Contact lens packaging and method for manufacturing the same

Abstract

The primary objective of this invention is to provide a contact lens package that improves the visibility of the contact lenses when the package is opened. [Solution] A contact lens package is provided, comprising a package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and storage solution housed in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, wherein the storage solution contains a coloring agent, and when the package is opened, the amount of the storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens is 20 μL to 900 μL.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a contact lens package and a method for manufacturing the same.

Background Art

[0002] Disposable contact lenses are generally stored in a state of being housed together with a preservation solution in a housing space of a package that is constituted by a lid member and a bottom member and has the housing space sealed by these members (Patent Document 1).

[0003] Although general contact lenses may contain a colorant, they are nearly colorless and transparent. Therefore, the visibility inside the package is poor, and as a result, problems such as it taking time to take out the lens when opening the package, the need to touch the lens many times, and the lens being damaged or contaminated may occur.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The main object of the present invention is to provide a contact lens package in which the visibility of the contact lens when the package is opened is improved.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] [1]According to another aspect of the present invention, a contact lens package is provided, comprising a package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and storage solution housed in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, wherein the storage solution contains a coloring agent, and the amount of the storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens when the package is opened is 20 μL to 900 μL. [2] In the contact lens package described in [1] above, the storage solution may be present between the contact lens and the member supporting the contact lens when the package is opened. [3] In the contact lens package described in [1] or [2] above, when the package is opened and the contact lens is lifted with tweezers so as to enclose the storage solution present on its inner surface, the ratio of the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens may be 12% by weight or more. [4] In the contact lens package described in any of [1] to [3] above, when the package is opened and the contact lens is lifted with tweezers so as to enclose the storage solution present on its inner surface, the ratio of the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens may be 22% by weight or more. [5] In the contact lens package described in any of [1] to [4] above, the height of the storage space may be less than the sagittal height of the contact lens. [6]According to another aspect of the present invention, a contact lens package is provided, comprising a package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and a storage solution housed in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, wherein the storage solution contains a coloring agent, the height of the storage space of the package is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, and at least a portion of the contact lens is located at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution when the package is opened. [7] In the contact lens package described in any of [1] to [6] above, the bottom member may have a lens housing portion for housing the contact lens, and the contact lens may be supported by the bottom member when the package is opened. [8] In the contact lens package described in [7] above, the lens housing portion may be a lens housing recess, and the ratio of the height of the liquid level of the storage solution in the lens housing recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens may be 97% or less. [9] In the contact lens package described in [8] above, the ratio of the height of the liquid level of the storage solution in the lens housing recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens may be 74% or less.

[10] In the contact lens package described in [8] or [9] above, when the package is opened, a portion of the lens housing recess may be exposed in a plan view.

[11] In the contact lens package described in any of [8] to

[10] above, the color difference ΔEa between the lens housing recess and the storage solution * b * However, it may be 1.0 or higher.

[12] In the contact lens package described in [7] above, the bottom member may include a flexible film substrate and a lens loading substrate which serves as the lens housing portion and is provided on the lid member side of the film substrate, and the height of the housing space may be less than the sagittal height of the contact lens.

[13] In the contact lens package according to the above

[12] , a part of the lens loading base material may be exposed in a plan view when the package is opened.

[14] In the contact lens package according to the above

[12] or

[13] , the color difference ΔEa between the lens loading base material and the preservation solution * b * may be 1.0 or more.

[15] In the contact lens package according to any one of the above

[12] to

[14] , the contact lens may be accommodated in the accommodating portion such that the inner surface thereof is on the bottom member side.

[16] In the contact lens package according to any one of the above [1] to [4], the bottom member may have a lens accommodating portion for accommodating the contact lens, and the contact lens may be supported by the lid member when the package is opened.

[17] In the contact lens package according to the above

[16] , the color difference ΔEa between the lid member and the preservation solution * b * may be 1.0 or more.

[18] In the contact lens package according to the above

[16] or

[17] , the contact lens may be accommodated in the accommodating portion such that the inner surface thereof is on the lid member side.

[19] In the contact lens package according to any one of the above [1] to

[18] , the color difference ΔEa between the contact lens and the preservation solution * b * may be 10.0 or more.

[20] In the contact lens package according to any one of the above [1] to

[19] , the color difference ΔEa between the colorless transparent liquid and the preservation solution * b * may be 0.5 or more.

[21] In the contact lens package according to the above

[20] , the color difference ΔEa between the colorless transparent liquid and the preservation solution * b * may be 0.7 or more.

[22] In the contact lens package described in any of [1] to

[21] above, the coloring agent may contain vitamin B12.

[23] In the contact lens package described in any of [1] to

[22] above, the coloring agent may contain cyanocobalamin.

[24] In the contact lens package described in

[23] above, the concentration of cyanocobalamin in the storage solution may be 1 ppm to 1000 ppm.

[25] In the contact lens package described in any of [1] to

[24] above, the viscosity of the storage solution may be 0.5 mPa·s to 10.0 mPa·s.

[26] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a contact lens package is provided, comprising: pouring a storage solution containing a coloring agent into the lens storage portion of a bottom member having a lens storage portion; placing a contact lens in the lens storage portion; and sealing the lens storage portion with a lid member, wherein at the time of sealing, the storage solution is in contact with at least a portion of the contact lens, and the amount of storage solution poured into the lens storage portion is such that the contact lens is in a saturated swelling state when the contact lens package is sealed, and at least a portion of the contact lens is at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution when the contact lens package is opened.

[27] In the manufacturing method described in

[26] above, arranging the contact lens in the lens housing may include arranging the contact lens in the lens housing such that its inner surface is on the side of the member that supports the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened.

[28] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for improving the visibility of a contact lens when a contact lens package containing a contact lens and a storage solution, which is contained in a sealed storage space, is opened, the method comprising using a storage solution containing a coloring agent as the storage solution, and adjusting the amount of the storage solution such that the height of at least a portion of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened is equal to or greater than the liquid level of the storage solution. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The contact lens package according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured such that at least a portion of the contact lens is positioned above the liquid level of the colored storage solution when the package is opened. With such a configuration, the visibility of the contact lens when the package is opened can be improved, and as a result, the presence, position, etc., of the lens within the package can be readily recognized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the removal of liquid. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the sagittal height of a contact lens. [Figure 3] (a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a sealed and opened contact lens package according to one embodiment of the present invention, respectively. [Figure 4] (a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional and plan views, respectively, illustrating the configuration of the bottom member shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] (a) to (g) and (h) to (k) are schematic cross-sectional and plan views illustrating the contents of the package when it is opened. [Figure 6] (a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a sealed and opened contact lens package according to one embodiment of the present invention, respectively. [Figure 7]Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the bottom member. [Figure 8] (a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a sealed and opened contact lens package according to one embodiment of the present invention, respectively. [Figure 9] Figure 8 shows an exploded perspective view of a contact lens package. [Figure 10] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a lens mounting substrate. [Figure 11] (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the state of the preservative liquid in a sealed and opened package, respectively. [Figure 12] (a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a sealed and opened contact lens package according to one embodiment of the present invention, respectively. [Figure 13] (a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the lid and bottom members shown in Figure 12, respectively. [Figure 14] This graph shows the results of the color difference evaluation. [Figure 15] This graph shows the results of the color difference evaluation. [Figure 16] This graph shows the results of the color difference evaluation. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes representative embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Each embodiment can be combined as appropriate, unless otherwise clearly inappropriate. For clarity, the drawings are schematic representations, and the thickness and size of each component in the drawings, as well as the relative ratios of the thicknesses between components, etc., differ from those of actual components.

[0010] In this specification, the "inner surface" of the contact lens means the surface that comes into contact with the eye, and the "outer surface" means the surface opposite to it. Furthermore, "when the package is opened" includes the period from the time the seal between the lid and bottom members is released so that the contact lens can be removed until 10 seconds, preferably 5 seconds, have elapsed. Therefore, when the package is opened, the contact lens may not be in a state that maintains its hemispherical shape.

[0011] A. Contact lens package An embodiment of the present invention includes a contact lens package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and storage solution housed in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member.

[0012] When a contact lens package according to an embodiment of the present invention is opened, the contact lens is typically supported by either the lid member or the bottom member. In other words, when the above contact lens package is opened, the contact lens is positioned on either the lid member or the bottom member.

[0013] Preferably, when the package is opened, a storage solution is present between the contact lens and the support member (i.e., the lid member or bottom member) that supports the contact lens. When a colored storage solution is present between the contact lens and the support member, an effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens when the package is opened can be suitably obtained.

