AUTOMATED PROCESS FOR FORMING FEATURES ON OPHTHALMIC LENSES - Patent application

Abstract

An ophthalmic lens and a method for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens that includes automated steps are disclosed.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] The eye is an optical sensor in which light from an external source is focused by a lens onto the surface of the retina, an array of wavelength-dependent light sensors. The eye's lens can accommodate by changing shape to provide a focal distance at which external light rays are optimally or nearly optimally focused, forming an inverted image on the surface of the retina that corresponds to the external image observed by the eye. The eye's lens optimally or nearly optimally focuses light emitted by or reflected from external objects within a certain distance range from the eye, and focuses less optimally or not at all for objects outside that distance range.

[0002] In individuals with normal vision, the axial length of the eye, i.e., the distance from the anterior surface of the cornea to the fovea of ​​the retina, corresponds to the focal length for near-optimal focusing on distant objects. The eye of an individual with normal vision focuses on distant objects without neural input to muscles that apply forces to change the shape of the eye lens, a process called "accommodation." Nearer, nearby objects are focused on in normal individuals as a result of accommodation.

[0003] However, many people suffer from axial-length-related disorders such as myopia ("nearsightedness"). In myopic individuals, the axial length of the eye is longer than is necessary to focus on distant objects without accommodation. As a result, myopic individuals can see close objects clearly at a certain distance, but objects far from that distance appear blurry.

[0004] Typically, infants are born hyperopic, with an axial length that is shorter than the axial length required for optimal or near-optimal focusing of distant objects without accommodation. In normal eye development, referred to as "emmetropization," the axial length of the eye relative to other dimensions of the eye increases to a length that allows near-optimal focusing of distant objects without accommodation. Ideally, biological processes maintain a near-optimal relative axial length relative to eye size (e.g., axial length) as the eye grows to its final adult size. However, in myopic individuals, the relative axial length of the eye relative to the overall eye size continues to increase during development beyond the length that allows near-optimal focusing of distant objects, resulting in increasingly pronounced myopia.

[0005] Myopia is believed to be influenced by environmental factors as well as genetic factors.Therefore, myopia can be alleviated by a treatment device that addresses environmental factors.For example, a treatment device for treating eye length-related diseases, including myopia, is described in US Publication No. 2011 / 0313058A.

[0006] Therapeutic devices for reducing the progression of myopia include specific ophthalmic lenses, such as specific spectacle lenses and specific contact lenses. Prescription glasses and contact lenses are typically dispensed through specialized eye care clinics or via online dispensing pharmacies. In each case, especially for eyeglasses, these devices are specifically customized for the patient. For example, the patient can choose from a variety of styles and brands of eyeglasses. For a given prescription, a variety of different stock lenses with a variety of different possible coatings (e.g., hard coats and short wavelength filters, and / or optical filters such as photochromic filters) can be selected. Multifocal lenses, with even higher degrees of customization, are also possible. In each case, the eyeglasses are provided to the end user in a timely manner by a supply chain that allows the eyeglasses to be manufactured with just-in-time manufacturing. Lens manufacturers typically supply stock lenses to regional supply centers that can customize the lenses, for example, by shaping one or both lens surfaces, applying coatings to one or both lens surfaces, and shaping what are usually circular blanks to fit the specific eyeglass frames selected by the user. In some cases, stock lenses may be supplied by the manufacturer with one or more coatings already applied.

[0007] Certain ophthalmic lens technologies for reducing the progression of myopia utilize lenses that can have a base curvature suitable to correct any refractive error for the wearer and a pattern of optical elements on the surface of the lens that deviate from the base curvature. For example, SightGlass Vision, Inc.'s Diffuse Optical Technology (DOT) lens technology features a pattern of optical elements.

[0008] In many cases, these patterns must be carefully aligned with the axis of the lens. For example, certain DOT eyeglass lens products from SightGlass Vision, Inc. feature featureless apertures that can be aligned with the axis of the lens that corresponds to, for example, the visual axis of the eye for distance vision. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] US Publication No. 2011 / 0313058A [Patent Document 2] PCT International Publication No. WO2018026697A1 [Patent Document 3] US Publication No. 2019 / 0235279A1 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 11,029,540B2 [Patent Document 5] PCT International Publication No. WO2020 / 113212 [Patent Document 6] PCT International Publication No. WO2021236687A2 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 10,268,050 [Patent Document 8] PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166653 [Patent Document 9] PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166654 [Patent Document 10] PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166555 [Patent Document 11] PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166657 [Patent Document 12] PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166659 [Patent Document 13] PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 206569 [Patent Document 14] U.S. Patent No. 7,506,983 [Non-patent literature]

[0010] [Non-Patent Document 1] http: / / www.montana.edu / jshaw / documents / 18%20EELE582_S15_OTFMTF.pdf Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] Techniques are disclosed for automating the formation of optical elements in a pattern on a surface of an ophthalmic lens. In particular, optical alignment techniques are used to align an ophthalmic lens with a laser system, which then exposes the ophthalmic lens to laser radiation to form optical elements on the surface and / or bulk of the ophthalmic lens in a pattern that is precisely aligned with respect to the lens, e.g., with respect to the lens axis or lens periphery. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] In general, in a first aspect, the disclosure features a method for forming a pattern of optical features on a surface of an ophthalmic lens having a lens axis, the method including receiving the ophthalmic lens on a stage; positioning the ophthalmic lens with respect to a first device by inducing relative motion between the first device and the stage; measuring light transmitted or reflected by the ophthalmic lens or a surface characteristic of the ophthalmic lens using the first device; determining a position of the lens axis based on the measured light or surface characteristic; obtaining information regarding an alignment of the pattern of optical features with respect to the lens axis; aligning the ophthalmic lens with a laser system based on the position of the lens axis; and exposing the arrangement of the ophthalmic lens to a laser beam from the laser system to form the pattern of optical features on the ophthalmic lens in accordance with the alignment information.

[0013] Implementations of the method may include one or more of the following features. For example, the first device may be a light sensing device, and the position of the lens axis is determined based on the measurement light. In some cases, the first device is a surface profiler, and the position of the lens axis is determined based on the surface characteristics.

[0014] The laser beam can form optical features on a surface of the ophthalmic lens.The laser beam can form optical features within the bulk of the ophthalmic lens.

[0015] Determining the position of the lens may include determining a position of a lens axis of the lens. The position of the lens axis may be determined based on an image of the ophthalmic lens obtained from the measurement light. Alternatively, or in addition, the position of the lens axis may be determined based on a surface profile of the ophthalmic lens obtained from the measurement light. In some examples, the position of the lens axis is determined based on a prism measurement of the ophthalmic lens obtained from the measurement light.

[0016] The lens axis may coincide with the geometric centre of the ophthalmic lens.

[0017] The lens axis may correspond to the optical axis of an ophthalmic lens.

[0018] The optical elements may include light scattering centers. The optical elements may include microlenses (lenslets) and / or prism elements.

[0019] The ophthalmic lens may be a single vision lens or a multifocal lens (eg, a bifocal lens or a progressive lens).

[0020] The ophthalmic lens may be moved continuously relative to the light sensing device while measuring light transmitted or reflected by the lens.

[0021] The ophthalmic lens may be continuously moved relative to the laser system while exposing the location of the ophthalmic lens.

[0022] The method may include automatically altering a relative position of the ophthalmic lens with respect to the light sensing device and the laser system after measuring the light transmitted or reflected by the ophthalmic lens. The light sensing device and the laser system may be stationary while the ophthalmic lens is moved. The ophthalmic lens may be stationary while the light sensing device and the laser system are moved.

[0023] 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the pattern comprises apertures without optical elements.

[0024] The aperture may be surrounded by a region that includes the optical element.

[0025] In some instances, the lens axis intersects the aperture.

[0026] The aperture may have a maximum lateral dimension of 2 mm or greater.

[0027] Exposing the arrangement of the ophthalmic lens to the laser beam may include varying a position of a surface of the ophthalmic lens relative to a focal plane of the laser system. Varying the position of the surface may include varying a distance between the stage and the laser system.

[0028] The method can include determining an exposure sequence for a laser system to form a pattern of optical features on the ophthalmic lens based on the alignment information. Determining the exposure sequence can include geometrically transforming (e.g., rotating in one or more dimensions and / or translating) the predetermined pattern based on the alignment information, taking into account a position of the lens axis.

[0029] Among other advantages, the techniques disclosed herein can improve the throughput of manufacturing myopia control lenses by automating the alignment of lenses with laser systems to precisely form patterns of optical elements on ophthalmic lenses. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of an automated alignment and exposure system. [Diagram 2] 2 is a flow chart showing steps in the operation of the automated alignment and exposure system shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an ophthalmic lens on an exemplary platform prior to formation of an optical element. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a plan view of the ophthalmic lens shown in FIG. 3A after formation of the optical element. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially symmetric ophthalmic lens having a radially symmetric pattern. [Figure 3D] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially symmetric ophthalmic lens having a radially symmetric pattern. [Figure 3E] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially asymmetric ophthalmic lens having a radially symmetric pattern. [Figure 3F] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially asymmetric ophthalmic lens having a radially symmetric pattern. [Figure 3G] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially asymmetric ophthalmic lens having a radially symmetric pattern. [Figure 3H] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially asymmetric ophthalmic lens having a radially symmetric pattern. [Figure 3I] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially symmetric lens of an ophthalmic lens having a radially asymmetric pattern. [Figure 3J] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially symmetric lens of an ophthalmic lens having a radially asymmetric pattern. [Figure 3K]FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially symmetric lens of an ophthalmic lens having a radially asymmetric pattern. [Figure 3L] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a radially symmetric lens of an ophthalmic lens having a radially asymmetric pattern. [Figure 3M] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3N] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3O] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3P] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3Q] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3R] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3S] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3T] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3U] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 3V] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an ophthalmic lens. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary ophthalmic lens having a pattern of optical elements with two clear apertures. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a pair of spectacles including an ophthalmic lens as shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a human horizontal field of view. [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a human vertical field of view. [Figure 7A] 1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optics and markers for designating the orientation of the lens. [Figure 7B] 1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optics and markers for designating the orientation of the lens. [Figure 7C]1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optics and markers for designating the orientation of the lens. [Figure 7D] 1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optics and markers for designating the orientation of the lens. [Figure 8A] 1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optical elements and edge features for specifying the orientation of the lens. [Figure 8B] 1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optical elements and edge features for specifying the orientation of the lens. [Figure 8C] 1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optical elements and edge features for specifying the orientation of the lens. [Figure 8D] 1A-1C illustrate steps in the manufacturing process of an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optical elements and edge features for specifying the orientation of the lens. [Figure 9A] 1A-1C illustrate steps in a manufacturing process for an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optical elements on both surfaces. [Figure 9B] 1A-1C illustrate steps in a manufacturing process for an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optical elements on both surfaces. [Figure 9C] 1A-1C illustrate steps in a manufacturing process for an exemplary ophthalmic lens featuring optical elements on both surfaces. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an exemplary ophthalmic lens having a pattern of optical elements with two clear apertures. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a plan view of another exemplary ophthalmic lens having a pattern of optical elements with two clear apertures. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a further exemplary ophthalmic lens having a pattern of optical elements with two clear apertures. [Figure 13]FIG. 2 is a plan view of an exemplary ophthalmic lens having a pattern of optical elements without any clear apertures. [Figure 14] 2 is a schematic diagram of another example of an automated alignment and exposure system. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an electronic controller useful in an automated alignment and exposure system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031] In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate like elements.

