Ophthalmic lens having dynamic optical characteristics for suppressing progression of myopia

Abstract

To provide an ophthalmic lens.SOLUTION: An ophthalmic lens includes: a first region corresponding to a first area of an optical surface of the ophthalmic lens; and a second region corresponding to a second area of the optical surface of the ophthalmic lens different from the first area. The second region has an optically switchable part switchable between a first optical state and a second optical state different from the first optical state. In the first optical state, the second region partially scatters or de-focuses light incident on the second area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 837,688, filed April 23, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an ophthalmic lens having dynamic optical properties, and more particularly to an ophthalmic lens having dynamic optical properties for inhibiting the progression of myopia. [Background technology]

[0003] The eye is a light sensor that focuses light from external sources onto the surface of the retina (an array of wavelength-dependent light sensors) by means of a crystalline lens. Each of the various shapes that the crystalline lens can assume is associated with a focal length at which external light rays are optimally or nearly optimally focused, producing an inverted image on the surface of the retina that corresponds to the external image observed by the eye. In each of the various shapes that the crystalline lens can assume, it optimally or nearly optimally focuses light emitted or reflected by external objects within a certain distance range from the eye, but provides poor or no focus for objects outside that distance range.

[0004] In people with normal vision, the axial length of the eye, or the distance from the lens to the retinal surface, corresponds to the focal length that provides near-optimal focusing on distant objects. A person's eye with normal vision focuses on distant objects without requiring neural input to muscles that apply forces that change the shape of the lens (called "accommodation"). As a result of accommodation, people with normal vision focus on closer objects.

[0005] However, many people suffer from eye focusing disorders such as myopia (nearsightedness). A myopic person's axial length is longer than the axial length required to focus on distant objects without accommodation. As a result, a myopic person can see close objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. Although myopic people can generally accommodate, the average distance at which they can focus on objects is shorter than that of people with normal vision.

[0006] Typically, infants are born hyperopic, with an axial length shorter than that required for optimal or near-optimal focusing on distant objects without accommodation. During normal eye development (called "emmetropization"), the axial length increases relative to the other dimensions of the eye until it reaches a length that provides near-optimal focusing on distant objects without accommodation. Ideally, in vivo, the axial length relative to the overall size of the eye remains near-optimal as the eye grows to its final adult size. However, in myopic individuals, the axial length relative to the overall size of the eye continues to increase during development, exceeding the distance required for near-optimal focusing on distant objects, resulting in progressive myopia.

[0007] Myopia is thought to be influenced not only by genetic factors but also by behavioral factors. Therefore, myopia can be alleviated by a therapeutic device that addresses behavioral factors. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a therapeutic device for treating eye focus-related diseases, including myopia. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0313058 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0377884 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0131567 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 7,218,375 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 8,558,985 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 8,000,022 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 7,506,983 [Non-patent literature]

[0009] [Non-Patent Document 1] http: / / www.montana.edu / jshaw / documents / 18%20EELE582_S15_OTFMTF.pdf Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In general, in a first aspect, the present invention features an ophthalmic lens including a first region corresponding to a first area of ​​an optical surface of the ophthalmic lens and a second region corresponding to a second area of ​​the optical surface of the ophthalmic lens different from the first area, the second region having an optically switchable component switchable between a first optical state and a second optical state different from the first optical state, wherein in the first optical state the second region partially scatters or defocuses light incident on the second area.

[0011] Embodiments of the ophthalmic lens may include one or more of the following features and / or features of other aspects: For example, in at least one optical state, the first area is a substantially transparent area.

[0012] The first area may have a maximum dimension (eg, diameter) in the range of about 2 mm to about 10 mm.

[0013] The first area may be a circular area.

[0014] The first region may comprise an optically switchable component that is switchable between a transparent optical state and a partially scattering optical state.

[0015] The second area may surround the first area.

[0016] In the second optical state, the second region can be substantially transparent (eg, having a clarity (light transmission) similar to that of CR-39 or polycarbonate).

[0017] In the second optical state, the second region may partially scatter light incident on the second area in a different amount than in the first optical state.

[0018] The optically switchable component may be switchable between more than two optical states, for example the optically switchable component may be continuously adjustable between a plurality of different optical states.

[0019] The first area may intersect with the optical axis of the ophthalmic lens.

[0020] The first area may coincide with the user's foveal field of vision for distance vision.

[0021] The second area may be switchable between different refractive powers. For example, the second area may be switchable between a first refractive power corresponding to the refractive power of the first area and a second refractive power where the second area provides myopic defocus to light passing through the ophthalmic lens. The second area may correspond to one or more lenslets. The second area may correspond to one or more annular regions.

[0022] The optically switchable component may include an electro-optical material, such as a liquid crystal material. In some embodiments, the electro-optical material is a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) material. The electro-optical material may be disposed in a layer between two transparent substrates. At least one of the substrates may support an electrode layer. The electrode layer may be made of a transparent conductive material (e.g., indium tin oxide). Each substrate may support one electrode layer, and at least one of the electrode layers may be a patterned electrode layer including a first electrode corresponding to the first region and a second electrode corresponding to the second region. The electrode layer may be patterned to provide a pixelated electrode structure. The electrodes may be passively addressable or actively addressable.

[0023] The lenses can be plano, monofocal, or multifocal.

[0024] The lenses can be eyeglass lenses or contact lenses.

[0025] In general, in another aspect, the invention features a system including a pair of eyeglasses including a pair of ophthalmic lenses, each ophthalmic lens being switchable between at least two different optical states, and in a first of the two different optical states of one or both ophthalmic lenses, the system reduces the contrast of an image viewed through a first region of each ophthalmic lens compared to an image viewed through a second region of each ophthalmic lens; a power source configured to provide power to the pair of ophthalmic lenses to switch each ophthalmic lens between the two different optical states; and an electronic controller in communication with the power source and the ophthalmic lenses and programmed to control the transmission of power from the power source to each ophthalmic lens.

