ophthalmic lens 10 is configured to appropriately focus the central light 96 passing through the viewing zone of the lens to the central region 22 of the retina 24 to provide clear distance vision. In addition, parallel light 270 and peripheral light 272 pass through the hexagonal lenslet features 36 and onto the peripheral region of the retina. By changing the focus of each hexagonal lenslet feature 36, different light intensities 276, 277, 278 reach the peripheral region of the retina. Therefore, the optical lens can induce desired and varying stimuli to the peripheral region of the retina.

[0101] Although the intermediate lens mentioned above is described as having hexagonal shaped lenslet features 36 for selective focusing of peripheral light, any number of lens and lenslet geometries may be used in accordance with the exemplary systems and methods. Fig.28 , the lens body may include a plurality of hemispherical lenslet features 36 formed on the front surface of the ophthalmic lens 10. As mentioned above, the front surface of the ophthalmic lens 10 may be selectively modified to include such lenslets via precise molding of a spin-cast lens mold. According to an exemplary embodiment, the lenslet features 36 are designed so that they have similar powers and prisms to form a pseudo-vision shell located in front of the retina. Alternatively, the lenslet features 36 may have different powers and prisms to selectively change the intensity of light reaching the peripheral region of the retina.

[0102] Alternatively, a Fresnel-type cross section may be used to selectively direct peripheral light to the peripheral regions of the retina. Figure 29-31 As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the Fresnel-type lens 290 includes at least one layer of the ophthalmic lens 10 having a Fresnel prism 292 formed therein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the use of the Fresnel prism 292 allows the ophthalmic lens to be manufactured with reduced material mass and volume to redirect peripheral light as mentioned above.

[0103] Fig.30 2 is a rear view of an internal Fresnel-type lens of the present disclosure principles. As illustrated, a Fresnel-type lens 290 can be configured to appropriately focus central light 96 passing through the viewing zone 20 of the lens to the central region 22 of the retina 24 to provide clear distance vision. Additionally, a number of Fresnel prisms 292 can be formed outside the central viewing zone 20 in the non-viewing region 92 of the ocular lens 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, the lens is divided into octants, with alternating octants containing Fresnel prisms 292. Thus, the Fresnel prisms 292 can be designed to impart a high level of desired and distinct stimulation to the peripheral region of the retina.

[0104] Similarly, the exemplary systems and methods can be incorporated into toric lenses. For example, Fig.31 is a rear view of an internal Fresnel type toric lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. As illustrated, internal Fresnel prisms 292 are disposed in three locations corresponding to the standard orientation of a toric lens.

[0105] Although the above examples have been described with reference to specific types of ophthalmic lenses, feature shapes, feature materials, layers, and other parameters, any suitable type of parameters may be incorporated into the lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Thus, any number of features, shapes, or layers may be used in accordance with the principles described herein. Furthermore, multiple types of materials having different optical refractive properties may be used to implement the feature. Furthermore, features may be made with different materials to achieve optimal bonding, spacing, bonding, optical, or other types of properties.

[0106] Terms recited in the claims should be given their ordinary and customary meanings as determined by reference to relevant entries in widely used general dictionaries and / or dictionaries of relevant art, meanings commonly understood by persons skilled in the art, etc., with the understanding that the broad meaning given by any one or combination of these sources should be given to the claim terms (e.g., two or more relevant dictionary entries should be combined to provide the broad meaning of the combination of the terms, etc.), subject only to the following exceptions: (a) if a term is used in a manner broader than its ordinary and customary meaning, the term should be given its ordinary and customary meaning plus the additional broad meaning, or (b) if a term has been expressly defined to have a different meaning by reciting the term following the phrase “as used herein shall mean” or similar language (e.g., “as used herein this term means,” “as defined herein,” “for purposes of this disclosure a term shall mean,” etc.).

[0107] Reference to the specific example "i.e.", use of the word "invented," etc. is not intended to invoke exception (b) or otherwise restrict the scope of the recited claim items. Except where exception (b) applies, nothing contained herein should be construed as a waiver or negation of the scope of the claims.

[0108] The subject matter recited in the claims is not and should not be interpreted as having equivalent scope to any specific embodiment, feature, or combination of features shown herein. This is true even if only a single embodiment of a particular feature or combination of features is illustrated and described herein. Therefore, the appended claims should be given their broadest interpretation in light of the prior art and the meaning of the claims.

[0109] As used herein, spatial or directional terms (such as "left", "right", "front", "rear", etc.) relate to the subject matter as it is shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the subject matter can take various alternative orientations, and accordingly such terms should not be considered limiting.