[0014] When the above package is opened, the amount of storage solution present on the contact lens support member can be appropriately set according to the package configuration. The amount of storage solution may be, for example, 20 μL to 900 μL, or for example, 20 μL to 800 μL. When the amount of storage solution present on the contact lens support member is 900 μL or less, at least a portion of the contact lens may be positioned above the liquid level of the storage solution. As a result, the contact lens can be clearly seen on the support member. In this specification, "at least a portion of the contact lens is positioned above the liquid level of the storage solution" means excluding the state in which the entire contact lens is submerged in the storage solution, and the surface of the contact lens positioned above the liquid level may be wet with the storage solution.

[0015] In one embodiment, when the package is opened and, as shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b), tweezers P are used to lift the contact lens 120, enclosing the storage solution 130 present on its inner surface, the ratio (A / B × 100) of the amount of storage solution (A) lifted with the contact lens 120 (also referred to as "extracted solution") to the amount of storage solution 130 present on the support member of the contact lens (in the illustrated example, the receiving recess 12 of the bottom member) is, for example, 12% by weight or more, preferably 19% by weight or more, more preferably 22% by weight or more, more preferably 24% by weight or more, and even more preferably 29% by weight or more. Even when at least a portion of the contact lens is located above the liquid level of the storage solution, a higher ratio of the amount of extracted solution can more favorably improve the visibility of the contact lens. Note that the amount of storage solution "B" is the total amount of storage solution present on the support member when the package is opened, and is the amount of liquid before the contact lens is lifted. The effects of the present invention can be suitably obtained when the ratio of the amount of liquid removed (A / B × 100) is within the above range. A high ratio of the amount of liquid removed may mean that a large proportion of the storage solution is located above or below the contact lens relative to the total amount of storage solution present on the support member. The ratio of the amount of liquid removed can be increased, for example, by reducing the amount of storage solution present on the support member when the package is opened, or by increasing the viscosity of the storage solution. The ratio of the amount of liquid removed may be, for example, 99% by weight or less.

[0016] The contact lenses housed in the above-mentioned contact lens package are typically soft contact lenses (in other words, hydrogel lenses). The material used to form the soft contact lenses is not particularly limited and may be a silicone-containing hydrogel or a silicone-free hydrogel.

[0017] The water content of contact lenses can be, for example, 10% to 90%, or 20% to 80%, and may be 30% or more, 35% or more, 40% or more, 45% or more, or 50% or more. When the water content is within the above range, the lens can function as a highly flexible hydrogel contact lens with excellent wearing comfort. The water content is calculated in accordance with ISO 18369-4.

[0018] The Young's modulus of a contact lens obtained in a Young's modulus measurement test performed in an aqueous medium (distilled water, physiological saline, etc.) at 35°C may be, for example, 1.6 MPa or less, preferably 1.2 MPa or less, 1.0 MPa or less, or 0.8 MPa or less. The Young's modulus of the contact lens may be, for example, 0.1 MPa or more, preferably 0.2 MPa or more, and may be, for example, 0.3 MPa or more, 0.4 MPa or more, or 0.5 MPa or more. When the Young's modulus is within the above range, a desirable wearing comfort and ease of handling can be achieved simultaneously. Furthermore, deformation of the contact lens (e.g., wrinkle formation) can be suitably suppressed when the containment space is narrow (e.g., the second embodiment described later). The Young's modulus can be determined, for example, by dynamic viscoelasticity measurement (measurement mode: Dynamic) using a viscoelasticity measuring device (TA Instruments "RSA3").

[0019] Oxygen permeability coefficient of contact lenses (Dk: × 10 -11 (cm 2 The oxygen permeability coefficient ( / sec)·(mLO2 / mL·mmHg) is, for example, 12 or more, preferably 24 or more, more preferably 30 or more, even more preferably 36 or more, even more preferably 48 or more, and even more preferably 60 or more, and may be, for example, 140 or less, 130 or less, 120 or less, 110 or less, or 100 or less. The oxygen permeability coefficient is a value calculated in accordance with ISO 18369-4.

[0020] Contact lenses are made of any suitable polymer material that can satisfy the above characteristics. The polymer material constituting the contact lens is obtained by polymerizing a polymerizable composition containing monomer components, and contains constituent units derived from each monomer in the monomer components.

[0021] The above monomer components typically include hydrophilic monomers and crosslinkable monomers. The monomer components may further include hydrophobic monomers and / or siloxane monomers, as needed. Silicone hydrogel contact lenses can be obtained by using monomer components containing siloxane monomers. As the above-mentioned hydrophilic monomers, crosslinkable monomers, hydrophobic monomers, and siloxane monomers, those conventionally used in the field of contact lenses can be used as appropriate.

[0022] The contact lens may have any suitable shape. With respect to a contact lens in a saturated, swollen state, its diameter may be, for example, 10mm to 17mm, preferably 12mm to 15mm. Its sagittal height (indicated as "Hs" in Figure 2) may be, for example, 5mm or less, preferably 2mm to 4.5mm, preferably 3mm to 4mm. Its center thickness may be, for example, 0.1mm to 0.3mm.

[0023] The contact lenses may or may not contain a coloring agent. The luminous transmittance of the contact lenses is, for example, 80% to 100%, preferably 90% to 100%. In this specification, the luminous transmittance is a value determined in accordance with the provisions of JIS T 7333:2018 (ISO 8980-3:2013). Another way to improve the visibility of the contact lenses when the package is opened is to increase the degree of coloring of the lenses. However, this method may cause problems with the appearance or how the lenses look when worn, and colorless, transparent contact lenses without coloring agents may be preferred. In contrast, with the contact lens package according to the embodiment of the present invention, the effects of the present invention can be suitably obtained even when the contact lenses are uncolored or have a low degree of coloring.

[0024] The storage solution contained in the above contact lens package contains a coloring agent and is therefore colored. The color difference ΔEa between the storage solution and a colorless, transparent solution (e.g., physiological saline solution) * b* This can be, for example, 0.5 or more, preferably 0.7 or more, more preferably 1.0 or more, even more preferably 1.5 or more, for example 30 or less. When the color difference between the storage solution and the colorless transparent solution is within the above range, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably obtained. The above color difference is L of the storage solution and the colorless transparent solution. * a * b * Color space (L * a * b * The chromaticity (chromaticity) in the color system is measured, and the formula is: ΔEa * b * = [(ΔL * ) 2 +(Δa * ) 2 +(Δb * ) 2 ] 1 / 2 This is a value calculated from [the given data].

[0025] Color difference ΔEa between the storage solution and the contact lens * b * For example, the color difference between the storage solution and the contact lens is 10.0 or higher, preferably 15.0 or higher, and more preferably 17.0 to 30.0. When the color difference between the storage solution and the contact lens is within the above range, a favorable effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be obtained.

[0026] As a coloring agent, any suitable coloring agent can be used at any appropriate concentration depending on the desired color, transmittance, etc. Specific examples of coloring agents that are preferred include vitamin B12, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), berberine chloride, and sodium guarenate. Vitamin B12 is a cobalt-containing compound (cobalamin). Examples of vitamin B12 include adenosylcobalamin, methylcobalamin, sulfitocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, and cyanocobalamin. A single coloring agent may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination.

[0027] The concentration of the coloring agent (e.g., vitamin B12, preferably cyanocobalamin) in the storage solution is, for example, 0.0001 w / v% to 0.1 w / v% (1 ppm to 1000 ppm), preferably 0.0002 w / v% to 0.02 w / v% (2 ppm to 200 ppm), more preferably 0.0002 w / v% to 0.01 w / v% (2 ppm to 100 ppm), and may be 0.0005 w / v% to 0.005 w / v% (5 ppm to 50 ppm). When the concentration of the coloring agent is within the above range, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably obtained.

[0028] In addition to colorants, the storage solution may further contain additives depending on the purpose. Examples of such additives include those commonly used in contact lens packaging storage solutions, such as buffers, pH adjusters, isotonic agents, thickeners, chelating agents, stabilizers, surfactants, humectants, stabilizers, fragrances, cooling agents, pharmaceuticals, antibacterial agents, and preservatives. Each additive may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0029] Examples of buffering agents include phosphate buffers containing phosphoric acid and / or its salts, borate buffers containing boric acid and / or its salts, carbonate buffers containing carbonic acid and / or its salts, citrate buffers containing citric acid and / or its salts, acetate buffers containing acetic acid and / or its salts, aminoethylsulfonic acid and / or its salts, aspartic acid and / or its salts, amino acids such as glycine, arginine, glutamic acid and / or its salts, ε-aminocaproic acid, 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propane (AMP), 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD), tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (Tris), bis(2-hydroxyethyl)iminotris(hydroxymethyl)methane (Bis-Tris), and Good-Buffer.