[0032] 1, an example of an automated alignment and exposure system 100 for forming a pattern of optical elements on the surface and / or in the bulk material of a stock ophthalmic lens 101 includes a measurement subsystem 110, a laser exposure subsystem 120, and a conveyor that transports the lens 101 between the two subsystems. Operation of the subsystems and conveyor is controlled by an electronic controller 160. In general, the electronic controller 160 may include one or more computer systems (e.g., including an electronic processor, memory, and an interface that facilitates operation by the controller). A Cartesian coordinate system is provided for ease of reference.

[0033] The conveyor includes a conveyor belt 140 having rollers 142 and stages 150 positioned on the conveyor belt 140, each supporting a corresponding lens 101 and positioning the lens 101 relative to the measurement subsystem 110 and the laser exposure subsystem 120. The conveyor belt 140 moves the stages 150 in the Y direction, advancing the stages first under the measurement subsystem 110 and then into the laser exposure subsystem 120. Each stage includes an actuator 152 that moves the corresponding stage 150 in an x ​​direction that is orthogonal to the direction of movement of the conveyor belt 140.

[0034] The measurement subsystem 110 performs optical measurements of the lens 101 as it passes underneath it to determine the position of the lens axis of the lens 101 relative to the system. The system then moves the lens 101 to the laser exposure subsystem 120 where the lens is exposed to a laser beam to form a pattern of optical elements on and / or within the lens 101. The system forms the pattern according to the position of the lens axis determined via the optical measurements, ensuring that the pattern is accurately placed on the lens.

[0035] 1, optical measurement subsystem 110 includes light source 112, light shaping optics 114, beam splitter 116, collection optics 117, and image sensor 118. In operation, subsystem 110 directs illumination from light source 112 to lens 101 and directs light reflected from lens 101 to sensor 118. Light shaping optics 114 is arranged and configured to shape the light emitted from the light source to sufficiently illuminate the field of view of subsystem 110. Beam splitter 116 directs light from light shaping optics 114 to stage 150, and collection optics 117 both direct light to the stage and receive light reflected from lens 101 to form an image of lens 101 on sensor 118. In general, light shaping optics 114 and 117 may comprise one or more optical elements (e.g., lenses, diffusers, polarizers, wavelength filters) that may be distributed at various locations along the optical path of the light (e.g., upstream or downstream of beam splitter 116 for both the illumination and received light). An electronic controller 160 both controls the operation of measurement subsystem 110 and receives data from sensor 118 for analysis.

[0036] The laser exposure subsystem 120 comprises a laser source 122 and a beam steering assembly that receives a laser beam from the laser source 122 and focuses and directs the laser beam onto the lens 101 as the lens moves through the illumination field of the subsystem 120. The beam steering assembly 124 comprises collimating optics 126 and focusing optics 128. The reflector 130 is disposed between the collimating optics 126 and the focusing optics 128. The reflector 130 is coupled to the reflector 130 and configured to scan the location of the focused laser beam across the lens 101 (e.g., along one or two axes). In some implementations, the reflector 130 is a galvo mirror assembly.

[0037] 2, the system 100 may be used to form a pattern of optical features on a surface of an ophthalmic lens using a series of steps shown in flowchart 200. In an initial step 210, an ophthalmic lens 101 is received by the system on a stage 150. The lens 101 may be manually placed on the stage or may be loaded onto the stage in another automated process, for example using a robotic placement arm.

[0038] Next, in step 220, the system positions the lens 101 relative to the measurement subsystem 110 by moving the stage 150 relative to the measurement subsystem 110. Once properly positioned, in step 230, the measurement subsystem 110 performs measurements by directing light to the lens 101 and measuring the light reflected therefrom. In this embodiment, the lens 101 moves continuously relative to the measurement subsystem 110 while the subsystem detects light reflected by the lens. However, in some implementations, the system may keep the lens stationary relative to the measurement subsystem while measurements are being taken. It should also be noted that while the measurement subsystem 110 operates using light reflected from the ophthalmic lens, in some examples measurements may be made based on transmitted light.

[0039] In step 240, the system determines an axis position of the lens 101 based on the measurement light. In general, various suitable optical measurement techniques may be used to identify the lens axis position of the lens 101. For example, in some implementations, the measurement subsystem 110 is a machine vision system and the lens axis position is determined based on an image of the ophthalmic lens obtained from the measurement light. For example, if the ophthalmic lens is a circular lens, the lens circumference may be identified from the image and the lens axis position may be determined as the position of the geometric center of the circular circumference.

[0040] In some examples, the measurement subsystem 110 determines the orientation of the lens by measuring the prisms of the lens 101. For example, the subsystem 110 can measure the lateral displacement of a beam reflected from a top surface of the lens from a beam reflected from a bottom surface of the lens. In some cases, the stage 150 can adjust the orientation of the lens 101 to reduce (e.g., minimize) the amount of displacement of these beams. The lens axis can correspond to the placement and orientation with a zero prism.

[0041] In some implementations, the measurement subsystem 110 can profile the surface of the lens 101, and the position of the lens axis is determined based on the surface profile. For example, the measurement subsystem 110 can be an imaging interferometer that uses imaging optics and a camera sensor to simultaneously measure the wavefront reflected from the entire lens surface.

[0042] In some examples, the measurement subsystem 110 performs non-optical measurements of the lens 101 to determine the location of the lens axis. For example, the subsystem can measure lens surface characteristics (e.g., profile) through mechanical or electromagnetic contact sensing. Such examples include systems that use a stylus, caliper, or feeler. In some cases, the subsystem can perform one or more surface profile measurements (e.g., along different sections of the lens) that can be used in determining the location of the lens axis. Two, three, four, or more different measurements may be performed. In some cases, the subsystem can perform repeated profile measurements along different directions until the placement of the lens axis is determined to a preset confidence level.

[0043] The axis of the lens 101 can correspond to the optical axis of an ophthalmic lens. For example, the axis can be an axis of rotational symmetry of one or more lens surfaces. In some implementations, the lens axis coincides with the geometric center of the lens 101. For example, the lens axis can correspond to the central axis of a circular lens. In some cases, the central axis is coaxial with the optical axis of the lens.

[0044] In step 250, the system obtains information regarding the alignment of the pattern of optical features with respect to the lens axis. This may be accomplished based on information provided by an eye care professional or other third party and / or based on a pattern that the system operator has (e.g., located in memory in the system's electronic controller). The pattern typically includes information regarding the placement of each optical element with respect to the lens axis and / or with respect to some other criterion by which the system faithfully aligns the optical elements on the lens. For example, the pattern may include information regarding the placement of a single optical element with respect to the lens axis, but then includes information regarding the placement of all other optical elements with respect to at least one other optical element.

[0045] In step 260, the system aligns the ophthalmic lens 101 with respect to the laser exposure subsystem 120 based on the position of the lens axis. This involves transferring the ophthalmic lens 101 on the stage 150 from the measurement subsystem 110 to the laser exposure subsystem 120 and properly positioning the lens 101 for exposure to the beam steering assembly 124. Once properly positioned, in step 270, the system irradiates discrete locations on the ophthalmic lens 101 with a laser beam from the laser exposure subsystem 120 to form a pattern of optical features on the ophthalmic lens according to the alignment information.

[0046] The process of aligning the pattern to the lens can include a mathematical transformation of the pattern by software to account for the relative orientation and placement of the lens within the system. Such transformation can include a displacement (e.g., in one, two, or three dimensions) and / or a rotation (e.g., about one or more axes) of the existing pattern to modify the pattern from the coordinate system in which the pattern information is provided and the coordinate system of the lens on the stage. The system determines an exposure sequence of the laser exposure subsystem for exposing the lens based on the aligned pattern to ensure accurate alignment of the pattern with respect to the lens axes.

[0047] Alternatively, the system can calculate the pattern on the fly based on the placement of the lens and / or one or more additional factors (eg, based on the surface curvature of the lens, the optical power of the lens).

[0048] In general, the optical elements may be formed on the surface of the lens and / or in the bulk material of the lens. In general, the type of laser used in subsystem 120 may vary depending on the properties of lens 101 (e.g., the composition of the lens) and the optical elements formed thereon.

[0049] In some implementations, the system may continuously move the ophthalmic lens 101 relative to the laser exposure subsystem 120 while exposing the arrangement of the ophthalmic lens. Alternatively, the system may hold the lens stationary during exposure or move the lens in steps along the Y direction during exposure.

[0050] In some implementations, the measurement and exposure process is entirely automatic and continuous, where the system measures the light transmitted or reflected by the ophthalmic lens, then automatically transports the ophthalmic lens from the measurement subsystem to a laser exposure subsystem, and then exposes the lens to form the pattern as it moves continuously along the conveyor.

[0051] In some examples, the system adjusts the position of the lens along the z direction to maintain the lens surface at or near the focal point of the laser beam. For example, the system can maintain the lens surface within 1 mm of the position of the best focus of the beam. The system can adjust the position of the lens along the z direction to change the spot size of the laser beam on the lens surface. Generally, the spot size at the lens surface increases the further the lens surface is from the focal plane. The system can change the z position of the lens during exposure to account for the curvature of the lens surface. For example, the system can decrease the distance between the lens surface and the laser exposure subsystem as a function of increasing radial distance from the lens axis.

[0052] Generally, the system can move the lens to an appropriate position relative to the laser exposure subsystem with respect to the pattern based on the measurements, the system can adjust the pattern (e.g., by rotating and / or translating the pattern), or the system can adjust both the lens and the pattern.

[0053] The system can also adjust the speed of relative motion between the laser beam and the lens depending on one or more parameters. For example, exposure can be sped up when the surface is closer to the focal plane of the laser (i.e., when the energy density of the beam is relatively higher) compared to when the surface is farther from the focal plane.

[0054] The process outlined in Figure 2 may include additional steps. For example, additional coatings may be applied to one or both of the lens surfaces either before or after applying the pattern 155 (step 280). Examples include UV or blue light filters, anti-reflective coatings, photochromic coatings, polarizers, mirror coatings, tints, hard coats. In some cases, additional shaping of the lens surface is performed, for example, to customize the multifocal lens for a user, either before or after application of the pattern 155.

[0055] The additional coatings may be applied by a processing station downstream from the laser exposure subsystem of system 100 or may be applied separately from this system.

[0056] Automated and / or continuous manufacturing methods would enable ophthalmic lenses with patterns of optical elements to be manufactured on a large scale in an economical manner. The disclosed systems and methods can provide precise alignment of the pattern with respect to the lens axis (or other lens features). For example, the system can align the pattern to have a maximum displacement of 1 mm or more (e.g., 0.8 mm or more, 0.5 mm or more, 0.3 mm or more, 0.2 mm or more, 0.1 mm or more) from a target placement on the lens. For lenses with a base curvature of, for example, +4D or more, a placement accuracy of 1 mm or more would be desirable to reduce strong prismatic effects.

[0057] This process may be performed at an eyeglass store, a distribution center, an optical laboratory, or a centralized manufacturing facility. Lens modifications may be performed locally on lenses from a lens inventory and in conjunction with existing eyeglass fitting adjustment protocols, allowing just-in-time delivery of highly customized eyeglasses including patterns of optical elements, such as customized patterns of optical elements.

[0058] In some implementations, the stage 150 can include one or more fiducial markers, and the system can determine the position of the lens axis relative to the position of the one or more fiducial markers to facilitate alignment of the lens with respect to the laser exposure. Such a system is illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. 3A shows in plan view a lens 301 placed on a stage 350 carried by a conveyor belt 340. The surface of the stage 350 includes six fiducial markers 350a-350f in various arrangements across the surface. As illustrated, the lens is positioned to cover markers 350a, 350b, and 350e.

