Cosmetic contact lens having an elliptical spot pattern adapted to form an apparent limbal ring

Abstract

Cosmetic contact lenses having features designed to enhance the appearance of the eye and optionally correct vision are described. In particular, cosmetic contact lenses have an elliptical dot pattern designed to cover the iris and thereby form an apparent limbal ring. For contact lens wearers with uniformly pigmented irises, such as dark brown irises, these cosmetic contact lenses provide the eye with a more textured appearance having an apparent limbal ring.

Description

[0001] Related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 918,530, filed October 17, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 599,594, filed November 16, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to cosmetic contact lenses having features designed to enhance the appearance of the eyes of the contact lens wearer and optionally correct refractive errors. Background Technology

[0003] The use of colored and patterned contact lenses to alter the natural color and appearance of the eyes for cosmetic purposes is known. These cosmetic contact lenses are designed to change the color and texture of the iris. Everyone has a unique iris pattern. This unique pattern depends on the underlying matrix of collagen fibers and the localized concentration of melanin, resulting in a variety of concentric or radial bands that can be dark or light, and numerous dark spots and fibrous reticular structures of different geometries. Another common feature of the human iris is the limbal ring. The limbal ring is a dark ring surrounding the periphery of the iris, creating a distinct boundary between the iris and sclera of the eye, thus providing greater contrast and making the iris appear more colorful.

[0004] However, some people lack a prominent limbal ring in their iris, possibly due to the uniformity and location of color and pattern, such as individuals with dark brown eyes. Therefore, there is a need for patterned cosmetic contact lenses that create the appearance of a limbal ring for those without one, resulting in a more attractive appearance. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention relates to a cosmetic contact lens with an elliptical dot pattern, which, when worn on the eye, creates an apparent limbal ring in the negative space surrounding the contact lens. The apparent limbal ring is formed by a combination of the elliptical dot pattern, the color of the underlying iris in the negative space of the elliptical dot pattern, and the color difference between the elliptical dot pattern and the underlying iris.

[0006] In one exemplary aspect, the present invention provides a cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern, wherein the elliptical pattern has a diameter equal to or greater than 8 mm and has a negative space of between 70% and 100% in an outermost ring having a thickness between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0007] In another exemplary aspect, the present invention provides a cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern including a negative space, wherein the negative space creates an apparent limbal ring when the elliptical dot pattern covers the iris of the eye. The negative space creating the apparent limbal ring can occupy 70% to 100%. The thickness of the apparent limbal ring can be between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm. The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern can be equal to or greater than 8 mm. The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern can correspond to the average iris diameter of the human population, for example, between 9 mm and 14 mm.

[0008] In another aspect, the present invention provides a cosmetic contact lens that further includes an optical zone at the center of the lens, wherein the optical zone does not contain an elliptical dot pattern. This optical zone can be used to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.

[0009] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for designing an elliptical dot pattern, the method comprising the steps of: (a) selecting a diameter of the elliptical dot pattern, the diameter corresponding to the average iris diameter of a human population; (b) selecting a thickness of the outermost ring of the elliptical dot pattern between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm; and (c) generating an elliptical dot pattern having a negative space between 70% and 100% in the outermost ring, wherein the elliptical dot pattern surrounds an optical region.

[0010] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method for preparing a cosmetic contact lens having an elliptical dot pattern suitable for forming an apparent limbal ring, the method comprising the steps of: (a) optionally, transferring a clear layer onto a frontal mold of a contact lens mold assembly; (b) transferring one or more printed layers on top of the clear layer (if present), or otherwise on the frontal mold of the contact lens mold assembly, wherein these printed layers form an elliptical dot pattern suitable for forming an apparent limbal ring; (c) dispensing a reactive monomer mixture into the frontal mold; (d) positioning a base mold on top of the frontal mold to form a contact lens mold assembly having a cavity in the shape of a contact lens; (e) polymerizing the reactive monomer mixture; (f) removing the cosmetic contact lens from the mold assembly; (g) extracting the cosmetic contact lens; and (h) hydrating the cosmetic contact lens. The cosmetic contact lens can then be packaged and sterilized.

[0011] The printed layers are formed using inks containing various colorants, such as iron oxide, titanium dioxide, mica pigments, phthalocyanine, carbazole violet, and combinations thereof. One property of these printed layers is that they can form an elliptical dot pattern that exhibits a color difference (ΔE) between 23 and 79 compared to the color of the contact lens wearer's iris. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an elliptical dot pattern and its outermost ring is shown.

[0013] Figure 2 A frontal view of an exemplary cosmetic contact lens is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 A left-side view of an exemplary cosmetic contact lens is shown.

[0015] Figure 4 A right-side view of an exemplary cosmetic contact lens is shown.

[0016] Figure 5 Four exemplary printed layers (ADs) are shown that can be used to create elliptical dot patterns.

[0017] Figure 6 The images shown are (A) a representative oval dot pattern, (B) a dark brown eye model, and (C) a cosmetic contact lens with the same pattern shown in (A) after being placed on the dark brown eye model shown in (B), showing the apparent limbal ring around the pattern. Detailed Implementation

[0018] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the details of the construction or process steps set forth in the following description. Using the teachings herein, the present invention can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways.

[0019] definition The following definitions are provided for the terms used in this disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Polymer definitions conform to those published in the Compendium of Polymer Terminology and Nomenclature (IUPAC Recommendations 2008), edited by Richard G. Jones, Jaroslav Kahovec, Robert Stepto, Edward S. Wilks, Michael Hess, Tatsuki Kitayama, and W. Val Metanomski. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0020] As used herein, the term "polymerizable" means a compound containing at least one polymerizable group. A "polymerizable group" is a group capable of undergoing chain-growth polymerization, such as free radical polymerization. Polymerizable group (P... g Non-limiting examples of (meth)acrylates include styrene, vinyl ethers, (meth)acrylamide, N-vinyl lactam, N-vinylamide, O-vinyl carbamate, O-vinyl carbonate, and other vinyl groups. The term "(meth)" refers to optional methyl substitution. Therefore, terms such as "(meth)acrylate" refer to both methacrylates and acrylates. The polymerizable group can be unsubstituted or substituted. For example, the nitrogen atom in (meth)acrylamide may be bonded to hydrogen, or the hydrogen may be replaced by an alkyl or cycloalkyl group (which itself may be further substituted). The term "non-polymerizable" means, in contrast to "polymerizable," that the compound does not contain such polymerizable groups.

[0021] A "polymer" is a target macromolecule composed of repeating units of monomers and macromonomers used during polymerization. The phrase "number-average molecular weight" refers to the number-average molecular weight (M) of a polymer sample. n The phrase "weight-average molecular weight" refers to the average molecular weight (M) of a polymer sample. w The phrase "polydispersity index" (PDI) refers to M w Divide by M n The ratio describes the molecular weight distribution of the polymer sample. If the type of "molecular weight" is not indicated or is not obvious from the context, it is intended to represent the number-average molecular weight. The average number of repeating units in a polymer sample is called its "degree of polymerization." When using a general chemical formula for the polymer sample, such as [***],... n In this case, "n" refers to the degree of polymerization, and the formula should be understood as representing the number-average molecular weight of the polymer sample.