[0030] Examples of pH adjusting agents include hydrochloric acid, citric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydrogen phosphate, and sodium dihydrogen phosphate.

[0031] Examples of isotonic agents include inorganic salts such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bisulfite, sodium sulfite, magnesium chloride, potassium acetate, sodium acetate, sodium thiosulfate, and magnesium sulfate, as well as polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol and glycerin, or their ethers or esters.

[0032] Examples of thickening agents include water-soluble polymers such as polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyacrylamide, polyvinylpyrrolidone, pectin, poly(meth)acrylic acid, hyaluronic acid, alginic acid, chitosan, cellulose derivatives (methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, carboxyethylcellulose, etc.), and starch derivatives. The water-soluble polymer may be in the form of a salt.

[0033] Examples of chelating agents include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and its salts (EDTA-2Na, EDTA-3Na, EDTA-4Na, etc.), phytic acid, and citric acid.

[0034] Surfactants may be cationic surfactants, anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, or amphoteric surfactants, and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Specific examples of surfactants include polyglycerin fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters (polysorbates), polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether formaldehyde condensate, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene glycerin fatty acid ester, polyoxyethylene castor oil, polyoxyethylene sterol, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated sterol, polyoxyethylene fatty acid ester, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene block copolymer (poloxamers), and polyoxyethylene poly Examples include xypropylene-substituted ethylenediamines (poloxamines), polyoxyethylene lanolin alcohol, polyoxyethylene alkylamines, polyoxyethylene alkylamides, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether carboxylates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfates, alkyl fatty acid salts, alkyl phosphates, N-acyl taurine salts, alkyl glutamates, alkyl glycine salts, alkyl alanine salts, cocoyl fatty acid arginine, alkyl sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, betaine acetate-type amphoteric surfactants, alkyloxyhydroxypropyl arginine salts, and cocoyl arginine ethyl PCA.

[0035] The viscosity of the storage solution may be, for example, 0.5 mPa·s to 10.0 mPa·s, preferably 0.8 mPa·s to 5.0 mPa·s, more preferably 0.9 mPa·s to 3.0 mPa·s, and more preferably 0.9 mPa·s to 2.7 mPa·s. When the viscosity of the storage solution is within the above range, the solution tends to adhere well to the contact lens, and an effect of improving visibility can be suitably obtained. The above viscosity can be measured at 22°C using a microviscometer (μVISC, manufactured by Rheo Sense, Inc.).

[0036] The kinematic viscosity of the preservation solution is, for example, 0.5 m2 / S~10.0m 2 / S, preferably 0.8m 2 / S~5.0m 2 / S, more preferably 0.9m 2 / S~3.0m 2 / S, more preferably 0.9m 2 / S~2.7m 2 It can be / S. When the kinematic viscosity of the storage solution is within the above range, the storage solution tends to adhere to the contact lens, and an improved visibility effect can be suitably obtained. The above kinematic viscosity is obtained by dividing the viscosity of the storage solution (at 22°C) by its density.

[0037] [First Embodiment] The contact lens package according to the first embodiment of the present invention has a bottom member having a recessed portion that serves as a lens housing for accommodating contact lenses, and is configured such that the contact lenses are supported by the bottom member when the package is opened.

[0038] Figure 3 illustrates an example of a contact lens package according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figures 3(a) and 3(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a sealed and opened contact lens package according to the first embodiment of the present invention, respectively. Figures 4(a) and 4(b) are schematic cross-sectional and plan views showing the configuration of the bottom member 10 shown in Figure 3, respectively.

[0039] The contact lens package 200A includes a package 100 having a bottom member 10 and a lid member 20, and a contact lens 120 and storage solution 130 housed in a storage space 110 sealed by the bottom member 10 and the lid member 20. The lid member 20 is positioned to cover the upper surface of the bottom member 10 in a substantially flat manner.

[0040] The bottom member 10 is typically relatively thick and can maintain its shape. The bottom member 10 has a concave receiving recess 12 for accommodating the contact lens and storage solution, and a flat flange portion 14 that surrounds the receiving recess 12, and is integrally molded by injection molding or the like using a synthetic resin such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The thickness of the bottom member 10 (more specifically, the distance between the two main surfaces of the bottom member 10) may be, for example, 0.1 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 1 mm.

[0041] The receiving recess 12 is approximately circular in plan view and has a concave dome shape in cross-sectional view, with its depth gradually increasing towards the center. The shape of the receiving recess is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, the receiving recess may have a rectangular, trapezoidal, or semi-circular cross-sectional shape. Alternatively, for example, the receiving recess may have a convex dome shape at its bottom, with its depth gradually decreasing towards the center. The plan view shape of the receiving recess can be any shape, such as an ellipse, square, or teardrop.

[0042] If the cross-section of the housing recess 12 is a concave dome shape, its radius of curvature may be set to be larger than the radius of curvature of the lens being housed, for example, 9 mm or more, more preferably 11 mm or more. With such a configuration, the amount of storage solution required to keep the lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced.

[0043] The radius of the circumscribed circle of the accommodating recess 12 in plan view is, for example, 20 mm or less, preferably 15 mm or less, and may be 10 mm or less. When the plan view shape of the accommodating recess is small, the amount of storage solution can be reduced, which can contribute to cost reduction. With such a configuration, the amount of storage solution required to keep the lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced.

[0044] The luminous transmittance of the bottom member 10 (more specifically, the receiving recess 12) is, for example, 100% or less, preferably 95% or less, more preferably 90% or less, even more preferably 80% or less, 70% or less, 60% or less, or 50% or less. When the luminous transmittance of the bottom member 10 is low, the influence of the background of the bottom member is suppressed, and the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be stably obtained. From the viewpoint of more favorably obtaining the effect of improving the visibility of the lens using a colored storage solution, the brightness L* of the bottom member (more specifically, the lid member side surface of the bottom member) may be, for example, 50 or more, preferably 60 or more, more preferably 70 or more, even more preferably 80 or more, and even more preferably 90 or more. In one embodiment, the L* of the color space of the bottom member is preferably 90 to 100, more preferably 95 to 100, and may be 97 or more or 98 or more. a* and b* may be, for example, -10 to 10, -5 to 5, or -3 to 3, respectively. The color space of the base material described above is a value measured using a non-contact imaging spectrophotometer (e.g., X-Rite's "MetaVue VS3200") with a white background (e.g., with the object being measured placed on a White Backing Card (PantoneLIVE)).

[0045] The color difference (ΔEa) between the bottom member 10 (specifically, the lid member side surface of the receiving recess 12) and the preservation solution 130. * b * The value of the contact lens is, for example, 1.0 or higher, preferably 2.5 to 35.0, more preferably 4.0 to 32.0, and even more preferably 8.0 to 30.0. With such a configuration, a suitable effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be obtained.

[0046] The lid member 20 is typically relatively thin and flexible. Materials for forming the lid member include inorganic materials such as aluminum and synthetic resin materials such as PE, PP, and PET. The lid member may have a single-layer structure or a laminated structure. For example, the lid member may be a laminated film of aluminum foil and a synthetic resin film, in which case the aluminum foil may be placed on the inside (bottom member side). The thickness of the lid member may be, for example, 10 μm to 200 μm.

[0047] The lid member 20 is detachably joined to the bottom member 10 in an annular region 14a of a predetermined width that surrounds at least the entire circumference of the housing recess 12, and is laminated to the bottom member 10 without being joined in at least one end region. With this configuration, a sealed housing space can be formed by the lid member and the bottom member, and the contact lens package can be easily opened by peeling back the lid member while gripping the area of ​​the bottom member that is not joined to the lid member (e.g., the flange portion). Furthermore, in a contact lens package in which the housing recess is flatly covered by the lid member, the contact lens can be supported by the bottom member when the package is opened. The joining of the bottom member and the lid member can be performed by, for example, heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, etc.