[0059] The fiducial markers are of a size and shape that can be reliably identified by the measurement subsystem For example, the fiducial markers may be applied (e.g., etched or printed) to have high contrast with respect to the stage surface at the wavelengths of light used by the measurement subsystem.

[0060] In some examples, the measurement subsystem is a machine vision system that acquires an image of the entire lens, and the electronic controller can determine the placement of the lens axis with respect to each fiducial marker in the field of view of the subsystem. For example, the system can measure two different (e.g., perpendicular) diameters D of the lens 301. a and D. bThe system can determine the location of the axis 302 as the location where the two perpendicular diameters D intersect. The system can further determine the location of the fiducial markers 350a, 350b, and 350e relative to the lens axis 302. For example, the location of each of these fiducial markers can be determined by the location of the two perpendicular diameters D where the lens axis 302 corresponds to the origin. a and D. b The coordinates can be determined as (x,y) coordinates in the coordinate system defined by

[0061] 3B , the laser exposure subsystem can then determine the location of the lens axis 302 by first identifying the location of the fiducial markers 350a, 350b, 350d using another alignment module. Based on the location of the lens axis 302, the laser exposure subsystem forms a pattern of optical elements 320 consisting of an annular region of optical elements surrounding a clear aperture 310 located at the center of the axis 302.

[0062] Of course, the exemplary implementations shown in Figures 3A and 3B are merely examples. In general, any suitable arrangement of fiducial markers suitable for use with the measurement and alignment techniques employed may be used.

[0063] In general, the ophthalmic lens may be any ophthalmic lens suitable for use in myopia control glasses. Commercially available stock lenses may also be used. The ophthalmic lens may be a plano lens, a single vision lens (e.g., having positive or negative spherical power and / or cylinder), or a multifocal lens (e.g., bifocal or progressive lens). In some examples, the ophthalmic lens has a non-zero prismatic power.

[0064] Typically, the lenses are circular lenses that are subsequently shaped to fit an eyeglass frame selected by the wearer, however, the techniques disclosed herein may be applied to non-circular lenses as well (e.g., lenses that are shaped for an eyeglass frame prior to formation of the optical element pattern).

[0065] The optical elements may include light scattering centers (dots). Alternatively, or in addition, the optical elements may be lenslets. Examples of light scattering centers are described in PCT International Publication No. WO2018026697A1, entitled "Ophthalmic lenses for treating myopia," and U.S. Publication No. 2019 / 0235279A1, entitled "Ophthalmic lenses with light scattering for treating myopia," both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Examples of lenslets are described in U.S. Patent No. 11,029,540B2, entitled "Spectacle lens and method of using a spectacle lens."

[0066] The optical elements may be formed in any suitable pattern. For purposes of clarity, as used herein, pattern refers to both the shape of the areas in which the optical elements are formed and the arrangement of the individual optical elements within those areas. In some examples, as described above, the optical elements may be formed in annular rings on the lens surface or within the bulk material of the lens, although other arrangements are possible. Examples of patterns of optical elements are described in PCT International Publication No. WO2018026697A1 and U.S. Patent No. 2019 / 0235279A1. Other examples of possible patterns are described in PCT International Publication No. WO2020 / 113212, entitled "Light scattering lens for treating myopia and eyeglasses containing the same," and PCT International Publication No. WO2021236687A2, entitled "Ophthalmic lenses, method of manufacturing the ophthalmic lenses, and methods of dispenses eye care products including the same." The entire contents of both International Publication No. WO2020 / 113212 and International Publication No. WO2021236687A2 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] In some instances, both the lens and the pattern are radially symmetric. In other words, both the lens and the pattern have symmetry with respect to a central axis. This may also be referred to as rotational symmetry. For example, a plano lens or a lens with only spherical refractive power is a radially symmetric lens when provided with a circular edge. In general, a lens with a circular edge is referred to as a circular lens even if the curvature of the surface deviates from the plane of the circle defined by the edge.

[0068] Additionally, the optical elements may be arranged in a pattern with radial symmetry about a geometric center of the pattern. Such a pattern generally has a circular perimeter and optically performs the same function when viewed by a user in any radial direction. In such cases, the geometric center of the pattern, such as the center of a clear aperture in an annular region of the optical element, may be aligned with the optical center of the lens.

[0069] More generally, however, the techniques described above may also be used to form rotationally asymmetric patterns in radially symmetric or radially asymmetric lenses. Generally, this involves establishing a relative alignment between the lens and the pattern that takes into account the asymmetry prior to forming the optical element. The system adjusts the alignment, if necessary, so that the relative alignment is as specified. In some examples, structural and / or optical alignment features may be formed on the lens that allow for alignment of the lens in a lens correction system prior to forming the optical element. Below, examples are described that generally fall into four categories:

[0070] Type 1: Radially symmetric lenses (e.g., having a radially symmetric refractive power profile) and radially symmetric patterns:

[0071] (i) A circular plano lens with a radially symmetric pattern located at the center of the lens. An example of such a lens is shown in Figure 3C. Lens 100C is a plano lens (SPH=0.00D, CYL=0.00D) that includes a radially symmetric pattern of optical elements 110C centered about the geometric center 105C of the lens.

[0072] (ii) A circular spherical power lens with no cylindrical power, where the radially symmetric pattern is located at the center of the lens. An example of such a lens is shown in Figure 3D, where lens 100D is a spherical power lens (SPH=-1.00D, CYL=0.00D) that includes a radially symmetric pattern of optical elements 110D centered at the geometric center 105D of the lens. The geometric center 105D coincides with the optical center of lens 100D.

[0073] Type 2: Radially asymmetric lenses (e.g., having a radially asymmetric refractive power profile) and radially symmetric patterns

[0074] (i) A circular, plano or circular spherical power lens having a cylindrical power axis and a radially symmetric pattern located at the center of the lens. An example of such a lens is shown in FIG. 3E. A lens 100E having SPH=-1.00D and CYL=-0.50D along a cylindrical axis 102E includes a radially symmetric pattern 110E centered at the geometric center 105E of the lens. Note that the "cylinder axis" or "cylinder axis" is not the same as the lens axis. Rather, the cylinder axis refers to the meridian along which a lens with a non-zero CYL power has no cylindrical power. Such lenses are commonly prescribed to correct astigmatism.

[0075] (ii) A multifocal or progressive lens with a radially symmetric pattern located at the center of the lens. An example of such a lens is shown in Figure 3F, where a progressive lens 100F has five zones of different refractive powers (120F, 121F, 122F, 123F, and 124F). The radially symmetric pattern 110F is centered about the geometric center 105F of the lens.

[0076] (iii) Non-circular lenses, such as lenses with flat edges or notches, or lenses shaped to fit into a spectacle frame, with the radially symmetrical pattern located at the center of the lens. Examples of such lenses are shown in Figures 3G and 3H. In Figure 3G, lens 100G is circular, apart from a flat edge 101G. Lens 101G includes a radially symmetrical pattern 110G centered on the radial center 105G of the circular portion of the edge of the lens. Center 105G may coincide with the optical center of the lens. Figure 3H shows lens 100H shaped to fit into a spectacle frame. Lens 100H includes a radially symmetrical pattern 110H with center 105H, which may coincide with the optical center of lens 100H.

[0077] Type 3: Radially symmetric lenses and radially asymmetric patterns with respect to the lens:

[0078] (i) A circular plano lens with a radially symmetric pattern, where the center of the lens does not coincide with the geometric center of the pattern. Figure 3I shows an example of such a lens, where a plano lens 100I includes a pattern 110I that is radially symmetric about a point 111I that is offset from the geometric center 105I of the lens. A marker 103I (e.g., on or in the lens) can be used as a reference when aligning the pattern to the lens.

[0079] (ii) A circular spherical power lens without cylindrical power, with a radially symmetric pattern, where the center of the lens does not coincide with the geometric center of the pattern. Figure 3J shows an example of such a lens. In particular, a spherical lens 100J includes a pattern 110J that is radially symmetric about a point 111J that is offset from the geometric center 105J of the lens. The geometric center may coincide with the optical center of the lens. A marker 103J may be used as a reference when aligning the pattern with the lens.

[0080] (iii) A circular plano lens with a radially asymmetric pattern. An example of such a lens is shown in FIG. 3K, where plano lens 100K includes a pattern 110K with a circular outline formed by horizontal lines of optical elements (e.g., scattering centers or rows of lenslets). The circular center of pattern 110K is aligned with the geometric center 105K of the lens. Marker 103K can be used as a reference when aligning the pattern with the lens.

[0081] (iv) A circular spherical power lens with no cylindrical power, with a radially asymmetric pattern. FIG. 3L shows an example of such a lens. Here, a spherical lens 100L includes a pattern 110L with a circular outline formed by horizontal lines of optical elements (e.g., scattering centers or rows of lenslets). The circle center of the pattern 110L is aligned with the geometric center 105L of the lens. The geometric center may coincide with the optical center of the lens. A marker 103L may be used as a reference when aligning the pattern with the lens.

[0082] Type 4: Radially asymmetric lenses and radially asymmetric patterns with respect to the lens:

[0083] (i) A circular plano or spherical power lens with a cylindrical power axis and a radially symmetric pattern that is not located at the center of the lens. Figure 3V shows an example of such a lens, where lens 100V, SPH=-1.00D, CYL=-0.50D, with cylindrical axis 102V, contains a pattern 110V of optical elements that is radially symmetric about a point 111V that is offset from the geometric center 105V of the lens.

[0084] (ii) A circular plano or spherical power lens with a cylindrical power axis and a radially asymmetric pattern. An example of such a lens is shown in FIG. 3M, where lens 100M, SPH=-1.00D, CYL=-0.50D, with cylindrical axis 102M, includes pattern 110M with a circular contour formed by horizontal lines of optical elements (e.g., scattering centers or rows of lenslets). The circular center of pattern 110M is aligned with the geometric center 105M of the lens.

[0085] (iii) Circular plano or spherical power lenses with or without a cylindrical power axis, decentered optical centers, and radially symmetric patterns that are not located at the center of the lens. Figure 3N shows an example of such a lens, where lens 100N includes a pattern 110N that is radially symmetric about a point 111N that is offset from the geometric center 105N of the lens. Point 111N coincides with the optical center of lens 100N.

[0086] (iv) Circular plano or spherical power lenses with or without a cylindrical power axis, decentered optical center, and radially asymmetric pattern. Figure 3O shows an example of such a lens. Here, lens 100O includes a pattern 110O with a circular contour formed by horizontal lines of optical elements (e.g., scattering centers or rows of lenslets). The circular center of pattern 110O is aligned with the geometric center 105O of ​​the lens, but the optical center 111O of the lens is offset from the geometric center 105O.

[0087] (v) Circular multifocal or progressive lenses and radially symmetric patterns that are not located in the center of the lens. Figure 3P shows an example of such a lens, where a progressive lens 100P has five zones of different refractive powers (120P, 121P, 122P, 123P, and 124P). The radially symmetric pattern 110P is centered on a point 111P that is in zone 122P and is offset from the geometric center 105P of the lens that is located in zone 121P.

[0088] (vi) Circular multifocal or progressive lenses and radially asymmetric patterns, an example of which is shown in FIG. 3Q, where lens 100Q includes a pattern 110Q of optical elements arranged in parallel lines 120Q arranged horizontally across the lens, with the expanding zones of the lens (102Q, 103Q, 104Q, 105Q, and 106Q) having different refractive powers. The radial center of pattern 110Q is aligned with the geometric center 105Q of lens 100Q.

