ARTIFICIAL LENS WITH INTEGRATED IMAGE PROJECTION DEVICE, ELECTRONIC INFORMATION SYSTEM

Description

Technical area

[0001] One aspect of the invention relates to an artificial eye lens with at least one optical part. The optical part has a front side. This front side is to be understood locally in such a way that, when the artificial eye lens is arranged on or in the eye, it faces away from the retina, in particular the optic nerve of the eye. This front side therefore faces the person's surroundings. The optical part has a back side opposite the front side. This back side is to be understood locally in such a way that, when the artificial eye lens is arranged on or in the eye, it faces the retina, in particular the optic nerve of the eye. This back side is therefore facing away from the person's front surroundings or the front surroundings of the eye. State of the art

[0002] Artificial eye lenses, for example, are known as intraocular lenses. An intraocular lens has an optical part, to which at least one haptic element can be attached at the edge. This haptic element allows the intraocular lens to be held in place within the eye, for example, in a capsular bag. The haptic element is a component of the intraocular lens and does not have any optical imaging properties, unlike the optical part.

[0003] An optical part of an artificial eye lens is typically constructed from a plastic material, such as a polymer material. Due to its shape, this optical part exhibits a specific optical imaging property. This optical imaging property can be refractive and / or diffractive. Typically, specific optical structures are formed or arranged within the optical part. This allows the light incident on the artificial eye lens from the environment to be specifically directed by the optical imaging property of the optical part.

[0004] Furthermore, it is also known that such an artificial lens can have an aperture or pinhole in the optical part. This allows the depth of field of the artificial lens to be individually designed or improved.

[0005] Such an artificial eye lens is known, for example, from DE 10 2018 118 714 A1.

[0006] Furthermore, artificial eye lenses are also known which, in addition to the optical functionality of the optical part, have further integrated functionalities. In this context, it is known from US 2008 / 0208335 A1, for example, that an artificial eye lens can also have an electroactive element. This can, for example, also be a solar cell. The electroactive element can also change its refractive index. This electroactive element can be arranged internally in a lens body of the artificial eye lens. This electroactive element can also be constructed from several layers. Various ring zones with different functions are also provided there. The various ring zones are radially adjacent to one another in the radial direction to the main optical axis of the lens body there and are arranged without radial overlap.

[0007] US 2019 / 0 274 ​​822 A1 discloses an intraocular lens with a display on the optical part. US 2016 / 0 256 260 A1 discloses an eye implant with a specific support structure. US 2021 / 015 604 A1 discloses an intraocular lens with an electronically adjustable pinhole. Description of the invention

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an artificial eye lens and an electronic information system which enables an improved and more comprehensive optical information display.

[0009] This object is achieved by an artificial eye lens and an electronic information system according to the independent claims.

[0010] One aspect of the invention relates to an artificial eye lens with at least one optical part. The optical part has a front side. This front side is to be understood locally in such a way that, when the artificial eye lens is arranged in the eye, it faces away from the retina, in particular the optic nerve, of the eye. This front side therefore faces the front environment of the person when the artificial eye lens is arranged in the eye. The optical part has a back side opposite the front side. This back side is to be understood locally in such a way that, when the artificial eye lens is arranged in the eye, it faces the retina, in particular the optic nerve of the eye. This back side is therefore facing away from the front environment of the person or the front environment of the eye.

[0011] The artificial eye lens has an image projection device. With this, optical information generated by the image projection device itself can be projected at least onto the back of the optical part or is projected onto it. The image projection device is thus arranged on or in the optical part in such a way that it radiates the light image it emits directly onto the back. This artificial eye lens thus has an independent component, thanks to the image projection device, that enables its own image generation. This image projection device therefore enables image generation independent of the optical imaging properties of the optical part itself. With the optical part, light from the environment that strikes the artificial eye lens can be redirected accordingly due to the design of the optical part and the associated inherent optical imaging properties.The image projection device, on the other hand, does not operate with the ambient light incident on the lens, but generates the image itself. This occurs independently of the ambient light incident on the artificial eye lens from the environment. The image projection device is therefore designed to generate optical information independently of the ambient light incident on the artificial eye lens from the environment.

[0012] In this context, it is therefore also possible that, when this artificial eye lens is inserted into the eye, the person wearing the artificial eye lens can simultaneously perceive optical information from the image projection device and the additional optical perception possibilities, which are characterized differently and separately by the incident ambient light.

[0013] In particular, such an image projection device and its specific projection direction, namely at least directly onto the back of the optical part, can also ensure that, when the artificial lens is inserted into the eye or into the eye, this projected information strikes the retina of the eye and can thus be detected and perceived by the natural eye. Such a defined projection direction of the image projection device therefore allows information to be projected specifically at least onto this back in order to be projected simply and clearly onto the retina of the eye and thus reliably recognized by the person wearing the artificial lens.

[0014] The image projection device is designed and arranged to project optical information generated by the image projection device itself through the back of the optical part and out of the optical part to the rear. This allows the specifically generated optical information of the image projection device to be radiated into a very specific position behind the back of the artificial eye lens. This is particularly advantageous for being able to guide or radiate this optical information to the retina of the eye. As a result, this optical information can also be projected directly onto the retina of the image projection device when the artificial eye lens is arranged in the eye. The optical information generated in this way can therefore be perceived very clearly and sharply by the eye.

