Ophthalmic lens

Abstract

To provide an ophthalmic lens that can control the axial length of eyes.SOLUTION: An ophthalmic lens 10 is for controlling the axial length of an eye through visual feedback received by a retina of the eye. The ophthalmic lens 10 has a lens body including an optical portion 20 shaped to direct light toward a central focal point in a central portion of the retina of the eye when positioned on a central axis and in front of a pupil of the eye. The ophthalmic lens 10 further has a plurality of optical feature portions 36 that are disposed on the lens body and adapted to direct light off-axis with respect to the central axis and toward a peripheral region of the retina of the eye. The plurality of optical feature portions 36 are adapted to increase an amount of light entering the eye.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Myopia is a condition of vision in which objects closer to the viewer are seen clearly, while objects further away from the viewer become increasingly blurred. Myopia is sometimes called nearsightedness. Myopia is caused by a number of conditions and causes. The dominant factor in many cases of myopia is the elongated axial length of the eye. Myopia occurs when the focused light entering the eye forms a focus in front of the retina. In other words, the light rays entering the eye focus in front of the retina.

[0003] Another condition affected by axial length is hyperopia, which allows the viewer to see distant objects clearly, while objects closer to the viewer become increasingly blurred. This condition can also have multiple causes, but a person generally becomes hyperopic when the focus of light entering the eye forms behind the retina.

[0004] Axial length grows during childhood. As young people enter adolescence, the eye generally stops growing and axial length becomes more stable. Therefore, if axial length growth can be controlled during childhood, it may be possible to reduce or even eliminate myopia and hyperopia in children's adulthood. What is needed are devices, systems, and methods for controlling axial length at any time in life when axial length is capable of growth. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Several exemplary embodiments are provided to illustrate various features, characteristics, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter. It will be understood that features, characteristics, advantages, etc. described in connection with one embodiment can be used alone or in various combinations and subcombinations with other features described in connection with other embodiments.

[0006] In one embodiment of the principles described herein, an ophthalmic lens includes a lens body configured to contact an eye. The lens body includes an optic configured to direct light toward a central portion of the retina of the eye. At least one optical feature of the lens body selectively directs light entering the eye away from the central portion of the retina. The ophthalmic lens may be a contact lens, a soft contact lens, a hard gas permeable contact lens, an implantable lens, or a combination thereof.

[0007] In some cases, the optical features are printed features, which may be formed using pad printing, copperplate printing, lithographic printing, dot matrix printing, laser printing, tamp printing, liquid jet printing, other printing techniques, or combinations thereof.

[0008] The optical features may be formed on the anterior surface of the Ophthalmic Lens. For example, if the lens body is made of multiple layers, the optical features may be formed on the inner or outer surface of any one of the layers. Such an inner or outer surface may be an intermediate layer or a surface of an anterior or posterior layer.

[0009] The optical features may be made of silicone material, hydrogel material, optical material, colored material, or combinations thereof. The optical features may be formed in any suitable location on the Ophthalmic Lens so long as the features do not reduce the optical clarity of the lens by preventing central light from being focused on the center of the retina. In some cases, the optical features are formed in non-optical regions of the Ophthalmic Lens. In some examples, the optical features have a hexagonal, Fresnel-type, or hemispherical shape, although the optical features may have any suitable shape.

[0010] In some cases, the optical features have the same refractive index as the material comprising the lens body. In other examples, the optical features have a different refractive index than the material comprising the lens body. The optical features can have properties that direct light to the peripheral region of the retina, focus light precisely at the peripheral region of the retina, focus light in front of the peripheral region of the retina, focus light behind the peripheral region of the retina, or a combination thereof. The properties can have the effect of controlling the growth of the axial length of the eye, controlling myopia, preventing myopia, controlling hyperopia, preventing hyperopia, other effects, or a combination thereof.

[0011] The optical feature may be incorporated into the lens body without affecting the area of ​​curvature of the Ophthalmic Lens. The optical feature may also be one of multiple optical features incorporated into the Ophthalmic Lens that are separately tailored to direct light to specific areas of the retina. Such optical features may have different sizes, shapes, refractive indices, focusing capabilities, or other properties, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the optical feature is a lenslet, such as, for example, a hexagonal lenslet, a hemispherical lenslet, lenslets of other shapes, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the optical feature includes a Fresnel type shape, a toric shape, other types of shapes, or combinations thereof.

[0012] In another embodiment of the principles described herein, an ophthalmic lens has a body configured to contact an eye, the lens body having an optic shaped to direct light to a central focal point at the center of the retina, and at least one discrete feature of the lens body having properties that direct light entering the eye away from the center of the retina.

[0013] The separate features may be molded features integrally formed on the Ophthalmic Lens. In another example, the separate features are printed features. The separate features may be formed on the anterior surface of the Ophthalmic Lens or on the inner surface of a layer of a lens body made of multiple layers.

[0014] In yet another embodiment of the principles described herein, a method of making an ophthalmic lens includes forming a spin-casting mold having a lens mating surface by forming a contour including at least one recess on a first side of a mold material; applying liquid lens material to the first side of the spin-casting mold; rotating the spin-casting mold such that the liquid lens material centrifugally flows across the first side of the spin-casting mold to fill the recess of the contour; and at least partially curing the liquid lens material while the spin-casting mold is rotating to form an ophthalmic lens having at least one protrusion formed by the at least one recess.

[0015] In yet another embodiment of the principles described herein, a method of making an ophthalmic lens includes forming a spin-casting mold having a lens mating surface by forming a contour on a first side of a mold material, the contour including at least one protrusion; applying liquid lens material to the first side of the spin-casting mold; rotating the spin-casting mold such that the liquid lens material centrifugally flows across the first side of the spin-casting mold covering the contour protrusion; and at least partially curing the liquid lens material while the spin-casting mold is rotating to form an ophthalmic lens having at least one recess formed by the at least one protrusion.