[0089] (vii) Non-circular lenses (such as lenses with flat edges or notches, or lenses shaped to fit into an eyeglass frame) in which the radially symmetric pattern is not located at the center of the lens. Figure 3R shows an example of such a lens 100R with a flat edge 101R and a pattern of optical elements 110R that is radially symmetric about a point 111R that is off-center from the optical center 105R of the lens 100R. Figure 3S shows an example of a lens 100S with an edge shaped to fit into an eyeglass frame. The lens 100S includes a pattern 110S that is radially symmetric about a point 111S, but is not centered on the optical center 105S of the lens.

[0090] (vii) Non-circular lenses with radially asymmetric patterns (such as lenses with flat edges or notches, or lenses shaped to fit into an eyeglass frame). FIG. 3T shows an example of such a lens 100T with a flat edge 101T and a pattern 110T of optical elements with a circular outline. The pattern 110T is made up of a horizontal row of optical elements, with the circle that outlines the optical elements being centered on the optical center 105T of the lens 100T. FIG. 3U shows an example of a lens 100U with edges shaped to fit into an eyeglass frame. The lens 100U includes a pattern 110U of optical elements with a circular outline. The pattern 110U is made up of a horizontal row of optical elements, with the circle that outlines the optical elements being centered on the optical center 105U of the lens 100U.

[0091] Turning now to further examples of optical element patterns, in general, a variety of different patterns are possible. As mentioned above, in some examples, rotationally asymmetric patterns are used. Such patterns lack radial symmetry around an axis, such as an axis passing through the geometric center of the pattern. One example of such a pattern is illustrated in FIG. 4, which shows an ophthalmic lens 500 comprising a first clear aperture 510 and a toric-shaped scattering region 530 surrounding the clear aperture. In this case, the lens 500 has uniform optical properties and is, for example, a monofocal lens, such as a spherical lens, a compound or toric lens (i.e., having a spherical component and a cylindrical component), or a plano lens (i.e., a lens with no refractive power). FIG. 5 also shows vertical and horizontal axes for ease of reference. It will be understood that while the lens 500 is depicted as a circular blank and thus radially symmetric with respect to a spherical lens, the horizontal and vertical directions refer to how the lens is oriented when mounted in an eyeglass frame.

[0092] A first clear aperture 510 is positioned substantially near the center of the lens 500. A patterned area 530 is also centrally located with respect to the lens center. The patterned area 530 is also surrounded by a transparent area 540. A second clear aperture 520 is also provided within the patterned area 530 and is spaced from the clear aperture 510 along an axis 532 that is offset from the normal axis of the lens by an angle α.

[0093] 4, the clear aperture 510 is a distance vision aperture and may be involved in distance vision activities such as reading a road sign, and the second clear aperture 520 is a near vision aperture and may be involved in near vision activities such as reading a book.

[0094] When α refers to the offset angle from the vertical meridian after being worn, it can be selected to accommodate the path of the user's eyes when the user focuses on a nearby object. When a person accommodates to focus on a nearby object, this also causes a horizontal inward eye movement called convergence, i.e., vergence. Thus, to make the near vision object appear to the accommodated eye through the second aperture, this angle can be selected to match the user's vergence for the near vision object. In some examples, α is 45° or less, e.g., about 30° or less, about 25° or less, about 20° or less, about 15° or less, about 10° or less, about 8° or less, e.g., 1° or more, 2° or more, 3° or more, 4° or more, 5° or more, or 0°. For example, clear aperture 520--for near vision--is offset from a vertical axis passing through the center of clear aperture 510 toward the user's nose to accommodate for vergence of the wearer's eyes when focusing on nearby objects. This offset can be 1 mm or more (e.g., 2 mm or more, 3 mm or more, 4 mm or more, 5 mm or more, 6 mm or more, 7 mm or more, e.g., 10 mm or less, 9 mm or less, 8 mm or less), the distance being measured from the horizontal center point of clear aperture 510 (which in some examples may correspond to the center of the lens) to the horizontal center point of clear aperture 520. Both clear aperture 510 and clear aperture 520 are circular, with aperture 520 having a slightly larger diameter than aperture 510. In general, the size of the apertures may vary and be set to provide the user with sufficient on-axis vision (through aperture 510) and sufficient near vision (through aperture 520), while not being so large as to significantly interfere with the effects of contrast reduction in peripheral vision due to the optical elements in the pattern area. Typically, both clear apertures have a diameter of 2 mm or more (e.g., 3 mm or more, 4 mm or more, 5 mm or more, e.g., 10 mm or less).

[0095] Non-circular apertures are also possible (see below for specific examples). For example, the horizontal width of an aperture may differ from the vertical height of the aperture. In FIG. 4, the horizontal widths of apertures 510 and 520, respectively, are w 510 and w 520 In general, the horizontal widths of the apertures may be the same or different. In some cases, such as that illustrated in FIG. 520 Is W 510 For example, w 520 , w 510 It may be 10% or more (e.g., 20% or more, 30% or more, 40% or more, 50% or more, 75% or more, 100% or more, such as 200% or less, 150% or less, 120% or less, etc.) greater than w 520 is selected for near vision such that the user's visual axis remains within the clear aperture 520 while the user is engaged in a particular task in which the eyes are scanning the field of view horizontally (e.g., while reading). This can be advantageous in allowing the user to scan the field of view through the clear aperture without moving their head.

[0096] The distance between the apertures can also vary and is typically set so that the apertures correspond to comfortable on-axis vision and comfortable near vision for the user. The distance between the nearest edges of the clear apertures can be 1 mm or more (e.g., 2 mm or more, 5 mm or more, such as 10 mm or less).

[0097] The distance between the centers of the apertures 510 and 520 is δ in FIG. NF , where the aperture 520 can change to correspond to the user's gaze direction when focused on a nearby object. NF can be in the range of 0.5 mm to 20 mm (e.g., 0.6 mm or more, 0.7 mm or more, 0.8 mm or more, 0.9 mm or more, 10 mm or more, 11 mm or more, 12 mm or more, 13 mm or more, 14 mm or more, e.g., 19 mm or less, 18 mm or less, 17 mm or less, 16 mm or less, 15 mm or less).

[0098] The separation distance between apertures 510 and 520 depends on the size of each aperture and the distance between their centers. In some examples, the separation distance can be 0.5 mm or more (e.g., 1 mm or more, 2 mm or more, 3 mm or more). The separation distance can be less than 10 mm (e.g., 9 mm or less, 8 mm or less, 7 mm or less, 6 mm or less, 5 mm or less).

[0099] The patterned regions 530 include optical elements that scatter at least a portion of the light that enters the lens in these regions or defocus or blur through optical aberrations. This may reduce contrast in the user's peripheral vision, which is believed to slow the progression of the user's myopia. In general, the optical elements may include features on the surface of the lens (e.g., protrusions or depressions) or inclusions within the bulk lens material.

[0100] In general, the properties of the optical elements may be selected based on various design parameters that provide a desired degree of contrast reduction on the user's retina. In general, these design parameters include, for example, optical element density, their size and shape, and their refractive index, which are described in more detail below. Ideally, the optical elements are selected to provide high visual acuity on the fovea and low image contrast elsewhere in the retina, while being sufficiently less uncomfortable for the wearer to allow for extended periods of continuous wear. For example, it may be desirable for children to be able to wear the glasses comfortably most, if not all, of the day. Alternatively, or in addition, the optical elements may be designed for specific tasks, particularly those tasks that are believed to strongly promote axial length growth, such as video games, reading, or other wide-angle, high-contrast image exposure. For example, in such situations (e.g., where the user experiences high contrast in the peripheral field and / or where the wearer does not need to navigate and orient using peripheral vision), peripheral scattering strength and scattering angle may be high, but awareness and self-esteem considerations may be less of a concern. This may increase the efficiency of peripheral contrast reduction in such high-contrast environments. Similarly, the blur circle radius and intensity or optical aberration characteristics of the defocused lenslets can be adjusted.

[0101] The reduction in image contrast in the fovea of ​​the user's eye is believed to be less effective at controlling eye growth than the reduction in image contrast in other parts of the user's retina. Thus, the scattering centers may be adjusted to reduce (e.g., minimize) the light scattered into the fovea of ​​the user while relatively more of the light that falls on other parts of the retina is scattered light. The amount of scattered light on the fovea may be affected not only by the size of the clear aperture, but also by the nature of the scattering centers, particularly those closest to the clear aperture. In some examples, for example, the scattering centers closest to the clear aperture may be designed to scatter light less efficiently than scattering centers further away. Alternatively, or in addition, in some examples, the scattering centers closest to the clear aperture may be designed for a smaller angle of forward scattering than scattering centers further away from the aperture. In a similar manner, the amount of blur caused by a defocused lenslet or optical aberration feature depends on the density of the feature, its size, and the strength of the visual blur, e.g., the amount of relative plus add power of the lenslet. Design optimization that reduces blur in the central vision while inducing blur in the peripheral retinal region allows for a comfortable visual experience while slowing the progression of myopia.

[0102] In some instances, the scattering center may be designed to provide reduced narrow angle scattering and increased wide angle scattering through the geometry of the scattering center to generate a uniform light distribution / low contrast signal on the retina while maintaining visual acuity. For example, the scattering center may be designed to generate significant wide angle forward scattering (e.g., greater than 10%, 20% or more, 30% or more, 40% or more, 50% or more, greater than 2.5 degrees deflection, etc.). Narrow angle forward scattering, i.e., scattering within 2.5 degrees, may be kept relatively low (e.g., 50% or less, 40% or less, 30% or less, 20% or less, 10% or less).

[0103] In general, a variety of different metrics are used to evaluate the performance of the scattering center, so that the scattering center can be optimized for use in myopia-reducing glasses. For example, the scattering center can be empirically optimized, for example, based on physical measurements of lenses with different scattering center shapes, sizes, and layouts. For example, light scattering can be characterized based on haze measurements, such as the International Test Standard for Haze (e.g., ASTM D1003 or BS EN ISO 13468). Traditional haze meters can be used, such as the BYK-Gardner haze meter (such as the Haze-Gard Plus instrument), which measures the amount of light that is completely transmitted through the lens, the amount of light that is transmitted undisturbed (e.g., within 0.5 degrees), the amount of light that is deflected by more than 2.5 degrees, and the transparency (amount within 2.5 degrees), which can be considered a measure of narrow-angle scattering. Other instruments can also be used to characterize light scattering with the aim of empirically optimizing the scattering pattern. For example, an instrument that measures light diffusion by measuring the light in an annular ring around 2.5 degrees may be used (eg, the Hornell instrument described in standard EN 167).

[0104] Alternatively, or in addition, the contrast reduction optical elements may be optimized by computer modeling software (eg, Zemax or Code V).

[0105] In some examples, the scattering centers may be designed based on optimizing the point spread function, which is a representation of the image of the scattering centers on the retina. For example, the size, shape, composition, spacing, and / or refractive index of the scattering centers may be varied to evenly spread the illumination of the retina so that the retina outside the fovea is homogenously covered with scattered light, reducing (e.g., minimizing) the contrast in this region of the retina.