[0048] The storage space 110 is a space defined by the storage recess 12 and the lid member 20. The storage space 110 in the contact lens package 200A is sized to accommodate contact lenses without deformation. Specifically, the height (maximum height) of the storage space 110 in the contact lens package 200A is typically greater than or equal to the sagittal height of the contact lens, and preferably greater than the sagittal height. As described above, since the lid member is positioned to cover the upper surface of the bottom member in a substantially flat manner, the height of the storage space can correspond to the depth (maximum depth) D of the storage recess. The height of the storage space (in other words, the depth D of the storage recess) can be, for example, 2 mm or more, preferably 3 mm to 15 mm, and more preferably 6 mm to 9 mm. The volume of the storage space (more specifically, the volume of the storage recess) can be, for example, 500 mL or more, and may be 600 mL to 1200 mL or 700 mL to 1000 mL.

[0049] In the contact lens package 200A, the amount of storage solution contained in the storage space 110 is, for example, 20 μL to 900 μL, preferably 50 μL to 500 μL, and more preferably 100 μL to 300 μL. When the amount of storage solution is within the above range, the contact lens can be held in a saturated and swollen state without being completely submerged in the storage solution when sealed. Therefore, when the contact lens package 200A is opened, at least a portion of the contact lens 120 may be located at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution 130, preferably above the liquid level.

[0050] In the contact lens package 200A, the ratio of the height of the storage solution in the lens housing recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens may be, for example, 97% or less, preferably 74% or less, and more preferably 61% or less. According to the above configuration, the effects of the present invention can be suitably obtained. The height of the storage solution in the lens housing recess is the height from the deepest part of the housing recess to the surface of the storage solution when the flange is held horizontally. Furthermore, the ratio of the height from the deepest part of the contact between the contact lens and the housing recess to the surface of the storage solution to the sagittal height of the contact lens may be, for example, 97% or less, preferably 74% or less, and more preferably 61% or less.

[0051] Figures 5(a) to (g) and (h) to (k) are schematic cross-sectional and plan views illustrating the storage recess 12 (storage space) when the package is opened, respectively. Figures 5(a) and (e) show the state in which the entire contact lens 120 is located below the liquid level of the storage solution 130 and is completely submerged in the storage solution 130. Figures 5(b) to (d), (f), and (g) show the state in which at least a portion of the contact lens 120 is located above the liquid level of the storage solution 130. Here, Figure 5(g) corresponds to the state in which a portion of the contact lens 120 is located above the liquid level of the storage solution 130, since the entire contact lens 120 is not submerged in the storage solution 130. Figure 5(h) is a top view of (a) and (e), Figure 5(i) is a top view of (b) and (f), Figure 5(j) is a top view of (c) and (g), and Figure 5(k) is a top view of (d).

[0052] When the package is opened, it is preferable that a portion of the storage recess is exposed in a plan view. It is also preferable that storage solution is present between the contact lens and the member that supports the contact lens (specifically, the storage recess of the bottom member) when the package is opened. In this state, since the contact lens is located in the area where the storage solution is present, the position of the contact lens can be easily confirmed based on the color difference between the exposed portion of the storage recess and the portion where the storage solution is present. For example, in Figure 5, (i) to (k) show a state in which a portion of the storage recess 12 is exposed in a plan view. Here, "a portion of the storage recess is exposed in a plan view" means that in a plan view, it is sufficient that a portion of the storage recess is not submerged in the storage solution and can be visually judged to be exposed. Therefore, not only is it acceptable that no storage solution adheres to a portion of the storage recess in a plan view, but also that some storage solution adheres, which can only be confirmed by microscopic observation, or that the storage solution adheres to the surface to the extent that it wets it, is permissible. Furthermore, if the amount of storage solution injected into the storage recess during the manufacture of the contact lens package is less than the amount that covers the entire storage recess in a plan view, it can be considered that "a portion of the storage recess is exposed in a plan view."

[0053] In the contact lens package 200A shown in Figure 3, the storage space 110 has a shape that allows the contact lens 120 to be stored without deformation, but the storage space may also have a shape that allows the contact lens to be stored in a deformed state.

[0054] Figure 6 shows an example of an embodiment in which the storage space has a shape that accommodates contact lenses in a deformed state. Specifically, Figures 6(a) and 6(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the sealed and opened states of an example of a contact lens package in which the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, respectively. Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the bottom member 10 shown in Figure 6.

[0055] The contact lens package 200B differs from the contact lens package 200A in that the depth D of the receiving recess 12 in the bottom member 10 is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens. Similar to the contact lens package 200A, in the contact lens package 200B, the lid member 20 is positioned to cover the upper surface of the bottom member, including the receiving recess, in a substantially flat manner. With the above configuration of the contact lens package, the contact lens can be supported by the bottom member when the package is opened.

[0056] The height of the storage space 110 may correspond to the depth (maximum depth) D of the storage recess 12. Therefore, in the storage space 110 of the sealed contact lens package 200B, the contact lens 120 is stored with a height smaller than its sagittal height and may be compressed in the height direction. The height of the storage space 110 (depth D of the storage recess 12) may be, for example, 5 mm or less, preferably 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm, more preferably 1 mm to 4 mm, and even more preferably 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm. Also, the height of the storage space 110 (depth D of the storage recess 12) may be, for example, 90% or less of the sagittal height of the contact lens to be stored, and may be 10% to 90% or 20% to 80%.

[0057] If the bottom member has a recessed area for storing the lens, and the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, then due to this structure, at least a portion of the contact lens may be positioned above the liquid level of the storage solution when the package is opened. Furthermore, by being in close contact (e.g., pressed or adsorbed) with the lid member and / or bottom member within the storage space, the position of the contact lens is unlikely to change significantly from its initial sealed position. Therefore, it is easy to create a colored storage solution between the contact lens and its support member (specifically, the recessed area 12 of the bottom member 10). Moreover, by storing the contact lens in the storage space with its inner surface facing the bottom member, it is possible to insert it after opening without touching the inner surface. In addition, by having the outer surface (convex side) of the lens facing the viewer when the package is opened, it becomes even easier to create a colored storage solution between the lens and its support member, which can further improve the visibility of the contact lens.

[0058] In the contact lens package 200B, the amount of storage solution contained in the containment space 110 may be, for example, 20 μL to 800 μL, preferably 50 μL to 400 μL, and more preferably 100 μL to 280 μL. If the height of the containment space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, the amount of storage solution required to hold the contact lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced, and as a result, it may become easier to position at least a portion of the contact lens above the liquid level of the storage solution.

[0059] In the contact lens package 200B, the ratio of the height of the storage solution in the lens housing recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens may be, for example, 90% or less, preferably 74% or less, and more preferably 61% or less. With the above configuration, the effects of the present invention can be suitably obtained. The height of the storage solution in the lens housing recess is the height from the deepest part of the housing recess to the surface of the storage solution when the flange is held horizontally.

[0060] In the contact lens package according to the first embodiment, the entire amount of storage solution contained in the storage space may be present in the storage recess both when the package is sealed and when it is opened. Therefore, the amount of storage solution present on the contact lens support member (specifically, the storage recess 12 of the bottom member 10) when the package is opened may correspond to the amount of storage solution contained in the storage space. Thus, the amount of storage solution present on the contact lens support member when the package is opened may be, for example, 20 μL to 900 μL, preferably 50 μL to 500 μL, and more preferably 100 μL to 300 μL, when the height of the storage space is greater than or equal to the sagittal height of the contact lens. Furthermore, the amount of storage solution may be, for example, 20 μL to 800 μL, preferably 50 μL to 400 μL, and more preferably 100 μL to 280 μL, when the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens. According to the above configuration, when the package is opened, it becomes easy to position at least a portion of the contact lens above the liquid level of the storage solution, to expose a portion of the storage recess in a plan view, and / or to increase the proportion of the liquid that can be taken out, which may contribute to improving the visibility of the contact lens.

[0061] [Second Embodiment] A contact lens package according to a second embodiment of the present invention is configured such that the bottom member includes a lens loading substrate, and the contact lens is supported by the bottom member when the package is opened. The lens loading substrate can function as a lens housing for accommodating the contact lens.

[0062] Figure 8 illustrates an example of a contact lens package according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figures 8(a) and 8(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a sealed and opened contact lens package according to the second embodiment of the present invention, respectively. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the contact lens package shown in Figure 8 (storage solution is omitted).

[0063] The contact lens package 200C includes a package 100 having a bottom member 10 and a lid member 20, and a contact lens 120 and storage solution 130 housed in a storage space 110 sealed by the bottom member 10 and the lid member 20. The maximum thickness T of the contact lens package 200C is, for example, 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm, and more preferably 1.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0064] The bottom member 10 includes a support film 16 and a lens loading base material 18 positioned on the lid member 20 side surface of the support film 16. The lens loading base material 18 is fixed to a predetermined position on the support film 16, for example, by adhesive.

