Ophthalmic lens with microlens for medical control

Abstract

The present specification includes eyeglasses including an eyeglass frame, a first ophthalmic lens incorporating a plurality of microlenses designed to bring blurring to a wearer, and a second ophthalmic lens without microlenses. The eyewear may provide a unique optical configuration in which the first lens introduces an intentional blurring effect while the second lens may remain free of microlenses, providing medical control or treatment for some medical conditions.

Description

[0001] Related Applications This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 516,809, filed July 31, 2023, entitled “Ophthalmic Lenses with Microlenses for Treatment,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND

[0002] Amblyopia is a vision disorder in which the brain does not fully process input from one eye, with the brain tending to use the other eye over time. It results in decreased vision in the otherwise normally appearing eye. Amblyopia is the most common cause of monocular visual impairment in children and young adults.

[0003] The cause of amblyopia can be any condition that interferes with focusing, particularly in the early years of childhood. This can be due to mispositioning of the eyes (strabismus), irregular shape of the eyes, difficulty focusing, one eye more myopic or hyperopic (refractive) than the other, or blurring of the lens of the eye (deprivation).

[0004] Amblyopia usually has three main causes: strabismus (mispositioning of the eyes), refractive (difference in myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism of one eye compared to the other), or significant refractive error in both eyes, or early visual deprivation due to a visual impairment such as congenital cataract.

[0005] Strabismic amblyopia and refractive amblyopia are usually treated by clarifying the visual image with glasses, or encouraging use of the amblyopic eye (wearing an eye patch over the dominant eye), or pharmacological suppression of the better eye. Suppression usually involves the application of atropine eye drops to temporarily paralyze the accommodation reflex, resulting in blurred vision in the good eye. It also enlarges the pupil. This helps to prevent bullying and teasing associated with wearing an eye patch, although sometimes the use of eye drops is challenging.

[0006] Another common eye disease is dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, which is a symptom of dry eye. Other associated symptoms include irritation, redness, discharge of pus, blurred vision, and easy eye fatigue.

[0007] Typically, dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or tears evaporate too quickly. This can be caused by a range of reasons, such as the use of contact lenses, meibomian gland dysfunction, pregnancy, Sjogren’s syndrome, vitamin A deficiency, omega-3 fatty acid deficiency, LASIK surgery, and certain medications, such as antihistamines, certain blood pressure medications, hormone replacement therapy, and antidepressants. Treatment of dry eye depends on the underlying cause. Artificial tears are usually the first line of treatment.

[0008] Healthy people typically blink about 10-15 times per minute. Each blink, the tear film of the eye is refreshed, protecting and moisturizing the eye. The tear film is composed of three sub-layers: a mucus layer, a water-like layer, and an oil layer on top, which protects the eye from drying out (moisture evaporation).

[0009] Since blinking leaves the eye covered in tears, the symptoms of dry eye are often exacerbated by activities that cause the blink rate to decrease for long periods of time. These activities include reading for long periods, using a computer (computer vision syndrome), driving, or watching television. Thus, increasing the frequency of blinking in an individual helps treat dry eye and similar conditions. SUMMARY

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an ophthalmic lens assembly for controlling ocular disease, comprising: a first ophthalmic lens comprising a plurality of micro-lenses integrated with the first ophthalmic lens; wherein each of the plurality of micro-lenses modifies a focus of light; and a frame connected to the first ophthalmic lens; wherein the frame positions the plurality of micro-lenses substantially only in front of a first eye of a user, and wherein the plurality of micro-lenses defocus light relative to a retina of the first eye of the user.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an ophthalmic lens assembly, wherein the plurality of micro-lenses are configured to focus light closer to an anterior side of a retina of a user to reduce visual acuity.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an ophthalmic lens assembly, wherein the plurality of micro-lenses are configured to focus light further from an anterior side of a retina of a user to reduce visual acuity.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an ophthalmic lens assembly, wherein the plurality of micro-lenses are arranged in a repeating pattern, wherein each of the repeating pattern comprises a ring, a solid circle, a solid triangle, or a solid square.

[0014] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an ophthalmic lens assembly, wherein the plurality of micro-lenses are arranged in a grid pattern, a random or arbitrary pattern, a spiral pattern, a checkerboard pattern, a cluster pattern, a fractal pattern, a triangular lattice pattern, or a honeycomb pattern.

[0015] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an ophthalmic lens assembly, wherein the plurality of micro-lenses have a diameter in a range from about 0.25 to 2.0 mm, inclusive.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an ophthalmic lens assembly, wherein at least some of the plurality of micro-lenses are spaced apart from each other by a distance within about 0 to 2.0 mm measured from a center point of the plurality of micro-lenses.

[0017] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies, wherein the ratio of the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without microlenses to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without microlenses is in the range of approximately 0% to 25%, including the extreme values.

[0018] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which the ratio of the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without microlenses to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without microlenses is approximately 12% plus or minus 2%.