[0015] This makes it particularly advantageous and precise to project additional optical information onto the retina in addition to the optical information perceived from the environment so that it can be perceived by the person. This also makes it particularly advantageous to project such optical information artificially generated by the image projection device onto the retina. This makes it particularly advantageous for other optical information to be projected onto the retina by the image projection device, independently of the environmental information perceived by the eye. In another exemplary embodiment, it can also be provided that this optical information from the image projection device is additional information relating to very specific objects in the person's environment.This optical information in the image projection device can therefore additionally inform a person about objects in the person's surroundings that the person can perceive with the eye, in particular currently. This can be explanatory information or auxiliary information or the like. It can also be information for a person's orientation. For example, the optical information generated by the image projection device can be explanations of directions and / or, for example, a specific entrance to a building and / or the location of specific areas within a building, such as a doctor's office or the like. However, it is also possible for the person's current position information to be generated as such optical information by the image projection device.This can be used, for example, to display a person's current position relative to other objects in the environment. It is particularly advantageous not only in the fact that orientation and guidance information is generated as optical information by the image projection device and projected accordingly at least onto the back of the artificial eye lens, and in particular beyond it. This can also be used to provide support when a person is searching for orientation in their surroundings. This is particularly advantageous for people in need of assistance, for example when such orientation and guidance information is beneficial following an illness such as dementia or the like. Such information can be of assistance not only for wayfinding and orientation.Likewise, for example, information on taking medication can be generated as optical information by the image projection device not only for such a group of people. For example, in this context, reminder information can be generated as optical information by the image projection device. This can, for example, be the time and / or the amount and / or the type of medication taken as optical information. However, any other further optical information is possible, such as an appointment reminder or the like. Furthermore, it is also possible for the receipt of an e-mail and / or a telephone call, for example on a mobile device, to be generated as optical information by the image projection device as advisory information and for the optical information to be emitted in this regard in the aforementioned projection direction.

[0016] In particular, such visual information can also be used as a guide for specific people, especially people in need of assistance, in their own house or apartment.

[0017] In one embodiment, simple symbols and / or letters and / or numbers can be generated and projected as optical information by the image projection device. It is also possible to generate images in addition to or instead of this. These can then be generated and projected as very specific scenarios with multiple objects, either virtually and / or symbolically, or even as a highly realistic representation.

[0018] In this context, it is possible in one embodiment for the image projection device to be designed as an augmented reality image projection device. This also makes it possible, in particular, to enable a contact-analog representation of the optical information generated by the image projection device with objects perceived in the person's surroundings, depending on the person's viewing direction.

[0019] Patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can also benefit from an intraocular lens according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. In one embodiment, the image projection device can be configured to change the size of the projected image and / or the projection location onto the back, in particular behind the back, of the intraocular lens, in particular onto the retina. This is possible, in particular, through the type and / or size of the hologram, which is changeable in this regard. This occurs, in particular, depending on the degree of macular degeneration. This also enables dynamic adaptation of the image projection to the progression of the disease.

[0020] In one embodiment, the image projection device is designed to generate a 3D image. It is particularly advantageous if the image projection device is designed to generate a hologram. This further enhances the diversity and flexibility of the optical information display. This enables the image projection device to display information that is even more realistic and, for the most part, intuitively easier to perceive and understand.

[0021] In one embodiment, the image projection device has at least one coherent light source. This coherent light source can be, for example, a laser diode. Such light sources are very compact. They also enable the generation of a hologram as optical information.

[0022] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens has at least one haptic. The haptic is connected to the optical part. In particular, it is arranged on a radially outer edge, in particular arranged radially directly adjacent to the optical part. The haptic can be designed as a bracket. This bracket can be arranged directly on the optical part with only one end. The second end of such a bracket can be arranged exposed or cantilevered. In a further embodiment, the haptic can end with its two ends directly on the optical part, in particular at different locations. In particular, it can here again end at a radially outer peripheral edge of the optical part. A haptic is intended to hold an artificial eye lens, when it is designed as an intraocular lens, in the eye, for example in a capsular bag.A haptic usually has no optical imaging properties.

[0023] In one embodiment, the coherent light source is arranged on the haptic. This does not impair the optical component. In particular, the optical component's optical imaging properties are not limited in this regard. On the other hand, such an embodiment allows the haptic to serve as a multifunctional component. It then serves as a holder for the intraocular lens in the eye and, on the other hand, as a carrier for this coherent light source.

[0024] In one embodiment, the coherent light source can be arranged on the upper side of the haptic. In another embodiment, the coherent light source is integrated internally into the haptic. In one embodiment, this means that it is completely embedded in the material of the haptic. In one embodiment, the coherent light source can be completely enclosed by the material of the haptic. Thus, in one embodiment, the coherent light source is not affected by environmental influences, such as fluids in the eye. This enables consistently high functionality.

[0025] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens has at least one light-guiding element. This is intended to guide light from the coherent light source to a display of the image projection device. The optical information is emitted via the display. This allows the coherent light source and the display of the image projection device, which are fundamentally two different components of the image projection device, to be arranged at different locations on the artificial eye lens. This has advantages with regard to the positional arrangement and, on the one hand, the generation of the light of the image projection device, and, on the other hand, the emission of the optical information of the image projection device.

[0026] In one embodiment, the image projection device has a holographic display. This makes it particularly advantageous and easy to generate a wide variety of even complex holograms and to project them in the corresponding projection direction. In one embodiment, this display, in particular the holographic display, is arranged on the optical part. This is advantageous because the beam path emitted by the display, namely the emitted optical information, can be beamed directly onto the back. In this context, no further optical elements are therefore required. This enables a very precise, high-intensity projection of the optical information onto the back, in particular through the back, backwards out of the artificial eye lens, in particular without deflecting the light rays.

[0027] Especially when the light source of the image projection device is a coherent light source, this coherent light is particularly suitable for generating a hologram. Therefore, the combination of a coherent light source and the holographic display is particularly advantageous.