[0106] In some instances, optimizing light scattering over the peripheral retina accentuates the intensity of scattered vs. undisturbed light in some regions of the retina, suppressing high contrast images more strongly. For example, high contrast images when reading black and white text tend to originate more from the lower half of the orbit. Thus, covering the upper retina orbit more strongly with scattered light can be beneficial in reducing the signal for axial length growth while simultaneously reducing visual effects, such as glare or halo, in the upper orbit. Similarly, blur from defocused lenslets or optical aberration features can be modified in intensity to affect the lower and upper portions of the orbit differently.

[0107] Alternatively, or in addition, the scattering centers can be designed based on optimizing the modulation transfer function, which refers to the spatial frequency response of the human visual system. For example, the size, shape, and spacing of the scattering centers can be varied to smooth the falloff of a range of spatial frequencies. The design parameters of the scattering centers can be varied to make some spatial frequencies higher or lower as desired. Generally, the spatial frequencies of interest for visual acuity are 18 cycles per degree on the fine side and 1.5 cycles per degree on the coarse side. The scattering centers can be designed to provide enhanced signals at some subset of spatial frequencies within this range.

[0108] The aforementioned metrics may be used to evaluate the scattering centers based on their size and / or shape, both of which may be varied as desired. For example, the scattering centers may be substantially round (e.g., spherical), elongated (e.g., elliptical), or irregularly shaped. In general, if the scattering centers are protrusions on the surface of the lens, the protrusions should have dimensions (e.g., diameter) sufficient to scatter visible light, but small enough not to be resolved by the wearer during normal use. For example, the scattering centers can have dimensions in the range of about 0.001 mm or more (e.g., about 0.005 mm or more, about 0.01 mm or more, about 0.015 mm or more, about 0.02 mm or more, about 0.025 mm or more, about 0.03 mm or more, about 0.035 mm or more, about 0.04 mm or more, about 0.045 mm or more, about 0.05 mm or more, about 0.055 mm or more, about 0.06 mm or more, about 0.07 mm or more, about 0.08 mm or more, about 0.09 mm or more, about 0.1 mm) to about 1 mm or less (e.g., about 0.9 mm or less, about 0.8 mm or less, about 0.7 mm or less, about 0.6 mm or less, about 0.5 mm or less, about 0.4 mm or less, about 0.3 mm or less, about 0.2 mm or less, about 0.1 mm).

[0109] It should be noted that for smaller scattering centers, e.g., those having dimensions comparable to the wavelength of light (e.g., 0.001 mm to about 0.05 mm), the light scattering may be considered Rayleigh or Mie scattering. For larger scattering centers, e.g., about 0.1 mm or larger, the light scattering may be mostly due to geometric scattering. The optical elements may also include, for example, non-focusing lenslets, prisms, or high-order aberration lenslets.

[0110] In general, the dimensions of the optical elements may be the same or different across each lens. For example, the dimensions may increase or decrease as a function of the placement of the optical elements, e.g., as measured from a clear aperture, and / or as a function of distance from the edge of the lens. In some examples, the dimensions of the optical elements vary monotonically (e.g., monotonically increase or decrease) as the distance from the center of the lens increases. In some cases, the monotonically increasing / decreasing dimensions include linearly changing the diameter of the optical elements as a function of distance from the lens center.

[0111] The shape of the optical element may be selected to provide an appropriate light scattering or blurring profile. For example, the optical element may be substantially spherical or aspherical. In some examples, the optical element may be elongated in one direction (e.g., horizontally or vertically), such as in the case of an elliptical scattering center. In some examples, the optical element is irregularly shaped.

[0112] In general, the distribution of optical elements in the pattern region 530 can be varied to provide an appropriate level of light scattering or blurring. In some examples, the optical elements are arranged in a regular array, e.g., on a square lattice, spaced apart by a uniform amount in each direction. In general, the optical elements are spaced so that collectively they provide sufficient contrast reduction at the periphery of the viewer for myopia relief. Typically, the smaller the spacing between scattering centers, the greater the contrast reduction (provided that adjacent scattering centers do not overlap or merge). Generally, the scattering centers can be spaced from their nearest neighbors by an amount in the range of about 0.05 mm (e.g., about 0.1 mm or more, about 0.15 mm or more, about 0.2 mm or more, about 0.25 mm or more, about 0.3 mm or more, about 0.35 mm or more, about 0.4 mm or more, about 0.45 mm or more, about 0.5 mm or more, about 0.55 mm or more, about 0.6 mm or more, about 0.65 mm or more, about 0.7 mm or more, about 0.75 mm or more) to about 2 mm (e.g., about 1.9 mm or less, about 1.8 mm or less, about 1.7 mm or less, about 1.6 mm or less, about 1.5 mm or less, about 1.4 mm or less, about 1.3 mm or less, about 1.2 mm or less, about 1.1 mm or less, about 1 mm or less, about 0.9 mm or less, about 0.8 mm or less). As an example, the spacing may be 0.55 mm, 0.365 mm, or 0.240 mm.

[0113] The optical elements may be arranged in a non-square lattice. For example, a hexagonal (e.g., hexagonal close-packed) lattice may be used. Irregular arrangements are also possible, for example, random or semi-random arrangements may be used. Deviations from a square lattice or a hexagonal close-packed lattice are also possible, for example, by random amounts.

[0114] In general, the coverage of the lens by the optical elements may vary depending on the pattern. Here, coverage refers to the percentage of the total area of ​​the lens as projected onto the plane shown in FIG. 4 corresponding to the optical element. Typically, a lower coverage of the optical elements results in less scattering or blurring compared to a higher coverage (assuming that the individual optical elements are separate, i.e., they do not fuse together to form a larger optical element). The scattering center coverage may vary from 5% or more to about 75%. For example, the coverage may be 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, 25% or more, 30% or more, 35% or more, 40% or more, 45% or more, such as 50% or 55%. The coverage may be selected depending on the user's comfort level, for example, to provide a level of peripheral vision that is comfortable enough that the wearer will voluntarily wear the glasses for an extended period of time (e.g., all day) and / or depending on the desired strength at which the axial length growth signal is suppressed.

[0115] It is believed that light from the scene that enters the lens at the scattering regions 530 between the optical elements contributes to a discernible image of the scene on the user's retina, but not necessarily light from the scene that enters the optical elements. Furthermore, at least a portion of the light that enters the optical elements is transmitted to the retina, which has the effect of reducing the contrast of the image without substantially reducing the light intensity at the retina. Thus, it is believed that the amount of contrast reduction in the user's peripheral vision is correlated (e.g., approximately proportional) to the percentage of the surface area of ​​the contrast-reducing regions that are covered by the optical elements.

[0116] In general, the scattering centers are intended to reduce the contrast of the image of objects in the wearer's peripheral field of vision without significantly impairing the viewer's visual acuity in this region. For example, the scattering centers may primarily scatter to wide angles. Here, peripheral vision refers to the field of vision outside the field of vision of the clear aperture. The image contrast in these regions may 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 seen using the clear aperture of the lens as determined using the method described below. The contrast reduction may be measured by the contrast sensitivity reduction of one or more letters, or one or more lines, on a high-contrast or low-contrast eye chart, such as the Snellen or ETDRS eye chart. The contrast reduction may be one or more letters, two or more letters, three or more letters, four or more letters, or five or more letters, or one or more lines, two or more lines, or three or more lines. Contrast reduction can also be less than a certain amount, such as 3 lines or less, 2 lines or less, 1 line or less, or 5 letters or less, 4 letters or less, 3 letters or less, 2 letters or less, or 1 letter or all, as measured on a high-contrast or low-contrast eye chart. Contrast reduction can be set according to the needs of each individual case. Typical contrast reduction is believed to be in the range of about 50% to 55%. Contrast reduction of less than 50% can be used for very mild cases, while a subject with a predisposing condition may require contrast reduction of more than 55%. Visual acuity can be corrected to 20 / 30 or better (e.g., 20 / 25 or better, 20 / 20 or better) as determined by subjective refraction, and still achieve meaningful contrast reduction. In an example, contrast reduction results in a loss of 2 lines or less (e.g., 1.5 lines or less, 1 line or less) of the Snellen chart, with loss of 1 line corresponding to a decrease in visual acuity from 20 / 20 to 20 / 25.

[0117] Contrast here refers to the difference in luminance between two objects in the same field of view. Contrast reduction therefore refers to a change in this difference.

[0118] Contrast and contrast reduction can be measured in a variety of ways. In some examples, contrast can be measured based on the luminance difference between different parts of a standard pattern, such as a checkerboard of black and white squares, acquired under controlled conditions through a clear aperture of a lens and a scattering center pattern.

[0119] Alternatively, or in addition, contrast reduction may be determined based on the optical transfer function (OTF) of the lens (see, for example, http: / / www.montana.edu / jshaw / documents / 18%20EELE582_S15_OTFMTF.pdf). For the OTF, contrast is specified for the transmission of stimuli in which the light and dark regions are sinusoidally modulated at different "spatial frequencies". These stimuli appear as alternating light and dark bars, with the spacing between the bars varying over a range. For all optical systems, the transmission of contrast is lowest for a substantially sinusoidally varying stimulus with the highest spatial frequency. The relationship describing the transmission of contrast for all spatial frequencies is the OTF. The OTF may be obtained by taking the Fourier transform of the point spread function. The point spread function may be obtained by imaging a point source through a lens onto a detector array and determining how the light from the point is distributed across the detectors.

[0120] In case of conflicting measurements, the OTF technique takes precedence. In some instances, contrast may be estimated based on a comparison of the area of ​​the lens covered by the scattering center to the area of ​​the clear aperture. In this approximation, it is assumed that all light that strikes the scattering center is uniformly distributed across the retinal area, which reduces the amount of light available in the brighter areas of the image and adds light to the darker areas. Thus, contrast reduction may be calculated based on light transmission measurements made through the clear aperture and scattering areas of the lens.

[0121] The pattern area 530 has a circular shape, although other shapes are possible (e.g., oval, polygonal, or other shapes such as irregular shapes including images). The size of the pattern area is typically selected so that reduced contrast in the user's peripheral vision occurs over a substantial portion of the user's field of view, even when not looking directly through the on-axis aperture. The pattern area 530 can have a diameter (or maximum dimension for non-circular areas) 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, e.g., 100 mm or less, 90 mm or less, 80 mm or less, 70 mm or less, 60 mm or less). In some examples, the pattern area extends to the edge of the lens.

[0122] In some examples, the periphery of the patterned area may be blended with the clear area by gradually decreasing the amount, density, or optical power of the optical elements.

[0123] In some instances, the clear areas may experience a lower amount of light scattering or blurring as compared to the patterned areas.

[0124] With reference to FIG. 5, eyeglasses 501 comprise two lenses 500a, 500b in eyeglass frame 550. Each lens corresponds to lens 500 shown in FIG. 4 and has a shape and size to fit into frame 550 with second clear aperture 520 aligned below clear aperture 510 along axis 132 and at angle α from the vertical axis. In each case, offset angle α is in the direction of the user's nose. This angle is the same for lenses 500a and 500b, but in some examples the offset angle may be different. For example, different offset angles can accommodate variations during vergence for each eye.

[0125] 6A and 6B, the clear apertures 510 and 520 may be sized, shaped, and positioned in the eyeglasses 501 to provide a line of sight through the aperture 510 along the user's normal line of sight (e.g., for distance vision) and through the aperture 520 along a normal line of sight sitting (e.g., for near vision, such as for reading). The clear aperture 510 may be sized and positioned to provide a line of sight through the clear aperture of ±2° or more in the vertical and / or horizontal directions (e.g., ±3° or more, ±4° or more, ±5° or more, such as ±10° or less, ±9° or less, ±8° or less, ±7° or less, ±6° or less). The horizontal and vertical angular ranges may be the same or different. The angular range in the upper field of view may be the same or different from the angular range in the lower field of view.