[0022] A “repeating unit” is the smallest group of atoms in a polymer, which corresponds to the polymerization of a specific monomer or macromonomer.

[0023] A homopolymer is a polymer made from one monomer; a copolymer is a polymer made from two or more monomers; a terpolymer is a polymer made from three monomers. A block copolymer is composed of blocks or segments with different compositions. A diblock copolymer has two blocks. A triblock copolymer has three blocks. A comb-like or graft copolymer is made from at least one macromonomer.

[0024] As used herein, a "monomer" is a monofunctional molecule capable of chain-growth polymerization, such as free radical polymerization, thereby generating repeating units in the chemical structure of the target macromolecule. Some monomers possess difunctional impurities that can act as crosslinking agents. A "hydrophilic monomer" is a monomer that produces a clear single-phase solution when mixed with deionized water at a concentration of 5% by weight at 25°C. A "hydrophilic component" is a monomer, macromonomer, prepolymer, initiator, crosslinking agent, additive, or polymer that produces a clear single-phase solution when mixed with deionized water at a concentration of 5% by weight at 25°C. A "hydrophobic component" is a monomer, macromonomer, prepolymer, initiator, crosslinking agent, additive, or polymer that is slightly soluble or insoluble in deionized water at 25°C.

[0025] A "macromonomer" is a macromolecule with a group that can undergo chain-growth polymerization, such as free radical polymerization, to create repeating units in the chemical structure of a target macromolecule. Typically, the chemical structure of a macromonomer differs from that of the target macromolecule; in other words, the repeating units of the macromonomer's side groups differ from those of the target macromolecule or its main chain. The difference between a monomer and a macromonomer lies solely in one of these areas: chemical structure, molecular weight, or the molecular weight distribution of the side groups. Macromonomers can be hydrophilic, such as when the macromolecule is a polyether like poly(ethylene glycol), or hydrophobic, such as when the macromolecule is a poly(dialkylsiloxane).

[0026] A "crosslinking agent" or "crosslinking agent" is a difunctional or polyfunctional monomer capable of free radical polymerization at two or more sites on a molecule, thereby forming branch points and a polymer network. The two or more polymerizable functional groups on the crosslinking agent may be the same or different, and may be selected, for example, independently from vinyl groups (including allyl), (meth)acrylate groups, and (meth)acrylamide groups. Common examples include ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, tetraethylene glycol dimethacrylate, trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, methylenebisacrylamide, and triallyl cyanurate.

[0027] "Prepolymer" is the reaction product of a monomer (or macromonomer) that contains polymerizable groups that can undergo further reactions to form a polymer.

[0028] A "polymer network" is a type of polymer that is a cross-linked macromolecule. Generally speaking, polymer networks can swell but cannot dissolve in solvents.

[0029] "Hydrogel" is a polymer network that swells in water or an aqueous solution, typically absorbing at least 10% by weight of water at 25°C. "Organosilicon hydrogel" is a hydrogel made from at least one component containing organosilicon and at least one hydrophilic component. The hydrophilic component may also include a non-reactive polymer, such as polyamide.

[0030] "Conventional hydrogels" refer to polymeric networks made of monomers that do not contain any organosilicon components. Conventional hydrogels are mainly composed of hydrophilic monomers such as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate ("HEMA"), N-vinylpyrrolidone ("NVP"), and N,N-dimethylacrylamide ("DMA"). N - Prepared by reacting a composition of vinyl methyl acetamide (VMA) or vinyl acetate.

[0031] As used herein, "organosilicon-containing component" or "organosilicon component" refers to a monomer, macromonomer, prepolymer, crosslinking agent, initiator, additive, or polymer in a reactive composition having at least one siloxane bond, typically in the form of a silanoxy group, a siloxane group, a carbosiloxane group, or mixtures thereof. Examples of organosilicon-containing components that can be used in this invention can be found in U.S. Patents Nos. 3,808,178, 4,120,570, 4,136,250, 4,153,641, 4,740,533, 5,034,461, 5,070,215, 5,244,981, 5,314,960, 5,331,067, 5,371,147, 5,760,100, and 5,849,811. No. 5,962,548, No. 5,965,631, No. 5,998,498, No. 6,367,929, No. 6,822,016, No. 6,943,203, No. 6,951,894, No. 7,052,131, No. 7,247,692, No. 7,396,890, No. 7,461,937, No. 7,468,398, No. 7,538,146, No. 7,553,880, No. 7,572,841, No. No. 7,666,921, No. 7,691,916, No. 7,786,185, No. 7,825,170, No. 7,915,323, No. 7,994,356, No. 8,022,158, No. 8,163,206, No. 8,273,802, No. 8,399,538, No. 8,415,404, No. 8,420,711, No. 8,450,387, No. 8,487,058, No. 8,568,626, etc. The patents referred to herein are patents 8,937,110, 8,937,111, 8,940,812, 8,980,972, 9,056,878, 9,125,808, 9,140,825, 9,156,934, 9,170,349, 9,217,813, 9,244,196, 9,244,197, 9,260,544, 9,297,928, and 9,297,929. The entire contents of these patents are incorporated herein by reference. Representative examples of silicone-containing components are mono-n-butyl-terminated monomethacryloyloxypropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (mPDMS), mono-n-butyl-terminated mono-(2-hydroxy-3-methacryloyloxypropoxy)-propyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (OH-mPDMS), and 3-(3-(1,1,1,3,5,5,5-heptamethyltrisiloxane-3-yl)propoxy)-2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate (SiMAA).

[0032] An "initiator" is a molecule that can decompose into free radical groups, which can react with monomers to initiate free radical polymerization. Thermal initiators decompose at a certain rate depending on temperature; typical examples are azo compounds such as 1,1'-azobisisobutyronitrile and 4,4'-azobis(4-cyanopentanoic acid), peroxides such as benzoyl peroxide, tert-butyl peroxide, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, tert-butyl peroxybenzoate, dicumyl peroxide, and lauroyl peroxide, peracids such as peracetic acid and potassium persulfate, and various redox systems. Photoinitiators decompose via photochemical methods; typical examples are benzoyl, benzoin, acetophenone, benzophenone, camphorquinone, and mixtures thereof, as well as various monoacyl and diacylphosphine oxides and their combinations.

[0033] The terms "reactive mixture" and "reactive monomer mixture" refer to a mixture of components (both retained and non-retained) that, when subjected to polymerization conditions, form a polymer network (e.g., in the form of a contact lens). A reactive mixture may contain: retained components, such as monomers, macromonomers, prepolymers, crosslinking agents, and initiators; additives, such as wetting agents; polymers, such as polyamides; dyes, pigments, or colorants, such as "visible colorants," which make the contact lens identifiable in the packaging; light-absorbing compounds, such as ultraviolet, high-energy visible light, and / or photochromic absorbers, which protect the eyes from harmful radiation and / or alter vision statically or dynamically based on lighting conditions; pharmaceutical compounds; and / or nutritional compounds, any of which may be reactive or non-reactive but are capable of being retained in the resulting polymer network. A reactive mixture may also contain non-retained components intended to be removed from the polymer network prior to any use, such as diluents. A diluent is a solvent or solvent mixture used to dissolve and dilute the reactive monomer mixture. Depending on the composition of the reactive mixture, the diluent may be water-based or organic solvent-based. Diluents can be any organic solvent or mixture thereof, including aqueous solutions. The concentration of the components in a reactive mixture is expressed as a percentage by weight of all retained components in the reactive mixture (and therefore excluding non-retained components such as diluents). When diluents are used, their concentrations are expressed as a percentage by weight based on the amount of all components in the reactive mixture, including the diluent.