[0028] Especially when these two different components of the image projection device are arranged at different locations on or in the artificial eye lens, at least one light guide element of the artificial eye lens is provided in one embodiment. This allows the light emitted by the coherent light source to be guided to the display, in particular the holographic display, in a targeted manner and with minimal light loss. Undesired light losses in the material of the artificial eye lens can then be at least significantly reduced. It can be provided that the light guide element is materially different from the material of the haptic and / or the material of the optical part of the artificial eye lens. This makes it possible to provide a light guide element that is completely tailored to the needs. In this context, it can be designed to be specially tailored to the coherent light of the coherent light source.This allows the coherent light to be transmitted to the display with very low losses.

[0029] In one embodiment, the light guide element can be rod-shaped or else designed as a corresponding light guide layer. In one embodiment, it is possible for the light guide element to be embedded at least partially in the material of the haptic element and / or the material of the optical part. However, it can also be provided that the light guide element is completely surrounded by the material of the haptic element and / or completely by the material of the optical part. This also achieves a particularly protected arrangement. In one embodiment, it can also be provided that the display, in particular the holographic display, is arranged so as to be embedded at least partially in the material of the optical part. It can also be completely enclosed by the material of the optical part.

[0030] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens has a pinhole. This is arranged on or in the optical part. This means that the pinhole can be arranged on a surface, for example the front side of the optical part. However, it is also possible for this pinhole to be integrated and, in this context, completely internally formed in the material of the optical part. The pinhole is preferably designed as a ring, in particular as an annular disc or annular plate. It can be semi-transparent or opaque. It is also possible for the material of the pinhole to be variable in terms of its transparency. In particular, the light transmittance of the pinhole is smaller, in particular significantly smaller, than the light transmittance of the material of the optical part.In this regard, the material of the optical part is made of a common polymer material, such as that used in conventional lenses, such as intraocular lenses or contact lenses. A wide variety of polymer materials are known for this purpose, which will not be comprehensively listed here.

[0031] In one exemplary embodiment, at least one electronic component is arranged in the optical part in the surface area of ​​the pinhole diaphragm behind the pinhole diaphragm. The electronic component can be an antenna, for example. This electronic component is therefore arranged between the pinhole diaphragm and the rear side of the optical part. In one exemplary embodiment, at least one display, in particular a holographic display, of the artificial eye lens can be arranged in the optical part in the surface area of ​​the pinhole diaphragm behind the pinhole diaphragm. This means that when viewed by projection along a main optical axis of the optical part, which centrally penetrates the front and rear sides of the optical part, the display and / or the electronic component are arranged, in particular completely, within the surface area of ​​the pinhole diaphragm.This positioning is advantageous in that the area covered by the pinhole is not intended to be used for the transmission of ambient light, or only to a limited extent, and therefore such a specific positioning of the electronic component and / or the display is not detrimental to the optical imaging properties of the optical part.

[0032] These additional components of the artificial eye lens are thus arranged virtually concealed behind the pinhole. Ambient light incident on the front of the optical part is thus prevented or restricted from passing through the surface area of ​​the pinhole.

[0033] Such a pinhole aperture allows the artificial eye lens to be designed with improved functionality regarding depth of field.

[0034] In one embodiment, the pinhole is designed, at least in part, as an energy generation and output unit for generating and outputting electrical energy. This makes it possible for the artificial lens itself to essentially comprise an electrical energy unit. This allows, for example, the display and / or the light source and / or other components of the artificial lens that are to be supplied with electrical energy to be supplied with such electrical energy. The pinhole can, for example, be designed, at least in part, as a solar cell. This is particularly advantageous because it allows incident sunlight to be used to generate electrical energy in the artificial lens itself.

[0035] In one embodiment, the pinhole is arranged entirely within the optical part. Preferably, the pinhole is arranged adjacent to the front side of the optical part on or in the optical part.

[0036] In one embodiment, the optical part can have a radially outer ring section. This can be completely circumferential. In one embodiment, it can be designed not to contribute to the optical imaging properties of the optical part. In one embodiment, the light source, in particular the coherent light source of the image projection device, can be arranged on this peripheral ring. In addition to or instead of this, at least one antenna of the artificial eye lens can be arranged in such a peripheral ring. At least one solar cell of the artificial eye lens can also be arranged in this peripheral ring.

[0037] A solar cell of the artificial eye lens can be an organic solar cell. This can then be formed from semiconducting polymers or molecules. For example, polythiophene, in particular poly(3-hexylthiophene), also referred to as P3HT, can be provided here. However, this is only an example and is not intended to be exhaustive. A wide variety of other such polymers and molecules that form an organic solar cell are possible. Likewise, layers of ceramic, such as perovskites, can be provided as a component of a solar cell. Likewise, different layers or semiconducting organic materials can be combined with one another to increase the efficiency of the solar cell. In this context, two or more layers can be provided to form the solar cell.In one embodiment, such layers of an organic solar cell can be in the range between 80 nm and 120 nm, in particular between 90 nm and 110 nm. This allows for the creation of very thin solar cells.

[0038] It is possible for a solar cell to be arranged by gluing or printing onto the material of the optical part and / or onto the material of the pinhole, if one is present. In particular, the solar cell is applied directly to the material of the pinhole. This also makes it possible to achieve short paths from the electrical load, in particular a display, to the solar cell. This is particularly advantageous when the display is arranged immediately adjacent to or possibly even directly adjacent to the solar cell in the optical part. This is particularly advantageous when the solar cell is completely embedded and surrounded by the material of the optical part. This is because the solar cell can then be protected from oxygen and water.