[0026] Embodiments of the system may include one or more of the following features and / or features of other aspects: For example, the system may reduce the contrast of an image seen by a wearer of the eyeglasses by increasing the amount of scattering of light incident on an area of ​​the lens corresponding to the first region.

[0027] The system may reduce the contrast of an image by adding light to the image viewed through an area of ​​the lens corresponding to the first region. The eyeglasses may include a projection display module that directs light toward the user's eye, and the system uses the projection display module to add light to the image viewed through the area of ​​the lens corresponding to the first region.

[0028] The system may include one or more sensors in communication with the electronic controller, at least one of which is an eye-tracking sensor that provides information about the user's eye movements to the electronic controller. The electronic controller may be programmed to vary an area of ​​the at least one ophthalmic lens corresponding to the second region in response to the information about the user's eye movements. The electronic controller may be programmed to vary the area corresponding to the second region to coincide with the user's axis of gaze.

[0029] The system may include one or more sensors in communication with the electronic controller, at least one of which is an environmental sensor that provides information about the user's environment to the electronic controller. The environmental sensor may be a proximity sensor, and the electronic controller may be programmed to change the optical state of the ophthalmic lenses based on information from the proximity sensor. The electronic controller may be programmed to change the optical state of the ophthalmic lenses based on information from the environmental sensor. The electronic controller may change the optical state by changing the location of an area of ​​each ophthalmic lens corresponding to the first region.

[0030] Each ophthalmic lens may be switchable between more than two different optical states, each optical state corresponding to a different level of contrast reduction in an image viewed through the first region of each ophthalmic lens.

[0031] The power source may include a battery, for example a rechargeable battery.

[0032] The eyeglasses may include an eyeglass frame that houses a power source and an electronic controller.

[0033] The system may include a headset with glasses, a power source, and an electronic controller. The headset may be an augmented reality (AR) headset.

[0034] In general, in a further aspect, the invention features a method for reducing the contrast of images formed in a person's peripheral vision, comprising using an optically switchable material in an ophthalmic lens worn by the person to change the amount of scattering in an area of ​​the lens.

[0035] Embodiments of the method can include one or more of the following features and / or features of other aspects. For example, the varying can include varying areas of the lens that scatter incident light and varying areas of the lens that are transparent.

[0036] Varying the area may include varying the size of the area. Varying the area may include varying the location of the area.

[0037] The amount of scattering can be varied based on the human visual task (eg, reading, looking at a screen).

[0038] The amount of scattering may be varied based on human eye movement to align the clear areas of the lens with the human's central visual axis and the scattering areas with the human's peripheral vision.

[0039] In general, in yet another aspect, the invention features a method for reducing the contrast of an image formed in a human's peripheral vision, including using a head-mounted light projection module to direct light at a human eye such that the light does not strike the human's retina in a location corresponding to the human's central vision, but strikes the human's retina in a location corresponding to the human's peripheral vision.

[0040] Embodiments of the method may include one or more of the following features and / or features of other aspects. For example, the method may include varying the light based on human eye movement.

[0041] The method may include varying the light based on an ambient light level.

[0042] The method may include measuring the image contrast passing through the lens with a contrast sensor behind the lens, and maintaining the peripheral image contrast substantially constant (e.g., differing by no more than 40%, no more than 30%, no more than 20%, no more than 10%) with electronic circuitry (e.g., by providing a feedback loop).

[0043] Among the advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure is the ability to reduce the progression of myopia in humans, such as children, while providing a visual experience that adapts to environmental and other stimuli. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] [Figure 1] Figure 1A is a plan view of one embodiment of a dynamic lens, and Figure 1B is a cross-sectional view of the dynamic lens shown in Figure 1A. [Figure 2A] 1B is a cross-sectional view of the dynamic lens shown in FIG. 1A in use. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of a pair of eyeglasses with dynamic lenses as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. [Figure 3] Figures 3A and 3B are plan and cross-sectional views, respectively, of one embodiment of a dynamic lens featuring a pixel in a first operational state, and Figures 3C and 3D are plan and cross-sectional views, respectively, of the dynamic lens shown in Figures 3A and 3B in a second operational state. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an augmented reality (AR) headset. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a projection display module used in the AR headset shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 5]1 is a perspective view of a pair of eyeglasses that reduce contrast in the wearer's peripheral vision. FIG. [Figure 6] Figure 6A is a plan view of another embodiment of a dynamic lens, and Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the dynamic lens shown in Figure 6A. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a plan view of another example of a dynamic lens. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] Like reference numbers in different drawings refer to like elements.

[0046] 1A and 1B, an ophthalmic lens 100 includes two regions that can be independently switched between different optical states. Specifically, the lens 100 includes an on-axis region 102 (i.e., the region 102 that intersects the optical axis of the lens 100) and a peripheral region 104 surrounding the on-axis region 102. Each region is switchable between one state in which the region partially scatters incident light and another state in which the region is transparent (transmissive). The lens 100 has a multi-layer structure consisting of an electro-optic cell laminated between two layers 110a and 110b having optical power. The electro-optic cell is composed of a layer 124 of electro-optic material sandwiched between two opposing transparent substrates 108a and 108b. Transparent electrode layers 106a and 106b are provided adjacent to the electro-optic material on the opposing surfaces of the substrates 108a and 108b, respectively.