[0016] In yet another embodiment of the principles described herein, a method of making an ophthalmic lens includes forming a casting mold including a lens mating surface by forming a contour including at least one recess on a first side of a mold material, applying a liquid lens material to the first side of the casting mold, clamping a back of the mold such that the liquid lens material flows across the first side of the casting mold into the recess of the contour, and at least partially curing the liquid lens material to form an ophthalmic lens having at least one protrusion formed by the at least one recess. In another embodiment, the method includes disposing an optical material on a support surface of an ophthalmic lens, the ophthalmic lens including an optic shaped to direct light to a central focus at a central portion of the retina when worn in a user's eye, the disposed optical material having properties that direct light entering the eye away from the central portion of the retina.

[0017] The Summary is prepared to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are further described below in the Detailed Description. The Summary and Background are not intended to identify key concepts or essential aspects of the disclosed subject matter, and should not be used to restrict or limit the scope of the claims. For example, the claims should not be limited based on whether the cited subject matter includes some or all of the aspects described in the Summary and / or addresses any of the key problems described in the Background. [Brief description of the drawings]

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

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens for directing light into the eye in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0020] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens for directing light into the eye in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0021] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens for directing light into the eye in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

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

[0023] [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of forming a spin casting mold for making an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a mold used to make a spin casting mold for an ophthalmic lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0025] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin casting mold for an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure.

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

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

[0028] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a rotating structure used to mold and cure spin casting molds for making ophthalmic lenses in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0029] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method for making an ophthalmic lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

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

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

[0032] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a close-up view of one embodiment of a feature for directing light to the peripheral region of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0033] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a close-up view of one embodiment of a feature for directing light to the peripheral region of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Figure 15] 15-18 are front views of exemplary embodiments of ophthalmic lenses according to the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 15-18 are front views of exemplary embodiments of ophthalmic lenses according to the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 15-18 are front views of exemplary embodiments of ophthalmic lenses according to the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] 15-18 are front views of exemplary embodiments of ophthalmic lenses according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0035] [Figure 19] 19-21 are cross-sectional views of exemplary embodiments of features of an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] 19-21 are cross-sectional views of exemplary embodiments of features of an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] 19-21 are cross-sectional views of exemplary embodiments of features of an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0036] [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of multiple layers of a lens body having features for directing light to the peripheral region of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0037] [Diagram 23]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an embodiment of one layer of a lens body having features for directing light to the peripheral region of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

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

[0039] [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an entire lens body including features of differing capabilities in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

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

[0041] [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of an ophthalmic lens that directs light into the eye at various focal points in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0042] [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a lens body including a plurality of hemispherical lenslets formed thereon in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0043] [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a lens body including a Fresnel-type portion, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0044] [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a rear view of an internal Fresnel type lens according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0045] [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a rear view of an internal Fresnel type toric lens according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0046] Throughout the drawings, the same reference numbers refer to similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0047] The growth of the axial length of the eye can be influenced by visual feedback received at the retina. Visual feedback can be used to balance the axial length of the eye with the combined refractive power of the cornea and the lens. The eye uses the focus of light focused on the retina to determine when the axial length of the eye is balanced. Such visual feedback can be based on the entire surface area of ​​the retina, not just the central portion of the retina dedicated to central vision. Thus, if the peripheral region, which has a larger surface area than the central portion of the retina, receives visual feedback that elongates the axial length, the eye can respond by growing to increase the axial length. This can occur when the central vision is already balanced. Thus, such visual feedback can cause the central vision to become defocused.

[0048] Principles described within this disclosure include ophthalmic lenses for controlling light directed to the peripheral region of the retina, as well as methods and associated components for making such ophthalmic lenses.

[0049] Light directed to the peripheral region of the retina may provide a stimulus that the eye may interpret as visual feedback that determines the eye's growth rate. In some instances, light directed to the peripheral region of the retina is precisely focused at the peripheral region of the retina. By ensuring that the focal point of the peripherally directed light is precisely on the retina, the eye can change its growth rate so that the axial length of the eye remains in consistent proportion to the focusing ability of the eye. This can cause the eye to grow more slowly or stop growing altogether.

[0050] In other instances, light may be focused in front of the peripheral region of the retina. As a result, the focus of the directed light is in front of the retina. Such stimulation may cause peripheral myopia in the eye. This has the effect of causing the eye to grow more slowly or stop growing altogether.

[0051] Typically, infants begin with a hyperopic condition where the focal spot is formed behind the retina. Thus, the eye has an initial stimulus to grow to correct the proportion between the eye's focusing ability and the axial length. If the infant has a central hyperopic condition, light may be directed to the peripheral region of the retina to intentionally focus behind the retina. This provides additional stimulus to adjust the eye's growth and / or shape to correct the eye's central vision.

[0052] 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 for directing light into an eye 12 according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the ophthalmic lens 10 is placed on the surface of the eye 12. Ambient light rays 14, 16, 18 enter the eye 12 after passing through the ophthalmic lens 10. These light rays are focused by the optics 20 of the ophthalmic lens 10 towards the central portion 22 of the retina 24. A focal point 25 of the light rays 14, 16, 18 is formed at the central portion 22 of the retina 24, thereby allowing both near and far objects to be clearly seen by the eye.

[0053] Other ambient light rays 26, 28, 30 also pass through the ophthalmic lens 10 and enter the eye 12. These light rays 26, 28, 30 are refracted differently than the light rays 14, 16, 18. The light rays 26, 28, 30 are directed toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24. In the example of FIG. 1, the light rays 26, 28, 30 are focused toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24. This provides the eye 12 with a stimulus representing a match between the eye's focusing ability and the axial length 34. Thus, the eye 12 is induced to maintain the current ratio between focusing ability and the axial length 34.