[0126] The clear aperture 520 may be sized and positioned to provide a line of sight through the clear aperture of ±2° or more (e.g., ±3° or more, ±4° or more, ±5° or more, such as ±10° or less, ±9° or less, ±8° or less, ±7° or less, ±6° or less) in the vertical and / or horizontal directions about the normal line of sight seating axis. The horizontal and vertical angular ranges may be the same or different. In some examples, the clear aperture 520 may have a sufficient horizontal width that a user has a line of sight through the aperture in the symbol recognition area at, for example, 15° lower than the normal line of sight. For example, the horizontal width of the clear aperture 120 may be sized to provide a line of sight through the clear aperture of up to ±30° (e.g., up to ±25°, up to ±20°, up to ±15°, up to ±12°).

[0127] The ophthalmic lens 500 features a circular distance vision aperture and a circular near vision aperture, although more commonly, one or both of these apertures can have a non-circular shape, e.g., to provide a desired viewing side along the standard line of sight and normal line of sight axes. For example, either or both clear apertures can have an elliptical, polygonal, or irregular shape.

[0128] As mentioned above, the horizontal and vertical axes indicate how the lens 500 will ultimately be oriented in the eyeglass frame. In the unworn eyeglass lens 500 before shaping the edge to fit in the frame, when the lens is plano or spherical, such lenses are typically radially symmetric, and the angle α is arbitrary until the lens is shaped for wearing. However, in lenses that do not have radial symmetry, such as cylindrical power lenses or toric lenses, the angle α can alternatively be defined with respect to the orientation of the second aperture 520 when compared to the cylindrical axis of the cylindrical component. In other words, in addition to aligning the aperture 510 to the appropriate point on the lens (e.g., the center of the lens), it is important to align the axis 532 with respect to the cylindrical axis of the lens.

[0129] This process is illustrated in Figures 7A-7D, where Figure 7A shows a lens 710 with a non-zero cylinder having a cylinder axis 712. The geometric center 715 of the lens 710 is also shown. Figure 7B shows a pattern of scattering centers 720. The pattern 720 includes a pair of apertures 722 and 724 arranged in a region 730 of scattering centers. An axis 728 is also shown that runs from the geometric center 725 of the pattern, which is also the geometric center of aperture 724, through the geometric center of aperture 722.

[0130] FIG. 7C illustrates the relative alignment of the pattern 720 with the lens 710. In this example, the center 725 of the pattern 720 is aligned with the center 715 of the lens 710. Additionally, the pattern is aligned with axis 728 at angle β with the cylinder axis 712. The angle β can be specified, for example, based on the cylinder axis of the user's prescription and the range of pupil movement from distance vision to near vision. FIG. 7C also illustrates the contour of the edge 740 of the lens after it has been sized for the eyeglass frame. A marker 750 is provided near the lens periphery to mark the center axis as a reference for aligning the lens with the pattern and shaping the lens to the final form 799 shown in FIG. 7D. The marker 750 is a printed or etched reference used to determine the orientation of the lens with respect to a lens correction system before, during, or after forming the pattern 720 on the lens, and can be any optical feature identifiable by an alignment system used in conjunction with the lens correction system. The markers may be formed using the same system or a different system that is used to form the pattern 720. In some embodiments, the markers 750 are formed within the lens, within the bulk lens material.

[0131] In the above example, printed or etched fiducial markers, which are examples of optical features, are utilized to establish the orientation of the cylindrical axis of the lens to form the pattern in the desired orientation, but other features may also be used for this purpose. For example, it is possible to measure an optical property of the lens itself, i.e., the cylindrical axis, and then use that measurement to properly align the pattern to the lens. Alternatively, or in addition, in some embodiments, physical features may be used to establish the proper alignment of the lens.

[0132] For example, referring to Figure 8A, lens 810 has a non-zero cylinder with a cylinder axis 812 and has a straight-edged section 818 at the otherwise circular edge of the lens. The straight-edged section 818 is aligned parallel to the axis 812. The geometric center 815 of lens 810 is also shown, where the geometric center of the lens refers to the center of the circle defined by the edge of lens 810.

[0133] 8B shows a pattern 820 of scattering centers formed on lens 810. Pattern 820 includes a pair of apertures 822 and 824 arranged in a region of scattering centers 830. An axis 828 is also shown passing from the geometric center 825 of the pattern, which is also the geometric center of aperture 824, to the geometric center of aperture 822.

[0134] Figure 8C shows the relative alignment of the pattern 820 and the lens 810. Specifically, the center 825 of the pattern 820 is aligned with the center 815 of the lens 810. In addition, the pattern is aligned with axis 828 at an angle β with the cylindrical axis 812. Figure 8C also shows the contour of the edge 740 of the lens after it has been sized for the eyeglass frame. The straight edge section 818 is used to establish the vertical and horizontal directions for shaping the lens to its final shape 899 shown in Figure 8D.

[0135] Other types of physical features may be used for alignment purposes instead of, or in addition to, edge 818. For example, in some embodiments, one or more notches may be made in the edge that has a known relationship (e.g., aligned or offset by a known amount) with axis 812. The physical features may be formed on the lens before, during, or after forming the pattern on the lens.

[0136] In the above examples, the pattern of optical elements features optical elements occupying a geometric shape, such as a circle, and arranged in a regular array, such as an annular pattern, a grid, a series of stripes, or a random manner. However, as previously mentioned, irregular patterns or patterns having non-circular contours (e.g., irregular contours) may be used. Such patterns may be recognizable shapes or images. An example is shown in FIG. 9A, where a pattern 930 of optical elements in a circular area is formed on one side 910 of a lens 900, e.g., the side facing the wearer. A contour 920 of the lens shaped relative to the eyeglass frame is shown.

[0137] On the opposite surface, a recognizable shape or image can be formed, such as an image, artwork, logo, and the like. The size or density of the pattern of optical elements can be varied so that parts of the pattern appear lighter or darker in reflection to the viewer. The size or density of the optical pattern can be varied to create a grayscale image. If colorants are used to deposit or create the optical elements, the size, density, and color of the optical pattern can be varied to create a color image. As with other rotationally asymmetric patterns, these patterns can have a specified orientation when mounted in an eyeglass frame or on the eye when used as a contact lens. For example, as shown in FIG. 9B, side 940 of lens 900 features a heart-shaped pattern with an inner region having one density of optical elements and an outer region having a different density.

[0138] The resulting lens 900, shown in Figure 9C, features optical elements on both sides. Patterns on the front surface (i.e., facing away from the wearer during use) can be formed such that these shapes are visible to those viewing the wearer without being perceived by the wearer themselves.

[0139] The irregularly shaped patterns shown in Figures 9A-9C are merely examples, and more generally, the techniques disclosed herein can be used to form patterns that produce fairly complex images. In general, by varying the contours of the pattern, the density and size of the optical elements, it is possible to provide glasses that display almost any image that can be binarized. Thus, the disclosed techniques allow users to customize lenses to have images of names, signatures, logos, pets, family, friends, pop culture figures, etc.

[0140] Furthermore, by patterning on both sides, the image can change depending on the relative position of the observer with respect to the lens due to the parallax effect of the two offset images on the front and back sides of the lens.

[0141] The aforementioned examples feature single-vision lenses, such as plano, spherical, and toric lenses. More commonly, multifocal lenses, such as progressive and bifocal lenses, may also be used. Progressive lenses are radially asymmetric and are typically characterized by a gradient of increasingly higher lens powers in addition to the wearer's correction for other refractive errors. The gradient starts at the apex of the lens with the wearer's distance prescription and reaches a lower, maximum add power, or full reading add power, in the lens, matching the natural path of the eye when focusing on near objects. The length of the progressive power gradient on the lens surface generally depends on the lens design, and the final add power is usually between 0.75 and 3.50 diopters. An example of a progressive lens with a rotationally asymmetric pattern is shown in FIG. 10.

[0142] As illustrated, the lens 1000 includes five distinct zones, delimited by dotted lines 1022, 1023, 1024, 1025. These include a near zone 1011, an intermediate zone 1012, and a distance zone 1013. Such lenses may also include peripheral distortion zones 1014 and 1015. Although delimited by dotted lines, the change in refractive power from one zone to the next is typically gradual.

[0143] With regard to the scattering / transparency properties of the lens, the progressive ophthalmic lens 1000 includes a transparent outer region 1040, a light scattering region 1030, a first clear aperture 1010 for distance vision, and a second clear aperture 1020 for near vision. The second clear aperture 1020 is aligned along an axis 1032 that is offset from the normal axis of the lens by an angle α. The clear aperture 1010 for distance vision overlaps (in this case partially) with the distance zone 1013 of the progressive lens, and the near vision aperture 1020 overlaps with the near zone 1011.

[0144] In some embodiments when a multifocal lens is used, the second clear aperture (e.g., aperture 1020 of lens 1000) is specifically aligned over a region of the lens having an add power for near vision. For example, the placement of the second aperture can have a power of +0.25D (e.g., +0.5D or more, +0.75D or more, +1.0D or more, +1.25D or more, +1.5D or more, +1.75D or more, +2.0D or more) or more compared to the power of the lens at the first clear aperture (i.e., the aperture for distance vision).

[0145] As previously mentioned, other optical elements besides scattering centers may be used in place of or in addition to scattering centers. For example, a lens may include one or more lenslets that have a different refractive power than the base lens in the areas identified as "scattering regions" in the embodiments described above. More generally, scattering regions are also referred to as pattern regions. Examples of such lenslets are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 10,268,050, issued on April 23, 2019, entitled "Spectacle Lens," PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166653, published on September 6, 2019, entitled "Lens Element," PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166653, published on September 6, 2019, entitled "Lens Element," PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166654, published on September 6, 2019, entitled "Lens Element," PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166655, published on September 6, 2019, entitled "Lens Element," PCT International Publication No. WO2019 / 166657, published on September 6, 2019, entitled "Lens Element," No. WO 2019 / 166659, published on September 6, 2019, entitled "Lens Element," and PCT International Publication No. WO 2019 / 206569, published on October 31, 2019, entitled "Lens Element." For example, lenslets for myopic defocus may be used. In some examples, the optical element is an annular refractive structure (e.g., a Fresnel lens) for myopic defocus, examples of which are shown in U.S. Patent No. 7,506,983, published on March 24, 2009, entitled "Method of Optical Treatment." Prism elements may also be used.

[0146] An example of a rotationally asymmetric lens with a rotationally asymmetric pattern of lenslets is shown in FIG. 11. Here, lens 1100 has non-zero cylinder and cylinder axis 1142. The pattern of optical elements includes a first clear aperture 1110 and an annularly shaped region 1130 surrounding the clear aperture that features an array of lenslets 1131 (shown in the inset) sized and shaped for myopic defocus. The lenslets introduce defocus to a portion of the wavefront that would otherwise be focused on the user's retina. The first clear aperture 1110 is positioned substantially near the center of the lens 1100. The myopic defocus region 1130 is also centrally located with respect to the lens center. The myopic defocus region 1130 is also surrounded by a transparent region 1140. A second clear aperture 1120 is also provided in the light scattering region 1130 and is spaced from the clear aperture 1110 along an axis 1132 that is offset from the normal axis of the lens by an angle α. A cylindrical axis 1142 is aligned at an angle β with respect to the axis 1132.