[0019] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which each of a plurality of microlenses is configured to have the ability to defocus to achieve a visual acuity value of 0.3 or less.

[0020] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which each of a plurality of microlenses is configured to have the ability to defocus to achieve a visual acuity value of 0.1 or less.

[0021] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which multiple microlenses include spherical microlenses, aspherical microlenses, or a combination of both.

[0022] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which a plurality of microlenses are located on the anterior surface of a first ophthalmic lens, on the posterior surface of a first ophthalmic lens, on both the anterior and posterior surfaces of a first ophthalmic lens, between layers of a first ophthalmic lens, or within the material of a first ophthalmic lens.

[0023] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies, and also includes a second ophthalmic lens attached to a frame; wherein the second ophthalmic lens does not contain any microlenses.

[0024] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which a frame is configured to position a first ophthalmic lens in front of the wearer’s stronger eye and a second ophthalmic lens in front of the wearer’s weaker, amblyopic eye.

[0025] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies, and also includes a second ophthalmic lens connected to a frame; wherein multiple microlenses are part of both the first and second ophthalmic lenses.

[0026] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which multiple microlenses are arranged in multiple microlens groups on a first ophthalmic lens and a second ophthalmic lens.

[0027] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which multiple microlenses are sized in the range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 25 mm, including end values.

[0028] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged in a ring on a first ophthalmic lens and a second ophthalmic lens.

[0029] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only on the lower half of the first and second ophthalmic lenses.

[0030] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only inside the first and second ophthalmic lenses relative to the center of the frame.

[0031] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only within and below the first and second ophthalmic lenses relative to the center of the frame.

[0032] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to ophthalmic lens assemblies, wherein the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens also includes ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers, and / or metastructures.

[0033] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to ophthalmic lens assemblies, in which multiple microlenses also include ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers, and / or metastructures.

[0034] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to eyeglasses for controlling eye diseases, including: a first ophthalmic lens comprising a plurality of microlenses integrated with the first ophthalmic lens; wherein each of the plurality of microlenses modifies the focal point of light; and a second ophthalmic lens that is substantially without microlenses; and an eyeglass frame connected to the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens.

[0035] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to eyeglasses for controlling eye diseases, including: a first ophthalmic lens; a second ophthalmic lens that is substantially without microlenses; a plurality of microlenses integrated with the first and second ophthalmic lenses; and an eyeglass frame connected to the first and second ophthalmic lenses.

[0036] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to methods for controlling or treating eye diseases, including: identifying a patient's amblyopic and non-amblyopic eyes; and placing a first ophthalmic lens in front of the non-amblyopic eye, wherein the first ophthalmic lens utilizes multiple microlenses to defocus light onto the non-amblyopic eye.

[0037] In some respects, the techniques described herein involve a method in which multiple microlenses are configured to focus light more closely to the front side of the user's retina to reduce visual acuity.

[0038] In some respects, the techniques described herein involve a method in which multiple microlenses are configured to focus light further away from the user's retina in front of the eye to reduce visual acuity.

[0039] In some respects, the technique described herein relates to a method in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged in a repeating pattern, wherein each of the repeating patterns comprises a ring, a solid circle, a solid triangle, or a solid square.

[0040] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which multiple microlenses are arranged in a grid pattern, a random or arbitrary pattern, a spiral pattern, a checkerboard pattern, a cluster pattern, a fractal pattern, a triangular dot matrix pattern, or a honeycomb pattern.

[0041] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which the diameters of a plurality of microlenses are in the range of approximately 0.25 to 2.0 mm, including end values.

[0042] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which at least some of a plurality of microlenses are spaced apart from each other by a distance of about 0 to 2.0 mm, measured from the center point of the plurality of microlenses.

[0043] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which the ratio of the area of ​​a first ophthalmic lens without microlenses to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without microlenses is in the range of approximately 0% to 25%, including the extreme values.

[0044] In some respects, the technique described herein relates to a method in which the ratio of the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without microlenses to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without microlenses is approximately 12% plus or minus 2%.

[0045] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which multiple microlenses are configured to have the ability to defocus with a visual acuity value of 0.3 or less.

[0046] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which multiple microlenses are configured to have the ability to defocus with a visual acuity value of 0.1 or less.

[0047] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which multiple microlenses include spherical microlenses, non-spherical microlenses, or a combination of both.

[0048] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which a plurality of microlenses are located on the anterior surface of a first ophthalmic lens, on the posterior surface of a first ophthalmic lens, on both the anterior and posterior surfaces of a first ophthalmic lens, between layers of a first ophthalmic lens, or within the material of a first ophthalmic lens.

[0049] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method that also includes placing a second ophthalmic lens in front of the amblyopic eye, wherein the second ophthalmic lens allows light to be focused onto the patient's retina.