[0034] "Reactive components" are components in a reactive monomer mixture that become part of the polymer network structure of the resulting composition. "Retained components" are polymerizable compounds (such as monomers, macromonomers, oligomers, prepolymers, and crosslinking agents) in the reactive mixture, as well as any other components in the reactive mixture that are intended to remain substantially in the polymer network after polymerization and all post-processing steps (such as extraction steps) and packaging steps have been completed. Retained components can be retained in the polymer network through covalent bonding, hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, the formation of interpenetrating polymer networks, or any other means. Components intended to be released from the polymer network during use are still considered "retained components." For example, pharmaceutical or nutritional components in the polymer network intended to be released during use are considered "retained components." Components intended to be removed from the polymer network during the manufacturing process (e.g., by extraction), such as diluents, are "non-retained components."

[0035] "Polyamide" can include acyclic and cyclic polyamides, including homopolymers and copolymers. Typical examples of polyamides are polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyvinylmethylacetamide (PVMA), polydimethylacrylamide (PDMA), polyvinylacetamide (PNVA), poly(hydroxyethyl(meth)acrylamide), polyacrylamide, and mixtures thereof. Polyamides are commonly used as internal wetting agents and are disclosed in patents US6367929, US6822016, 7052,131, US7666921, US7691916, US7786185, US8022158, and US8450387.

[0036] Unless otherwise specified, numerical ranges, such as “2 to 10” or “between 2 and 10”, include the numbers that define the range (e.g., 2 and 10).

[0037] Unless otherwise specified, ratios, percentages, parts, etc. are by weight.

[0038] As used in this article, the term "about" refers to a number that has been modified within a range of + / - 10%. For example, the phrase "about 10" would include both 9 and 11.

[0039] As used herein, the term "contact lens" refers to an ophthalmic device that can be placed on the cornea of ​​the human eye. Contact lenses can provide visual, cosmetic, and / or therapeutic benefits. Contact lenses can be any suitable material known in the art. To make contact lenses more comfortable, techniques for fabricating contact lenses from hydrogels have been developed. Hydrogels are polymeric networks containing water. The properties of hydrogels can be controlled and modified through their chemical composition, crosslinking density, water content, and morphology. Therefore, hydrogels with a balance of physical and mechanical properties suitable for fabricating soft contact lenses have been developed. First, contact lenses made from hydrogels that do not contain any silicone-containing components exist. Examples of such conventional hydrogels are etafilcon, omafilcon, nelfilcon, and nesofilcon, all of which have a water content exceeding fifty percent by weight. Conventional hydrogels are typically isotropic materials. One drawback of conventional hydrogels is their relatively low oxygen permeability, which can consequently affect the overall health of the cornea. To address this issue, contact lenses made from silicone hydrogels exist, exhibiting higher oxygen permeability than conventional hydrogels and a balance of physical and mechanical properties suitable for fabricating soft contact lenses. Organosilicon hydrogels are hydrogels made from at least one organosilicon-containing component and at least one hydrophilic component. The organosilicon-containing component contains at least one siloxane bond, typically in the form of a silanoxy group, a siloxane group, a carbosiloxane group, or mixtures thereof. Examples of such organosilicon hydrogels are lotrafilcon, balafilcon, galyfilcon, senofilcon, narafilcon, comfilcon, somofilcon, delefilcon, samfilcon, stenfilcon, fanfilcon, formofilcon, verofilcon, kalifilcon, lehfilcon, and serafilcon. Organosilicon hydrogels can have a water content of more than or less than fifty percent by weight and are typically phase-separated materials. Some commercially available organosilicon hydrogel contact lenses are coated. This invention relates to cosmetic contact lenses made from conventional hydrogels or organosilicon hydrogels.

[0040] All contact lenses have a central optical zone surrounded by a peripheral area with lens edges. This optical zone includes optical designs for correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. The peripheral area includes mechanical designs to facilitate lens insertion and removal from the eye, providing an interface between the optical and mechanical designs, and optionally includes rotational stabilization features for toroidal lenses. The design of the lens edges is also important for comfort.

[0041] The term "cosmetic contact lens" specifically refers to a soft contact lens that alters the appearance of the eye when worn. Cosmetic contact lenses can be made of hydrogel or silicone hydrogel. In cosmetic contact lenses, the peripheral area also includes a pattern that alters the color and shape of the eye when worn. This pattern is in the form of a ring surrounding the optical zone. The pattern typically covers the iris and is composed of a colorant that absorbs, reflects, or scatters light, thereby altering the perceived color and texture of the iris. By using a white reflective colorant, the pattern can also cover the sclera, thus brightening its appearance. For individuals who do not require any vision correction, plano cosmetic contact lenses can be worn solely for their cosmetic effect. This invention relates to cosmetic contact lenses having an elliptical dot pattern covering the iris of the eye.

[0042] As used herein, the term "human population" refers to a group or subgroup of a population of any number of subjects equal to or greater than one person, characterized by any demographic and / or geographical means. For example, a human population may be selected from groups of children, adolescents, or adults, or span all age groups, or be selected from the globe, continent, country, region, or any combination thereof. Any anatomical structure of the human body, such as the diameter of the iris of the eye, may be measured on individuals within the human population and then averaged over the entire human population. In this way, the average iris diameter can be calculated using any number of human subjects within a defined human population. For custom or personalized cosmetic contact lenses for a single person, the average iris diameter can be calculated by measuring the diameters of the individual's two irises and dividing by two.

[0043] As used herein, the term "elliptical dot pattern" refers to a pattern composed of elliptical dots. Elliptical dot patterns can be incorporated into cosmetic contact lenses, for example, by transferring the elliptical dot pattern onto a contact lens mold and then encapsulating the pattern into the contact lens during the curing process. An elliptical dot pattern consists of elliptical dots of an elliptical shape with a major axis and a minor axis. The major axis is the longest diameter of the ellipse passing through its center from one end to the other, while the minor axis is the shortest diameter passing through the center of the ellipse. The major and minor axes are perpendicular to each other. When the major and minor axes are equal, the ellipse is a circle. Elliptical dot patterns can be composed of both elliptical and circular dots, and they can also be overlapped to form other shapes when using more than one printing layer.

[0044] The term "negative space" refers to the space (or two-dimensional area) between the dots in an elliptical dot pattern. In other words, negative space is the unprinted space (or area) between dots. An elliptical dot pattern can be described by its dot pattern or its negative space, or both. Both dots and negative space can be intentional design elements or features of the pattern.

[0045] As used herein, the term "colorant" refers to both reactive and non-reactive dyes, colorants, and / or pigments used in inks. A colorant is not a visible dye used to make contact lenses visible in packaging.

[0046] The term "ink" refers to a dispersion or solution containing at least one colorant for printing elliptical dot patterns. Inks may include other components that improve the printing process, such as binder polymers, surfactants, etc. The term "clear coating ink" refers to an ink formulation that does not contain any colorant and is used to print a "clear layer" or "clear coating." The clear layer or clear coating serves as a primer layer to which the ink is applied for printing patterns. The clear layer may be applied between contact lens molds or printed layers.

