Contact lens package and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

A primary object of the present invention is to provide a contact lens package that improves the visibility of the contact lens 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 contained in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, wherein the storage solution contains a colorant, and when the package is opened, the amount of 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 technology]

[0002] Disposable contact lenses are generally stored in a package that is made up of a lid member and a base member and has a storage space sealed by these members, together with a storage solution (Patent Document 1).

[0003] Although general contact lenses may contain colorants, they are nearly colorless and transparent, which makes them difficult to see inside the package. As a result, it takes time to remove the lenses when opening the package, and they must be handled multiple times, which can lead to problems such as lens damage and contamination. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-85411 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] A primary object of the present invention is to provide a contact lens package that improves the visibility of the contact lens when the package is opened. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] [1] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a contact lens package comprising a package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, wherein the storage solution contains a colorant, 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. [2] In the contact lens package described in [1] above, when the package is opened, the storage solution may be present between the contact lens and the member supporting the contact lens. [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 encase the storage solution present on its inner surface, the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens may be 12% by weight or more relative to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens. [4] In the contact lens package described in any one of [1] to [3] above, when the package is opened and the contact lens is lifted with tweezers so as to encase the storage solution present on its inner surface, the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens may be 22% by weight or more relative to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens. [5] In the contact lens package according to any one 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, there is provided a contact lens package including a package having a lid member and a bottom member, and a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, wherein the storage solution contains a colorant, the height of the storage space of the package is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, and when the package is opened, at least a portion of the contact lens is located at a height equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution. [7] In the contact lens package described in any one of [1] to [6] above, the bottom member may have a lens storage section for storing the contact lens, and when the package is opened, the contact lens may be supported by the bottom member. [8] In the contact lens package described in [7] above, the lens storage section may be a lens storage recess, and the ratio of the height of the liquid surface of the storage solution in the lens storage 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 surface of the storage solution in the lens-accommodating 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 part of the lens accommodating recess may be exposed in a plan view.

[11] In the contact lens package according to any one of [8] to

[10] above, the color difference ΔEa * b * may be 1.0 or greater.

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

[13] In the contact lens package described in

[12] above, when the package is opened, a part of the lens-carrying substrate may be exposed in a plan view.

[14] In the contact lens package described in

[12] or

[13] above, the color difference ΔEa between the lens-carrying substrate and the storage solution * b * may be 1.0 or greater.

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

[12] to

[14] above, the contact lens may be accommodated in the accommodation portion so that its inner surface faces the bottom member.

[16] In the contact lens package described in any one of [1] to [4] above, the bottom member may have a lens storage section for storing the contact lens, and when the package is opened, the contact lens may be supported by the lid member.

[17] In the contact lens package described in

[16] above, the color difference ΔEa * b * may be 1.0 or greater.

[18] In the contact lens package described in

[16] or

[17] above, the contact lens may be accommodated in the accommodation portion so that the inner surface of the contact lens faces the lid member.

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

[18] above, the color difference ΔEa * b * may be 10.0 or greater.

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

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

[21] In the contact lens package described in

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

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

[21] above, the colorant may contain vitamin B12.

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

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

[24] In the contact lens package described in

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

[25] In the contact lens package according to any one 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, there is provided a method for manufacturing a contact lens package, comprising: pouring a storage solution containing a colorant into a lens housing portion of a base member having a lens housing portion; placing a contact lens in the lens housing portion; and sealing the lens housing portion with a lid member, wherein the storage solution is in contact with at least a portion of the contact lens during the sealing; the amount of storage solution poured into the lens housing portion is such that the contact lens is in a saturated swollen state when the contact lens package is sealed; and when the contact lens package is opened, at least a portion of the contact lens is positioned at a height equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution.

[27] In the manufacturing method described in

[26] above, placing the contact lens in the lens storage section may include placing the contact lens in the lens storage section so that its inner surface faces the member that supports the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened.

[28] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for improving the visibility of a contact lens when a contact lens package containing a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a sealed storage space is opened, the method comprising: using a storage solution containing a colorant 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 higher than the liquid level of the storage solution. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The contact lens package according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured so that at least a portion of the contact lens can be positioned above the liquid level of the colored storage solution when the package is opened. This configuration improves the visibility of the contact lens when the package is opened, and as a result, the presence or absence, position, etc. of the lens in the package can be easily recognized. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the carried-out liquid. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the sagittal height of a contact lens. [Figure 3] 1(a) and 1(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a contact lens package in a sealed state and an open state, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 4(a) and 4(b) are a schematic cross-sectional view and a plan view, respectively, showing the configuration of the bottom member shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 10(a) to 10(g) and 10(h) to 10(k) are respectively a schematic cross-sectional view and a plan view illustrating the storage space when the package is opened. [Figure 6] 1(a) and 1(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a contact lens package in a sealed state and an open state, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the bottom member shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 1(a) and 1(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a contact lens package in a sealed state and an open state, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the contact lens package shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration of an example of a lens-carrying substrate. [Figure 11] 1(a) and 1(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the state of the preservative solution in a sealed package and an opened package, respectively. [Figure 12] 1(a) and 1(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a contact lens package in a sealed state and an open state, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 13(a) and 13(b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configurations of the cover member and the bottom member shown in FIG. 12, respectively. [Figure 14] 10 is a graph showing evaluation results of color difference. [Figure 15] 10 is a graph showing evaluation results of color difference. [Figure 16] 10 is a graph showing evaluation results of color difference. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Representative embodiments of the present invention will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Each embodiment can be combined as appropriate unless it is clearly inappropriate. For clarity, the drawings are shown schematically, and the thickness and size of each component and the thickness and other ratios between components in the drawings are different from the actual ones.