[0047] The top lens layer 110a is a plano-convex layer, with its flat surface attached to the top surface of substrate 108a (e.g., by a transparent adhesive). The bottom lens layer is a plano-concave layer, with its flat surface attached to the bottom surface of substrate 108b. Lens 100 is thus a meniscus lens, with its top convex surface provided by the convex surface of top lens layer 110a and its bottom concave surface provided by the concave surface of bottom lens layer 110b. In general, the overall optical power of lens 100 can be set to a desired value by appropriately selecting the curvatures of the convex and concave surfaces of these layers. For example, lens 100 can have a positive or negative spherical power. Astigmatism correction and / or multifocal (e.g., progressive) lenses are also possible.

[0048] Each of the electrode layers 106a and 106b includes two electrically isolated regions corresponding to regions 102 and 104, allowing for electrical switching of the electro-optical materials corresponding to the separate regions. Electrode connector tabs 112a and 112b extend from the periphery of the lens 100 and provide electrical connection points for connecting the electrode layers 106a and 106b to a power source. An electrically isolated line allows the inner electrode region of each electrode layer corresponding to region 102 to be connected to a power source 122 via the tabs 112a and 112b. The electrode layers 106a and 106b are made of a transparent conductive material (e.g., transparent conductive oxides such as indium tin oxide, conductive polymers, metal grids, carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanowire meshes, and ultrathin metal films).

[0049] Layer 124 is composed of an electro-optic material such as polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), where a liquid crystal material (e.g., nematic liquid crystal) is dispersed or dissolved in a liquid polymer and then solidified or cured to form a dispersion of liquid crystal droplets in a polymer matrix. Typically, the refractive indices of the polymer and liquid crystal (LC) are selected so that the orientation of the liquid crystal under an applied electric field results in a refractive index match between the liquid crystal droplets and the polymer, rendering layer 124 substantially transparent (transparent) to light incident on the lens. In the absence of an electric field, the orientation of the liquid crystal directors is random, resulting in at least partial scattering of incident light. The amount of scattering can be controlled by the strength of the applied electric field. Thus, intermediate scattering states (between transparency and maximum scattering) are possible.

[0050] Other electro-optical materials may also be used, for example, the electro-optical material in some embodiments comprises an electrochromic material (e.g., a material that blocks and / or absorbs light by changing color in response to an applied electric field), such as tungsten oxide and / or phosphaphenalene.

[0051] In some embodiments, the electro-optic material of layer 124 comprises a suspended particle device, typically formed from rod-shaped nanoparticles suspended in a liquid. The suspended particles float freely between the electrodes. In the absence of an electric field, the suspended particles organize randomly and scatter light. In the presence of an electric potential, the suspended particles align and allow light to pass through.

[0052] The electrode layers 106a and 106b are formed on transparent substrates 108a and 108b, which may be made of glass, plastic, or other suitable transparent substrate materials. The electrode layer materials may be formed on the substrates using a variety of processes, such as coating or physical deposition processes (e.g., sputtering).

[0053] Other electrode geometries are possible, including interdigitated electrodes (eg, on a single surface-adjacent layer 124).

[0054] Top lens layer 110a and bottom lens layer 110b are attached to the outer surfaces of top substrate 108a and bottom substrate 108b, respectively, and are formed from a transparent material such as glass, a transparent polymer (e.g., polycarbonate or Trivex), or other suitable transparent lens material. A transparent adhesive may be used to adhere the lens layers to the corresponding substrate surfaces.

[0055] In some embodiments, the outer surfaces of the top lens layer 110a and the bottom lens layer 110b may include one or more layers of other materials, including, but not limited to, anti-scratch coatings, mirror coatings, polarizing films, UV coatings, anti-scratch coatings, anti-reflective coatings, etc.

[0056] In some embodiments, a separate substrate layer is not required, as the flat surfaces of the top and bottom lens layers provide a surface for forming electrodes.

[0057] Furthermore, although layer 124 is shown as a homogeneous layer, i.e., having the same composition in regions 102 and 104, other embodiments are possible. For example, layer 124 may be comprised of multiple regions having different compositions. For example, in region 102, layer 124 may have a different composition than region 104. For example, layer 124 may be comprised of a transparent material (e.g., a transparent polymer) in region 102 and an optically switchable material (e.g., PDLC) in region 104.

[0058] 2A, regions 102 and 104 are sized and positioned such that the gaze axis 116 of the ophthalmic lens user is substantially aligned with the optical axis of the lens (e.g., when the user looks straight ahead through eyeglasses containing the lens), with region 102 coinciding with foveal vision and region 104 coinciding with peripheral vision 118. Thus, lens 100 can vary the amount of light scattering in peripheral images to control the amount of image contrast reduction in this region of the user's visual system.

[0059] For example, in the case of a lens using an electro-optic material such as PDLC, lens 100 can be switched between two or more different optical states by applying an electric field of appropriate strength to layer 124. The electric field is applied by imposing a potential difference across electrode layer 106a and electrode layer 106b.

[0060] In the "off" or inactive state (e.g., when there is no electric field across layer 124), the electro-optic material of layer 124 scatters incident light, providing an image with reduced contrast. In the "on" or active state (e.g., when an electric field of sufficient strength is applied), the electro-optic material of layer 124 becomes transparent. In some embodiments, an intermediate scattering state is provided when the electrodes are activated but with a voltage of insufficient strength to eliminate all light scattering from layer 124. As the strength of the electric potential increases, layer 124 becomes increasingly transparent.

[0061] Thus, both the on-axis region 102 and the peripheral region 104 are switchable between one or more scattering states and a transparent state, independently of one another. In many applications, the on-axis region is maintained in a transparent state while the amount of scattering provided by region 104 is varied.