[0054] Light rays 26, 28, 30 refract differently than light rays 14, 16, 18 as they pass through the Ophthalmic Lens 10 through an exemplary feature 36 that has refractive properties different than the refractive properties of the optical portion 20 of the Ophthalmic Lens 10. According to one exemplary embodiment, the feature 36 may be a feature made of a material that has a refractive index different from the material that comprises the optical portion 20 of the Ophthalmic Lens 10. The characteristic parts are silicone material, hydrogel material, tefilcon, tetrafilcon A, crofilcon, helfilcon A and B, mafilcon, polymacon, hioxifilcon B, lotrafilcon A, lotrafilcon B, galyfilcon A, senofilcon A, sifilcon A, comfilcon A, enfilcon A, lidofilcon B, surfilcon A, lidofilcon A, alfafilcon A, omafilcon B, serotin ... n)A, vasurfilcon A, hyoxifilcon A, hyoxifilcon D, nelfilcon A, hilafilcon A, acofilcon A, bufilcon A, deltafilcon A, phemfilcon A, bufilcon A, perfilcon, etafilcon A, focofilcon A, ocufilcon B, ocufilcon C, ocufilcon D, ocufilcon E, ocufilcon F, phemfilcon A, methafilcon A, methafilcon B, vilfilcon A, other types of polymers or combinations thereof.These materials may include various monomers, polymers, and other materials to form the final polymer. For example, common components of these materials may include HEMA, HEMA-GMA, and the like.

[0055] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic lens 10 has a thickness of about 0.01 mm to about 0.14 mm. The thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 may be different at different locations of the ophthalmic lens 10. For example, the ophthalmic lens 10 may be thicker near the outer edge of the ophthalmic lens 10 than the optic 20. In some examples, the feature 36 may be an additive feature that increases the thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10. In other examples, the feature 36 is a subtractive feature that decreases the thickness of the lens. In yet other examples, the feature 36 replaces material that comprises the ophthalmic lens. For example, a portion of the ophthalmic lens may be replaced with the material that comprises the feature 36.

[0056] The features 36 can be formed in a number of ways, including, but not limited to, designing the features into a casting mold configured to form a cast contact lens or a spin-cast mold used to form a spin-cast contact lens, forming the features into an intermediate layer of a composite lens, and adding material onto the outer surface 38 of the Ophthalmic Lens 10 by a printing process or deposition with a multi-stage curing process or the like. In an exemplary embodiment that includes a printing process of the features, the printing process may include pad printing, copper plate printing, etch printing, dot matrix printing, laser printing, tamp printing, liquid jet printing, other printing methods, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the features are added to the surface of the Ophthalmic Lens using other methods, such as spraying, deposition, droplet printing, painting, other types of methods, or combinations thereof.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, the feature 36 configured to direct light to the peripheral region of the retina may be integrally formed with the ophthalmic lens 10. In such an example, the feature 36 is made of the same material that forms the remainder of the ophthalmic lens. According to this embodiment, the refractive index of the feature 36 is the same as the refractive index of the material of the ophthalmic lens 10. However, the shape of the feature 36, the increased thickness of the feature 36, the refractive properties of the feature 36, or other properties of the feature 36 result in the light rays 26, 28, 30 being selectively directed to the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24.

[0058] In some examples, the Ophthalmic Lens 10 may be a contact lens, a soft contact lens, a gas-permeable hard contact lens, an implantable lens, another type of lens, or a combination thereof. In the example of FIG. 1, the optical portion 20 does not have the features 36. As a result, the features have little to no effect on the central vision of the eye. However, the multiple independent features 36 redirect a portion of the light that contacts the non-optical regions of the Ophthalmic Lens 10 that would not have otherwise entered the eye or would have entered the eye in a different manner. Thus, an increased amount of light enters the eye 12 due to the off-axis location of the optical features 36. At least, a large portion of the light rays that would otherwise enter the eye and travel toward the peripheral region 32 of the eye 12 without the features 36 continue to enter the eye 12 without the assistance of the features 36. This light already provides visual feedback that influences eye growth. However, the additional light redirected into the eye by the features 36 can be controlled to weaken that visual feedback, strengthen that visual feedback, modify that visual feedback, or otherwise provide a stimulus that influences eye growth. The additional visual feedback can be used to control the progression of myopia and, in some cases, to prevent the onset of myopia. The amount of light directed to the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 can be selected based on the amount of light needed to achieve the desired effect on eye growth. In some cases, even a small amount of additional light redirected from features 36 is sufficient to achieve the desired result, while in other cases, directing more light may be beneficial to overcome strong natural cues that cause undesirable axial length growth.

[0059] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 for directing light into the eye 12 according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the feature 36 directs light to the peripheral region 32 of the retina, but the focus 25 of the directed light is formed in front of the retina 24. Thus, the light rays 26, 28, 30 directed by the feature 36 cause a peripheral myopic condition. Such stimulation may indicate that the axial growth of the eye 12 is stopped or slowed. In some instances, such peripheral myopic stimulation may provide a stronger stimulation to change the growth of the eye without adversely affecting the user's vision because the light entering the optic is properly focused on the retina. In some instances, such stimulation indicates that the axial length 34 is too long, so directing the redirected light rays 26, 28, 30 to focus in front of the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 may be desirable to treat cases of myopia.