[0065] The support film 16 is typically relatively thin and flexible. The same description as that for the lid member in the first embodiment can be applied to the support film.

[0066] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an example of a lens loading base material. The lens loading base material 18 is typically relatively thick and has shape retention properties. The lens loading base material 18 shown in Figure 10 has a disc-shaped lens loading portion 18a and an edge portion 18b that surrounds its outer circumference. The edge portion 18b is positioned so that its upper end is above the upper surface of the lens loading portion 18a. This ensures that the storage space 110 is secured when the upper surface of the bottom member 10 is covered by the lid member 20. The lens loading portion 18a and the edge portion 18b are integrally molded from a resin material such as PE, PP, or PET.

[0067] The lens-loading substrate may be transparent or opaque. When transparent, the luminous transmittance of the lens-loading substrate is, for example, 100% or less, preferably 95% or less, more preferably 90% or less, even more preferably 80% or less, 70% or less, 60% or less, or 50% or less. When the luminous transmittance of the lens-loading substrate is low, the influence of the background of the lens-loading member is suppressed, and the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be stably obtained. When opaque, the luminous transmittance of the lens-loading substrate may be 0%, and may be, for example, white. From the viewpoint of more favorably obtaining the effect of improving the visibility of lenses using colored storage solution, the brightness L* of the lens-loading substrate may be, for example, 50 or more, preferably 60 or more, more preferably 70 or more, even more preferably 80 or more, and even more preferably 90 or more. In one embodiment, the L* of the color space of the lens-loading substrate is preferably 90 to 100, more preferably 95 to 100, and may be 97 or more or 98 or more. a* and b* may be, for example, -10 to 10, -5 to 5, or -3 to 3, respectively. The color space of the lens-mounted substrate may be measured in the same manner as the method for measuring the color space of the bottom member described with respect to the first embodiment.

[0068] The color difference ΔEa between the lens mounting substrate (more specifically, the surface of the lid member side of the lens mounting substrate) and the preservation solution. * b * For example, this value is 1.0 or higher, preferably 3.0 to 35.0, more preferably 5.0 to 20.0, and even more preferably 7.0 to 15.0. With such a configuration, a suitable effect of improving the visibility of contact lenses can be obtained.

[0069] The structure of the lens mounting base material is not limited to the illustrated example. Specifically, the plan view shape of the lens mounting portion may be circular or non-circular (e.g., elliptical, polygonal, etc.). Furthermore, the lens mounting portion may be configured to create a gap between it and the support film. For example, the lens mounting portion may be curved so as to be convex upwards.

[0070] The same description as for the lid member 20 in the first embodiment can be applied.

[0071] The storage space 110 sealed by the bottom member 10 and the lid member 20 can be formed by joining the support film 16 and the lid member 20 so as to surround the lens loading base material 18. For example, by placing a contact lens 120 on the lens loading base material 18 fixed in a predetermined position on the support film 16, injecting a storage solution 130, and then joining the support film 16 and the lid member 20 in a predetermined area surrounding at least the lens loading base material 18, a contact lens package 200C can be obtained in which the contact lens 120 and storage solution 130 are housed in the storage space 110. In the illustrated example, the contact lens package 200C has a flat top surface (lid member 20) and a bottom surface (bottom member 10) with a protrusion corresponding to the lens loading base material 18, but the contact lens package according to the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the contact lens package may have a top surface (lid member 20) with a protrusion corresponding to the contact lens 120 or the lens loading base material 18, and a flat bottom surface (bottom member 10). With the above-described contact lens package configuration, the contact lens can be supported by the bottom member when the package is opened.

[0072] The height of the storage space 110 can be defined by the distance between the upper surface of the lens loading section 18a and the lower surface of the lid member 20. The height of the storage space 110 may be, for example, the difference (T1) between the height of the upper surface of the lens loading section 18a and the height of the upper end of the edge section 18b. The height (maximum height) of the storage space 110 is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, and may be, for example, 4 mm or less, 3.8 mm or less, 3.5 mm or less, 3 mm or less, 2.5 mm or less, or 2 mm or less, and preferably 1.5 mm or less. The height (maximum height) of the storage space 110 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more, and preferably 0.5 mm or more. The diameter (maximum diameter) of the lens loading section 18a is, for example, 35 mm or less, preferably 15 mm to 30 mm. The thickness of the lens loading section 18a is 3 mm or less, preferably 2 mm or less, and more preferably 0.2 mm to 1 mm.

[0073] In the storage space 110 of the sealed contact lens package 200C, the contact lens 120 is stored with a height less than its sagittal height and may be compressed in the height direction (for example, flattened). If the bottom member has a lens loading base material as a lens storage section and the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, at least a portion of the contact lens can be positioned at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution when the package is opened. For example, if the height of the storage space 110 is 2 mm or less or 1.5 mm or less, then at least a portion of the contact lens can almost inevitably be at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution when the package is opened. Furthermore, the amount of storage solution required to maintain the contact lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced. Moreover, because the contact lens is compressed within the storage space, the position of the contact lens is unlikely to change significantly from its initial position when sealed. Therefore, it is easy to have a colored storage solution between the contact lens and its support member (specifically, the lens loading base material), and the effects of the present invention can be suitably obtained. Furthermore, by housing the contact lens within the storage space so that its inner surface faces the lens mounting substrate, it is possible to insert the lens without touching its inner surface after opening the package. In addition, the outer surface (convex side) of the lens faces the viewer when the package is opened, which can further improve the visibility of the contact lens.

[0074] When the package is opened, it is preferable that a portion of the lens mounting substrate, preferably a portion of the lens mounting area, is exposed in a plan view. Furthermore, it is preferable that a storage solution exists between the contact lens and its support member (e.g., the lens mounting substrate) when the package is opened. In this state, since the contact lens is located in the area where the storage solution is present, the position of the contact lens can be easily confirmed based on the color difference between the exposed portion of the lens mounting substrate and the portion where the storage solution is present.

[0075] The lens mounting section 18a may be provided with through-holes 19 that penetrate in the thickness direction. The diameter of the through-holes may be, for example, 2 mm or less, preferably 1 mm or less. The number of through-holes provided in the lens mounting section may be, for example, 1 or more or 2 or more, and may be, for example, 300 or less or 200 or less. The density of through-holes in the lens mounting section is 5 holes / cm³. 2 ~25 pieces / cm 2 This is possible. With such a configuration, in a sealed state, the contact lens can be maintained in a saturated and swollen state with a small amount of storage solution. Also, when the package is opened, the storage solution may move to the underside and / or outside of the lens mounting substrate, so that at least a part of the lens is positioned above the liquid level of the storage solution, and a part of the lens mounting substrate can be easily exposed. Furthermore, in some cases, as shown in Figures 11(a) and (b), when the pressing state is released by opening, an attractive force is generated directly below the contact lens 120, in which case the storage solution 130 may flow between the lens mounting substrate 18 and the contact lens 120 through the through hole 19. In this case, as a result of the amount of storage solution 130 in the area other than the area directly below the contact lens 120 being smaller, the color difference between the area directly below the contact lens 120 and the area other than the contact lens 120 becomes larger, and the position of the contact lens 120 can be easily confirmed.

[0076] The amount of storage solution contained in the space sealed by the support film 16 and the lid member 20 may be, for example, 20 μL to 500 μL, preferably 50 μL to 400 μL, and more preferably 100 μL to 280 μL. With the above configuration, the contact lens can be maintained in a saturated and swollen state in a sealed state, while at least a portion of the contact lens can be easily positioned above the liquid level of the storage solution when the package is opened.

[0077] When the contact lens package 200C is opened, the storage solution 130 may leak out from the support film 16. Therefore, the amount of storage solution present on the contact lens support member when the package is opened may be less than or equal to the amount of storage solution contained in the space sealed by the support film 16 and the lid member 20. The above amount may be, for example, 20 μL to 400 μL, preferably 30 μL to 300 μL, and more preferably 50 μL to 250 μL. With the above configuration, when the package is opened, it becomes easy to position at least a part of the contact lens above the liquid level of the storage solution, to expose a part of the lens mounting substrate in a plan view, and / or to increase the proportion of the amount of solution that leaks out, which may contribute to improving the visibility of the contact lens.