[0062] The size and shape of the on-axis region 102 can vary. Generally, the on-axis region 102 provides the user with a viewing cone in which visual acuity can be optimally corrected (e.g., 20 / 15 or 20 / 20). In some embodiments, the on-axis region 102 has a maximum dimension ranging from approximately 0.2 mm (e.g., approximately 0.3 mm or more, 0.4 mm or more, 0.5 mm or more, 0.6 mm or more, 0.7 mm or more, 0.8 mm or more, 0.9 mm or more) to approximately 1.5 cm (e.g., approximately 1.4 cm or less, approximately 1.3 cm or less, approximately 1.2 cm or less, approximately 1.1 cm or less, approximately 1 cm or less). The on-axis region 102 can be circular (as shown in FIG. 1A ) or non-circular (e.g., elliptical, polygonal, irregular).

[0063] The on-axis region 102 subtends a solid angle of about 20 degrees or less (e.g., about 15 degrees or less, about 12 degrees or less, about 10 degrees or less, about 9 degrees or less, about 8 degrees or less, about 7 degrees or less, about 6 degrees or less, about 5 degrees or less, about 4 degrees or less, about 3 degrees or less) within the user's field of view 118. The solid angle subtended by the horizontal and vertical viewing planes can be the same or different.

[0064] Region 104 corresponds to the user's peripheral vision. Peripheral region 104 may extend to the edge of the lens (as shown in FIG. 1A ) or may not extend to the periphery of the lens. Generally, if region 104 does not extend to the edge of the lens, it may have a variety of shapes (e.g., circular, oval, polygonal, or other shapes). Generally, region 104 will be large enough to reduce the contrast of the user's peripheral vision over a substantial portion of the user's field of vision, even when not looking directly through region 104. Peripheral region 104 may have a diameter (or maximum dimension, in the case of a non-circular region) of 30 mm or more (e.g., 40 mm or more, 50 mm or more, 60 mm or more, 70 mm or more, 80 mm or more, or, e.g., 100 mm or less, 90 mm or less, 80 mm or less, 70 mm or less, 60 mm or less). Referring to FIG. 2B , eyeglasses 200 for slowing myopia progression include two optically switchable lenses 100 within eyeglass frame 210. Frame 210 also houses sensor 142, electronic controller 114, and power source 112. Controller 114 provides electrical signals to electrodes in the lenses to switch region 102 and / or region 104 between different optical states. In some embodiments, the eyeglasses include a user interface (e.g., an on / off switch or other manual control) that allows a wearer to manually change the optical properties of the lenses. For example, when the wearer engages in an activity known to produce high-contrast retinal stimuli in the wearer's peripheral vision, region 104 can be turned on to increase the amount of light scattering. Conversely, when the wearer engages in an activity requiring maximum visual acuity across the wearer's entire visual field, scattering in region 104 can be turned off, leaving the entire lens 100 clear.

[0065] Sensors 142 monitor one or more aspects of the wearer's environment and provide corresponding data to controller 114, enabling the controller to modify the optical properties of one or both lenses in response to information about the wearer's environment. Sensors 142 may include, for example, ambient light sensors, proximity sensors, and / or image sensors.

[0066] Generally, during operation, the glasses 200 detect environmental conditions corresponding to situations in which the wearer's peripheral vision is likely to be exposed to high-contrast images and accordingly increase or decrease the amount of scattering in the region 104 of each lens. For example, using image or proximity data from sensors 142, the glasses 200 can detect when the wearer is engaged in close reading work (e.g., reading a book or newspaper, or reading content on a mobile device) and increase the amount of scattering in the region 104, e.g., compared to when the user is not reading. Alternatively or additionally, the glasses 200 can determine a low-light environment, e.g., using an ambient light sensor, and reduce the amount of light scattering in the region 104.

[0067] In some embodiments, one or more sensors in the peripheral region of the eyeglasses measure the contrast behind the lens (i.e., the contrast after light has passed through the lens). A feedback loop in the control unit uses this measurement to adjust the light scattering of the electro-optical cell. As a result, the peripheral contrast transmitted through the lens in the periphery can be maintained at a constant level regardless of the contrast of the image being viewed.

[0068] In some embodiments, in the scattering state, the optically switchable material can provide sufficient scattering to reduce the contrast of images of objects in the wearer's peripheral vision without significantly impairing the visual acuity of an observer in that region. Peripheral vision, as used herein, refers to the visual field outside the field of view corresponding to region 102. Image contrast in region 104 can be reduced by 40% or more (e.g., 45% or more, 50% or more, 60% or more, 70% or more, 80% or more) relative to the image contrast viewed through region 102. The contrast reduction can be tailored to the needs of a particular situation. Typical contrast reductions are believed to be in the range of approximately 50% to 55%. While a contrast reduction of less than 50% can be used in very mild cases, susceptible subjects may require a contrast reduction greater than 55%. Peripheral vision can be corrected to 20 / 30 or better (e.g., 20 / 25 or better, 20 / 20 or better) as determined by subjective refraction while still achieving significant contrast reduction.

[0069] Here, contrast refers to the difference in brightness between two objects in the same field of view, and contrast reduction therefore refers to a change in this difference.

[0070] Contrast and contrast reduction can be measured in a variety of ways: In some embodiments, contrast can be measured based on the difference in luminance between different portions of a standard pattern (e.g., a black and white checkerboard) obtained through regions of the lens in a transparent state and regions in a scattering state under controlled conditions.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, contrast reduction can be determined based on the optical transfer function (OTF) of the lens (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1). In the OTF, contrast is specified as the transfer of a stimulus that sinusoidally modulates light and dark areas at various "spatial frequencies." The stimulus is viewed as alternating light and dark bars, with the spacing between the bars varying over a range. For all optical systems, contrast transfer is lowest for the sinusoidally varying stimulus with the highest spatial frequency. The OTF is a relationship that describes the transfer of contrast for all spatial frequencies. The OTF is obtained by Fourier transform of the point spread function. The point spread function is obtained by imaging a point source of light through a lens onto a detector array and determining how the light from the point is distributed across the detector.