[0047] The term "bonding polymer" or "bonding copolymer" refers to a component in ink that binds to the colorant, thereby making the ink more stable before, after, or both of printing. Bonding polymers or copolymers control the rate at which a mixture of reactive monomers diffuses into and through the clear or printed layer.

[0048] The elliptical dot pattern of the present invention is produced by pad printing and consists of elliptical dots and negative space. Elliptical dot patterns are typically presented in two-dimensional space (even if they are ultimately printed on curved surfaces such as contact lens molds), and therefore, the negative space is the unprinted area between dots in the two-dimensional image. The relative amounts of printed dots and negative space can be measured by quantitative image analysis and expressed as a percentage of the total area of ​​the pattern or a portion of the pattern (e.g., within the apparent limbal ring).

[0049] Quantitative image analysis can be performed, for example, in Adobe Illustrator 2023 (version 27.9) and Adobe Photoshop 2024 (version 25.0.0), as described below, to determine the amount of negative space in the outermost ring of an elliptical dot pattern. In Adobe Illustrator, an image of a solid black ring with the desired inner and outer diameters of the outermost ring of the elliptical dot pattern is created. This image is used to determine the total area of ​​the outermost ring. A white image of the elliptical dot pattern is then pasted and centered over the black ring. With both objects selected, the Intersect option on the Pathfinder panel is clicked to create a black composite image consisting only of the intersecting or overlapping portions of the black ring and the elliptical dot pattern. A 15mm white circle is created and centered above the composite image. With both objects selected, the size of the white circle is adjusted to 60mm. The enlarged circle is then deleted. The resized composite image is saved as a JPG image file at 300 pixels per inch, resulting in a final output image size of 709 pixels × 709 pixels.

[0050] In Adobe Photoshop, open the black composite image. Then, measure the area of ​​the black composite image by selecting Color Range from the menu, using the eyedropper tool in the pop-up window to select the black area of ​​the composite image, and clicking OK. Open the Measurement Log by clicking Window / Measurement, and then click the Record Measurement button to capture the selected black area, which represents the area of ​​the printed elliptical dots in the outermost ring of the pattern. The percentage of the area of ​​the outermost ring with printed elliptical dots is calculated by dividing the recorded black area of ​​the composite image by the area of ​​the solid black ring created in Adobe Illustrator, multiplied by 100%. The percentage of the area of ​​the outermost ring, which is the negative space, is equal to 100% minus the percentage of the area with printed elliptical dots.

[0051] According to one exemplary aspect, the present invention provides a cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern having a diameter equal to or greater than 8 mm and having a negative space between 70% and 100% in the outermost ring, the outermost ring having a thickness between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm. As used herein, "outermost ring" refers to... Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates a circumferential band around the periphery of an elliptical dot pattern. The elliptical dot pattern can have various features, such as bands, spokes, peaks, waves, nets, spots, etc., depending on the dot density and location, provided that the negative space in the outermost ring of the pattern is between 70% and 100%. In another embodiment, the negative space of the outermost ring is between 80% and 100%. The outermost ring is intended to cover the limbus of the eye. Figures 2 to 4 Exemplary cosmetic contact lenses are shown in the front plan view, left side view, and right side view, respectively. Figure 2 The dashed line in the image represents the edge of the cosmetic contact lens.

[0052] The outermost ring may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm. The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern may be between 9 mm and 14 mm, and preferably between 11 mm and 13 mm.

[0053] According to another exemplary aspect, the present invention provides a cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern, wherein when the pattern covers the iris of the eye, the negative space of the pattern creates an apparent limbal ring. As used herein, "apparent limbal ring" refers to the cosmetic effect of creating the appearance of a limbal ring by wearing a cosmetic contact lens having the elliptical dot pattern of the present invention. As described above, the limbal ring is a dark ring surrounding the periphery of the iris, also known as the limbus, creating a distinct boundary between the iris and sclera of the eye, thereby providing greater contrast and making the iris appear more colorful. The apparent limbal ring coincides with the outermost ring of the elliptical dot pattern, thus sharing the same design elements in terms of geometry and negative space. The negative space within the apparent limbal ring can be between 70% and 100%. The negative space within the apparent limbal ring can be between 80% and 100%. The negative space within the apparent limbal ring can increase radially from the center of the lens, and this gradient of negative space can be different at different locations within the elliptical dot pattern. In addition, the thickness of the apparent limbal ring can be between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm or between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0054] The present invention also provides a cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern including a negative space, wherein when the pattern covers the iris of the eye, the negative space creates an apparent limbal ring, wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is equal to the average iris diameter of a human population. The average iris diameter can be calculated from a population representing the target cosmetic contact lens wearers and can be found in technical publications.

[0055] The present invention also provides a cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern, wherein when the pattern covers the iris of the eye, the negative space of the pattern creates an apparent limbal ring, and wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is equal to or greater than 8 mm, or between 9 mm and 14 mm, or preferably between 11 mm and 13 mm.

[0056] The apparent limbal ring is formed by combining an elliptical dot pattern, the color of the lower iris in the negative space of the elliptical dot pattern, and the color difference between the elliptical dot pattern and the lower iris. In 1976, the Illumination Commission developed a color standard for quantitatively comparing differences between colors perceived by humans. This standard is known as the 1976 CIEL*a*b* color space, which assigns three-dimensional coordinates (L, a*, b*) to each color. The L* coordinate represents the luminance of the target color in the range of zero (black) to 100 (white). The coordinates a* and b* represent chromaticity, without specific numerical limitations. Negative a* values ​​correspond to the amount of green in the target color, and positive a* values ​​correspond to the amount of red in the target color. On the other hand, negative b* values ​​correspond to the level of blue in the target color, and positive b* values ​​correspond to the level of yellow in the target color. In the 1976 CIEL*a*b* color space, the "ΔE" value (ΔE) is the distance between colors, or more precisely, the distance between color coordinates (L, a*, b*), and is a measure of color difference perceived by humans. For two colors with 1976 CIEL*a*b* color space coordinates (L*1, a*1, b*1) and (L*2, a*2, b*2), calculate “ΔE” using the following formula I: Formula I To determine the ΔE value required to form the apparent limbal ring, the L*a*b* values ​​of three different cosmetic contact lenses with gray, gold, or brown elliptical dot patterns were measured on four different colored eye models. Images of the cosmetic contact lenses on the eye models were taken using a digital camera. The color image quality of the images should be at least 140 pixels per inch. The color image of the cosmetic lens of the present invention on the eye model was opened in Adobe Photoshop 2022 (version 23.0.0). Using the color picker tool, points in the limbal region of the iris without any cosmetic pattern were selected. Double-clicking the color box displayed a window showing the color selected using the color picker tool. The window showed the color and its corresponding color value, including the L*a*b* value. The L*a*b* value was displayed and then recorded as coordinates (L*1, a*1, b*1). Next, using the color picker tool, points on the cosmetic pattern area with essentially no negative space were selected. The color window for the selected color was opened, displaying the L*a*b* value, and then recorded as coordinates (L*2, a*2, b*2). Then calculate ΔE using Formula I (Microsoft Excel can be used). When the ΔE value is between 23 and 79, preferably between 23 and 54, and more preferably between 34 and 54, the apparent limbal ring is visible.