[0060] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 for directing light into the eye 12 according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the feature 36 directs light to the peripheral region 32 of the retina, but the focus 25 of the directed light is formed behind the retina 24. Thus, the light rays 26, 28, 30 directed by the feature 36 cause a peripheral hyperopic condition. Such stimulation may be indicative of increased axial growth of the eye 12. In some instances, such peripheral hyperopic stimulation may stimulate the eye to change its growth rate. In some instances, such stimulation may indicate that the axial length 34 of the eye is too short, so directing the directed light rays 26, 28, 30 to focus behind the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24 may be desirable to treat cases of hyperopia. As with the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the desired stimulation in FIG. 3 is provided outside the optics, and the user's direct viewing experience is not adversely affected.

[0061] Although FIGS. 1-3 have been described with respect to focusing the redirected light into three-dimensional space relative to the retina 24, the features 36 may direct the redirected light into the peripheral space of the vitreous chamber 40 of the eye 12 for any suitable reason. For example, the light may be directed into the peripheral space without a pre-defined focus. In other examples, the light is directed into the peripheral space at a pre-defined focus, as described in FIGS. 1-3. In some examples, the light may be sent into the peripheral space of the vitreous chamber 40 to treat conditions other than myopia and hyperopia. For example, the light may be directed into the peripheral space to treat other conditions, for entertainment purposes, for communication with a device implanted in the eye, for other uses, or a combination thereof.

[0062] Additionally, for purposes of illustration, Figures 1-3 are depicted with a limited number of features directing light to a limited area of ​​the retina. Multiple independent features may focus light to multiple areas of the retina. Each of the independent features may be tailored to a particular condition of the eye. For example, some of the features may include different degrees of focusing ability, refractive properties, shapes, sizes, materials, thicknesses, other physical properties, other chemical properties, other properties, or combinations thereof. Different optical features of the same ophthalmic lens may independently focus light to the front of the retina, on the retina, or behind the retina. In other examples, different areas of the retina receive different intensities of redirected light from one another.

[0063] In some instances, the features are configured to not separate wavelengths of redirected light, i.e., the features direct all wavelengths in the visible light spectrum, while in some instances, the features may be configured to redirect only selected wavelengths of light to peripheral regions of the retina.

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

[0065] For spin cast contact lenses, the features on the front surface of the lens are typically designed into the mold used to manufacture the lens. FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of making a mold 42 for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens 10 according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, an injection molding process is used to form the mold 42. As shown, a conventional injection molding machine can be used to form the mold 42. Specifically, mold material is fed through a funnel into a cylinder 152. The cylinder 152 can include a screw 154 or other type of mechanism configured to move the molding material longitudinally through the cylinder 152. Additionally, a heater 156 is applied to the cylinder 152 to melt or at least soften the molding material as it passes through the cylinder 152. At a nozzle 158 of the cylinder 152, the molding material is extruded into a cavity 160 formed by the joining of a first portion 162 and a second portion 164.

[0066] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the cavity 160 includes a male tool 48 and a female tool 47 aligned with each other, respectively. The extrusion pressure of the molding material entering the cavity 160 causes the molding material to fill all of the empty space in the cavity 160, including the space between the male tool 48 and the female tool 47. The shapes of the male tool 48 and the female tool 47 are transferred to a spin casting mold for spin casting the resulting Ophthalmic Lens 10. As shown in Figures 4B and 5, the male tool 48 of the spin casting mold 42 can include protrusions 49 similar to the desired shape and size of the features 36.

[0067] To produce features 36 having the desired optical properties, the male tool 48 is precision machined to match the features desired in the final ophthalmic lens manufactured in accordance with the present exemplary system and method. Any number of precision machining and molding methods can be used to form the male tool, including, but not limited to, DAC ophthalmic lathes, Optoform ophthalmic lathes, FTS tooling, 5-axis diamond milling machines, 3D nanoprinting, nanolithography, fused deposition, etc. After sufficient time has passed for the molding material to harden within the cavity 160, the first and second portions 162 and 164 are separated and the mold is removed by ejector pins 166.

[0068] The liquid lens material 52 may be smeared onto the contour 54 of the spin casting mold 42 formed by the male tool 48. The spin casting mold 42 containing the liquid lens material 52 may be mounted on a rotating structure 68 or rotating tube configured to rotate the spin casting mold 42 such that the liquid lens material 52 spreads centrifugally across the contour, including filling the recesses 55 of the contour 54 into the shape of the desired ophthalmic lens. While the spin casting mold 42 is rotating, the liquid lens material 52 is exposed to a curing agent (i.e., temperature, actinic radiation, or other type of curing agent). As a result, the liquid lens material 52 forms an ophthalmic lens 10 having the features 36 formed on the front surface 38 of the ophthalmic lens.

[0069] 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin casting mold for an Ophthalmic Lens according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the spin casting mold 42 has a base 56 with a number of notches 58, 60, 62 configured to allow the passage of inert gas between the molds during the spinning and curing process. The contour 54 of the spin casting mold 42 is shaped to form the anterior surface of the Ophthalmic Lens 10. The recesses 55 formed in the contour 54 correspond to the protrusions formed on the female tool 46.

[0070] 7 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin-casting mold 12 with liquid lens material 52 according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the liquid lens material 52 remains within the contours 54 of the spin-casting mold.

[0071] Liquid lens material 52 can be made of any material suitable for use in contact lenses. For example, liquid lens material 52 can be made of any silicone and / or hydrogel material. These materials include, for example, tefilcon, tetrafilcon A, crofilcon, helfilcon A and B, mafilcon, polymacon, hioxifilcon B, lotrafilcon A, lotrafilcon B, galyfilcon A, senofilcon A, sifilcon A, comfilcon A, enfilcon A, lidofilcon B, surfilcon A, lidofilcon A, alfafilcon A, omafilcon A, and vasafilcon. The liquid lenses may be formed from polymers such as vasurfilcon A, hyoxifilcon A, hyoxifilcon D, nelfilcon A, hilafilcon A, acofilcon A, bufilcon A, deltafilcon A, phemfilcon A, bufilcon A, perfilcon, etafilcon A, focofilcon A, ocufilcon B, ocufilcon C, ocufilcon D, ocufilcon E, ocufilcon F, pemfilcon A, methafilcon A, methafilcon B, vilfilcon A, other types of polymers, monomers, or combinations thereof. These materials may include various combinations of monomers, polymers, and other materials to create liquid lenses.