[0078] [Third Embodiment] A contact lens package according to a third embodiment of the present invention has a bottom member having a recessed portion that serves as a lens housing for accommodating contact lenses, and is configured such that the contact lenses are supported by the lid member when the package is opened.

[0079] Figure 12 illustrates an example of a contact lens package according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figures 12(a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a sealed and opened contact lens package according to the third embodiment of the present invention, respectively. Figures 13(a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the lid member and bottom member shown in Figure 12, respectively.

[0080] The contact lens package 200D includes a package 100 having a bottom member 10 and a lid member 20, and a contact lens 120 and storage solution 130 housed in a storage space 110 sealed by the bottom member 10 and the lid member 20.

[0081] The contact lens package 200D is configured such that the contact lens 120 adheres to the lid member 20 when the package 100 is opened. Specifically, the bottom member 10 has a concave receiving recess 12 for containing the contact lens 120 and storage solution 130, and a flat flange portion 14 provided to surround the receiving recess 12; the lid member 20 has a plan view shape corresponding to the receiving recess 12, and has an adhesion projection 22 protruding toward the bottom member 10, and a flat flange portion 24 provided to surround the adhesion projection 22; the bottom member 10 and the lid member 20 are arranged and joined so that the receiving recess 12 and the adhesion projection 22 overlap to form a receiving space 110.

[0082] The receiving recess 12 preferably has a radius of curvature smaller than the radius of curvature of the adhesive protrusion 22 and a depth D2 greater than the depth D1 of the adhesive protrusion 22. The difference between the depth D2 of the receiving recess 12 and the depth D1 of the adhesive protrusion 22 may be the height of the receiving space. With a contact lens package consisting of a lid member having an adhesive protrusion and a bottom member having a receiving recess, the contact lens can be supported by the lid member when the package is opened.

[0083] The receiving recess 12 has, for example, a radius of curvature of about 8 mm to about 14 mm and a depth D2 of less than 10 mm, preferably more than 4 mm to less than 10 mm, a radius of curvature of about 10 mm to about 12 mm and a depth D2 of about 6 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably a radius of curvature of about 11 mm and a depth D2 of about 7 mm. The adhering protrusion 22 has, for example, a radius of curvature of about 13 mm to about 19 mm and a depth D1 of less than 7 mm, preferably less than 7 mm and greater than 1 mm, preferably a radius of curvature of about 14.0 mm to 18.0 mm and a depth D1 of about 3.5 mm to about 4.5 mm, more preferably a radius of curvature of about 15.7 mm and a depth D1 of about 4 mm. The volume of the containment space 110 is, for example, 2.0 mL or less, preferably 0.3 mL to 0.9 mL, more preferably 0.4 mL to 0.8 mL, and even more preferably 0.5 mL to 0.7 mL.

[0084] The contact lens can be placed in the storage space along with the storage solution, with its inner surface facing the adhesive protrusion. This allows the contact lens, when placed in the storage space, to be lifted along with the lid when the package is opened, with its inner surface adhering to the adhesive protrusion. When the package is opened, the outer surface (convex side) of the lens faces the viewer, which can improve the visibility of the contact lens.

[0085] The bottom and lid members are formed from any suitable material, as long as it allows the above configuration to be achieved. These members can be molded using synthetic resins such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or inorganic materials such as aluminum foil. The thickness of the bottom and lid members may be, for example, 0.01 mm to 3.0 mm, preferably 0.05 mm to 2.0 mm.

[0086] The visible transmittance of the lid member is, for example, 100% or less, preferably 0% to 99%, and more preferably 0% to 95%. In one embodiment, the lid member may be opaque (visible transmittance = 0%).

[0087] The color difference (ΔEa) between the lid member (more specifically, the bottom surface of the lid member) and the preservative solution. * b * The color space of the lid member is, for example, 1.0 or more, preferably 2.5 to 35.0, more preferably 4.0 to 32.0, and even more preferably 8.0 to 30.0. With such a configuration, an effect of improving the visibility of contact lenses can be suitably obtained. The color space of the lid member can be measured in the same manner as the method for measuring the color space of the bottom member described with respect to the first embodiment.

[0088] As described above, when the package is opened, the contact lens is supported by the lid member, and at this time, some of the storage solution contained in the storage space may adhere to the lid member together with the contact lens. At least a portion of the contact lens is located at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution adhering to the lid member, preferably at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution.

[0089] In one embodiment, when the package is opened, the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens (specifically, the lid member) is, for example, 20 μL to 400 μL, preferably 30 μL to 300 μL, and more preferably 50 μL to 250 μL. With the above configuration, it becomes easy to raise at least a portion of the contact lens above the liquid level of the storage solution when the package is opened, and to increase the proportion of the storage solution that is carried out, which can contribute to improving the visibility of the contact lens. In the contact lens package according to the third embodiment, the amount of storage solution that adheres to (moves to) the lid member side together with the contact lens when the package is opened is considered to be "the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens when the package is opened." In the above contact lens package, only a portion of the storage solution present around the contact lens moves to the lid member side together with the contact lens. Therefore, at least a portion of the contact lens attached to the lid member can usually be raised above the liquid level of the storage solution.

[0090] When the package is opened, it is preferable that a portion of the lid member (e.g., the adhesive protrusion) is exposed in a plan view. It is also preferable that storage solution is present between the contact lens and the lid member (e.g., the adhesive protrusion) when the package is opened. In this state, since the contact lens is located in the area where the storage solution is present, the position of the contact lens can be easily confirmed based on the color difference between the exposed portion of the lid member and the portion where the storage solution is present.

[0091] The amount of storage solution 130 contained in the storage space 110 of the contact lens package 200D is set to an amount that makes it easy for the contact lens to adhere to the lid member 20 when opened. The amount of storage solution can be appropriately adjusted according to the size and shape of the storage space, and may be, for example, 300 μL to 700 μL, preferably 400 μL to 600 μL.

[0092] Details of the lid and bottom members constituting the package in the third embodiment can be found in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-532254, etc.

[0093] B. Manufacturing method of contact lens packaging According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a contact lens package is provided. The above manufacturing method is Step I: A storage solution containing a coloring agent is poured into the lens housing of the bottom member having a lens housing. Step II: Placing a contact lens in the lens housing, and The lens housing is sealed with the lid member (Step III), Includes. According to the above manufacturing method, the contact lens package described in Section A can be suitably obtained. The bottom member having the lens housing portion may be a bottom member having a housing recess as described in Section A, or a bottom member having a support film and a lens loading base material disposed on one side thereof. The lid member, contact lens, and storage solution are also as described in Section A.

[0094] In step I, a storage solution containing a coloring agent is poured into the lens housing of the bottom member having a lens housing. The amount of storage solution poured into the lens housing is such that the contact lens is in a saturated swelling state when the contact lens package is sealed, and at least a portion of the contact lens is above the liquid level of the storage solution when the contact lens package is opened. The above amount may be the amount of solution described in section A (specifically, the amount of storage solution placed in the housing space or the space sealed by the support film and the lid member). For example, in the contact lens package of the first embodiment, the above amount of solution is such that the entire contact lens is not submerged in the storage solution.

[0095] In step II, the contact lens is placed in the lens housing. In a contact lens package configured such that the contact lens is supported by the bottom member when opened, preferably the contact lens is placed in the lens housing of the bottom member so that its inner surface faces the bottom member. By placing the contact lens in this manner, the storage solution is more easily retained between the lens and the bottom member, thus effectively improving the visibility of the lens. In a contact lens package configured such that the contact lens is supported by the lid member when opened, preferably the contact lens is placed in the lens housing of the bottom member so that its inner surface faces the lid member.

[0096] In step III, the housing is sealed with a lid member. The housing can be sealed, for example, by detachably joining the lid member to the area of ​​the bottom member that surrounds the entire circumference of the housing. The joining of the bottom member and the lid member can be done, for example, by heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, etc.

[0097] The order of steps I and II is not restricted, as long as the storage solution is in contact with at least a portion of the contact lens when the housing is sealed in step III. Step I may be performed before step II, after step II, or simultaneously with step II. By sealing the package with the storage solution in contact with at least a portion of the contact lens, the storage solution can be suitably present between the contact lens and its support member upon opening. This effect can be more suitably obtained when the height of the housing space sealed by the lid and bottom members is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens.

[0098] The contact lens packages obtained in step III may be sterilized as necessary. Sterilization may be carried out by any suitable method, such as pressure sterilization (e.g., high-temperature steam sterilization) or gamma ray sterilization.