[0050] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method for controlling or treating an eye disease, the method comprising: placing at least a first ophthalmic lens in front of a patient’s eye, wherein the first ophthalmic lens comprises a plurality of microlenses arranged in a plurality of groups of microlenses to generate a blinking response from at least the patient’s first eye.

[0051] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which multiple sets of microlenses have a size ranging from about 6 mm to about 25 mm, including end values.

[0052] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method that also includes placing a second ophthalmic lens in front of a patient’s other eye, wherein the second ophthalmic lens also comprises multiple microlenses.

[0053] In some respects, the technique described herein relates to a method in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged in a ring on at least the first ophthalmic lens.

[0054] In some respects, the technique described herein relates to a method in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only on the lower half of a first ophthalmic lens relative to the patient's nose.

[0055] In some respects, the technique described herein relates to a method in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only inside the first ophthalmic lens relative to the patient's nose.

[0056] In some respects, the technique described herein relates to a method in which multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only inside and below a first ophthalmic lens relative to the patient's nose.

[0057] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens also includes ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers, and / or metastructures.

[0058] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which multiple microlenses also include ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers, and / or metastructures. Attached Figure Description

[0059] This disclosure includes the following figures to illustrate certain exemplary aspects of the disclosure and should not be considered exclusive or limiting. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, the disclosed subject matter is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function. This disclosure references the following figures: Figure 1This is an example of eyeglasses with a microlens array, based on a specific example.

[0060] Figure 2 This is an example of eyeglasses with a microlens array, based on a specific example.

[0061] Figure 3 This is an example of eyeglasses with multiple sets of microlenses, based on a single instance.

[0062] Figure 4A This is an enlarged view of an ophthalmic lens with multiple microlenses, based on an example.

[0063] Figure 4B This is an enlarged view of an ophthalmic lens with multiple microlenses, based on an example.

[0064] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of an ophthalmic lens with multiple microlenses, based on an example.

[0065] Figure 6 This is a view of an ophthalmic lens with microlenses, based on an example.

[0066] Figure 7 This is a view of an ophthalmic lens with microlenses, based on an example.

[0067] Figure 8 It is a view based on an example of an ophthalmic lens.

[0068] Figure 9 It is a view based on an example of an ophthalmic lens.

[0069] Figure 10 It is a view based on an example of an ophthalmic lens.

[0070] Figure 11 It is a view based on an example of an ophthalmic lens.

[0071] Figure 12 It is a view of multiple microlenses based on an instance. Detailed Implementation

[0072] Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited to what has been specifically shown and described herein. In view of the teachings herein, various modifications and variations are possible without departing from its scope, spirit, or intent.

[0073] While different instances may be described in this specification, it is particularly contemplated that any features from different instances can be used and combined in any combination. In other words, features from different instances can be mixed and matched with each other. Therefore, although every permutation of features from different instances may not be explicitly shown or described, this disclosure is intended to cover any such combination, especially as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0074] The terminology used in this disclosure should be interpreted permissively, not restrictively. In the accompanying drawings, the same numerals denote the same elements. Unless otherwise stated, all drawings are not to scale. Unless otherwise stated, the term "about" is defined as ±5% of the stated value.

[0075] In any instance of this specification, the term microlens can refer to a region located on the surface of a larger ophthalmic lens that acts as a smaller lens that focuses light at a location or length different from that of the larger ophthalmic lens. Microlenses can be composed of the same or different materials as the larger ophthalmic lens. Microlenses can protrude from the surface of the larger ophthalmic lens. Microlenses can have circular, convex, or similar shapes that focus light at a location or length different from that of the larger ophthalmic lens. Microlenses can have different coatings relative to the larger ophthalmic lens.

[0076] One aspect of the invention relates to a device comprising a microlens array for controlling or treating amblyopia, a method of using the device, and a method of manufacturing the device. More specifically, the device may be eyeglasses or spectacle lenses, including prescription or nonprescription eyeglasses and sunglasses of various materials and coatings (e.g., plano lenses, single-lens refractive lenses, semi-single-lens refractive lenses, clear lenses, photochromic lenses, multifocal lenses, and antireflective lenses). The lenses may have various refractive indices, such as 1.50, 1.53, 1.59, 1.60, 1.67, or 1.74.

[0077] The eyeglasses can be configured such that a first ophthalmic lens with a microlens array is positioned in front of the wearer's "strong" eye (i.e., the eye that moves, tracks, and focuses correctly on the desired target). The microlens array comprises multiple individual microlenses configured to transmit light to the wearer in a defocused manner, thus blurring the image for the strong eye. Optionally, depending on the wearer's needs, the first ophthalmic lens may include a prescription curvature or no prescription curvature. The second ophthalmic lens does not include a microlens array but is configured to transmit focused light to the user's "weak" eye (i.e., the eye that cannot move or track correctly along with the strong eye). Depending on the wearer's needs, this second ophthalmic lens may include a prescription curvature or may not include one.