[0147] In general, the optical properties of the lenslets may vary depending on the degree of defocus deemed appropriate for the user. For example, the lenslets may be spherical or aspheric, or may include higher order aberrations. The lenslets may have positive or negative refractive power. In some embodiments, the lenslets have zero refractive power (e.g., the base power of the lens is strongly negative). The lenslets may each have the same refractive power, or different lenslets may have different refractive powers. In some embodiments, the lenslets may have an add power of +0.25D or more (e.g., +0.5D or more, +0.75D or more, +1.0D or more, +1.25D or more, +1.5D or more, +1.75D or more, +2.0D or more, +3.0D or more, +4.0D or more, up to +5.0D, etc.) compared to the base power of the lens. In some embodiments, the lenslets can have an add power of −0.25D or less (eg, −0.5D or less, −0.75D or less, −1.0D or less, −1.25D or less, −1.5D or less) compared to the base power of the lens.

[0148] The size of the lenslets can also vary accordingly: the lenslets can have a diameter of 0.5 mm or greater (e.g., 0.8 mm or greater, 1 mm or greater, 1.5 mm or greater, 2 mm or greater, 3 mm or greater, up to 5 mm, etc.).

[0149] Some embodiments may include both lenslets and scattering centers. For example, with reference to Figure 12, an exemplary lens 1200 includes a transparent outer region 1240, a light scattering region 1230, a first clear aperture 1210 for distance vision, and a second clear aperture 1220 for near vision. The second clear aperture 1220 is aligned along an axis 1232 that is offset from the normal axis of the lens by an angle α.

[0150] The scattering region 1230 includes scattering centers as described above. In addition, the scattering region 1235 includes lenslets 1235 arranged in a ring around the aperture 1210. The lenslets introduce defocus to the portion of the wavefront that would otherwise be focused on the user's retina. The scattering centers are included in the arrangement of the lenslets 1235. For example, a scattering center may be formed on the surface of each lenslet 1235, on the opposing lens surface, but overlapping the same lateral location as the lenslet 1235 and / or included within the bulk of the lens 1200 that overlaps laterally with the lenslet 1235. In some embodiments, the scattering centers are included between the lenslets 1235 but do not overlap laterally with the lenslets. In some embodiments, the scattering region of the lens includes only lenslets and does not include additional scattering centers.

[0151] A further example of a rotationally asymmetric lens with a rotationally asymmetric pattern is shown in FIG. 13, where lens 1300 has a cylinder axis 1312 at an angle γ with respect to the horizontal. Lens 1300 includes a pattern of optical elements comprised of two separate zones, a top zone 1320 and a bottom zone 1330, each comprising half of the pattern area. The different zones 1320 and 1330 have different arrangements of optical elements. For example, in some implementations, the zones may have the same type of optical elements (e.g., scattering centers), but at different densities. For example, top zone 1330 has a lower density of scattering centers than bottom zone 1320, increasing light scattering for light transmitted through the bottom zone. Alternatively, in some embodiments, one zone may include lenslets and the other zone may comprise scattering centers.

[0152] Other variations are possible, for example, two or more zones may be used, and in some embodiments, multiple zones may be used with one or more apertures.

[0153] While the system depicted in FIG. 1 features a conveyor that moves the stage with the lens between the measurement subsystem and the laser exposure subsystem, other implementations are possible. For example, in some cases, the stage remains in a single position and the system sequentially positions the measurement subsystem and the laser exposure subsystem with respect to the stage. With reference to FIG. 14, an exemplary automated alignment and exposure system 1400 for forming a pattern of optical elements on a stock ophthalmic lens 101 includes a measurement subsystem 1410, a laser exposure subsystem 1420, both mounted on a rigid frame 1430, and an actuator that moves the two subsystems back and forth on a stationary platform 1410 that supports the stage 150 and the lens 101. The operation of the subsystems and actuators is controlled by an electronic controller 1460. A Cartesian coordinate system is provided for ease of reference.

[0154] The conveyor includes a conveyor belt 140 having rollers 142 and stages 150 positioned on the conveyor belt 140, each supporting a corresponding lens 101 and positioning the lens 101 relative to the measurement subsystem 110 and the laser exposure subsystem 120. The conveyor belt 140 moves the stages 150 in the Y direction, advancing the stages first under the measurement subsystem 110 and then into the laser exposure subsystem 120. Each stage includes an actuator 152 that moves the corresponding stage 150 in an x ​​direction that is orthogonal to the direction of movement of the conveyor belt 140.

[0155] The measurement subsystem 1410 and the laser exposure subsystem may be the same as the measurement subsystem and laser exposure subsystem described above.

[0156] In some cases, both the stage and the measurement subsystem and / or the laser subsystem can move relative to a fixed reference frame of the system (e.g., defined by a support frame). In some cases, some components in either or both subsystems can remain stationary, while other components can move relatively with respect to the lens. For example, the laser beam of the laser exposure subsystem may be fixed, but an optical subsystem (e.g., comprised of one or more mirrors) can be moved back and forth over the lens to expose the lens to laser light in the measurement step and to clear space for the measurement subsystem.

[0157] As mentioned above, the systems and methods disclosed above utilize electronic controllers to implement aspects of the described manufacturing systems and methods. FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a computing device 1500 and a mobile computing device 1550 that may be used as an electronic controller to implement the techniques described herein. The computing device 1500 is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such as laptops, desktops, workstations, personal digital assistants, servers, blade servers, mainframes, and other suitable computers. The mobile computing device 1550 is intended to represent various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital assistants, mobile phones, smartphones, and other similar computing devices. The components shown herein, their connections and relationships, and their functions are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting.

[0158] The computing device 1500 comprises a processor 1502, a memory 1504, a storage device 1506, a high-speed interface 1508 connecting to the memory 1504 and multiple high-speed expansion ports 1510, and a low-speed interface 1512 connecting to the low-speed expansion port 1514 and the storage device 1506. The processor 1502, the memory 1504, the storage device 1506, the high-speed interface 1508, the high-speed expansion port 1510, and the low-speed interface 1512 may be interconnected using various buses and mounted on a common motherboard or otherwise mounted as appropriate. The processor 1502 can process instructions that execute within the computing device 1500, including instructions stored in the memory 1504 or on the storage device 1506 for displaying graphical information for a GUI on an external input / output device, such as a display 1516 coupled to the high-speed interface 1508. In other implementations, multiple processors and / or multiple buses may be used, along with multiple memories and types of memory, as appropriate. Also, multiple computing devices may be connected (eg, as a bank of servers, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system) with each device providing a portion of the required operations.

[0159] The memory 1504 stores information within the computing device 1500. In some implementations, the memory 1504 is one or more volatile memory units. In some implementations, the memory 1504 is one or more non-volatile memory units. The memory 1504 may be another form of computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic disk or an optical disk.

[0160] The storage device 1506 can provide mass storage for the computing device 1500. In some implementations, the storage device 1506 can be or include a computer-readable medium, such as a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid-state memory device, or a device array, including devices in a storage area network or other configuration. The instructions can be stored in an information carrier. The instructions, when executed by one or more processing devices (e.g., the processor 1502), perform one or more methods, such as those described above. The instructions can be stored by one or more storage devices, such as a computer or machine-readable medium (e.g., the memory 1504, the storage device 1506, or a memory on the processor 1502).

[0161] The high-speed interface 1508 manages operations that use large bandwidth for the computing device 1500, while the low-speed interface 1512 manages operations that use less bandwidth. This allocation of functionality is merely exemplary. In some implementations, the high-speed interface 1508 is coupled to the memory 1504, the display 1516 (e.g., through a graphics processor or accelerator), and a high-speed expansion port 1510 that may accept various expansion cards (not shown). In this implementation, the low-speed interface 1512 is coupled to the storage device 1506 and the low-speed expansion port 1514. The low-speed expansion port 1514, which may include various communication ports (e.g., USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet, wireless Ethernet), may be coupled to one or more input / output devices such as a keyboard, a pointing device, a scanner, or a networking device such as a switch or router, for example, through a network adapter.

[0162] The computing device 1500 may be implemented in many different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be implemented as a standard server 1520 or in multiples in a group of such servers. In addition, it may be implemented in a personal computer, such as a laptop computer 1522. It may also be implemented as part of a rack server system 1524. Alternatively, components from the computing device 1500 may be combined with other components in a mobile device (not shown), such as a mobile computing device 1550. Each such device may include one or more of the computing device 1500 and the mobile computing device 1550, and the entire system may be made up of multiple computing devices in communication with each other.

[0163] The mobile computing device 1550 includes, among other components, a processor 1552, a memory 1564, an input / output device such as a display 1554, a communication interface 1566, and a transceiver 1568. The mobile computing device 1550 may include a storage device such as a microdrive or other device to provide additional storage. Each of the processor 1552, memory 1564, display 1554, communication interface 1566, and transceiver 1568 are interconnected using various buses, and several of these components may be mounted on a common motherboard or otherwise as appropriate.

[0164] The processor 1552 can execute instructions within the mobile computing device 1550, including instructions stored in the memory 1564. The processor 1552 can be implemented as a chipset of chips comprising individual and multiple analog and digital processors. The processor 1552 can coordinate other components of the mobile computing device 1550, such as, for example, control of a user interface, application execution by the mobile computing device 1550, and wireless communication by the mobile computing device 1550.

[0165] The processor 1552 may communicate with a user through a control interface 1558 and a display interface 1556 coupled to a display 1554. The display 1554 may be, for example, a TFT (thin film transistor liquid crystal display) display or an OLED (organic light emitting diode) display or other suitable display technology. The display interface 1556 may comprise suitable circuitry for driving the display 1554 to present graphical and other information to the user. The control interface 1558 may receive commands from the user and convert them for sending to the processor 1552. In addition, an external interface 1562 may communicate with the processor 1552, thereby enabling the mobile computing device 1550 to communicate with other devices over a short distance. The external interface 1562 may, for example, provide for wired communication in some implementations or wireless communication in other implementations, and multiple interfaces may also be used.

[0166] The memory 1564 stores information within the mobile computing device 1550. The memory 1564 may be implemented as one or more of one or more computer-readable media, one or more volatile memory units, or one or more non-volatile memory units. Expansion memory 1574 may also be configured and connected to the mobile computing device 1550 through an expansion interface 1572, which may include, for example, a SIMM (single in-line memory module) card interface. The expansion memory 1574 may provide additional storage space for the mobile computing device 1550 or may also store applications or other information for the mobile computing device 1550. In particular, the expansion memory 1574 may include instructions that perform or assist the processes described above, and may also include secure information. Thus, for example, the expansion memory 1574 may be configured as a security module for the mobile computing device 1550 and may be programmed with instructions that enable secure use of the mobile computing device 1550. Additionally, secure applications may be provided with additional information via the SIMM card, such as placing identifying information on the SIMM card in a manner that cannot be hacked.

[0167] The memory may include, for example, flash memory and / or NVRAM memory (non-volatile random access memory), as described below. In some implementations, the instructions are stored in an information carrier. The instructions, when executed by one or more processing devices (e.g., processor 1552), perform one or more methods, as described above. The instructions may be stored by one or more storage devices, such as one or more computer- or machine-readable media (e.g., memory 1564, expansion memory 1574, or memory on processor 1552). In some implementations, the instructions may be received in a propagated signal, for example, on transceiver 768 or external interface 1562.