[0099] C. Methods to improve the visibility of contact lenses when opening contact lens packaging. According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for improving the visibility of a contact lens when a contact lens package containing a contact lens and a storage solution, which are contained in a sealed storage space, is opened, the method comprising using a storage solution containing a coloring agent as the storage solution, and adjusting the amount of the storage solution so that the height of at least a portion of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened is equal to or greater than the liquid level of the storage solution.

[0100] As described in sections A and B above, by using a storage solution containing a coloring agent, and by adjusting the amount of the storage solution contained in the storage space so that at least a portion of the height of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened is above the level of the storage solution, the visibility of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened can be improved. [Examples]

[0101] The present invention will be specifically described below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. Unless otherwise specified, "%" in the examples and comparative examples is based on weight.

[0102] ≪Methods for measuring color space and color difference≫ • Base material and lens loading base Using a non-contact imaging spectrophotometer (X-Rite, "MetaVue VS3200"), L * a * b * Measure the color space and calculate the color difference (ΔEa) from the following formula (1). * b * ) was calculated. Formula:ΔEa * b * = [(ΔL * ) 2 +(Δa * ) 2 +(Δb * ) 2 ] 1 / 2 (1) Specifically, the object to be measured was placed on a White Backing Card (PantoneLIVE), with the background color set to white, and then placed in the center of the non-contact imaging spectrophotometer. The sample stage was brought as close as possible to the object to avoid interference, and the measurement diameter was 2 mm. * a * b * We performed measurements of the color space. ·Preservation solution The storage solution to be measured was placed in a quartz cell, and the light transmission spectrum was measured using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer (Shimadzu Corporation, "UV-2550"). Using color measurement software (Shimadzu Corporation, "COL-UVPC"), the L value at a field of view of 2 degrees was determined from the measured light transmission spectrum. * a * b * The color space was calculated. The color difference was calculated based on the above formula (1). ≪Method for evaluating the proportion of liquid carried out≫ For each evaluation sample, the tip of a lens tweezers (product name "Meniholder") was placed against the edge of the contact lens, and the lens was lifted by enclosing the storage solution on the inner surface with the edge, then transferred to a scale for weighing. The angle of the tweezers relative to the horizontal plane when in contact with the lens and lifting was 40° or less. The amount of storage solution removed was calculated by subtracting the weight of the contact lens in a saturated, swollen state from the measured weight. The ratio of the amount of storage solution removed to the weight of the storage solution injected into the lens housing during the preparation of the evaluation sample (average amount of storage solution removed / amount of storage solution filled × 100) was calculated. The ratio of the amount of storage solution removed was determined for five evaluation samples, and the average value was calculated.

[0103] [Experimental Example 1] <Contact lenses> • Contact lens a: A commercially available soft contact lens containing a coloring agent (manufactured by J&J) was used. The luminous transmittance of contact lens a was 98%, and its sagittal height was 3.8 mm. • Contact lens b: A soft contact lens (manufactured by Menicon) that does not contain coloring agents was used. The luminous transmittance of contact lens b was 99%, and its sagittal height was 3.7 mm. • Contact lens c: A commercially available soft contact lens containing a coloring agent (manufactured by Menicon) was used. The luminous transmittance of contact lens c was 99%, and its sagittal height was 3.8 mm. <Preservation solution> Physiological saline (ISO 10344:1996) and physiological saline solutions in which cyanocobalamin was dissolved at various concentrations were used as preservation solutions. Hereinafter, preservation solutions with cyanocobalamin concentrations of 0 ppm, 2 ppm, 10 ppm, or 20 ppm (w / v basis) will be referred to as preservation solution (0), preservation solution (2), preservation solution (10), and preservation solution (20), respectively. The color spaces for preservation solution (0), preservation solution (2), preservation solution (10), and preservation solution (20) are shown in Table 1. <Bottom member> As the base component, we used base component a, which is used in commercially available contact lens packaging (J&J, "1-Day Acuvue Oasis"). Base component a is rectangular in plan view and consists of a housing recess and a flat flange portion surrounding it (average thickness: approximately 0.8 mm). Furthermore, base component a is colorless and semi-transparent, and the color space of the housing recess is L * =88.37, a * = -0.88, b * The value was 3.55. The receiving recess was hemispherical in shape, with a diameter of 20 mm and a maximum depth of approximately 7 mm. <Sample for evaluating contact lens packaging> A sample for evaluating a contact lens package was prepared according to the first embodiment. Specifically, it is as follows: 1 mL of various preservatives was injected into the recessed portion of the bottom member a. Next, a contact lens was placed in the center of the recessed area of ​​the bottom member a, with its outer surface facing the bottom member side and aligned so that no air bubbles would get trapped underneath it. This yielded a sample a for evaluating the contact lens package (the maximum height of the storage space was 7.1 mm). In the obtained contact lens package evaluation sample a, the entire contact lens was immersed in the storage solution.

[0104] [Experimental Example 2] <Contact lenses> The same contact lenses as in Experimental Example 1 were used. <Preservation solution> The same preservation solution as in Experimental Example 1 was used. <Bottom member> A bottom member b (average thickness: approximately 1.1 mm) was used, which has a rectangular shape in plan view and consists of a receiving recess and a flange portion surrounding it. The bottom member b is colorless and semi-transparent, and the color space of the receiving recess is L * =90.64, a * = -0.97, b * The value was 3.89. The receiving recess was cylindrical, with a diameter of 22 mm and a depth of 6.5 mm. <Sample for evaluating contact lens packaging> A sample for evaluating a contact lens package was prepared according to the first embodiment. Specifically, it is as follows: 200 μL or 1500 μL of various preservative solutions was injected into the recess of the bottom member b. Next, a contact lens was placed in the center of the receiving recess of the bottom member b, with its inner surface facing the bottom member and its center aligned so that no air bubbles would get trapped beneath the contact lens. This yielded sample b for contact lens package evaluation. In contact lens package evaluation sample b, which was injected with 1500 μL of storage solution, the entire contact lens was immersed in the storage solution. On the other hand, in contact lens package evaluation sample b, which was injected with 200 μL of storage solution, the storage solution was present only between the lens and the bottom member (as shown in Figure 5(d), provided that the bottom surface of the housing recess is flat), and a portion of the bottom surface of the housing recess was exposed.

[0105] [Experimental Example 3] <Contact lenses> The same contact lenses as in Experimental Example 1 were used. <Preservation solution> The same preservation solution as in Experimental Example 1 was used. <Bottom member> A laminated film (thickness: approximately 90 μm) of roughly rectangular aluminum foil and PET film is used as the film substrate, and a PP resin lens mounting substrate (visible transmittance: 0%, color space: L) is attached to the aluminum foil side with adhesive. * =95.91, a * = -0.87, b * A base member c was obtained by fixing a material (=1.29 (white)). The lens mounting base material had a lens mounting section that was circular in plan view with a diameter of 23 mm and an edge portion that surrounded its outer circumference and whose upper end was positioned above the upper surface of the lens mounting section. A gap of up to approximately 200 μm in height was formed between the lower surface of the lens mounting section and the film base material. In addition, 108 through holes (φ490 μm) were provided in the lens mounting section, distributed radially from the center. <Sample for evaluating contact lens packaging> A sample for evaluating a contact lens package was prepared according to the second embodiment. Specifically, it is as follows: 200 μL of various preservatives were injected onto the lens mounting substrate of the bottom member c. Next, a contact lens was placed on the lens mounting section of the lens mounting substrate, with its inner surface facing the lens mounting substrate side. This yielded sample c for contact lens package evaluation. In the obtained contact lens package evaluation sample c, the height of the storage space (the difference between the height of the top surface of the lens mounting section and the height of the top edge of the rim) was 0.7 mm. In the preparation of sample c for contact lens package evaluation, some of the storage solution flowed under the lens mounting substrate. In the area of ​​the lens mounting section where the contact lens was located, it was confirmed that storage solution was present between the contact lens and the lens mounting section, and most of the lens was located above the level of the storage solution. On the other hand, in the area of ​​the lens mounting section where the contact lens was not located, the amount of storage solution was small, and part of the lens mounting section was exposed.