[0078] The blurring caused by the primary ophthalmic lens will suppress the stronger eye while encouraging the amblyopic eye to improve the wearer's desired movement—similar to the use of an eye patch. This blurring is noticeable to the wearer, but it has significantly better aesthetics / decorative qualities, especially compared to an eye patch or similar device. Since amblyopia is often treated in young children, improved aesthetics / decorative qualities can reduce the likelihood of embarrassment and bullying common with eye patches and occlusive filters.

[0079] Microlens arrays can be located on the front, back, or sides of an ophthalmic lens. Furthermore, a microlens array can cover the entire visible front and / or back surface of the ophthalmic lens, or it can extend only in the area used for directional vision, peripheral vision, or both simultaneously. For example, the array may not extend completely to the edge of the ophthalmic lens, leaving spaces without any microlenses. Microlens arrays can also be configured to have a certain shape (circle, square, triangle, rectangle, etc.), a repeating pattern, or to create a blurred image due to the presence or absence of microlenses (e.g., smiley faces, cartoon characters, text, etc.). In some instances, microlenses may include rings, solid circles, triangles, squares, grids, random or stochastic patterns, spirals, checkerboard patterns, clustered patterns, fractal patterns, triangular grids, honeycomb patterns, or repeating patterns of similar shapes / patterns. While any such pattern or image may be relatively difficult to perceive, it can also provide entertainment, acceptability, and reduce embarrassment, especially when used with children.

[0080] Microlens arrays can be configured to produce defocused light for the user, thus making the image appear blurred. This blurring can result in either positive or negative focusing power.

[0081] Figure 1 An example of eyeglasses 100 is shown, configured to control or treat amblyopia using an array 104 of microlenses 106. Eyeglasses 100 include a frame 108 configured to support two ophthalmic lenses 102. A first ophthalmic lens 102A is configured to provide the wearer with clear / focused vision (e.g., prescription-free or prescription curvature) and any other options common to ophthalmic lenses (e.g., antireflective, photochromic, and / or sunshade). A second ophthalmic lens 102B may be configured similarly to the first ophthalmic lens 102A, but also includes the array 104 of microlenses 106. These microlenses 106 may be on the front surface, back surface, or both surfaces of the ophthalmic lens 102B.

[0082] In this eyeglass 100, the array 104 extends over the entire surface of the ophthalmic lens 102B. Alternatively, Figure 2A similar pair of glasses 110 is shown, which has an array 104 that does not extend fully to the edge of the ophthalmic lens 102B, leaving some or all of the edges of the ophthalmic lens 102B with some space.

[0083] It should be noted that although ophthalmic lenses 102 are depicted in a specific left / right configuration, their positions are interchangeable. In other words, ophthalmic lens 102B can be on the left or right side of eyeglasses 100 / 110.

[0084] Microlenses 106 may be positioned such that they are in direct contact with each other (e.g., some or all sides of microlenses 106 are in direct contact with each other), or microlenses 106 may be spaced apart from each other (e.g., within a range including end values ​​of about 0.01 mm to 15 mm).

[0085] In some instances where the microlenses 106 are spaced apart from each other and do not directly contact each other, the ratio of the area of ​​the microlenses 106 to the area without microlenses 106 is in the range of about 0% to about 50%. In some instances, the ratio of the area of ​​the microlenses 106 to the area without microlenses 106 is in the range of about 0% to about 12% (e.g., about 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%).

[0086] In this procedure, the patient is diagnosed with an eye condition that causes one eye to become weak or unable to properly track the other eye (e.g., amblyopia). The patient is provided with glasses or lenses, one of which contains an array of microlenses that blurs the patient's vision, and the other provides the patient with essentially clear vision (i.e., with or without a prescription). The lens with the microlens array is placed in front of the stronger or normally functioning eye (the non-amblyopic eye), while the other lens without the microlens array is placed in front of the weaker or improperly tracking eye (the amblyopic eye). These glasses are worn by the user for a predetermined period of time and / or until the patient's eye condition improves to a desired level. For example, the patient may wear the glasses for several weeks or months.

[0087] Another aspect of this specification relates to an apparatus comprising an array or multiple sets of microlenses for controlling or treating dry eye by inducing blinking, and methods of using and manufacturing the apparatus. More specifically, the apparatus may be eyeglasses or spectacle lenses, including prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses with various materials and coatings (e.g., polycarbonate monolithic lenses, polycarbonate semi-monolithic lenses, clear lenses, photochromic lenses, and antireflective lenses).

[0088] Eyeglasses are configured such that one or two of their ophthalmic lenses include one or more sets of microlenses. These microlens sets are sized so that they resemble floaters in the eye's fluids, without significantly affecting the user's vision. When the microlenses enter the user's field of vision, they trigger a blinking response in the user's eye, depending on the direction of the eye. Because blinking helps restore the tear film on the eye, in some cases, increasing the frequency of blinking may increase the moisture content of the user's eyes and reduce any symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome.