[0057] The elliptical dots constituting the cosmetic contact lens of the present invention have a major axis between 10 micrometers and 200 micrometers, between 25 micrometers and 150 micrometers, or between 30 micrometers and 120 micrometers. The elliptical dots can also be circles (a circle is an ellipse with equal major and minor axes). The elliptical dot pattern may also include dots of non-elliptical shapes.

[0058] Elliptical dot patterns can be formed by pad printing using inks containing colorants. The ink can be a dispersion or solution containing at least one colorant. The colorant can be a dye, stain, and / or pigment, whether reactive or non-reactive. The colorant is preferably selected from the group consisting of iron oxide, titanium dioxide, mica pigments, phthalocyanine, carbazole violet, and combinations thereof. The ink may also contain binder polymers, surfactants, etc., to improve the printing process. The binder polymer is designed to interact with the colorant, thereby making the ink more stable before, after, or both of printing. The binder polymer can also control the rate at which the reactive monomer mixture diffuses into and through the clear layer or printed layer. Clear coating inks are ink formulations that do not contain any colorants and are used to print "clear layers" or "clear coatings." The clear layer or clear coating serves as a primer layer on which the ink is used to print the pattern. The clear layer can be applied between contact lens molds or printed layers.

[0059] Elliptical dot patterns can be formed by pad printing using one or more printing layers, each consisting solely of an elliptical dot pattern. The printing layers can be overlapped to create other geometric shapes. In this way, the elliptical dot pattern can vary radially and circumferentially.

[0060] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a cosmetic contact lens with an elliptical dot pattern made of hydrogel or silicone hydrogel, which may further include or incorporate a visible dye for treatment purposes, an ultraviolet light absorber and / or a high-energy visible light absorber for protecting the eyes from photochemical damage, and an internal wetting agent such as polyamide for increasing water content and comfort.

[0061] These cosmetic contact lenses can also be coated. They may also include a central optical zone without an elliptical dot pattern. This optical zone can be designed to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.

[0062] Methods for designing oval dot patterns This invention provides a method for designing an elliptical dot pattern, the method comprising the steps of: (a) selecting a diameter of the elliptical dot pattern, said diameter being equal to or greater than 8 mm; (b) selecting a thickness of the outermost ring of the elliptical dot pattern between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm; and (c) generating an elliptical dot pattern having a negative space between 70% and 100% in the outermost ring, wherein the elliptical dot pattern surrounds an optical region. The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern may be between 9 mm and 14 mm or between 11 mm and 13 mm. The thickness of the outermost ring may be between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm. The negative space of the outermost ring may be between 80% and 100%. The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern may be calculated, for example, from a human population.

[0063] Methods for preparing cosmetic contact lenses The present invention also provides a method for preparing a cosmetic contact lens having an elliptical dot pattern suitable for forming an apparent limbal ring. The method includes: (a) transferring an optional clear layer onto a front-curved mold of a contact lens mold assembly; (b) transferring one or more printed layers on top of the optional clear layer (if present), or otherwise on the front-curved mold of the contact lens mold assembly, wherein these printed layers form an elliptical dot pattern suitable for forming an apparent limbal ring; (c) dispensing a reactive monomer mixture into the front-curved mold; (d) positioning a base-curved mold on top of the front-curved mold to form a contact lens mold assembly having a cavity in the shape of a contact lens; (e) polymerizing the reactive monomer mixture; (f) removing the cosmetic contact lens from the mold assembly; (g) extracting the cosmetic contact lens; and (h) hydrating the cosmetic contact lens, for example, with an organic aqueous solution or deionized water. In a further step, the cosmetic contact lens may be packaged and sterilized, typically by autoclaving the package containing the cosmetic contact lens in a suitable packaging solution. Examples 1-4 are representative of this manufacturing method. Alternatively, pad printing of one or more printing layers can be accomplished using inkjet or dot matrix printing processes.

[0064] Optional clear layers can be printed on the front curved surface mold of the contact lens mold assembly in any shape or thickness. Preferably, the clear layer is printed in the shape of a ring surrounding the optical region portion of the front curved surface mold. Further information on the use of clear layers in the manufacture of cosmetic contact lenses can be found in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,832,860 and 9,798,162, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0065] The printed layer can be formed using inks containing a variety of colorants, such as iron oxide, titanium dioxide, mica pigments, phthalocyanine, carbazole violet, and combinations thereof. Without a transparent layer, the printed layer is printed directly onto the surface of the front-curved mold. The ink may contain a binder polymer. The binder polymer is typically prepared from a subset of reactive components used in a reactive monomer mixture. For hydrogels, the binder polymer may be a hydrophilic homopolymer or copolymer. For silicone hydrogels, the binder polymer may contain a silicone-containing component and a hydrophilic component. Further information regarding the use of inks containing binder polymers in silicone hydrogels in the manufacture of cosmetic contact lenses can be found in U.S. Patent No. 10,996,491 and U.S. Publication Application No. 2021 / 0079238, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0066] One property of the printed layers is that they can form an elliptical dot pattern that exhibits a color difference (“ΔE”) between 23 and 79 compared to the color of the contact lens wearer’s iris. The ΔE between the elliptical dot pattern and the iris is preferably between 23 and 54, and more preferably between 34 and 54. In the above method, the reactive monomer mixture may contain only the hydrophilic component for forming the hydrogel, or it may contain one or more organosilicon-containing components to form an organosilicon hydrogel.

[0067] Terms and Conditions Certain aspects of the invention described herein may be combined in whole or in part. The following provisions set forth some non-limiting embodiments of this disclosure.

[0068] Clause 1. A cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern, wherein the elliptical dot pattern has a diameter equal to or greater than 8 mm and has a negative space between 70% and 100% in the outermost ring, the outermost ring having a thickness between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0069] Clause 2. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 1, wherein the outermost ring has a thickness between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0070] Clause 3. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 2, wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 9 mm and 14 mm.

[0071] Clause 4. The cosmetic contact lens as described in Clause 3, wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 11 mm and 13 mm.

[0072] Clause 5. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the negative space of the outermost ring is between 80% and 100%.

[0073] Clause 6. A cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern, wherein when the pattern covers the iris, the negative space of the pattern creates an apparent limbal ring.

[0074] Clause 7. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 6, wherein the negative space within the apparent limbal ring is between 70% and 100%.

[0075] Clause 8. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 7, wherein the negative space within the apparent limbal ring is between 80% and 100%.

[0076] Clause 9. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 6 to 8, wherein the negative space within the apparent limbal ring increases radially from the center of the lens.

[0077] Clause 10. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 6 to 9, wherein the apparent limbal ring has a thickness between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0078] Clause 11. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 10, wherein the thickness of the apparent limbal ring is between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0079] Clause 12. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 6 to 11, wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is equal to the average iris diameter of the human population.

[0080] Clause 13. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 6 to 12, wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is equal to or greater than 8 mm.

[0081] Clause 14. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 13, wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 9 mm and 14 mm.

[0082] Clause 15. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 14, wherein the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 11 mm and 13 mm.