[0039] In one embodiment, the holographic display can be constructed from liquid crystal layers. An advantageously present antenna can, for example, be mounted behind the solar cell and thus on the side of the solar cell facing the back of the optical part, or else can be arranged on a possibly present haptic element of the artificial eye lens. When arranged on the haptic element, particularly interference-free reception of signals, in particular radio signals, is possible. In one embodiment, the holographic display is arranged behind the pinhole, in particular behind a possibly present solar cell. Behind in this context means that the holographic display is arranged on the side of the pinhole facing the back of the optical part.A rear arrangement in this context also means that, viewed along the main optical axis, this holographic display is positioned closer to the back of the optical part than the pinhole and / or the solar cell. This allows the light emission of optical information from the holographic display toward the back to be direct and unobstructed, since no other components are arranged in the beam path from the display to the back.

[0040] This also prevents further vignetting of the incoming light.

[0041] In one embodiment, a wired connection is provided between the solar cell and electrical loads of the artificial eye lens, such as the holographic display and / or the light source. The corresponding electrical lines, in particular also to electrodes, are laid accordingly in the material of the optical part and / or the haptic element, in particular embedded therein.

[0042] In one embodiment, it is possible for the artificial eye lens to be configured for wireless communication with a unit external to the lens, in particular by means of at least one antenna. This communication can be bidirectional in one embodiment. The artificial eye lens thus also has a wireless communication interface. This allows information, such as a hologram pattern to be generated, to be transmitted wirelessly to the artificial eye lens. In this context, it is then also possible for information from the artificial eye lens and / or from one of its integrated electrical and / or optical components to be transmitted from the artificial eye lens to an external unit via this wireless communication interface.

[0043] In one embodiment, this display, in particular the holographic display, of the image projection device can have a geometry that corresponds to the geometry of an advantageously present pinhole. For example, the display can have a ring shape. This ring shape can be arranged such that it is completely concealed by the surface of the pinhole when viewed by projection in the direction of the main optical axis of the artificial eye lens. If the artificial eye lens has a peripheral ring on the optical part, the advantageous ring geometry of the display in this context can also be arranged in the surface area of ​​this peripheral ring when viewed by projection. Here, too, a ring shape of the display can then be provided. In particular, in one embodiment, the surface areas of the solar cell and / or the display are at most the surface area of ​​the pinhole and / or the peripheral ring.A corresponding projection observation is therefore not provided for in the exemplary embodiment.

[0044] It can be provided that the surface area and surface shape of the display and / or the solar cell are equal to the surface shape and surface size of the pinhole, if one is present. It can be provided that the surface area and surface shape of the display and / or the solar cell are equal to the surface shape and surface size of the peripheral ring, if one is present.

[0045] In one embodiment, a light source of the image projection device may also comprise an organic light-emitting diode. For example, it may also be designed as an organic light-emitting diode film.

[0046] In one embodiment, a binary amplitude hologram can be generated as a hologram pattern and projected by the image projection device. Binary amplitude holograms consist of a pattern of opaque and translucent regions calculated by a computer or a processing unit. These can be realized, for example, via a holographic display, which can be a liquid crystal display, for example, or via so-called smart glasses (data glasses), in which the transmissivity can be varied by applying an electrical voltage. The coherent light source of the image projection device, in particular a semiconductor laser, is then used for the coherent illumination of the hologram thus generated in order to project a holographic image onto the back of the artificial eye lens, in particular beyond the back to the rear in a defined manner.

[0047] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens can also have at least one sensor with which eye pressure can be detected. This sensor can then also be supplied with appropriate electrical energy and / or receive or transmit information via at least one antenna of the artificial eye lens. In addition to or instead of this, a sensor for monitoring muscle activity of the eye can also be provided on the artificial eye lens.

[0048] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens has a control unit. This can be part of the image projection device. The control unit can have a computing unit and a memory. It can have a microprocessor.

[0049] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens may also include a position detection sensor. This may, for example, be a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) sensor.

[0050] This allows the position of the artificial eye lens to be detected. This also allows the person's position to be recorded.

[0051] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens can communicate wirelessly with external units via at least one antenna arranged thereon. Such an external communication unit can be, for example, a portable communication device. Such a communication device can be, for example, a mobile radio terminal, such as a smartphone or a tablet. In particular, this also allows information to be transmitted from this communication terminal to the artificial eye lens. A transmission of information from the artificial eye lens to this communication terminal is then also possible.

[0052] In one embodiment, the image projection device can be part of a navigation system of the artificial eye lens. Thus, a navigation system can also be arranged on or in this artificial eye lens.

[0053] The optical information generated by the image projection device can also be action information or reminder information, for example. This optical information can also be used to display and optically project sequences of actions for a person wearing the artificial lens. Reminder information can also remind or instruct the person about appointments or sequences of actions or procedures that need to be completed and / or how such actions or procedures should be completed.

[0054] Digital holographic 3D displays use systems capable of computer-controlled generation of any hologram to display changing holographic images or videos. These systems, also known as holodisplays, show the appropriate perspective for every possible viewing direction, which is why no optical aid such as 3D glasses is required for spatial perception. Viewers can align and focus their eyes on any point of the holographic image.

[0055] Holographic 3D displays offer the opportunity to create a unique visual experience. The seemingly free-floating holograms easily capture attention.

[0056] When viewing a holographic display, the brain is immediately tricked into the illusion that a physical object or real environment is blending with the three-dimensional digital overlay. The visual experience immediately evokes emotions and stimulates the senses, stimulating activity in the cortex, allowing viewers to better process and retain the information conveyed.

[0057] In one embodiment, a holographic display essentially works by reflecting digital content through glass with a special coating, known as glass optics. When placed at a certain angle, the glass optics create an illusion that causes the brain to interpret the digital content as three-dimensional. This creates the sensation of seeing a realistic, floating object in front of the eyes.