[0072] In case of conflicting measurement results, the OTF method takes precedence.

[0073] In some embodiments, the glasses 200 may receive information from other sources that can be used to control the optical properties of the lenses. For example, the glasses 200 may include a wireless transceiver (e.g., for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth data transfer) that facilitates data transfer between other devices (e.g., a mobile phone) and the controller 114. For example, the glasses may receive information about the user's location (e.g., based on GPS or cell tower data), the user's movement (e.g., whether the user is walking or driving), and / or the user's activity (e.g., whether the user is watching video content, reading, or playing a video game with the device) and increase or decrease ambient light scattering accordingly.

[0074] Although lens 100 features divided electrodes corresponding to two distinct regions of the lens (regions 102 and 104), other embodiments are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the lens may be divided into more than two regions. For example, region 104 may be further divided into multiple regions (e.g., concentric regions) that are independently changeable between different optical states.

[0075] In certain embodiments, a dynamic lens may include an array of independently addressable pixels. For example, referring to Figure 3A, an ophthalmic lens 300 includes an array of pixels 310, each independently switchable between different optical states (e.g., transparent and scattering).

[0076] 3B, lens 300 has a similar structure to lens 100 described above, except that electrode layers 306a and 306b are patterned and configured to provide pixel array 310. Electrode connection tabs 312 also provide electrical connection terminals appropriate for the electrode drive scheme employed.

[0077] In general, the pixels of lens 300 can be actively or passively addressed. For example, each actively addressed pixel can include an integrated circuit (e.g., including one or more transistors) that controls the electric field at that pixel. Passively addressed pixels can be implemented by forming columns of conductors on one of electrode layers 306a / 306b and rows of conductors on the other. Active and passive addressing schemes conventionally applied to liquid crystal displays can be used.

[0078] The size of each pixel 310 can vary as desired, in some embodiments, the pixels can have a maximum dimension of 1 mm or less (e.g., 0.5 mm or less, 0.3 mm or less, 0.2 mm or less, 0.1 mm or less, 0.05 mm or less).

[0079] A pixelated lens not only allows for fine spatial adjustment of the scattering properties of the lens, but also allows for the location and / or shape of the clear regions of the lens to be varied. For example, FIGS. 3A and 3B show region 302 at the center of the lens. Pixels corresponding to this region can be switched to a transparent state when a user looks directly through this region, as shown in FIG. 3B. That is, the user's gaze axis 316a passes directly through region 302a, providing optimal vision for the user's foveal vision. Pixels corresponding to the remaining regions of the lens (outside region 302a) are switched to a scattering state. Thus, the user's peripheral vision receives a reduced-contrast image due to light scattering in layer 124.

[0080] 3C and 3D, lens 300 dynamically adjusts its optical properties in response to a user's axis of gaze moving away from the center of the lens. Here, as the user looks downward (e.g., reading), the lens activates pixels in off-axis region 302b to provide a clear aperture that matches the user's adjusted axis of gaze 316b. Additionally, the lens switches pixels outside region 302b to a scattering state to provide a reduced-contrast image in the user's peripheral vision 318b.

[0081] The eyeglasses incorporating the lens 300 may include an eye-tracking sensor, and the controller may be programmed to adjust the position of the clear aperture in response to data from the eye-tracking sensor. Generally, a variety of suitable eye-tracking methods may be used. For example, eye-tracking may be performed by photographing the pupil directly with a camera or by viewing the pupillary reflex at the back of the lens.

[0082] While all of the above examples feature lenses that reduce the contrast of images in a user's peripheral vision by scattering incident light, other embodiments are possible. For example, image contrast can be reduced by adding image-forming light from the surrounding environment to the light. Thus, in some embodiments, the eyeglasses may include a light source configured to transmit light to the user's peripheral vision. Such embodiments include, for example, augmented reality (AR) eyeglasses, including, for example, a projection display system for overlaying computer-generated images onto the user's field of vision.

[0083] 4A , an example AR headset 400 includes a frame 410 holding a pair of lenses 420 that may or may not be in a refractive power state. The headset 400 further includes a pair of projection display modules 430, each positioned to display an image in the wearer's field of view. The AR headset 400 includes a sensor 442, an eye-tracking sensor 444, a controller 414, and a power source 422.

[0084] Sensors 442 provide data about the user's environment to the controller, including, but not limited to, ambient light sensors, image sensors (e.g., for monitoring the user's field of view), proximity sensors, accelerometers, etc. Eye-tracking sensor 444 monitors the position of the user's pupils and provides gaze data (e.g., gaze direction and duration / intensity), such as the direction of the user's gaze axis 416 and field of view 418, to the controller 414.

[0085] The controller 414 receives data from the sensor 442 and the eye tracking sensor 444 and controls the projection display module 430 accordingly.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 4B , the projection display module 430 includes a projection display 434 and a beam splitter 432. The projection display 434 transmits light 426 to the beam splitter 432, which redirects the light into the user's field of view. Thus, the user's field of view receives light 426 from the projection display in addition to ambient light 424 transmitted through the beam splitter 432. The headset 450 modulates the light 426 so that the light from the projection display 434 is confined to the user's peripheral field of view 418 while not transmitting light to the region 402 corresponding to the user's central field of view 416. Using data from the eye-tracking sensor 444, the projection display module dynamically modulates the projected light field so that the region 402 coincides with the central field of view 416. In this way, the light 426 from the projection display reduces the contrast of images formed in the user's peripheral field of view without affecting the images in the central field of view.