[0089] The device can be eyeglasses or eyeglass lenses, including prescription or over-the-counter eyeglasses and sunglasses with various materials and coatings (e.g., polycarbonate monolithic vision lenses, polycarbonate semi-monolithic vision lenses, clear lenses, photochromic lenses, and anti-reflective lenses). The microlens assembly can be on only one lens of the eyeglass or on both lenses simultaneously.

[0090] The microlens group can be positioned in nearly identical relative positions on each ophthalmic lens, so that both eyes encounter a set of microlenses when viewing in certain directions. Alternatively, the microlens group can be positioned in different relative positions on each ophthalmic lens, so that only one eye may encounter a set of microlenses when viewing in certain directions.

[0091] Each ophthalmic lens may include as few as a single microlens group or multiple groups (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more). Depending on the size of the groups and microlenses, an ophthalmic lens may include up to 100 or more groups.

[0092] Each group of microlenses may include one or more microlenses. For example, a group may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more microlenses. Each group on an ophthalmic lens may include the same number of microlenses, or it may include different numbers of microlenses. For example, it may be advantageous to place a relatively large group of microlenses closer to the peripheral or central visual field of the user. In one example, a group of microlenses includes 2-10 microlenses.

[0093] Microlenses, as part of a microlens group, can be located within an inclusion end value range of 1–15 mm apart. Each group of microlenses can be spaced any distance from each other (e.g., 1 mm to 10 cm), as long as the distance and frequency of these groups do not significantly affect the user's vision. Microlenses can also have various sizes, for example, within an inclusion end value range of approximately 0.50 to 3.14 mm, approximately 0.8 to 2.0 mm, and / or approximately 0.25 to 2.0 mm. The distance between the center points of adjacent microlenses can be a distance within an inclusion end value range of approximately 0 to 2.0 mm.

[0094] Figure 3 A specific example of glasses 150 is shown, configured to induce a blinking response and increase or refresh the tear film on one or more of a user's eyes. Glasses 150 are generally similar to the previously described example glasses 100, including a frame 108 configured to hold or connect to two ophthalmic lenses 102 (102A, 102B). The two ophthalmic lenses 102A, 102B are depicted as having multiple groups 152 of microlenses 106, although a group of microlenses may be included only on one of the ophthalmic lenses 102. In this example, the multiple groups 152 of microlenses 106 may be located at different locations throughout the lens, such as the central region and the peripheral region surrounding the central region. Therefore, a blinking response can be generated when the wearer views through the central region or the peripheral region of the lens 102.

[0095] In some instances, the size of these groups can help each group appear to the wearer as a symptom of floaters, thus triggering a blinking response. For example, each group 152 can have a size ranging from approximately 6 mm to approximately 25 mm in coverage.

[0096] Figure 4A An enlarged view of another example of the ophthalmic lens 102B is shown. In this example, group 152 of the microlens 106 is located in the annular region 156, while the central region 154 does not have group 152. This configuration allows for clear vision when the wearer is looking straight ahead, but when looking off-center, the user will encounter group 152 and blink. Although the annular region 156 is shown as circular, other irregular and / or non-circular shapes are also possible.

[0097] Figure 4B An enlarged view of another example of ophthalmic lens 102B is shown, in which the group 152 of microlenses 106 is located only in the central region 154. This configuration can produce a blink response when looking forward through the central region 154, but will not produce a blink response when looking off-center or through the peripheral region of lens 102B.

[0098] Other positions in group 152 are also possible. For example, Figure 5An ophthalmic lens 102B is shown divided into an upper portion 158 (e.g., upper half) and a lower portion 160 (e.g., lower half). This can be a standard prescription or over-the-counter lens, or it can be a lens with a different prescription, such as a bifocal or trifocal lens. In this example, group 152 of the microlens 106 is located only in the lower portion 160, while group 152 is not present in the upper portion 158. Therefore, a blinking response may occur when the user looks down. This can be particularly helpful for activities such as reading or viewing a computer screen, which sometimes lead to reduced blinking and dry eye. Alternatively, the group could be located only in the upper portion 158, while group 152 is not present in the lower portion 160.

[0099] In another example, Figure 6 Eyeglasses 170 with lens 102 are shown, in which the inner portion 172 includes group 152 and the outer portion does not have group 152, wherein the inner and outer portions are located relative to the middle of the wearer's nose or frame.

[0100] In another instance, Figure 7 Eyeglasses 180 with lens 102 are shown, in which region 182 extends along the inner and lower portions of lens 102, wherein the inner and outer portions are relative to the wearer's nose or the lateral center of the frame. Region 182 may include group 152, while the remaining upper / outer portion does not have group 152.