[0083] Clause 16. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 6 to 15, wherein the chromatic difference (ΔE) between the elliptical dot pattern and the iris is between 23 and 79.

[0084] Clause 17. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 16, wherein the chromatic aberration (ΔE) between the elliptical dot pattern and the iris is between 23 and 54.

[0085] Clause 18. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 17, wherein the chromatic aberration (ΔE) between the elliptical dot pattern and the iris is between 34 and 54.

[0086] Clause 19. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 18, wherein the elliptical dot pattern comprises elliptical dots having a major axis between 10 micrometers and 200 micrometers.

[0087] Clause 20. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 19, wherein the elliptical dot pattern comprises elliptical dots having a major axis between 25 micrometers and 150 micrometers.

[0088] Clause 21. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 20, wherein the elliptical dot pattern comprises elliptical dots having a major axis between 30 micrometers and 120 micrometers.

[0089] Clause 22. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 21, wherein the elliptical dot is a circle.

[0090] Clause 23. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 22, wherein the elliptical dot pattern further includes dots of non-elliptical shape.

[0091] Clause 24. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 23, wherein the elliptical dot pattern is formed by pad printing using ink containing a colorant.

[0092] Clause 25. The cosmetic contact lens according to Clause 24, wherein the colorant is selected from the group consisting of: iron oxide, titanium dioxide, mica pigment, phthalocyanine, carbazole violet, and combinations thereof.

[0093] Clause 26. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 24 to 25, wherein the elliptical dot pattern is formed by pad printing using one or more printed layers, the one or more printed layers being individually composed of the elliptical dot pattern.

[0094] Clause 27. The cosmetic contact lens as described in Clause 26, wherein the printed layers overlap and produce other geometries.

[0095] Clause 28. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 27, wherein the elliptical dot pattern varies radially and circumferentially.

[0096] Clause 29. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 28, wherein the cosmetic contact lens is made of hydrogel.

[0097] Clause 30. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 28, wherein the cosmetic contact lens is made of silicone hydrogel.

[0098] Clause 31. A cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 30, wherein the cosmetic contact lens is coated.

[0099] Clause 32. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of Clauses 1 to 31 further includes an optical zone at the center of the lens, in which no elliptical dot pattern exists.

[0100] Clause 33. The cosmetic contact lens as described in Clause 32, wherein the optical zone is designed to correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism or presbyopia.

[0101] Clause 34. A method for designing an elliptical dot pattern for cosmetic contact lenses, the method comprising the steps of: (a) Select the diameter of the elliptical dot pattern, wherein the diameter is equal to or greater than 8 mm; (b) The thickness of the outermost ring of the elliptical dot pattern is selected to be between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm; and (c) An elliptical dot pattern with a negative space between 70% and 100% is generated in the outermost ring, wherein the elliptical dot pattern surrounds the optical area.

[0102] Clause 35. The method according to Clause 34, wherein the diameter is between 9 mm and 14 mm.

[0103] Clause 36. The method described in accordance with Clause 35, wherein the diameter is between 11 mm and 13 mm.

[0104] Clause 37. The method according to any one of Clauses 34 to 36, wherein the thickness of the outermost ring is between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0105] Clause 38. The method according to any one of Clauses 34 to 37, wherein the negative space of the outermost ring is between 80% and 100%.

[0106] Clause 39. The method according to any one of Clauses 34 to 38, wherein the diameter is an average diameter calculated from a human population based on demographic, geographical, medical condition, or a combination thereof.

[0107] Clause 40. The method described in Clause 39, wherein the demographic data are selected from the group consisting of: age, race, sex, nationality, income, and combinations thereof.

[0108] Article 41. The method described in Article 39, wherein geography is selected from the group consisting of: global, continent, country, region, political, and combinations thereof.

[0109] Clause 42. The method described in Clause 39, wherein the medical condition is selected from the group consisting of: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia, glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, diabetes, and combinations thereof.

[0110] Clause 43. A method for preparing a cosmetic contact lens having an elliptical dot pattern suitable for forming an apparent limbal ring, the method comprising the following steps: (a) Transfer printing an optional transparent layer onto the front curved surface mold of the contact lens mold assembly; (b) On top of an optional transparent layer (if present), or otherwise on the anterior curved mold, one or more printed layers are transferred, wherein the printed layers form an elliptical dot pattern suitable for forming an apparent limbal ring. (c) Dispensing the reactive monomer mixture into the front surface mold; (d) Positioning the base surface mold on top of the front surface mold to form the contact lens mold assembly having a cavity in the shape of a contact lens; and (e) Polymerize the reactive monomer mixture to form the cosmetic contact lens; (f) Remove the cosmetic contact lens from the mold assembly; (g) Extract the cosmetic contact lens; and (h) Hydrate the cosmetic contact lens.

[0111] Clause 44. The method according to Clause 43 further includes the steps of packaging and sterilizing the cosmetic contact lens after the hydration step.

[0112] Clause 45. The method according to Clause 44, wherein the sterilization step is performed by autoclaving the cosmetic contact lenses in the package.

[0113] Clause 46. The method according to any one of Clauses 43 to 45, wherein the transparent layer is a ring surrounding the optical region.

[0114] Clause 47. The method according to any one of Clauses 43 to 46, wherein the reactive monomer mixture comprises one or more components containing organosilicon.

[0115] Clause 48. The method according to Clause 47, wherein the transparent layer comprises a polymer made of one or more compounds containing organosilicon. Example

[0116] The following abbreviations will be used throughout the embodiments and have the following meanings: LED: Light Emitting Diode Wt. %: weight% PPM: Number of parts per million BC: Base Curved Surface Plastic Mold FC: Front Curved Surface Plastic Mold PS: Polystyrene is a homopolymer of styrene and is used as a resin or component in plastic molding processes. It may contain additives. PP: Polypropylene, a homopolymer of propylene used as a resin or component in plastic molding, and may contain additives. TT: Tuftec, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene block copolymer (Asahi Kasei Chemicals) used as a plastic molding resin or component, and may contain additives. Z: Zeonor, a polycyclic olefin thermoplastic polymer (Nippon Zeon Co Ltd) used as a plastic molding resin or component, and may contain additives. RMM: Reactive Monomer Mixture HEMA: 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate (Bimax) DMA: N,N-dimethylacrylamide (Jarchem) MAA: Acros mPDMS 1000: Mono-n-butyl-terminated monomethacryloyloxypropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (M n =1000 grams per mole (Gelest) SiMAA: 2-Acrylic acid, 2-methyl-2-hydroxy-3-[3-[1,3,3,3-tetramethyl-1-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]disiloxyl]propoxy]propyl ester (Toray) or 3-(3-(1,1,1,3,5,5,5-heptamethyltrisiloxane-3-yl)propoxy)-2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate EGDMA: Ethylene dimethacrylate (Esstech) TMPTMA: Trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (Esstech) TEGDMA: Tetraethylene dimethacrylate (Esstech) Omnirad 1700: A mixture of bis(2,6-dimethoxybenzoyl)-2,4,4-trimethylpentylphosphine oxide and 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-prop-1-one. Omnirad 1870: A blend of bis(2,6-dimethoxybenzoyl)-2,4,4-trimethyl-pentylphosphine oxide and [other compounds]. AIBN: Azobisisobutyronitrile (initiator) DODT: 1-Dodecathiol (chain transfer agent) Norbloc: 2-(2'-hydroxy-5-methacryloyloxyethylphenyl)-2H-benzotriazole (Janssen) Blue HEMA: 1-Amino-4-[3-(4-(2-methacryloyloxy-ethoxy)-6-chlorotriazine-2-ylamino)-4-sulfophenylamino]anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid, as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,944,853. PVP, PVP K30, PVP K60, PVP K90: Poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (ISP Ashland) DIW: Deionized Water IPA: Isopropyl alcohol 1E2P: 1-Ethoxy-2-propanol IPL: Isopropyl lactate D3O: 3,7-Dimethyl-3-octanol (Vigon) 3E3P: 3-Ethyl-3-pentanol HEP: 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-pyrrolidone Borate buffer solution: The borate buffer solution consists of 0.84 wt% sodium chloride, 0.91 wt% boric acid, 0.24 wt% sodium borate decahydrate, 0.01 wt% disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate and 98 wt% deionized water.