[0058] Most approaches to holographic displays are based on spatial light modulators (SLMs), chips with grid-like, electronically controllable pixels. Liquid crystal SLMs are the most commonly used.

[0059] A further independent aspect of the invention relates to an electronic information system with an artificial eye lens. This artificial eye lens can be designed in one embodiment according to an above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. The electronic information system further comprises at least one communication device. This communication device is a device separate from the artificial eye lens and arranged externally to the artificial eye lens. The communication device can be a single device or a communication system. Furthermore, the electronic information system has a wireless communication interface with which a transmission of information signals between the artificial eye lens and the communication device can be carried out.Such an electronic information system can thus enable communication between an artificial eye lens, such as an intraocular lens, and a lens-external communication device. This enables communication, which can in particular also be bidirectional, with a lens-external communication device, particularly when the artificial eye lens is arranged on or in the eye. In this context, this also enables signal transmission to or from a communication device that is arranged externally to a person who has the artificial eye lens on or in the eye. Such an electronic information system can enable medical information from the eye and / or the artificial eye lens, when the artificial eye lens is arranged on or in the eye, to be transmitted to the communication device.This also allows, for example, medical conditions of the eye and / or the artificial lens to be evaluated by the electronic information system. It is also possible that, depending on these conditions and / or other parameters, such as environmental influences on the person with the eye and the artificial lens and / or the position of the person with the artificial lens, information is transmitted from the communication device to the artificial lens. This information can be action information and / or reminder information. For example, this information can be about a route the person should take. It can therefore be navigation information.

[0060] It is also possible for information to be transmitted as a reminder of an appointment. Information regarding the time and / or amount of medication to be taken can also be transmitted. However, information can also be transmitted that contains actions or procedures of the person regardless of medical aspects. For example, this could be information on how to operate a household appliance. Likewise, this could be operating information for other devices, such as an electronic parking meter, a ticket machine or other electronic devices located in the area and that are publicly accessible and operable. This electronic information system can therefore provide at least some support to people in need of assistance upon request or automatically.

[0061] This can be particularly beneficial for people in need of assistance, such as the elderly and / or those with physical and / or mental disabilities. If the electronic system is also designed to automatically identify the specific assistance situation that a person requires, the electronic information system can then automatically determine the time and / or type and / or amount of information that is to be provided. Such an electronic information system also makes it possible for the person with the eye and artificial lens to no longer need to carry the communication device themselves. The artificial lens, which the person wears on or in the eye anyway, means that the relevant information can be presented quickly, easily, and without any immediate disturbance.In this context, it is also possible for the communication device to transmit at least one electrical signal via the communication interface and to convert it into optical information by an image projection device arranged on or in the artificial eye lens and forming part of the artificial eye lens. This optical information is then projected by the image projection device in a targeted and defined manner, preferably in a very specific projection direction. In one embodiment, the projection direction is directed directly onto the back of the artificial eye lens, in particular the optical part of the artificial eye lens.

[0062] Preferably, this projection direction is designed such that at least one focus is behind the artificial eye lens, in particular behind the optical part of the artificial eye lens. This enables the information to be transmitted from the communication device to the artificial eye lens via the wireless communication interface, where it is converted by the image projection device into optical information, which is then projected directly onto the retina of the eye in a very specific projection direction.

[0063] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens can have a control unit. This can be an electronic processing unit, such as a microprocessor. The control unit can also have a memory unit. In one embodiment, the control unit can be arranged on or in the optical part of the artificial eye lens. If the artificial eye lens has a pinhole, this control unit can be arranged in the surface area of ​​the pinhole with respect to a surface projection view. If the optical part has a radially outer peripheral ring, which in particular does not contribute to the optical imaging properties of the optical part, the control unit can also be arranged in or on this peripheral ring.In one embodiment, it is also possible that this control unit, if it is arranged on the artificial eye lens or integrated therein, is arranged in or on a haptic of the artificial eye lens if the artificial eye lens has such a haptic.

[0064] In another embodiment, it is also possible for the control unit to be arranged externally to the artificial eye lens. For example, it can be arranged in the communication device. In one embodiment, the control unit makes it possible to control the time at which information is sent from the communication device to the artificial eye lens or the time at which information is sent from the artificial eye lens to the communication device. Furthermore, the control unit can also control the type and amount of information to be transmitted. In one embodiment, it is also possible for the control unit to be designed to control the image projection device of the artificial eye lens accordingly. This makes it possible to control both the activation and deactivation of the image projection device and the duration of the active state of the image projection device.The control unit also enables the optical information to be projected to be selected and projected accordingly. In one embodiment, the control unit can control the laser diode of the image projection device and / or the display of the image projection device accordingly.

[0065] In another embodiment, in addition to or instead of the above, the electronic information system can also be activated by a person wearing the artificial lens in or on the eye. For example, this can be achieved through a defined action. In this context, it is possible to close the eyelid for a predetermined period of time. This dark state can be detected by the artificial lens and recognized as a user-initiated command to activate or deactivate the image projection device. It is also possible to cover the eye with one hand.

[0066] However, it is also possible for the person with the artificial lens to have a communications device, such as a portable communications device such as a smartphone or tablet. This communications device can be part of the electronic information system. The user, or the person wearing the artificial lens on or in the eye, can then also initiate the aforementioned processes using this communications device. This can be done, for example, by manual input into the communications device. However, voice input is also possible.

[0067] However, it is also possible for the communication device to be a user-independent device. This means that it is not carried by the person wearing the artificial lens in or on the eye. This means that the communication device can, for example, be used or operated by an assistant who supports the other person wearing the artificial lens on or in the eye. This person could, for example, be medical personnel or a family member or the like. This means that older people and / or physically or mentally impaired people and / or people with impaired vision can receive appropriate support in this regard. This electronic information system is particularly advantageous for mentally impaired people, such as people with dementia.