[0110] Articles such as "the", "a", "an" and the like may mean either the singular or the plural. Furthermore, when the word "or" is used without the preceding "either" (or other similar language indicating that "or" is expressly intended to be exclusive - e.g., only one of x or y, etc.), it should be interpreted as inclusive (e.g., "x or y" means one or both of x or y).

[0111] The term "and / or" should also be interpreted as inclusive (e.g., "x and / or y" means one or both of x or y). In the case where "and / or" or "or" is used as a combination of a group of three or more terms, the group should be interpreted to include a single term, all the terms together, or any combination or number of terms. In addition, terms used in the specification and claims (such as having, containing, including, and comprising) should be interpreted as synonymous with the terms including and comprising.

[0112] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions (such as those expressing dimensions, physical properties, etc.) used in the specification (except the claims) are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “approximately.” At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims should at least be construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0113] All ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass and provide support for claims listing any and all subranges or any and all individual values ​​therein. For example, a stated range of 1 to 10 should be considered to include and provide support for claims listing any and all subranges or individual values ​​between and / or including a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 10; i.e., all subranges starting from a minimum of 1 or greater and ending with a maximum of 10 or less (e.g., 5.5 to 10, 2.34 to 3.56, etc.) or any value from 1 to 10 (e.g., 3, 5.8, 9.9994, etc.).

Claims

1. An ophthalmic lens comprising: a lens body that directs light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina of the eye when the lens body is disposed relative to the eye; as well as a plurality of isolated positive optical features formed on the lens body that direct peripheral light to a central region of the eye away from the retina when the lens body is positioned relative to the eye, Wherein the plurality of isolated positive optical features also cause peripheral light to be directed away from a central region of the retina and each of the plurality of isolated positive optical features has a focus in front of the retina and each is off-axis relative to the central focus, each individual isolated positive optical feature producing a controlled defocus effect.

2. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of isolated positive optical features are printed features.

3. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of isolated positive optical features are formed on the front surface of the lens body.

4. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein each of said plurality of isolated positive optical features has a different focal point.

5. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein each of said plurality of isolated positive optical features has a different refractive index than the material of the lens body.

6. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the ophthalmic lens comprises one of a contact lens, a soft contact lens, or a hard gas permeable contact lens.

7. An ophthalmic lens comprising: a lens body that, when disposed relative to the eye, directs light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina of the eye; as well as a plurality of isolated positive optical features formed on the lens body that direct peripheral light into the eye away from the central focus when the lens body is positioned relative to the eye; in: The plurality of isolated positive optical features also induce a controlled defocusing effect of peripheral light directed away from a central region of the retina; Each of the plurality of isolated positive optical features has a focus in front of the retina and each is off-axis relative to the central focus; and The plurality of isolated positive optical features are configured to direct peripheral light into a peripheral region of the retina to collectively form a pseudo vision shell.

8. An ophthalmic lens comprising: a lens body that, when disposed relative to the eye, directs light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina of the eye; as well as a plurality of geometrically isolated positive optical features projecting from the lens body, the plurality of geometrically isolated positive optical features directing peripheral light to a central region of the eye away from the retina, and the plurality of geometrically isolated positive optical features having a focus in front of the retina and being each off-axis relative to the central focus when the lens body is positioned relative to the eye, each individual isolated positive optical feature producing a controlled defocus effect; Wherein each of the plurality of geometrically isolated positive optical features has a different focal point.

9. An ophthalmic lens comprising: a lens body that, when disposed relative to the eye, directs light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina of the eye; as well as a plurality of isolated positive optical features formed on the lens body that direct peripheral light to a central region of the eye away from the retina when the lens body is positioned relative to the eye; in: The plurality of isolated positive optical features further cause peripheral light to be directed away from a central region of the retina and each of the plurality of isolated positive optical features has a focal point in front of the retina; The plurality of isolated positive optical features each comprise one of a hemispherical, Fresnel-type, or hexagonal optical feature; and At least one of the plurality of isolated positive optical features has a different focusing power than another one of the plurality of isolated positive optical features.

10. An ophthalmic lens comprising: a lens body configured to direct light toward a central focus of a central region of a retina of the eye when disposed relative to the eye; as well as a plurality of isolated positive optical features formed on the lens that direct peripheral light to a central region of the eye away from the retina when the lens body is positioned relative to the eye; in: the plurality of isolated positive optical features further causing peripheral light to be directed away from a central region of the retina and each of the plurality of isolated positive optical features having a focus in front of the retina and each being off-axis relative to the central focus, each individual isolated positive optical feature producing a controlled defocus effect; The plurality of isolated positive optical features each comprise one of a hemispherical, Fresnel-type, or hexagonal optical feature; and At least one of the plurality of isolated positive optical features has a different size than another of the plurality of isolated positive optical features.

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