[0072] In one embodiment, the liquid lens material is made of a hydrogel polymer that does not contain any silicone, which is desirable to increase the wettability of the ophthalmic lens, while in another embodiment, the liquid lens material is made of a silicone hydrogel material.

[0073] The ophthalmic lens 10 can be shaped and sized based on a variety of factors, including the size of the user's eye and various optical characteristics that must be achieved by the optics of the ophthalmic lens. The total thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 can be from about 0.1 mm to about 0.14 mm. The thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 can vary gradually at different locations of the ophthalmic lens 10. For example, the ophthalmic lens 10 can be thicker near the outer edge of the ophthalmic lens 10 than at the optics. Alternatively, the features 36 can cause the cross-sectional thickness of the ophthalmic lens 10 to vary abruptly at separate locations across the front surface 38 of the ophthalmic lens 10.

[0074] 8 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spin casting mold 42 with liquid lens material 52 centrifugally spread across the contour 54 of the spin casting mold 42 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the spin casting mold 42 is rotated about a central axis 66 of a rotating structure (68, FIG. 9) or tube. The rotating structure 68 is rotated at a speed to form the desired posterior surface 70 of the Ophthalmic Lens 10.

[0075] The rotating structure 68 shown in FIG. 9 includes a central mounting area 72 configured to receive the spin-casting molds 42 containing the liquid lens material 52. The central mounting area 72 can be formed of a glass tube, a metal tube, or another type of structure capable of holding the spin-casting molds 42 in a stacked orientation. In examples where actinic radiation is used as the curing agent, the rotating structure 68 is an opaque material that includes an opening sufficient to allow actinic radiation into the central mounting area 72. In the illustrated example, the rotating structure 68 includes glass sidewalls 74 that hold the spin-casting molds 42 in a stacked orientation. The rotating structure 68 also includes an area 76 that can be used to attach to a rotational driver, such as a motor.

[0076] The rotating structure 68 is programmed to precisely rotate to form the desired posterior surface 70 of the ophthalmic lens 10, which is the surface of the ophthalmic lens that is intended to contact the eye. The program for rotating the rotating structure 68 can be modified to create the desired contour for an individual prescription. A curing agent is applied to the liquid lens material 52 while the rotating structure 68 rotates the spin casting mold 42. As a result, the ophthalmic lens 10 is formed while the rotating structure is rotating. In some instances, the ophthalmic lens is fully cured in the rotating structure. While in other instances, the ophthalmic lens 10 may be fully cured during multiple curing stages. For example, the ophthalmic lens may be cured in the rotating structure 68 to the extent that the liquid lens material 52 retains its shape but is not fully cured. At this stage, the spin casting mold may be removed from the rotating structure along with the ophthalmic lens to complete the curing in a more cost-effective environment. A rotating structure compatible with the principles described herein is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0133064, issued to Stephen D. Newman, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0077] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method 78 for making an ophthalmic lens according to the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the method 78 includes forming a mold having a surface conforming to the lens by forming a contour on a first surface of a mold material, the contour including a negative of at least one optical feature (step 80). In one exemplary embodiment, the contour can be injection molded using a female tool 48 as described with reference to FIGS. 4A-5. The method also includes applying a lens material to a first side of the mold (step 82) and rotating the spin casting mold (step 84) such that the liquid lens material centrifugally flows across the first side of the spin casting mold to fill the negative of at least one optical feature formed in the contour. The liquid lens material is then at least partially cured while rotating in the spin casting mold (step 86) to form an ophthalmic lens having at least one protrusion formed by at least one recess. The optical feature may be any feature that, when worn on the eye, redirects light into the peripheral space of the vitreous cavity of the eye towards the peripheral retina.

[0078] Although the examples described with reference to Figures 4A-10 above are described specifically with respect to forming protrusions to create features on the anterior surface of an ophthalmic lens, any suitable method for forming an ophthalmic lens and its associated features may be used in accordance with the principles described in this disclosure. For example, a separate material may be applied and cured only within the recesses of the spin casting mold to form the protrusions prior to application of the liquid lens material. In such examples, the protrusions are formed of a material different from the remainder of the lens body. During a later curing step, such protrusions are bonded to the remainder of the lens body. Additionally, the protrusions may be formed outside of the spinning process and then bonded using a curing step, a bonding step of the ophthalmic lens body, or any suitable process for adding optical features to a contact lens.

[0079] In yet another example, the features are disposed on the lens body, such as in FIG. 11. In this example, the method 88 includes a step 90 of an ophthalmic lens, the ophthalmic lens including an optic configured to direct light toward a central focal point at a central region of the retina when the ophthalmic lens is worn on a user's eye, the disposed optical material having properties that selectively direct peripheral light into the eye away from the central region of the retina when the ophthalmic lens is worn on the eye.

[0080] In such instances, the optical material may be made of the same material as the lens body, or the optical material may be made of a different type of material with a different refractive index. In either case, the features direct light toward the peripheral region of the retina. The features may be disposed on the anterior, posterior, or intermediate surfaces of the lens body through the use of printing techniques. Such printing techniques include, but are not limited to, pad printing, copperplate printing, lithographic printing, dot matrix printing, dye sublimation and carrier sheet (laser printing) techniques, techniques using a photosensitive element that is subjected to subsequent laser processing, other types of printing techniques, or combinations thereof.