[0168] The mobile computing device 1550 may communicate wirelessly through a communication interface 1566, which may include digital signal processing circuitry, if necessary. The communication interface 1566 may provide communications under various modes or protocols, such as GSM voice telephony (Global System for Mobile Communications), SMS (Short Message Service), EMS (Enhanced Messaging Service), or MMS messaging (Multimedia Messaging Service), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), CDMA2000, or GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), among others. Such communications may be through a transceiver 1568 using radio frequencies, for example. Additionally, short-range communications may be performed using Bluetooth, WiFi, or other transceivers (not shown), or the like. Additionally, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver module 1570 provides additional navigation and location related radio data to the mobile computing device 1550, which may be used as appropriate by applications executing on the mobile computing device 1550.

[0169] The mobile computing device 1550 may also communicate verbally using an audio codec 1560 to receive spoken information from a user and convert it into usable digital information. The audio codec 1560 may similarly generate audible sounds for the user, such as through a speaker in a handset of the mobile computing device 1550. Such sounds may include sounds from a voice telephone call, recorded sounds (e.g., voice messages, music files, etc.), and sounds generated by applications running on the mobile computing device 1550.

[0170] The mobile computing device 1550 may be implemented in many different forms, as shown in the figure, for example, as a mobile phone 1580. It may also be implemented as part of a smartphone 1582, a personal digital assistant, or other similar mobile device.

[0171] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein may be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuits, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various implementations may include implementations in one or more computer programs executable and / or interpretable on a programmable system having at least one programmable processor, which may be special purpose or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

[0172] These computer programs (also referred to as programs, software, software applications, or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor and may be implemented in a high-level procedural and / or object-oriented programming language and / or in assembly / machine language. As used herein, the terms machine-readable medium, computer-readable media refer to computer program products, apparatus, and / or devices (e.g., magnetic disks, optical disks, memory, programmable logic devices (PLDs)) used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor, including machine-readable media that receive machine instructions as machine-readable signals. The term machine-readable signals refers to signals used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor.

[0173] To interact with a user, the systems and techniques described herein may be implemented on a computer having a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor) for displaying information to the user, and a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) that the user can use to send input to the computer. Other types of devices may also be used to interact with the user, for example, feedback provided to the user may be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback), and input from the user may be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

[0174] The systems and techniques described herein may be implemented in a computing system that includes back-end components (e.g., as a data server), or includes middleware components (e.g., as an application server), or includes front-end components (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or web browser used for user interaction with implementations of the systems and techniques described herein), or any combination of such back-end, middleware, or front-end components. The components of the system may be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication (e.g., a communications network). Examples of communications networks include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and the Internet.

[0175] A computing system may include clients and servers. Clients and servers are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of clients and servers arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship between each other.

[0176] In some examples, the computing system may be cloud-based and / or the patterns may be computed centrally. In such cases, anonymous input and output data may be stored for further analysis. In a cloud-based and / or computing center setup, it is easier to ensure data quality, maintain and update the computing engine, comply with data privacy regulations, and troubleshoot compared to distributed computation of the patterns.

[0177] Although a few implementations have been detailed above, other modifications are possible. For example, while a client application has been described as accessing a delegate, in other implementations the delegate may be employed by other applications implemented by one or more processors, such as applications running on one or more servers. Additionally, the logic flows depicted in the figures do not require the particular order or sequence depicted to achieve desirable results. Additionally, other actions may be presented or removed from the described flows, and other components may be added or removed from the described systems.

[0178] Additionally, although the system shown in FIG. 1 uses a measurement subsystem that measures light reflected from the lens, in some implementations a measurement system that operates in transmission may be used. For example, the light source and detector of the subsystem may be positioned on opposite sides of the lens. In some cases, one of these components may be housed in the stage 150. Alternatively, one of these components may be located on the opposite side of the stage 150 from the other. In such cases, at least a portion of the stage and conveyor belt should be transparent to the wavelengths of light used by the measurement subsystem.

[0179] While a number of embodiments have been described, other embodiments are set forth in the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0180] 100 Automated Alignment and Exposure System 100C Lens 100D Lens 100E Lens 100F progressive lens 100G Lens 100H Lens 100I Plano Lens 100J spherical lens 100K Plano Lens 100L spherical lens 100M Lens 100N Lens 100O spherical lens 100P progressive lenses 100Q Lens 100R Lens 100S Lens 100T Lens 100U Lens 100V Lens 101 Stock Ophthalmic Lenses 101G Flat Edge 101R Flat Edge 101T Flat Edge 102E Cylinder shaft 102M Cylinder shaft 102V Cylinder shaft 103J Marker 103K Marker 103L Marker 105C Geometric Center 105D Geometric Center 105E Geometric Center 105F Geometric Center 105G radial center 105H center 105I Geometric Center 105J Geometric Center 105K Geometric Center 105L Geometric Center 105M geometric center 105N geometric center 105O geometric center 105P Geometric Center 105R Koshin 105T Koshin 105U Koshin 105V Geometric Center 110 Measurement Subsystem 110C Radial symmetric pattern 110D radial symmetric pattern 110E Radial symmetric pattern 110F radial symmetric pattern 110G radial symmetric pattern 110H radial symmetrical pattern 110I Pattern 110J Pattern 110K Pattern 110L Pattern 110M Pattern 110N Pattern 110O Pattern 110P radial symmetric pattern 110Q Pattern 110R Pattern 110T pattern 110U Pattern 110V pattern 111I points 111J points 111N points 111O Koshin 111P points 111R points 111V point 112 Light source 114 Light shaping optical system 116 Beam splitter 117 Condensing Optical System 118 Image Sensor 120 Laser Exposure Subsystem 120Q Parallel Lines 121P Zone 122 Laser light source 122P Zone 124 Beam Steering Assembly 126 Parallel optical system 128 Condensing Optical System 130 Reflector 140 Conveyor Belt 142 Roller 150 Stages 152 Actuator 160 Electronic Controller 301 Lens 302 Lens axis 310 Clear Aperture 320 patterns 340 Conveyor Belt 350 Stages 350a~350f Reference marker 500 Ophthalmic Lenses 500a, 500b Lenses 501 Glasses 510 First Clear Aperture 520 2nd Clear Aperture 530 scattering area 540 Transparent area 550 Eyeglass frames 710 Lens 712 Cylinder shaft 715 Geometric Center 720 patterns 722, 724 Aperture 725 Geometric Center 728 Axis 730 areas 740 En 799 Final form 810 Lens 812 Cylinder shaft 815 Geometric Center 818 Straight-edged section 820 Patterns 822, 824 Aperture 825 Geometric Center 828 Axis 830 areas 900 Lens 910 side 920 Contour 930 patterns 940 Side 1000 Lenses 1010 1st Clear Aperture 1011 Close-up Zone 1012 Intermediate Zone 1013 Distant View Zone 1014, 1015 Surrounding distortion zone 1020 2nd Clear Aperture 1022, 1023, 1024, 1025 dotted lines 1030 Light scattering area 1032 Axis 1040 Transparent outer area 1100 Lens 1110 1st Clear Aperture 1120 2nd Clear Aperture 1130 area 1131 Lenslet 1132 Axis 1140 Transparent area 1142 Cylinder shaft 1200 Lens 1210 1st Clear Aperture 1220 Second Clear Aperture 1230 Light scattering area 1232 Axis 1235 Scattering area 1240 Transparent outer area 1300 Lens 1312 Cylinder shaft 1320 Top Zone 1330 Bottom Zone 1400 Exposure System 1410 Measurement Subsystem 1420 Laser Exposure Subsystem 1430 Rigid Frame 1460 Electronic Controller 1500 computing devices 1502 Processor 1504 Memory 1506 Storage Devices 1508 High Speed ​​Interface 1512 low speed interface 1514 Low Speed ​​Expansion Port 1520 Server 1522 Laptop Computer 1524 Rack Server System 1550 Mobile Computing Devices 1552 Processor 1554 Display 1556 Display Interface 1558 Control Interface 1560 Audio Codec 1562 External Interface 1564 memory 1566 Communication Interface 1568 Transceiver 1570 GPS (Global Positioning System) Receiver Module 1572 Expansion Interface 1574 Extended Memory 1580 Mobile Phones 1582 Smartphones

Claims

1. 1. A method for forming a pattern of optical features on a surface of an ophthalmic lens having a lens axis, comprising: receiving the ophthalmic lens on a stage; positioning the ophthalmic lens with respect to a first device by inducing relative motion between the first device and the stage; measuring light transmitted or reflected by or a surface characteristic of the ophthalmic lens using the first device; determining a position of the lens axis based on a measured light or surface characteristic; obtaining information regarding an alignment of the pattern of optical features with respect to the lens axis; aligning the ophthalmic lens with a laser system based on the position of the lens axis; exposing the arrangement of the ophthalmic lens to a laser beam from the laser system to form the pattern of optical features on the ophthalmic lens in accordance with the information regarding the alignment; The method includes:

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first device is a light-sensing device and the position of the lens axis is determined based on the measurement light.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first device is a surface profiler and the position of the lens axis is determined based on the surface characteristics.

4. The method of claim 1 , 2 or 3 , wherein the laser beam forms the optical features on a surface of the ophthalmic lens.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the laser beam forms the optical features within a bulk of the ophthalmic lens.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the position of the lens comprises determining a position of a lens axis of the lens.

7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the position of the lens axis is determined based on an image of the ophthalmic lens acquired from the measurement light or from one or more surface profiles of the ophthalmic lens.

8. The method of claim 6 , wherein the position of the lens axis is determined based on a surface profile of the ophthalmic lens obtained from the measurement light.

9. The method of claim 6 , wherein the location of the lens axis is determined based on a prism measurement of the ophthalmic lens obtained from the measurement light.

10. 10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the lens axis coincides with the geometric centre of the ophthalmic lens.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the lens axis corresponds to the optical axis of the ophthalmic lens.

12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the optical element comprises an optical scattering center.

13. 13. The method of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the optical elements are selected from the group consisting of microlenses, annular Fresnel lens elements, and prism elements.

14. 14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the optical elements are selected from the group consisting of protrusions on one or both of the surfaces, recesses on one or both of the surfaces, and inclusions within a lens material having a refractive index different from that of the lens material.

15. 15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the ophthalmic lens is a monofocal lens or a multifocal lens.

16. 16. The method of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the ophthalmic lens is moved continuously relative to the light-sensing device while measuring light transmitted or reflected by the lens.

17. 17. The method of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the ophthalmic lens is moved continuously relative to the laser system while exposing the arrangement of the ophthalmic lens.

18. 18. The method of any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising the step of automatically changing a relative position of the ophthalmic lens with respect to the first device and the laser system after measuring the light transmitted or reflected by the ophthalmic lens or measuring the surface characteristics.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the first device and the laser system are stationary while the ophthalmic lens is moved.

20. The method of claim 18 , wherein the ophthalmic lens is stationary while the first device and the laser system are moving.

21. 21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the pattern comprises apertures without optical elements.

22. The method of claim 18 , wherein the aperture is surrounded by a region that includes an optical element.

23. The method of claim 18 , wherein the lens axis intersects the aperture.

24. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the aperture has a maximum lateral dimension of 2 mm or greater.

25. 25. The method of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein exposing the arrangement of the ophthalmic lens to the laser beam comprises varying a position of a surface of the ophthalmic lens relative to a focal plane of the laser system.

26. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein varying the position of the surface comprises varying a distance between the stage and the laser system.

27. 27. The method of any one of claims 1 to 26, further comprising determining an exposure sequence of the laser system for forming the pattern of optical features on the ophthalmic lens based on the information regarding the alignment.

28. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein determining the exposure sequence comprises geometrically transforming a predetermined pattern based on the information regarding the alignment, taking into account the position of the lens axis.

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