[0106] [Table 1]

[0107] ≪Color difference evaluation 1: Package shape and amount of preservative≫ ·Central part For the contact lens package evaluation samples prepared in Experimental Examples 1-3, the color space 1 in the central part of the housing recess or lens stacking area was measured. A contact lens was placed in the central part. For the comparative package evaluation sample, which was prepared in the same manner as the above experimental examples except that a contact lens was not housed in it, the color space 2 in the central part of the housing recess or lens stacking area was measured. The color difference C1 between color space 1 and color space 2 was calculated. • Lens boundary For the contact lens package evaluation samples prepared in Experimental Example 1-3, the color space 3, located a few millimeters inside the edge of the contact lens (representing the area where the contact lens is present), and the color space 4, located a few millimeters outside the edge of the contact lens (representing the area where the contact lens is absent), were measured. The color difference E1 between color space 3 and color space 4 was calculated.

[0108] Table 2 shows the percentage of liquid removed for the above-mentioned color differences C1 and E1, as well as for each contact lens package evaluation sample. Furthermore, color differences C1 and E1 are shown in Figures 14 and 15, respectively. [Table 2]

[0109] Table 2 and Figures 14 and 15 show that when comparing the state in which the entire contact lens is submerged in the storage solution with the state in which at least a part of the contact lens is located above the level of the storage solution (comparison between samples A1-A4 and samples B1-B4, and comparison between samples A5-A8 and B5-B8), the latter state tends to have larger color differences C1 and E1. The above color differences C1 and E1 tend to be larger when using colored storage solution than when using colorless and transparent storage solution, and this tendency was more pronounced when using colorless and transparent lenses. Here, it is thought that when the color difference C1 in the central part of the lens housing is large, the area where the lens may be located is easier to recognize. Also, it is thought that when the color difference E1 at the lens boundary is large, the position of the lens is easier to recognize. Furthermore, it can be seen that contact lens packages with a large proportion of exposed storage solution tend to have larger color differences.

[0110] As shown in Table 2 and Figures 14 and 15, compared to conventional contact lens packages (i.e., contact lens packages in which the entire contact lens is submerged in a colorless, transparent storage solution, such as samples A3 and A7), the improvement in visibility when the amount of storage solution is reduced to expose the contact lens (samples B3 and B7) and when a colored storage solution is used (A4 and A8) is only slight. However, when a colored storage solution is used and the amount of storage solution is reduced to expose the contact lens (B4 and B8), a significant improvement in visibility is obtained. This synergistic effect was discovered for the first time through the inventors' own research. Furthermore, when using sample c for contact lens package evaluation, relatively high color differences C1 and E1 were observed even with a colorless, transparent storage solution, while a remarkable improvement in visibility was obtained when a colored storage solution was used. This is thought to be due to several factors, including the fact that the contact lens is placed on a white lens-mounting substrate, the substrate's high brightness, its low luminous transmittance, and the inflow of storage solution beneath the substrate.

[0111] ≪Color Difference Evaluation 2: Degree of Coloring of Preservative Solution≫ ·Central part For sample b, a contact lens package evaluation sample prepared in Experimental Example 2, the color space 5 in the center of the housing recess was measured. A contact lens was placed in the aforementioned center. For a comparative package evaluation sample, prepared in the same manner as the above experimental example except that a contact lens was not placed inside, the color space 6 in the center of the housing recess was measured. The color difference C2 between color space 5 and color space 6 was calculated. The results are shown in Table 3 and Figure 16.

[0112] [Table 3]

[0113] Table 3 and Figure 16 show that when comparing the use of an uncolored, transparent storage solution with that of a colored storage solution (comparison of C1-1 with C1-2~4, and comparison of C2-1 with C2-2~4), the latter tends to result in a larger color difference C2. The above-mentioned increase in color difference C2 was also obtained when the cyanocobalamin concentration in the storage solution was 2 ppm, but a greater increase was obtained at 10 ppm or 20 ppm. From this, it is considered that storage solutions colored with colorants at concentrations of several tens of ppm or less (e.g., 1 ppm or more, or 5 ppm or more, e.g., 50 ppm or less, 40 ppm or less, or 30 ppm or less) can suitably contribute to improving the visibility of contact lenses. Furthermore, when using colorless, transparent contact lenses, the color difference increased by more than three times when a colored storage solution (10 ppm or 20 ppm) was used. [Industrial applicability]

[0114] The contact lens package according to the embodiment of the present invention can be suitably used in the manufacture and sale of contact lenses. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0115] 10 Bottom member 12 Receiving recess 16 Support film 18 Lens mounting substrate 20 Lid member 100 packages 110 Containment space 120 contact lenses 130 Preservation solution 200 Contact Lens Package

Claims

1. A contact lens package comprising a package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and storage solution housed in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, The aforementioned preservative solution contains a coloring agent, When the package is opened, the amount of the storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens is between 20 μL and 900 μL. Contact lens packaging.

2. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the storage solution is present between the contact lens and the member supporting the contact lens when the package is opened.

3. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein when the package is opened and the contact lens is lifted with tweezers so as to enclose the storage solution present on its inner surface, the ratio of the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens is 12% by weight or more.

4. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein when the package is opened and the contact lens is lifted with tweezers so as to enclose the storage solution present on its inner surface, the ratio of the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens is 22% by weight or more.

5. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens.

6. A contact lens package comprising a package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and storage solution housed in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, The aforementioned preservative solution contains a coloring agent, The height of the storage space in the package is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens. When the package is opened, at least a portion of the contact lens is positioned at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution. Contact lens packaging.

7. The bottom member has a lens housing portion for housing the contact lens, The contact lens package according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the contact lens is supported by the bottom member when the package is opened.

8. The aforementioned lens housing portion is a lens housing recess, The contact lens package according to claim 7, wherein the ratio of the height of the liquid level of the storage solution in the lens housing recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens is 97% or less.

9. The contact lens package according to claim 8, wherein the ratio of the height of the liquid level of the storage solution in the lens housing recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens is 74% or less.

10. The contact lens package according to claim 8, wherein, when the package is opened, a portion of the lens housing recess is exposed in a plan view.

11. The color difference ΔEa between the lens housing recess and the storage solution. ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package according to claim 8, wherein the coefficient is 1.0 or greater.

12. The bottom member includes a flexible film substrate and a lens loading substrate which serves as the lens housing portion and is provided on the lid member side of the film substrate. The contact lens package according to claim 7, wherein the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens.

13. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein, when the package is opened, a portion of the lens mounting substrate is exposed in a plan view.

14. The color difference ΔEa between the lens mounting substrate and the storage solution. ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein the coefficient is 1.0 or greater.

15. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein the contact lens is housed in the housing such that its inner surface faces the bottom member side.

16. The bottom member has a lens housing portion for housing the contact lens, The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the contact lens is supported by the lid member when the package is opened.

17. Color difference ΔEa between the lid member and the preservative solution ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package according to claim 16, wherein the coefficient is 1.0 or greater.

18. The contact lens package according to claim 16, wherein the contact lens is housed in the housing such that its inner surface faces the lid member.

19. The color difference ΔEa between the contact lens and the storage solution. ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the coefficient is 10.0 or greater.

20. The color difference ΔEa between the colorless transparent liquid and the aforementioned preservation liquid ＊ b ＊ is 0.5 or more, the contact lens package according to claim 1 or 6.

21. The color difference ΔEa between the colorless transparent liquid and the preservative solution. ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package according to claim 20, wherein the coefficient is 0.7 or greater.

22. The contact lens package according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the coloring agent contains vitamin B12.

23. The contact lens package according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the coloring agent comprises cyanocobalamin.

24. The contact lens package according to claim 23, wherein the concentration of cyanocobalamin in the storage solution is 1 ppm to 1000 ppm.

25. The contact lens package according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the viscosity of the storage solution is 0.5 mPa·s to 10.0 mPa·s.

26. A storage solution containing a coloring agent is poured into the lens housing of the bottom member having a lens housing. The lens housing portion is used to place a contact lens, and The lens housing is sealed with a lid member. A method for manufacturing a contact lens package, including, At the time of sealing, the storage solution is in contact with at least a portion of the contact lens. A manufacturing method in which the amount of the storage solution poured into the lens housing is such that the contact lens is in a saturated and swollen state when the contact lens package is sealed, and at least a portion of the contact lens is at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution when the contact lens package is opened.

27. The manufacturing method according to claim 26, wherein placing the contact lens in the lens housing portion includes placing the contact lens in the lens housing portion such that its inner surface faces the member that supports the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened.

28. A method for improving the visibility of contact lenses when a contact lens package containing contact lenses and storage solution, which are housed in a sealed storage space, is opened, Using a preservative solution containing a coloring agent as the aforementioned preservative solution, and Adjust the amount of the storage solution so that at least a portion of the height of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened is above the liquid level of the storage solution. Methods that include...

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