[0081] In one embodiment, the printing method is tamp printing. Tamp printing includes a form of pad printing in which a laser etched pad is used to transfer material to form features on the Ophthalmic Lens. The pad presses against a reservoir of material each time before pressing against the Ophthalmic Lens. Equipment capable of printing in this manner is available from TAMPOPRINT AG, headquartered in Korntal-Munchingen, Germany.

[0082] In another embodiment, such materials can be printed onto an ophthalmic lens using a liquid jet printing system. In one embodiment, the material has liquid properties that allow it to be jetted from a pressure ink jet cartridge, a thermal ink jet cartridge, another type of ink cartridge, or a combination thereof.

[0083] Figure 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an ophthalmic lens 10 having features 36 for directing off-axis light to peripheral regions of the retina in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In this example, the ophthalmic lens 10 includes an optic portion 20 and a non-optical region 92. The features 36 are formed in the non-optical region. Figures 13-14 show the features 36 formed as hexagons.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 12, the optic 20 is configured to focus central light 96 through the optic to the central portion 22 of the retina 24 of the eye in which the ophthalmic lens 10 is worn. The optic 20 is located in front of the pupil of the eye. In most cases, a non-optical region 92 surrounds the optic 20 and is the remainder of the ophthalmic lens 10. This non-optical region 92 may be located to cover the iris of the eye and, in some cases, the conjunctiva and sclera as well. Traditionally, light passing through the non-optical region 92 of the ophthalmic lens 10 would not enter the eye because such light rays would come into contact with areas that do not allow light to enter, such as the iris or sclera. However, in contrast to traditional lenses, the features 36 incorporated into the ophthalmic lens 10 direct peripheral light rays 98 (which would not otherwise be on a trajectory to enter the eye) to the pupil, at an angle that purposely directs the peripheral light towards the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24.

[0085] The redirected peripheral light 98 into the eye does not affect the central vision of the eye because the peripheral light 98 is directed to the peripheral region 32 of the retina, which processes peripheral vision. As a result, the redirected peripheral light 98 toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 4 is intentionally defocused to provide the eye with a desired stimulus. For example, the redirected peripheral light 98 can be precisely focused on the retina. In some cases, such a stimulus can indicate that the axial length of the eye is properly proportional to the focusing ability of the eye. In other cases, the redirected light rays 98 focus without reaching the retina. In some cases, such a stimulus can indicate that the axial length of the eye is too long for the focusing ability of the eye, thereby slowing or stopping the axial growth of the eye. In yet other cases, the redirected light rays 98 can focus behind the retina, which can generate a stimulus that indicates that the axial length of the eye is too short for the focusing ability of the eye. Depending on the growth ability of the eye, the eye may at least partially improve the balance between the axial length of the eye and the focusing ability of the eye based on the stimulus.

[0086] The amount of light redirected to the peripheral region of the retina 24 is based on the number of features 36, the refractive index of the features 36, the shape of the features 36, other factors, and combinations thereof. The ophthalmic lens can be customized for the eye condition. For example, if the professional feels that a stronger stimulus is desired, more features 36 may be added to the ophthalmic lens to redirect more light, or the focusing ability of selected features may be increased. In another example, a material with a certain refractive index or features of a different shape may be used to obtain a given intensity of stimulus. Similarly, these parameters may be scaled down to reduce the intensity of the stimulus, as required based on another eye condition.

[0087] The hexagonal shape 94 of the feature is further shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. As shown, in one exemplary embodiment, the hexagon 94 can include six contiguous side surfaces 100 adjacent a central surface 102. The side surfaces 100 can be precisely angled to direct light rays into a desired portion of the vitreous chamber of the eye. The height of the hexagon 94 depends on the desired angle of the side surfaces 100. Furthermore, the angle of the side surfaces 100 also determines the width, length, and other dimensions of the feature 36. The density and spacing of the features can also be determined by the desired intensity of the stimulus. The junctions between the side surfaces 100 and between the side surfaces 100 and the central surface 102 can be rounded, chamfered, pointed, or otherwise curved to provide desired optical properties or for ease of manufacturing.

[0088] Although this example has been described with respect to a feature 36 having a hexagonal shape 94, any suitable shape may be used in accordance with the principles described herein. For example, Figures 15-18 illustrate an array of features of different shapes that may be used to redirect light toward the peripheral region 32 of the retina 24. In the example of Figure 15, the feature includes a diamond shape 104. In the example of Figure 16, the feature includes a triangle shape 106. In the example of Figure 17, the feature includes a circular shape 108. Figure 18 illustrates a single feature 36 that encircles a majority of the non-optical portion 110. In this example, the feature may be a ring disposed or otherwise formed on the front surface 38 of the ophthalmic lens or an intermediate layer of the lens. In such an example, the material used to form the feature 36 having the solid shape 110 may include a dye, pigment, or other type of colorant that causes an eye wearing such an ophthalmic lens 10 to appear to have the eye color of the feature 36. Such an ophthalmic lens 10 may be worn by people who wish to change their eye color.

[0089] 19-21 show various cross-sectional views of a feature 36 according to the principles described in this disclosure. For example, FIG. 19 discloses a feature 36 disposed on an anterior surface 38 of an ophthalmic lens. In this example, there is an interface 112 between the material of the disposed feature 36 and the lens body 114. The disposed material may have properties that adhere to the lens body 114. Such properties may include electrostatic attraction, adhesive moieties, polymer cross-linking, other types of properties, or combinations thereof. Such features may be made by the process described in connection with FIG. 11.