[0068] This electronic system can then provide appropriate electronic support not only in everyday life, but also externally. This can make it easier to prevent a person from getting lost outside of the living area, for example, and to prevent unwanted and / or safety-critical actions within the living area. For example, it can also make it easier to prevent the unwanted activation of a household appliance, such as a hob or oven, or a faucet or shower, or a water inlet into a bathtub, or similar devices.In this context, such situations can be better prevented by providing information via the electronic information system that suggests shutting down or deactivating such devices in the home. Optical information can then be projected onto the retina of the person concerned using the image projection device.

[0069] In particular, optical information is information that cannot be perceived in the environment by the person wearing the artificial lens in the eye at the time of information generation and / or at the time of information projection and / or can be perceived but the situation and / or the resulting consequences cannot be recognized.

[0070] The electronic information system also makes it possible for the electronic information system to automatically generate corresponding information based on the position of the artificial eye lens and thus the position of the person wearing the artificial eye lens on or in the eye and / or based on the person's current location and / or based on the length of time away from a specific location and / or based on the length of time elapsed before arriving at a location at a specific time, and to project this information as optical information onto the retina of a person wearing the artificial eye lens.

[0071] In this context, the electronic information system can also be referred to as an electronic retinal information display system. In particular, optical information can be information that is displayed in addition to the information that can currently be perceived by observing the environment with the eye itself. In particular, this optical information is therefore information that cannot currently be perceived by observing the environment with the eye of a person.

[0072] It is also possible that the communication interface is a radio interface.

[0073] In a further embodiment, the electronic information system can be trained mechanically. In particular, past behaviors of the person can be evaluated in this context, and future information generation and / or information presentations can be adapted accordingly by the system itself. Not in this context, the gaze direction and / or head movement of a person wearing the artificial lens on or in the eye can also be recorded and evaluated in individual situations.

[0074] In a further exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that the electronic information system evaluates a potential perception and a corresponding understanding of the projected optical information by the person themselves. For example, this can occur in such a way that the person takes an immediate action that characterizes the understanding of the projected optical information. In addition to or instead of this, a defined head movement can also be evaluated, which signals that the person has perceived and understood the projected optical information. If this does not occur, then in one exemplary embodiment the electronic information system can display the optical information in a modified manner. For example, a change in size and / or color and / or a dynamic display, for example as a running light or a flashing light, can occur here.In this regard, in one embodiment, the electronic information system can then train itself automatically by recognizing which of these pieces of information led to the person's quick and complete understanding in a given situation and / or resulted in the correct course of action. In this context, the automatic training can then result in a priority list in this regard, which is created independently by the electronic information system.

[0075] A further aspect relates to a method for displaying information on the retina of an eye. In the method, optical information is projected with an image projection device, which is formed on or in an artificial eye lens, which can be designed in particular according to the above-mentioned independent aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof, in a predetermined projection direction directly onto the back of the eye lens, in particular an optical part of the artificial eye lens. In particular, such that a focal point of this projection lies outside the eye lens behind the back, in particular the optical information is projected directly onto the retina when the artificial eye lens is arranged in the eye.

[0076] Advantageous embodiments of the method are to be understood through the above-mentioned advantageous aspects relating to the artificial eye lens on the one hand and / or the electronic information system on the other. The components and / or their interaction enable the respective steps.

[0077] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures can be used not only in the respectively specified combination, but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed by the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which emerge and can be produced through separate combinations of features from the explained embodiments. Furthermore, embodiments and combinations of features, in particular through the embodiments presented above, which go beyond or deviate from the combinations of features presented in the backreferences to the claims are to be regarded as disclosed.

[0078] The concrete values ​​of parameters and information on ratios of parameters or parameter values ​​for defining exemplary embodiments of the eye lens stated in the documents are to be considered as being included in the scope of the invention, even in the case of deviations, for example due to measurement errors, system errors, DIN tolerances, etc., which also includes explanations that refer to essentially corresponding values ​​and information. Short description of the drawings

[0079] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. They show: Fig. 1 shows a schematic plan view of an embodiment of an artificial eye lens; Fig. 2 shows a schematic plan view of a further embodiment of an artificial eye lens according to the invention; and Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view through an embodiment of an artificial eye lens according to the invention with an additional schematic representation of a retina of an eye. Preferred embodiments of the invention

[0080] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0081] In Fig. 1 1 shows a schematic plan view of an embodiment of an artificial eye lens 1. The artificial eye lens 1 is an intraocular lens. It has an optical part 2. This optical part 2 forms the actual optical imaging element of the artificial eye lens 1. In this regard, it can be designed in a variety of ways and has a basic disk-like shape. This optical part 2 has a front side 3. The front side 3 can be convexly or concavely curved. The front side 3 is intended to be the side that, when the artificial eye lens 1 is implanted in the eye or, in a design as a contact lens, rests against the front of the cornea of ​​the eye, faces the front area of ​​the person. This also means that the front side 3 is the side that, when the artificial eye lens 1 is arranged in the eye, faces away from the retina, in particular the optic nerve of the eye.The optical part 2 further has a rear side 4 opposite the front side 3. This rear side 4 can be convex or concave. When the artificial lens 1 is positioned in the eye, the rear side 4 faces the retina, in particular the optic nerve of the eye. The optical part 2 has a main optical axis A, which is oriented in the direction of . Fig. 1 is oriented perpendicular to the plane of the figure. The main optical axis A passes through the front 3 and the back 4 in the middle.