[0117] BAGE: Glyceryl borate (molar ratio of boric acid to glycerol is 1:2) In a suitable reactor, 299.3 g (3.2 mol) of glycerol and 99.8 g (1.6 mol) of boric acid were dissolved in 1247.4 g of 5% (w / w) EDTA aqueous solution, and then heated to 90-94 °C with stirring under mild vacuum (2-6 Torr) for 4-5 hours, and then cooled to room temperature.

[0118] Titanium dioxide: Cosmetic White C47-060 (Chempilots) Iron oxide black: Sicotit Black 85 E172 (Chempilots) Iron oxide brown: Sicotit Brown 75 E172 (Chempilots) Iron oxide red: Sicotit Red 30 E172 (Chempilots) Iron oxide yellow: Sicotit Yellow 10 E172 (Chempilots) Phthalocyanine Blue 15 (Chempilots) Phthalocyanine Green (Chempilots) Carbazole Violet 23 (Chempilots) Synthesis of binder copolymers (hydrogels) A binder copolymer containing approximately 1.4 wt% MAA repeating units was prepared from HEMA and MAA via free radical polymerization using AIBN as an initiator and DODT as a chain transfer agent. The copolymerization conditions could be varied to control the composition, molecular weight, and molecular weight distribution of the binder copolymer. The composition was approximately 1.4 wt% MAA repeating units, approximately 96.6 wt% HEMA repeating units, and approximately 2 wt% DODT (binder copolymer #1). The binder copolymer interacted with and stabilized the pigment / dye dispersion.

[0119] Transparent coating ink (hydrogel) A transparent coating is printed onto the front curved surface mold using a transparent coating ink. A cosmetic pattern is then transferred onto this transparent coating. The transparent coating ink is prepared by dissolving the adhesive copolymer #1 in a 4:1 (w / w) solution of IPL:1E2P with a concentration ranging from about 20% to about 40% by weight. In this embodiment, the concentration of the adhesive copolymer #1 is 30% by weight. The viscosity of the solution can be adjusted as needed by diluting with a 4:1 (w / w) solution of IPL:1E2P or with 1-propanol. 1-Propanol is preferred.

[0120] Preparation of colored inks (hydrogels) Colored inks are prepared by mixing pigments and / or dyes at a certain concentration into a hydrogel-grade transparent base ink (30 wt% of binder copolymer #1) to impart desired color, pattern, and / or effect in cosmetic contact lenses. The concentration of pigments and dyes can vary from about 1 wt% to about 25 wt%, depending on the opacity, translucency, or transparency of the printed layer. 1-Propanol can be added after the pigments and dyes have been added to adjust the viscosity or change the evaporation rate. Table A lists six colored ink compositions. The concentration of specific pigments or dyes is listed in wt%. The Brinell viscosity of these colored inks is reduced by adding 1-propanol to the initial pigment / dye dispersion, such that the Brinell viscosity is between about 5000 centipoise and about 8000 centipoise, preferably between about 5500 centipoise and 6500 centipoise.

[0121] Table A. Colored Ink Formulations Example 1 (Hydrogel) Cosmetic contact lenses with an elliptical dot pattern are manufactured on an automated pilot production line capable of pad printing and contact lens manufacturing. This elliptical dot pattern is designed to cover the iris and thus form an apparent limbal ring, with oxygen levels maintained between 0.5% and 5%. The anterior and posterior molds can be made from any polymer; however, homopolymers, copolymers, and blends of PS, PP, TT, and Z are preferred. For example, the anterior mold is made of polystyrene, and the posterior mold is made of Zeonor. Before use, the anterior and posterior molds are degassed for approximately twelve hours. A clear coating is printed using a clear coating ink in the ring located between the optical zone and the lens edge and allowed to dry sufficiently (dry enough to deposit the next layer without wrinkling or altering the clear coating). Then, colored ink #A1 is used to apply the... Figure 5 The pattern shown in C is printed onto a transparent coating using a pad printing plate. The dot diameter of this first printed layer varies from 50 micrometers to 110 micrometers. After colored ink #A1 has fully dried, colored ink #A2 is used to... Figure 5 The pattern shown in D is printed onto a transparent coating using a pad printing plate. The average dot diameter of this second printed layer is 63 micrometers.

[0122] Once the printed layer is dry, approximately 100 μL of RMM is metered into the printed front-curved mold at ambient temperature. The RMM is prepared by dissolving the reactive component in BAGE at the relative amounts listed in Table B to prepare a 52:48 (w / w) solution of reactive component and diluent. The base-curved mold is then placed on top of the front-curved mold. The tray including the mold assembly is then moved into the curing chamber at 60°C–70°C. The time between metered RMM addition and entry into the curing chamber is controlled to allow the RMM to diffuse into the printed layer without smearing. A 420 nm LED located above the tray is used to photopolymerize the RMM around the printed layer to achieve approximately 5 mW / cm². 2 The intensity lasted for about 4 minutes.

[0123] Table B. Reactive Monomer Mixtures The printed lenses are mechanically demolded, with most adhering to the FC and demolded from the BC. Hydration is achieved by immersing the lenses in a diluent solution containing approximately 800 ppm Tween 80 at 70°C for about one hour, followed by equilibration in a borate-buffered filling solution at 70°C for another hour. It is recognized by the average technician that the exact lens demolding process can vary depending on the lens formulation and mold material. The goal of the lens demolding process is to demold all lenses without defects and to transform the network swollen by the diluent into a hydrogel swollen by the wetting solution. The lenses are then transferred to foil-heat-sealed blister packs and subsequently sterilized by autoclaving at 124°C for approximately 18 minutes. When the printed lenses are placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, an apparent limbal ring is visible, such as… Figure 6 As shown in C.

[0124] Example 2 (Hydrogel - Predictive) Repeat Example 1, except that ink #A3 and having Figure 5 The pad printing plate for the pattern shown in C is applied with a first printing layer, and ink #A4 and having Figure 5 A second printing layer is applied to the pad printing plate of the pattern shown in D.

[0125] Example 3 (Hydrogel - Predictive) Repeat Example 1, except that ink #A5 and having Figure 5 The pad printing plate for the pattern shown in Figure A is applied with a first printing layer, and ink #A6 and having Figure 5 A second printing layer is applied to the pad printing plate of the pattern shown in B.