[0087] Additionally, as in the above-described embodiments, the AR headset 400 can adapt the amount of contrast reduction in the user's peripheral vision in response to environmental changes and / or user movement.

[0088] Generally, the projection display 434 may include a light modulator, such as a MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) mirror array or an LCD (liquid crystal display) (e.g., an LCOS (liquid crystal on silicon) LCD). The projection display 434 may also include one or more light sources (e.g., one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs)) to provide light to the light modulator. The projection display 434 may include additional components (imaging optics and / or light guides) to shape the light before and / or after it is modulated by the light modulator to deliver the light to the beam splitter 432.

[0089] Alternative projection display modules may also be used: for example, rather than a beam splitter, the projection display module may include a light-guiding film that directs light from the projection display to the user's eyes.

[0090] While the above examples generally refer to eyeglass-shaped AR headsets, a variety of AR headsets can be used more generally. For example, AR goggles can be used. Furthermore, while the electronic controller and power source are illustrated as being integrated within the glasses of headset 400, in some embodiments, the control electronics and / or power supply can be separate from the headset and can communicate with components of the headset via cables and / or wirelessly.

[0091] Other embodiments are possible. For example, in some embodiments, light emitted by one or more LEDs mounted on the frame of eyeglasses or a headset can be used to reduce contrast in a user's peripheral vision. Referring to FIG. 5, an example system for accomplishing this is eyeglasses 500, including a frame 510, lenses 520 (e.g., Rx (prescription) lenses), and LEDs 530 mounted on the rim of the frame 510 facing the wearer. The wearer can manually control the brightness of the LEDs, for example, using a slide switch 540. Alternatively or additionally, the brightness of the LEDs 530 can be automatically controlled, for example, using sensors and feedback mechanisms as described above, and / or remotely, for example, using an application on a mobile device via a wireless connection.

[0092] The LED 530 may include one or more optical components (e.g., one or more lenses) that direct the emitted light in a particular direction, for example, to significantly reduce contrast only within the user's peripheral vision, leaving foveal vision largely unaffected.

[0093] Also, although the LEDs 530 are positioned to shine light directly onto the wearer's retina, in some embodiments, the light from the LEDs may be provided indirectly, for example, by reflection from the back surface of the lens 520.

[0094] While the above embodiments include those that reduce image contrast of images in a user's peripheral vision by scattering incident light, lenses featuring an array of non-coaxial lenslets that shift the focal position of images away from the retina are also believed to be useful in preventing and / or slowing the progression of myopia. See, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 6,277,999 and 6,277,999. Thus, in some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens is switchable between at least two states, in one of which the lens functions as a conventional plano or Rx (prescription) lens and provides the user with no optical power, a single focus, or multifocal image correction (i.e., a base state). In at least one other state, the lens includes multiple regions that provide non-coaxial myopic defocus (MD). For example, referring to FIG. 6A , an ophthalmic lens 600 includes an on-axis region 602 (e.g., a region 602 intersecting the optical axis of the lens 600 and / or the user's distance vision axis) and a peripheral region 604 surrounding the on-axis region 602, each region switchable between a myopic defocus state and another state in which the lens provides no refractive power or functions as a conventional Rx (prescription) lens. In the myopic defocus (MD) state, the region 604 is characterized by including multiple lenslets 606, each of which has a different refractive power than the rest of the lens. For example, each lenslet 606 may transmit positive focal length light in front of the user's retina sufficiently to slow the rate of myopia progression.

[0095] In general, the amount of refractive power provided by lenslets 606 can vary depending on the implementation. In some embodiments, in the myopic defocus (MD) state, lenslets 606 have a refractive power of +0.5D or more (e.g., +1.0D or more, +2.0D or more, +3.0D or more, +4.0D or more, +5.0D or more, +6.0D or more, +7.0D or more, +8.0D or more) than the base refractive power of lens 600. In some embodiments, each lenslet is switchable between several different states ranging from 0D to maximum refractive power.

[0096] The size and / or shape of the lenslets 606 can also vary. For example, the lenslets can be circular with a diameter in the range of 0.4 mm to 5 mm (e.g., 0.5 mm or more, 1 mm or more, 1.5 mm or more, 2 mm or more, 4 mm or less, 3 mm or less). In some embodiments, the lenslets 606 are elongated (e.g., elliptical) with a maximum dimension in the range of 0.4 mm to 5 mm (e.g., 0.5 mm or more, 1 mm or more, 1.5 mm or more, 2 mm or more, 4 mm or less, 3 mm or less).

[0097] In general, a variety of suitable electro-optical technologies can be used to provide switchable lenslet arrays, such as variable focus LC technologies described in US Pat. No. 6,213,999 and US Pat. No. 6,213,999.

[0098] For example, referring to FIG. 6B, in some embodiments, lens 600 has a multi-layer structure composed of an electro-optical cell laminated between two layers 610a and 610b having optical power. The electro-optical cell is composed of two layers 624a and 624b of liquid crystal (LC) material separated by a transparent separation layer 625. Layers 624a and 624b are also sandwiched between two opposing transparent substrates 108a and 108b. Each of transparent substrates 624a and 624b supports a transparent electrode adjacent to the corresponding LC layer. Both sides of transparent separation layer 625 also support a transparent electrode layer. The electrodes are electrically accessible via tabs 612, which provide electrical connections for connecting the electrode layers to a signal generator. Here, the electro-optical cell is composed of two independently switchable LC cells, each composed of a layer of LC material between two transparent electrode layers. The electrode layers can be patterned, for example, as described above, and can include active or passive addressable pixels. Each LC cell may also include an alignment layer (e.g., a buffed polymer layer) formed on the electrode layer. The alignment layer ensures a preferred alignment direction of the LC material adjacent to the electrode. The alignment direction of the LC material in layer 614a may be orthogonal to the alignment direction in layer 624b, ensuring refractive index changes for orthogonal polarization states through the cell.