[0101] In use, eyeglasses with one or more ophthalmic lenses are provided to the user for wearing, and these lenses have one or more sets of microlenses. These eyeglasses can be worn continuously (except while sleeping) or only during certain activities (such as reading or looking at a computer screen).

[0102] Microlenses and the ophthalmic lenses in which they are located can be manufactured using various technologies, such as U.S. Patent No. 11,029,540, U.S. Patent No. 10,386,654, and Japanese Patent No. 2023-055747, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0103] One aspect of this specification relates to an spectacle lens or spectacle film comprising: a first refractive region having a first refractive power based on a prescription for correcting abnormal refractive errors of the eye; and a plurality of second refractive regions, each having a refractive power different from the first refractive power and having the function of focusing an image at a location other than the retina of the eye to suppress the development of abnormal refractive errors of the eye, wherein the second refractive regions are dispersedly arranged as a plurality of mutually separated regions, and wherein each of the plurality of second refractive regions is surrounded by the first refractive region. The spectacle film may include a ratio of the total area of ​​the plurality of second refractive regions to the total area of ​​the plurality of second refractive regions and the first refractive region, the ratio being in the range of approximately 20% to 60%, including the end value. The spectacle film may have a surface of each of the plurality of second refractive regions, the surface being formed convex or concave on the target side of the spectacle film relative to the surface of the first refractive region.

[0104] The spectacle lens may also include a lens substrate having a front optical surface and a rear optical surface; and a thin film molded together with the spectacle lens substrate, the thin film including a first microlens array, wherein each microlens of the first microlens array includes substantially the same focal point and is formed of multiple layers of different materials having different refractive indices. The first microlens array may include microlenses formed of a layer of material with a refractive index in the inclusive range of about 1.8 to 2.1, for example, the microlenses may have a refractive index of about 1.50, 1.53, 1.59, 1.60, 1.67, or 1.74. The first microlens array may include a material different from the material forming the ophthalmic lens substrate.

[0105] Any eyeglasses and lenses described in this specification may also be used with ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers and / or metastructures to selectively absorb, scatter and / or change the focus of a specific wavelength.

[0106] Ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers, and / or metastructures can be used in place of the aforementioned microlenses (i.e., relatively small discrete locations, regions of relatively small microlens size with other microlenses (e.g., regions containing both), regions surrounding and / or adjacent to microlenses, within microlenses (e.g., dyes within microlenses), or within both microlenses and regions surrounding and / or adjacent to microlenses).

[0107] For example, Figure 8 Eyeglasses 190 are shown, which have an array 192 from regions 194. These regions 194 have similar dimensions to the microlenses previously described and can be any configuration previously described for microlenses, but regions 194 are alternatively or additionally composed of ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers and / or metastructures.

[0108] In another instance,Figure 9 Eyeglasses 196 are shown with an array 104 of microlenses 106 according to any of the foregoing examples, but also include a larger region 197 surrounding the microlenses 106 for ophthalmic dyes, scattering centers, and / or metastructures. The larger region 197 may be located around some or all of the array 104.

[0109] Figure 10 The glasses 198 are similar to the glasses 196, but the area 197 can form a shape or pattern, such as the bullseye shape shown in the figure (i.e., multiple circles inside each other). Other shapes are also possible.

[0110] In another instance, Figure 11 The eyeglasses 199 are similar to eyeglasses 196 and 197, but the region 197 of the ophthalmic dye, scattering center and / or metastructure may also be located below and / or inside the microlens 106 (e.g., inside the material of the first ophthalmic lens 102 and / or the material of the microlens 106).

[0111] In any instance of this specification, the surface area coverage density of the microlens may be in the range of approximately 20-80% of the total lens surface, including the end value.

[0112] In any instance of this specification, the ophthalmic dye may be applied to the lens as a coating. Furthermore, the ophthalmic dye coating may be applied at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the lens surface (e.g., within the range of approximately 45 degrees to approximately 2 degrees, including the extreme values). Depending on the application angle, the microlens 106 may be covered only by the coating, while the surrounding area will be largely avoided. The spray angle may be applied from several different rotational positions to cover all sides of the microlens 106. Alternatively, the ophthalmic dye may be applied (e.g., as a coating) to the entire lens prior to the formation of the microlens 106, such that the subsequently added microlens 106 does not contain the ophthalmic dye, or the ophthalmic dye may be applied as a coating to cover only the area of ​​the lens surrounding the microlens 106, thereby making the microlens 106 substantially free of ophthalmic dye.

[0113] In any instance of this specification, the surface area coverage density of the microlens can be in the range of approximately 20-80% of the total lens surface, including the end value, to control the degree of defocus.