[0090] FIG. 20 illustrates a feature 36 integrally formed with the lens body 114. Such a feature may be produced by the process described in connection with FIGS. 4A-10. In such an example, the thickness 113 of the Ophthalmic Lens 10 cross section is increased at an isolated location 111 of the Ophthalmic Lens. FIG. 21 includes an isolated change in the gradual curve of the anterior surface 38 due to an intermediate layer formed in the composite lens. As shown in FIG. 21, the composite lens is depicted including an anterior surface 38, an intermediate layer 115 including the feature 36, and a posterior layer forming the posterior surface 70. Further details of composite lenses including multiple layers are provided below in connection with FIGS. 22-31.

[0091] 22 is an exploded perspective view of multiple layers of a compound lens body 114 with features 36 for redirecting light toward the peripheral region of the retina according to the principles described in this disclosure. In this example, the lens body 114 includes an anterior layer 116, an intermediate layer 118, and a posterior layer 120. The intermediate layer 118 can include features 36 for redirecting light. Such features 36 can be disposed on the intermediate layer 118 or formed integrally with the intermediate layer. Each of the layers 116, 118, 120 can be cross-linked to each other. In some examples, the intermediate layer 118, whether or not it forms features 36, can include color enhancement materials to provide a different look to the eye, such as a change in color of the apparent glint.

[0092] According to an exemplary embodiment, the front layer 116 can be formed using any suitable contact lens manufacturing process, including, but not limited to, spin casting, casting, and / or turning. In one embodiment, the first lens layer is formed using a mold and spinning and curing techniques. A portion of a liquid polymeric material is poured into a mold, spun, and cured to form the first lens layer. The spinning and curing steps can be incomplete to ensure that the first lens layer is not completely cured prior to insertion of the intermediate layer.

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

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

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

[0096] In one exemplary embodiment, the intermediate layer 118 is formed alone, including the desired features 36, and inserted into the mold over the front layer 116. According to this exemplary embodiment, the intermediate layer 118 is placed adjacent to the front layer 116, followed by a process of encapsulation of additional polymeric material followed by spinning and curing to form the rear layer 120. Alternatively, after partial curing, the desired features 36 are formed in situ behind the partially cured front layer 116, followed by a secondary injection of polymeric material and formation of the rear layer 120. The features can be formed on the rear surface of the front layer using any number of forming methods, including, but not limited to, stamping, etching, material addition processes, or any printing method suitable for use in printing on contact lenses, such as pad printing, tamp printing, copperplate printing, etch printing, dot matrix printing, liquid jet printing, dye sublimation and carrier sheet (laser printing), and methods using a photosensitive element that is subsequently subjected to laser processing.

[0097] In one embodiment, the same mold is used to form the anterior layer 116, the intermediate layer 118, and the posterior layer 120. Alternatively, separate molds may be used to form one or more layers. The mold may be any mold suitable for forming contact lenses.

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

[0099] 24-26 illustrate the design versatility that can be achieved by incorporating an intermediate layer into a compound lens. As shown in FIG. 24, a plurality of lenslet features 36, for example having a hexagonal shape 94 with a central face 102 and side faces 100, are formed in the non-optical portion of the intermediate layer of the compound lens. As shown, precision tooling techniques such as three-dimensional (3D) nanoprinting and nanolithography allow for precise design and arrangement of the lenslet features 36 in the intermediate layer. As shown in FIG. 24, the lenslet features 36 have capabilities ranging from 1 to 4. According to one exemplary embodiment, the area of ​​capabilities represented by the lenslet features 36 may be random within a given range of capabilities or may be designed continuously for a specific desired effect. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an entire lens body having lenslet features 36 with non-uniform capabilities according to the principles of the present disclosure. Similarly, FIG. 26 illustrates the lenslet features 36 assumed to be a closer grouping of hexagons 94. As shown in FIG. 26, the present system and method provides a high level of precision and versatility in designing a lens for a desired procedure.

[0100] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of an ophthalmic lens that directs light into the eye with various focal points and intensities according to the principles of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 27, by using high-precision manufacturing techniques and hexagonal lenslet features 36, a single lens can generate light with various focal points and intensities. As shown, an ophthalmic lens 10 including a plurality of hexagonal lenslet features 36 can direct light with different focal points 271 to the peripheral region of the retina. As shown, the ophthalmic lens 10 is configured to properly focus the central light 96 passing through the optical portion of the lens toward the central region 22 of the retina 24 to achieve clear central vision. Furthermore, collimated light 270 and peripheral light 272 pass through the hexagonal lenslet features 36 to the peripheral region of the retina. By changing the focal points of the individual hexagonal lenslet features 36, different intensities of light 276, 277, 278 reach the peripheral region of the retina. As a result, the optical lens can induce different desired stimuli in the peripheral region of the retina.

[0101] Although the intermediate lens described above has been described as having hexagonal lenslet features 36 for selective focusing of peripheral light, any number of lens and lenslet shapes may be used in accordance with the present exemplary system and method. As shown in FIG. 28, the lens body may include a plurality of hemispherical lenslet features 36 formed on the anterior surface of the Ophthalmic Lens 10. As described above, the anterior surface of the Ophthalmic Lens 10 may be selectively modified to include such lenslets by precision casting of a spin-cast lens mold. According to one exemplary embodiment, the lenslet features 36 are designed with similar powers and prisms so that they form a pseudo vision shell at the retina's periphery. Alternatively, the lenslet features 36 may have different powers and prisms to selectively vary the intensity of light reaching the peripheral region of the retina.

[0102] Alternatively, Fresnel type sections can be used to selectively redirect peripheral light to peripheral regions of the retina. As shown in Figures 29-31, a Fresnel type lens 290 includes at least one layer of the Ophthalmic Lens 10 having Fresnel prisms 292 formed therein. According to one exemplary embodiment, the use of Fresnel prisms 292 allows for the manufacture of Ophthalmic Lenses that redirect peripheral light as described above with reduced material mass and volume.