[0099] The top lens layer 610a is a plano-convex layer, with its flat surface attached to the top surface of substrate 608a (e.g., with a transparent adhesive). The bottom lens layer is a plano-concave lens, with its flat surface attached to the bottom surface of substrate 608b. Lens 600 is thus a meniscus lens, with its top convex surface provided by the convex surface of top lens layer 610a and its bottom concave surface provided by the concave surface of bottom lens layer 610b. In general, the base power of lens 600 can be set to a desired value by appropriately selecting the curvatures of the convex and concave surfaces of the layers. For example, lens 600 can have a positive spherical power (spherical power) or a negative spherical power (spherical power). Astigmatism correction and / or multifocal (e.g., progressive) lenses are also possible.

[0100] Other switchable lens technologies can also be deployed. For example, variable-focus lenses using optical fluids and / or electroactive polymers can be used. See, for example, U.S. Patent No. 6,277,999. Furthermore, while lens 600 features an array of lenslets, other embodiments are possible. For example, the region providing myopic defocus (MD) can be more generally shaped into other shapes besides a lenslet array. In some embodiments, the optical power of the entire peripheral region can be adjusted to provide sufficient optical power to provide myopic defocus (MD), while the central region provides optical power for distance vision. In other examples, multiple switchable annular regions of different optical powers surrounding an aperture can be used (see, for example, the structure in U.S. Patent No. 6,277,999). One example of such a lens is lens 700 shown in FIG. 7. Here, lens 700 includes an on-axis region 702 (e.g., with correction for distance vision) and a series of multiple annular regions 705a-705e, each with a different optical power relative to adjacent regions. The refractive power of each region is independently controllable and can be changed to have different refractive powers. One or more regions may have a refractive power that, at least in certain conditions, causes myopic defocus (MD) in the image.

[0101] The term "electronic controller" refers to data processing hardware and includes any type of apparatus, device, or equipment for processing data, such as a programmable processor. A controller may also be or include special-purpose logic circuitry, such as an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). In addition to hardware, a controller may optionally include code that creates an execution environment for a computer program, such as processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, or code that constitutes one or more combinations of these.

[0102] A computer program (also referred to as a program, software, software application, app, module, software module, script, or code) can be written in any type of programming language, such as a compiled, interpreted, declarative, or procedural language, and can be deployed as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A program can, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored as part of a file that holds other programs or data, for example, one or more scripts stored in a markup language document, a single file dedicated to the program, or multiple coordinated files, such as files storing one or more modules, subprograms, or portions of this code. A computer program can be deployed to run on one computer or on multiple computers, which may be located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a data communications network.

[0103] The processes and logic flows described herein may be implemented by one or more programmable computers, where one or more computer programs operate on input data and generate output to perform their functions. The processes and logic flows may also be implemented by special purpose logic circuitry (e.g., FPGAs or ASICs), or by a combination of special purpose logic circuitry and one or more programmed computers.

[0104] Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all types of non-volatile memory, media, and memory devices, such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory devices), magnetic disks (e.g., internal hard disks and removable disks), magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, and DVD-ROMs.

[0105] Although several embodiments have been described, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 100 ophthalmic lenses 102 On-axis area 104 Surrounding Area 106 Electrode layer 108 PCB 110 Lens Layer 112 tabs 114 Electronic Controller 116 Gaze axis 118 Peripheral Vision 122 Power supply 142 sensors 200 glasses 210 eyeglass frames

Claims

1. An ophthalmic lens, a first region corresponding to a first area of ​​the optical surface of the ophthalmic lens; a second region corresponding to a second area of ​​the optical surface of the ophthalmic lens different from the first region; An ophthalmic lens, wherein the second region comprises an optically switchable component that is switchable between a first optical state and a second optical state different from the first optical state, and in the first optical state the second region partially scatters or defocuses light incident on the second area.

2. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the first area is a substantially transparent area in at least one optical state.

3. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the first area has a maximum dimension within a range of approximately 2 mm to approximately 10 mm.

4. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the first area is a circular area.

5. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the first region comprises the optically switchable component and is switchable between a transparent optical state and a partially scattering optical state.

6. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the second area surrounds the first area.

7. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the second region is substantially transparent in the second optical state.

8. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein in the second optical state, the second region partially scatters light incident on the second area in a different amount than in the first optical state.

9. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the optically switchable component is switchable between more than two optical states.

10. The ophthalmic lens of claim 9 , wherein the optically switchable component is continuously adjustable between a plurality of different optical states.

11. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the first area intersects with the optical axis of the ophthalmic lens.

12. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the first area coincides with the user's foveal field of vision for distance vision.

13. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the second area is switchable between a plurality of different refractive powers.

14. 14. The ophthalmic lens of claim 13, wherein the second area is switchable between a first refractive power corresponding to the refractive power of the first area and a second refractive power in which the second area provides myopic defocus to light passing through the ophthalmic lens.

15. The ophthalmic lens of claim 14 , wherein the second area corresponds to one or more lenslets.

16. The ophthalmic lens of claim 14 , wherein the second area corresponds to one or more annular regions.

17. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the optically switchable component comprises an electro-optic material.