[0114] Figure 12A top view of a plurality of microlenses 106 is shown, each microlens having a diameter 106A and a distance 106B between the center points of adjacent microlenses 106. In any instance of this specification, the microlenses may have a variety of different diameters 106A, for example, in the range of about 0.50 to 3.14 mm including the end value, in the range of about 0.8 to 2.0 mm including the end value, and / or in the range of about 0.25 to 2.0 mm including the end value. The distance 106B between the center points of adjacent microlenses may be a distance in the range of about 0 to 10.0 mm, 0 to 5.0 mm, and / or 0 to 2.0 mm including the end value. The gap or spacing between the nearest points of adjacent microlenses 106 may be in the range of about 0 to 2.0 mm including the end value.

[0115] In any instance of this specification, the ratio of the area of ​​lens 102 without any microlenses 106 to the area of ​​lens 102 with microlenses 106 may be in the range of 0% to 50%, 0% to 25%, or 0% to 15%, including the extreme values. In some instances, this ratio is approximately 12% plus or minus 2%.

[0116] In any instance of this specification, the microlens 106 may have the ability to defocus with a visual acuity value of about 0.3 or less, and in some instances, the visual acuity value is 0.1 or less.

[0117] In any instance of this specification, a microlens may be configured to focus or defocus light at a specific location other than the user's retina.

[0118] In any instance of this specification, the microlens may have a convex shape.

[0119] In any instance of this specification, the microlens may be spherical or non-spherical.

[0120] In any instance of this specification, the entire plurality of microlenses may include several different sizes (e.g., diameters), spacings between each other, patterns, or any other features discussed in this specification.

[0121] Although the spectacle frame 108 is primarily described in this specification, it should be understood that other types of frames or ophthalmic lens support devices are possible. For example, goggles, face shields, monocles, helmets, or similar frames / devices are possible. Therefore, although the term "frame" may be used, it should be understood to include any type of structure that can support an ophthalmic lens, unless otherwise stated. While examples in this specification show two separate lenses (e.g., a first ophthalmic lens 102A and an ophthalmic lens 102B), it can also be understood to refer to equivalents covering a single lens (which covers both of the user's eyes), such as goggles, monocles, helmet visors, and similar devices.

[0122] In any instance of this specification, the microlens may be located on the front surface of lens 102, on the rear surface of lens 102, on both the front and rear surfaces of lens 102, or between layers or within the material of lens 106.

[0123] In any instance of this specification, the term microlens may be used synonymously with the term small lens.

[0124] In any instance of the specification, the term ophthalmic lens assembly may include at least one lens comprising a plurality of microlenses, and may optionally further include a second lens and a frame (e.g., an eyeglass frame).

[0125] In any instance of this specification, eye shape and / or growth are also affected by wavelength (and color), which can be further addressed by using selective filters. For example, wavelength-selective filters or scattering centers can be used to absorb or defocus selected wavelengths (and colors). In a particular instance, wavelength-selective filters comprise inks or dyes of a specific color. In another instance, specific wavelengths are defocused using selective scattering centers by employing core-shell particles. In yet another instance, specific wavelengths are focused or defocused using selective scattering centers by employing metastructures.

Claims

1. An ophthalmic lens assembly for controlling eye diseases, comprising: A first ophthalmic lens, comprising multiple microlenses integrated with the first ophthalmic lens; Each of the plurality of microlenses modifies the focus of the light; as well as A frame connected to the first ophthalmic lens; wherein the frame positions the plurality of microlenses substantially only in front of the user's first eye, and wherein the plurality of microlenses are defocused relative to the retina of the user's first eye.

2. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of microlenses are configured to focus light closer to the front side of the user's retina to reduce visual acuity.

3. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of microlenses are configured to focus light further away from the front of the user's retina to reduce visual acuity.

4. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged in a repeating pattern, wherein each of the repeating patterns comprises an annular shape, a solid circle, a solid triangle, or a solid square.

5. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged in a grid pattern, a random or arbitrary pattern, a spiral pattern, a checkerboard pattern, a cluster pattern, a fractal pattern, a triangular dot matrix pattern, or a honeycomb pattern.

6. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the diameter of the plurality of microlenses is in the range of approximately 0.25 to 2.0 mm.

7. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein at least some of the plurality of microlenses are spaced apart from each other at a distance of about 0 to 2.0 mm from the center point of the plurality of microlenses.

8. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens is in the range of approximately 0% to 25%.

9. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens is approximately 12% plus or minus 2%.

10. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of microlenses is configured to have a defocusing capability to achieve a visual acuity value of 0.3 or less.

11. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of microlenses is configured to have a defocusing capability to achieve a visual acuity value of 0.1 or less.

12. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of microlenses comprises spherical microlenses, aspherical microlenses, or a combination of both.

13. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of microlenses are disposed on the front surface of the first ophthalmic lens, on the rear surface of the first ophthalmic lens, on both the front and rear surfaces of the first ophthalmic lens, between the layers of the first ophthalmic lens, or within the material of the first ophthalmic lens.

14. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second ophthalmic lens connected to the frame; wherein the second ophthalmic lens does not contain any microlenses.

15. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 14, wherein the frame is configured to position the first ophthalmic lens in front of the wearer's stronger eye, and wherein, The second ophthalmic lens is positioned in front of the wearer's weaker, less visually impaired eye.

16. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second ophthalmic lens connected to the frame; wherein the plurality of microlenses are part of both the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens.

17. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 16, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged in multiple groups on the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens.

18. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 17, wherein the size of the plurality of microlenses is in the range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 25 mm.

19. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 17, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged in a ring on the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens.

20. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 17, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged only on the lower halves of the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens.

21. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 17, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged only inside the first and second ophthalmic lenses relative to the center of the frame.

22. The ophthalmic lens assembly according to claim 17, wherein, The multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only inside and below the first and second ophthalmic lenses relative to the center of the frame.

23. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the region of the first ophthalmic lens further includes an ophthalmic dye, a scattering center, and / or a metastructure.

24. The ophthalmic lens assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of microlenses further comprises an ophthalmic dye, a scattering center, and / or a metastructure.

25. A pair of glasses for controlling an eye disease, comprising: A first ophthalmic lens, comprising multiple microlenses integrated with the first ophthalmic lens; Each of the plurality of microlenses modifies the focus of the light; as well as, Second ophthalmic lenses that are essentially devoid of microlenses; An eyeglass frame connected to the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens.

26. A pair of glasses for controlling an eye disease, comprising: First ophthalmic lenses; Second ophthalmic lenses that are essentially devoid of microlenses; Multiple microlenses integrated with the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens; An eyeglass frame connected to the first ophthalmic lens and the second ophthalmic lens.

27. A method for controlling or treating an eye disease, comprising: Determine whether the patient has amblyopia or non-amblyopia; as well as, A first ophthalmic lens is placed in front of the non-amblyopic eye, wherein the first ophthalmic lens uses multiple microlenses to focus light onto the non-amblyopic eye.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses are configured to focus light more closely to the front side of the user's retina to reduce visual acuity.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses are configured to focus light further away from the front of the user's retina to reduce visual acuity.

30. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged in a repeating pattern, wherein each repeating pattern comprises an annulus, a solid circle, a solid triangle, or a solid square.

31. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged in a grid pattern, a random or arbitrary pattern, a spiral pattern, a checkerboard pattern, a cluster pattern, a fractal pattern, a triangular dot matrix pattern, or a honeycomb pattern.

32. The method of claim 27, wherein the diameter of the plurality of microlenses is in the range of approximately 0.25 to 2.0 mm.

33. The method of claim 27, wherein at least some of the plurality of microlenses are spaced apart from each other by a distance of about 0 to 2.0 mm from the center point of the plurality of microlenses.

34. The method of claim 27, wherein the ratio of the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens is in the range of about 0% to 25%.

35. The method of claim 27, wherein the ratio of the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens to the area of ​​the first ophthalmic lens without the microlens is approximately 12% plus or minus 2%.

36. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses are configured to have a defocusing capability to achieve a visual acuity value of 0.3 or less.

37. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses are configured to have a defocusing capability to achieve a visual acuity value of 0.1 or less.

38. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses comprises spherical microlenses, non-spherical microlenses, or a combination of both.

39. The method of claim 27, wherein the plurality of microlenses are located on the front surface of the first ophthalmic lens, on the rear surface of the first ophthalmic lens, on both the front and rear surfaces of the first ophthalmic lens, between the layers of the first ophthalmic lens, or within the material of the first ophthalmic lens.

40. The method of claim 27, further comprising placing a second ophthalmic lens in front of the amblyopic eye, wherein the second ophthalmic lens allows light to be focused onto the patient's retina.

41. A method for controlling or treating an eye disease, comprising: At least a first ophthalmic lens is placed in front of one of the patient's eyes, wherein the first ophthalmic lens comprises a plurality of microlenses arranged in multiple groups of microlenses to produce a blinking response from at least the patient's first eye.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the size of the plurality of microlenses is in the range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 25 mm.

43. The method of claim 41 further comprises placing a second ophthalmic lens in front of the patient's other eye, wherein the second ophthalmic lens also comprises a plurality of microlenses.

44. The method of claim 41, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged in a ring on the at least first ophthalmic lens.

45. The method of claim 41, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged only on the lower half of the first ophthalmic lens relative to the patient's nose.

46. ​​The method of claim 41, wherein the plurality of microlenses are arranged only inside the first ophthalmic lens relative to the patient's nose.

47. The method according to claim 41, wherein, The multiple sets of microlenses are arranged only inside and below the first ophthalmic lens relative to the patient's nose.

48. The method of claim 41, wherein the region of the first ophthalmic lens further includes an ophthalmic dye, a scattering center, and / or a metastructure.

49. The method of claim 41, wherein the plurality of microlenses further comprises an ophthalmic dye, a scattering center, and / or a metastructure.

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