[0126] Synthesis of binder copolymers (organosilicon hydrogels) An AIBN solution was prepared by dissolving 4 g of AIBN in 300 g of 1-propanol. Before use, the AIBN solution was degassed with nitrogen for 15 to 20 minutes. A monomer solution was prepared by dissolving 98 g of HEMA and 98 g of mPDMS in 91 g of 1-propanol. Before use, the monomer solution was degassed with nitrogen for 15 to 20 minutes.

[0127] A two-liter jacketed reactor containing 279 g of 1-propanol was heated to 70 °C using a water bath under a nitrogen atmosphere. AIBN and monomer solutions were added to the reactor over four hours using a Watson-Marlow pump. The reaction mixture was stirred overnight, then the temperature was lowered to 50 °C, and monomer conversion was monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy until the carbon-carbon double bond band disappeared. Complete conversion took approximately 24 hours.

[0128] The reaction mixture was transferred to a transparent glass vial. The copolymer was separated by precipitation into water, filtration, and vacuum drying to obtain approximately 182 grams of product (bonding copolymer #2).

[0129] Transparent coating ink (silicone hydrogel - predictive) Transparent coating inks are prepared by dissolving the binder copolymer #2 for silicone hydrogels in a solvent system containing varying amounts of HEP, IPL, D3O, and / or 1E2P. Transparent coating inks may also contain various amounts of PVP K60 and PVP K30, especially when the reactive monomer mixture contains PVP K90. Exemplary transparent inks for silicone hydrogels are listed in Table C.

[0130] Table C Preparation of colored inks (organosilicon hydrogel - predictive) Colored inks are prepared by dispersing / dissolving a colorant in one of the transparent coating inks C1-C4 at the exemplary concentrations shown in Table D.

[0131] Table D Example 4 (Organosilicon hydrogel - Predictive) Cosmetic contact lenses with an elliptical dot pattern are manufactured on an automated pilot production line capable of pad printing and contact lens manufacturing. This elliptical dot pattern is designed to cover the iris and thus form an apparent limbal ring, with oxygen levels maintained between 0.5% and 5%. The anterior and posterior molds can be made from any polymer; however, homopolymers, copolymers, and blends of PS, PP, TT, and Z are preferred. For example, the anterior mold is made of polystyrene, and the posterior mold is made of Zeonor. Before use, the anterior and posterior molds are degassed for approximately twelve hours. After printing the annular clear coating using clear coating ink C1 located between the optical zone and the lens edge and allowing it to dry sufficiently (dry enough to deposit the next layer without wrinkling or altering the clear coating), the lens is then coated with colored ink #D1. Figure 5 The pattern shown in C is transferred onto the transparent coating using a printing plate. After colored ink #D1 has fully dried, colored ink #D2 is used to transfer the pattern onto the transparent coating. Figure 5 The pattern shown in D is printed onto the transparent coating using a pad printing plate.

[0132] Once the printed layer is dry, approximately 100 μL of RMM is metered into the printed front-curved mold at ambient temperature. The RMM is prepared by dissolving the reactive component in D3O at the relative amounts listed in Table E to prepare a 77:23 (w / w) solution of reactive component and diluent. The base-curved mold is then placed on top of the front-curved mold. The tray including the mold assembly is then moved into the curing chamber at 60°C–70°C. The time between metered RMM addition and entry into the curing chamber is controlled to allow the RMM to diffuse into the printed layer without smearing. A 420 nm LED located above the tray is used to photopolymerize the RMM around the printed layer to achieve approximately 5 mW / cm². 2 The intensity lasted for about 4 minutes.

[0133] Table E The printed lenses are demolded, with most adhering to the FC (Fluorescent Coating), and then released by immersing them in 70% IPA for approximately one or two hours, followed by two washes with 70% IPA, optionally two washes with 25% IPA, two washes with DI (Diluent), and finally one wash with a borate-buffered wetting solution. Each wash step lasts approximately 30 minutes. It is understood by those skilled in the art that the exact lens demolding process can vary depending on the lens formulation and mold material. The aim of the lens demolding process is to ensure that all lenses are demolded without defects and to transform from a network swollen by the diluent to a hydrogel swollen by the wetting solution. The lenses are then transferred to foil-heat-sealed blister packs and subsequently sterilized by autoclaving at 124°C for approximately 18 minutes. When the printed lenses are placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, an apparent limbal ring, resembling... Figure 6 The limbal ring shown in C.

Claims

1. A cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern, wherein the elliptical dot pattern has a diameter equal to or greater than 8 mm and has a negative space between 70% and 100% in the outermost ring, the outermost ring having a thickness between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm.

2. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 1, wherein, The outermost ring has a thickness between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

3. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 9 mm and 14 mm.

4. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 3, wherein, The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 11 mm and 13 mm.

5. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The negative space in the outermost ring is between 80% and 100%.

6. A cosmetic contact lens comprising an elliptical dot pattern, the elliptical dot pattern including a negative space, wherein when the elliptical dot pattern covers the iris, the negative space creates an apparent limbal ring.

7. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 6, wherein, The negative space is between 70% and 100%.

8. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 7, wherein, The negative space is between 80% and 100%.

9. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, The negative space increases radially from the center of the lens.

10. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, The apparent limbal ring has a thickness between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm.

11. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 10, wherein, The thickness of the apparent limbal ring is between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

12. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein, The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is equal to the average iris diameter of the human population.

13. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein, The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is equal to or greater than 8 millimeters.

14. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 13, wherein, The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 9 mm and 14 mm.

15. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 14, wherein, The diameter of the elliptical dot pattern is between 11 mm and 13 mm.

16. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern and the iris exhibit a color difference (ΔE) between 23 and 79.

17. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 16, wherein, The color difference (ΔE) between the elliptical dot pattern and the iris is between 23 and 54.

18. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 17, wherein, The color difference (ΔE) between the elliptical dot pattern and the iris is between 34 and 54.

19. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern comprises elliptical dots with a major axis between 10 micrometers and 200 micrometers.

20. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 19, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern comprises elliptical dots with a major axis between 25 micrometers and 150 micrometers.

21. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 20, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern comprises elliptical dots with a major axis between 30 micrometers and 120 micrometers.

22. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, The elliptical point is a circle.

23. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern also includes dots that are not elliptical in shape.

24. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern is formed by pad printing using ink containing colorant.

25. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 24, wherein, The colorant is selected from the group consisting of: iron oxide, titanium dioxide, mica pigment, phthalocyanine, carbazole violet, and combinations thereof.

26. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 24 to 25, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern is formed by pad printing using one or more printing layers, each of which is individually composed of the elliptical dot pattern.

27. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 26, wherein, The printed layers overlap and produce other geometries.

28. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein, The elliptical dot pattern varies radially and circumferentially.

29. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein, The cosmetic contact lenses are made of hydrogel.

30. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein, The cosmetic contact lenses are made of silicone hydrogel.

31. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein, The cosmetic contact lenses are coated.

32. The cosmetic contact lens according to any one of claims 1 to 31, further comprising an optical zone at the center of the lens, wherein no elliptical dot pattern exists in the optical zone.

33. The cosmetic contact lens according to claim 32, wherein, The optical zone is designed to correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia.

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