18. The ophthalmic lens of claim 17 , wherein the electro-optic material comprises a liquid crystal material.

19. 19. The ophthalmic lens of claim 18, wherein the electro-optic material is a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) material.

20. 18. The ophthalmic lens of claim 17, wherein the electro-optic material is located in a layer between two transparent substrates.

21. 21. The ophthalmic lens of claim 20, wherein at least one substrate supports an electrode layer.

22. 22. The ophthalmic lens of claim 21, wherein the electrode layer is made of a transparent conductive material.

23. 23. The ophthalmic lens of claim 22, wherein each substrate supports an electrode layer, and at least one electrode layer is a patterned electrode layer comprising a first electrode corresponding to the first region and a second electrode corresponding to the second region.

24. 24. The ophthalmic lens of claim 23, wherein the electrode layer is patterned to provide a pixelated electrode structure.

25. The ophthalmic lens of claim 24 , wherein the electrode layer is a passive addressable electrode.

26. The ophthalmic lens of claim 24 , wherein the electrode layer is an actively addressable electrode.

27. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the ophthalmic lens is a plano lens, a single vision lens, or a multifocal lens.

28. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1 , wherein the ophthalmic lens is a spectacle lens or a contact lens.

29. 1. A system comprising glasses, a power source, and an electronic controller, the eyeglasses comprise a pair of ophthalmic lenses, each ophthalmic lens being switchable between at least two different optical states, and in a first optical state of one or both of the pair of ophthalmic lenses, the system reduces the contrast of an image viewed through a first region of each ophthalmic lens compared to an image viewed through a second region of each ophthalmic lens; the power source is configured to power the pair of ophthalmic lenses to switch each ophthalmic lens between the at least two different states; The system, wherein the electronic controller is in communication with the power source and the ophthalmic lenses and is programmed to control the transmission of power from the power source to each ophthalmic lens.

30. 30. The system of claim 29, wherein the system reduces the contrast of an image seen by a wearer of the eyeglasses by increasing the amount of scattering of light incident on an area of ​​the lens corresponding to the first region.

31. 30. The system of claim 29, wherein the system reduces contrast of an image by adding light to an image viewed through an area of ​​the lens corresponding to the first region.

32. 32. The system of claim 31, wherein the eyeglasses include a projection display module that directs light toward the user's eyes, and wherein the system uses the projection display module to add light to an image viewed through an area of ​​the lens corresponding to the first region.

33. 30. The system of claim 29, further comprising one or more sensors in communication with the electronic controller, at least one of the sensors being an eye tracking sensor that provides information to the electronic controller about the user's eye movements.

34. 34. The system of claim 33, wherein the electronic controller is programmed to vary an area of ​​at least one ophthalmic lens corresponding to the second region in response to information about the user's eye movements.

35. 35. The system of claim 34, wherein the electronic controller is programmed to vary the area corresponding to the second region to coincide with a user's axis of gaze.

36. 30. The system of claim 29, further comprising one or more sensors in communication with the electronic controller, at least one of the sensors being an environmental sensor that provides information to the electronic controller about a user's environment.

37. 37. The system of claim 36, wherein the environmental sensor is a proximity sensor, and the electronic controller is programmed to change the optical state of the ophthalmic lens based on information from the proximity sensor.

38. 38. The system of claim 37, wherein the electronic controller is programmed to change the optical state of the ophthalmic lens based on information from the environmental sensor.

39. 39. The system of claim 38, wherein the electronic controller changes the optical state by changing the location of an area of ​​each ophthalmic lens corresponding to the first region.

40. 30. The system of claim 29, wherein each ophthalmic lens is switchable between more than two different optical states, each optical state corresponding to a different level of contrast reduction in an image viewed through the first region of each ophthalmic lens.

41. 30. The system of claim 29, wherein the power source comprises a battery.

42. 42. The system of claim 41, wherein the battery is rechargeable.

43. 30. The system of claim 29, wherein the eyeglasses comprise an eyeglass frame housing the power source and the electronic controller.

44. 30. The system of claim 29, further comprising a headset comprising the glasses, the power source, and the electronic controller.

45. 45. The system of claim 44, wherein the headset is an augmented reality (AR) headset.

46. 1. A method for reducing contrast of an image formed in a human's peripheral vision, comprising: A method comprising using an optically switchable material in an ophthalmic lens in use by a person to change the amount of scattering in an area of ​​the ophthalmic lens.

47. 47. The method of claim 46, wherein said varying comprises varying areas of the ophthalmic lens that scatter incident light and varying areas of the ophthalmic lens that are transparent.

48. 48. The method of claim 47, wherein varying the area comprises varying a size of the area.

49. 48. The method of claim 47, wherein altering the area comprises altering the location of the area.

50. 47. The method of claim 46, wherein the amount of scattering is varied based on the human visual task.

51. 47. The method of claim 46, wherein the amount of scattering is varied based on movement of the human eye.

52. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein the amount of scattering is varied to align a clear area of ​​the ophthalmic lens with the central visual axis of the person and a scattering region with the peripheral vision of the person.

53. 1. A method for reducing contrast of an image formed in a human's peripheral vision, comprising:

20. A method comprising: using a head-mounted light projection module to direct light at the human eye to illuminate the human retina in a location corresponding to the human's peripheral vision while avoiding illumination of the human's retina in a location corresponding to the human's central vision.

54. 54. The method of claim 53, further comprising varying the light based on movement of the human eye.

55. 54. The method of claim 53, further comprising varying the light based on an ambient light level.

56. 54. The method of claim 53, comprising measuring image contrast through the ophthalmic lens with a contrast sensor behind the ophthalmic lens and maintaining peripheral image contrast substantially constant with electronic circuitry.

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