[0082] In the exemplary embodiment, this artificial eye lens 1 also has a haptic element 5. This element is formed by two separate brackets 6 and 7. These brackets 6 and 7 each terminate at one end on a peripheral wall 8 of the optical part 2.

[0083] The optical part 2 can contribute to the optical imaging properties over the entire geometry. In another embodiment, the optical part 2 can have an outer ring 9, viewed in the radial direction to the main optical axis A. This can also be referred to as an outer end ring or peripheral ring. This peripheral ring, which in Fig. 1 The portion of the optical part 2, which is symbolically delimited radially inward by the dashed line, has no optical imaging properties. It is integrated and thus formed integrally with the remaining portion of the optical part 2. In particular, the optical part 2 is formed from a polymer material. The optical part 2 and the haptic element 5 can be formed integrally. It is also possible, however, for the brackets 6 and 7 to be separate components that are inserted or glued onto the optical part 2.

[0084] In the exemplary embodiment, the artificial eye lens 1 also has an image projection device 10. This is thus integrated into the artificial eye lens 1 or arranged directly on a surface thereof. The image projection device 10 is designed to project optical information generated by the image projection device 10 itself at least onto the rear side 4 of the optical part 2. In particular, the image projection device 10 is designed to project optical information generated by the image projection device 10 through the rear side 4 of the optical part 2 and out of the optical part 2 to the rear. In this regard, a defined projection scenario with a defined projection direction is thus predetermined. In one exemplary embodiment, the image projection device 10 is designed to generate a 3D image. In particular, it is designed to generate a hologram.In one embodiment, the image projection device 10 has at least one light source 11. The light source can be a coherent light source 11. In particular, it can be a laser diode, such as a corresponding semiconductor laser. This light source 11 is arranged on the artificial eye lens 1 itself. In one embodiment, it can be realized as a light source 11 arranged in the haptic element 5. In particular, it can be arranged entirely in the haptic element 5. In this respect, it can be completely surrounded by the material of the haptic element 5.

[0085] In another embodiment, the light source 11 can be formed in the peripheral ring 9, if present. In one embodiment, the light source 11 can then be arranged entirely within the material of the peripheral ring 9.

[0086] In particular, the light source 11 is arranged at such a position on or in the artificial eye lens 1 in which it does not impair the optical imaging property of the optical part 2.

[0087] In one embodiment, the image projection device 10 can have a display 12. In particular, the display 12 is a holographic display. In one embodiment, the display 12 is arranged on or entirely within the optical part 2. If the peripheral ring 9 is present, the display 12 can be arranged in the region of the peripheral ring 9. In addition to or instead of this, however, the display 12 can also be arranged at least partially radially further inward if the optical part 2 has the peripheral ring 9. If the optical part 2 does not have the peripheral ring 9, the display 12 can also be arranged at various positions on or in the optical part 2.

[0088] In an embodiment in which the display 12 and the light source 11 are arranged at a distance from each other in the artificial eye lens 1, the image projection device 10 can comprise a light guide element 13 ( Fig. 3 ). With this light-guiding element 13, the light from the light source 11 can be guided to the display 12. In one embodiment, the light-guiding element 13 is arranged entirely internally in the material of the haptic element 5 and / or the optical part 2.

[0089] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens 1 has a pinhole 14, as shown in Fig. 1 is shown. The pinhole 14 is designed as a ring. In one embodiment, the pinhole 14 can be designed, at least in part, as a photoelectric element. An example of a photoelectric element is a solar cell. The photoelectric element 15 can also be designed in a ring shape. In particular, in one embodiment, the pinhole 14 can be formed by this photoelectric element 15.

[0090] In one embodiment, the display 12 is arranged completely in the surface area of ​​the pinhole 14 when viewed in a surface projection manner and thus when viewed in the direction of the main optical axis A. In one embodiment, it can be provided that the display 12 is arranged behind the pinhole 14 when viewed in relation to the front side 3. This is shown in the sectional view in Fig. 3 can be seen. In the schematic sectional view there, it can also be seen that the display 12 is arranged directly on the back of the pinhole 14. In particular, if a photoelectric element 15 is also present, the display 12 can be supplied with electrical energy by this photoelectric element 15. For this purpose, appropriate electrodes and / or electrical lines can be provided. The display 12 can also be arranged directly on the photoelectric element 15. The surface area of ​​the display 12 is smaller than or at most equal to the surface area of ​​the pinhole 14. In one embodiment, the display 12 can have the geometry of the pinhole 14. It can therefore also be ring-shaped. As in Fig. 1 As can be seen, the pinhole 14 is limited by a radially outer edge 14a and a radially inner edge 14b.

[0091] In Fig. 2 A schematic plan view of another embodiment of an artificial eye lens 1 is shown. This is, in contrast to Fig. 2 merely designed with a different haptic 5. In the embodiment in Fig. 2 Here, the two brackets 6 and 7 are no longer arranged with one end on the optical part 2, but with both ends ending at different points on the optical part 2.

[0092] In one embodiment, at least one electronic component of the artificial eye lens 1 can be arranged behind the pinhole 14 in the surface area of ​​the pinhole 14. The electronic component can be, for example, at least one antenna 16. The antenna 16 can thus be arranged on the side of the pinhole 14 facing the rear side 4. It can be arranged entirely within the surface area of ​​the pinhole 14. In addition to or instead of this, the artificial eye lens 1 can also have an antenna 17 ( Fig. 1 ). The antenna 17 can be arranged in the haptic 5. With the antenna 16 and / or the antenna 17, a wireless communication with an external device 18, as shown in Fig. 1 shown.

[0093] In particular, bidirectional communication can take place via the interface 19. The same is also the case with the embodiment according to Fig. 2 and 3 enabled.