[0103] FIG. 30 is a rear view of an inner Fresnel type lens according to the principles of the present disclosure. As shown, the Fresnel type lens 290 can be configured to properly focus the central light 96 passing through the optical portion 20 of the lens toward the central region 22 of the retina 24 to achieve clear central vision. Additionally, multiple Fresnel prisms 292 may be formed in the non-optical region 92 outside the optical portion 20 of the ophthalmic lens 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, the lens is divided into octants with every other octant containing a Fresnel prism 292. As a result, the Fresnel prisms 292 can be designed to provide a high level of desired differential stimulation to the peripheral regions of the retina.

[0104] Similarly, the present exemplary systems and methods can be incorporated into a toric lens. For example, Figure 31 shows a rear view of an internal Fresnel type toric lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. As shown, internal Fresnel prisms 292 are arranged in thirds that correspond to the standard orientations of the toric lens.

[0105] While the above examples have been described in relation to particular types of ophthalmic lenses, any suitable parameters, feature shapes, feature materials, layers, and other parameters may be incorporated into a lens in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Thus, any number of features, shapes, or layers may be used in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Additionally, multiple types of materials with different optical refractive properties may be used to create the features. Additionally, features may be made of materials to obtain optimal bonding, spacing, adhesion, optical, or other types of properties.

[0106] The terms recited in the claims are to be given their ordinary and customary meanings, as determined by reference to the relevant entries in a commonly used general dictionary and / or related art dictionaries, as generally understood by those skilled in the art, and the like, with the understanding that the broadest meaning given to the claim terms by any one or any combination of such sources (e.g., two or more relevant dictionary entries are to be combined to provide the broadest meaning of the combination of the entries, etc.), except where (a) a term is used in a manner that is more expansive than its ordinary and customary meaning, the element shall be given a meaning equal to its ordinary and customary meaning plus the additional expanded meaning, or (b) a term has been expressly defined to have a different meaning by reciting the term following the phrase "as used herein, shall mean" or similar phrase (e.g., "herein, the term means," "as defined herein," "for purposes of this disclosure, the term shall mean," etc.).

[0107] The references to specific examples, the use of "i.e.," the use of the word "invention," etc. are not intended to invoke exception (b) or to limit the scope of the claim terms as they are recited. Nothing contained herein should be construed as a disclaimer or negation of the scope of the patent other than those circumstances in which exception (b) applies.

[0108] The subject matter recited in the claims is not, and should not be construed as, coextensive with any particular embodiment, feature, or combination of features described herein, even if only a single embodiment of that particular feature or combination of features is shown and described herein, and therefore the appended claims should be given their broadest interpretation in light of the prior art and the meaning of the claim terms.

[0109] As used herein, spatial or directional terms such as "left," "right," "front," "rear," and the like, refer to the subject matter as depicted in the drawings, although it is understood that the subject matter being described may assume various orientations, and thus such terms should not be considered limiting.

[0110] The English articles "the," "a," or "an" can imply singular or plural. Furthermore, the word "or" should be construed as inclusive (e.g., "x or y" means either x or y, or both) when used without the antecedent "either" (or other similar phrases that clearly suggest that "or" is meant to be exclusive, e.g., only x or y).

[0111] The term "and / or" should also be construed as inclusive (e.g., "x and / or y" means either x or y, or both). When "and / or" or "or" is used as a conjunction with respect to a group of three or more items, the group should be construed as including one item alone, all of the items together, or any combination of or any number of the items. Additionally, as used in the specification and claims, terms such as "have," "having," "include," and "including" should be considered synonymous with the terms "comprise" and "comprising."

[0112] Unless otherwise noted, all numbers and expressions used in this specification (other than the claims) such as expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, and the like, are understood to be modified in all instances by the term "approximately." As a minimum, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims using the term "approximately" should be construed in light of at least the number of significant digits recited or by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0113] All ranges disclosed herein should be understood to encompass any and all subranges therein or any and all individual values ​​subsumed therein, with the claims providing support as though the subranges or individual values ​​were recited. For example, a recited range of 1 to 10 should be considered to include any and all subranges or individual values ​​between and / or including a minimum value of 1 and a maximum value of 10, i.e., all subranges starting at or above the minimum value of 1 and ending at or below the maximum value of 10 (e.g., 5.5 to 10, 2.34 to 3.56, etc.) or any value between 1 and 10 (e.g., 3, 5.8, 9.9994, etc.), with the claims providing support as though the subranges or individual values ​​were recited.

Claims

1. 1. An ophthalmic lens for controlling an axial length of an eye by visual feedback received at a retina of the eye, comprising: a lens body including a central axis and an optic shaped to direct light to a central focal point at a central portion of a retina of the eye when positioned in front of the pupil of the eye; a plurality of optical features disposed on the lens body adapted to direct light off-axis relative to the central axis and toward a peripheral region of the retina of the eye, the optical features increasing the amount of light entering the eye by redirecting light that would otherwise not enter the eye and that contacts the ophthalmic lens at a non-optical region; having An ophthalmic lens, wherein each of the plurality of optical features has a refractive index different from that of the material of the lens body in the optical region, is formed independently of one another on a surface of the lens body and protrudes from the surface, and has a focus in front of the retina at an off-axis position relative to the central focus, such that each optical feature produces a controlled defocus effect.

2. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the optical features are independent of one another.

3. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of optical features are disposed in an area surrounding the optic.

4. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the plurality of optical features has the same refractive index as a material of the lens body.

5. 10. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the lens body comprises a contact lens, a soft contact lens, a hard gas permeable contact lens, or an implantable lens.

6. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of optical features focus peripheral light in front of a peripheral region of the retina.

7. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of optical features focus peripheral light behind a peripheral region of the retina.

8. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the optical features has a hexagonal, hemispherical, toric, or Fresnel type shape.

9. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of optical features are adapted to prevent the development of myopia.

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