[0094] In one embodiment, the solar cell 15 can also be arranged in the surface area of ​​the peripheral ring 9, if such a ring is formed. In particular, the solar cell 15 can then have a corresponding geometry and / or a corresponding surface area as the peripheral ring 9.

[0095] In a further embodiment, the artificial eye lens 1 can also have at least one GNSS sensor 20. This can be arranged in the haptic 5.

[0096] In Fig. 3 As already explained above, a schematic vertical sectional view through an embodiment of an artificial eye lens 1, here an intraocular lens, is shown. The projection direction 22 of the image projection device 10 is shown here. Using the image projection device 10, an image is projected in a defined manner onto the display 12 at least onto the back side 4, in particular through the back side 4, to the rear outside of the artificial eye lens 1. In particular, this image projection device 10 can project an image onto a retina 23, in particular also in the region of the macula 21 and / or the optic nerve of an eye in which the artificial eye lens 1 is arranged.For this purpose, the display 12 is preferably arranged in the artificial eye lens 1 in such a way that no further integrated element of the artificial eye lens 1 is arranged in the beam path between the display 12 and the back 4, but only the material, in particular the polymer material, from which the optical part 2 is formed is arranged.

[0097] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens 1 can also have at least one additional sensor. The additional sensor can be, for example, a temperature sensor and / or a pressure sensor, with which the temperature in the eye and / or the eye pressure can be measured.

[0098] In one embodiment, the artificial eye lens 1 may also have a control unit 25.

[0099] The display 12 can be a holographic liquid crystal display. It can be constructed from multiple layers. The solar cell 15 can also be constructed from one or more layers. In one embodiment, the light-guiding element 13 can be formed as a film.

[0100] A further aspect of the invention relates to a communication system with an embodiment of an artificial eye lens 1 and a separate external communication device 18. The communication system can be an electronic information system 26, as shown in an example in Fig. 1 This electronic information system 26 also has the communication interface 19. The external communication device 18 can communicate wirelessly with the artificial eye lens 1 via the communication interface 19, which can in particular be a radio interface. The artificial eye lens 1 can also communicate with the at least one communication device 18 via this communication interface 19. In one embodiment, the communication device 18 can have a control unit 24.

[0101] It is also possible for the communication device 18 to transmit information to the artificial eye lens 1, which is generated there as optical information by the image projection device 10 and, as explained, is projected at least onto the rear side 4, in particular through the rear side, out of the optical part 2. Furthermore, it is also possible for the information acquired by at least one sensor arranged on or in the artificial eye lens 1 to be transmitted via the communication interface 19 to the at least one external communication device 18.

[0102] In one embodiment, as shown in Fig. 3As can be seen, the pinhole 14 can be arranged in a front half of the optical part 2, which forms between the front side and a central plane E of the optical part 2. In particular, the display 12 can also be arranged at least partially, in particular completely, in this front half of the artificial eye lens 1.

Claims

1. Artificial eye lens (1) having at least one optical part (2), which comprises a front side (3) and a back side (4) opposite the front side (3), wherein the artificial eye lens (1) comprises an image projection device (10), characterized in that the image projection device (10) is used to project optical information created by the image projection device (10) itself at least onto the back side (4) of the optical part (2), wherein the image projection device (10) enables image creation independently of the optical imaging property of the optical part (2), wherein the image projection device (10) is arranged on or in the optical part (2) such that it radiates the light image emitted thereby directly to the back side (4), and the image projection device (10) is designed to project optical information created by the image projection device (10) backwards through the back side (4) of the optical part (2) and out of the optical part (2).

2. Artificial eye lens (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the image projection device (10) is designed to create a 3-D image.

3. Artificial eye lens (1) according to either of the preceding claims, characterized in that the image projection device (10) comprises a coherent light source (11).

4. Artificial eye lens (1) according to Claim 3, characterized in that the artificial eye lens (1) comprises at least one haptic (5) that is connected to the optical part (2), wherein the coherent light source (11) is arranged on the haptic (5).

5. Artificial eye lens (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the image projection device (10) comprises a holographic display (12) that is arranged on the optical part (2).

6. Artificial eye lens (1) according to Claims 4 and 5, characterized in that the artificial eye lens (1) comprises at least one light guide element (13), by means of which the light of the coherent light source (11) is guided to the holographic display (12).

7. Artificial eye lens (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a perforated plate (14) of the artificial eye lens (1) is arranged on the optical part (2).

8. Artificial eye lens (1) according to Claim 7, characterized in that at least one antenna (16) of the artificial eye lens (1) and / or at least one holographic display (12) of the artificial eye lens (1) is arranged in the surface region of the perforated plate (14) behind the perforated plate (14).

9. Artificial eye lens (1) according to Claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the perforated plate (14), at least in regions, takes the form of a solar cell (15) and / or the perforated plate (14) is arranged in the interior of the optical part (2).

10. Artificial eye lens (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical part (2) can be used to accordingly deflect light from the surroundings this incident ambient light, which is incident on the artificial eye lens (1), on account of the configuration of the optical part (2) and the associated inherent optical imaging property, wherein, by contrast, the image projection device (10) does not operate with the ambient light incident on the artificial eye lens (1) but rather creates the image itself, and / or the image projection device (10) is designed to create optical information independently of the ambient light incident on the artificial eye lens (1) from the surroundings.

11. Electronic retina information presentation system, comprising an artificial eye lens (1) according to any of the preceding Claims 1 to 10, comprising at least one communication apparatus (18) that is separate from the artificial eye lens (1) and arranged externally to the artificial eye lens (1), and comprising a wireless communication interface (19) by means of which information signals are transmittable between the artificial eye lens (1) and the communication apparatus (18).