[0010] As used herein, the "inner surface" of a contact lens refers to the surface that comes into contact with the eye, and the "outer surface" refers to the opposite surface. Furthermore, "when the package is opened" includes the period from when the seal between the lid member and the base member 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 maintain its hemispherical shape.

[0011] A. Contact lens packaging A contact lens package according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a package having a lid member and a base member, and a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the base 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 base member. In other words, when the contact lens package is opened, the contact lens is located on either the lid member or the base 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 the bottom member) on which the contact lens is supported. If a colored storage solution is present between the contact lens and its support member, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens when the package is opened can be suitably obtained.

[0014] When the package is opened, the amount of storage solution present on the support member for the contact lens can be appropriately set depending on the configuration of the package. The amount of storage solution can 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 support member for the contact lens is 900 μL or less, at least a portion of the contact lens can be positioned at a height 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, the phrase "at least a portion of the contact lens positioned at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution" does not mean a state in which the entire contact lens is submerged in the storage solution, and the surface of the contact lens positioned at a height above the liquid level may be wet with the storage solution.

[0015] In one embodiment, after opening the package, as shown in FIGS. 1(a) and 1(b), tweezers P are used to place the tips of the tweezers against the edge of the lens and lift the contact lens 120 so as to encase the storage solution 130 present on its inner surface. The ratio (A / B x 100) of the amount (A) of storage solution (also referred to as "carry-out solution") lifted along with the contact lens 120 to the amount (B) of storage solution 130 present on the support member (in the illustrated example, the storage recess 12 of the bottom member) of the contact lens 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 positioned above the liquid level of the storage solution, the higher the ratio of the carried-out solution, the more effectively the contact lens visibility can be improved. The amount "B" of storage solution is the total amount of storage solution present on the support member when the package is opened, i.e., the amount of storage solution present before the contact lens is lifted. When the ratio of the amount of carried-over solution (A / B x 100) is within the above range, the effects of the present invention can be suitably achieved. A high ratio of the amount of carried-over solution may mean that a high proportion of the storage solution present above or below the contact lens is present relative to the total amount of storage solution present on the support member. The ratio of the amount of carried-over solution 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 carried-over solution may be, for example, 99% by weight or less.

[0016] The contact lenses housed in the contact lens package are typically soft contact lenses (i.e., hydrogel lenses). The material from which the soft contact lenses are made is not particularly limited and may be a silicone-containing hydrogel or a silicone-free hydrogel.

[0017] The water content of the contact lens is, for example, 10% to 90%, or, for example, 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 contact lens can function as a hydrogel contact lens that is highly flexible and comfortable to wear. The water content is a value calculated in accordance with ISO 18369-4.

[0018] The Young's modulus of a contact lens obtained in a Young's modulus measurement test conducted 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 a 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 favorable wearing comfort and ease of handling can be achieved. Furthermore, deformation of the contact lens (e.g., the occurrence of wrinkles) can be suitably suppressed in cases where the storage space is narrow (e.g., the second embodiment described below). 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] The oxygen permeability coefficient of contact lenses (Dk: × 10 -11 (cm 2 / 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 can 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] The contact lens is made of any suitable polymer material that can satisfy the above-mentioned properties. The polymer material that constitutes the contact lens is obtained by polymerizing a polymerizable composition containing monomer components, and contains constitutional units derived from each monomer in the monomer components.

[0021] The monomer components typically include a hydrophilic monomer and a crosslinkable monomer. The monomer components may further include a hydrophobic monomer and / or a siloxane monomer, as needed. A silicone hydrogel contact lens can be obtained by using a monomer component including a siloxane monomer. The hydrophilic monomer, crosslinkable monomer, hydrophobic monomer, and siloxane monomer may be any monomer conventionally used in the field of contact lenses.

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

[0023] The contact lens may or may not contain a colorant. The luminous transmittance of the contact lens 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 method for improving the visibility of a contact lens when the package is opened is to increase the tint of the lens. However, this method may result in problems with the vision or appearance of the lens when worn, and colorless, transparent contact lenses that do not contain a colorant may be preferred. In contrast, the contact lens package according to the embodiment of the present invention can suitably achieve the effects of the present invention even when the contact lens is not tinted or has a low tint.

[0024] The storage solution contained in the contact lens package contains a coloring agent, and is colored by the coloring agent. The color difference ΔEa between the storage solution and a colorless, transparent solution (e.g., physiological saline solution) * b* The color difference between the storage solution and the colorless and transparent liquid is preferably within the above range, and the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably obtained. The color difference is determined by the L * a * b * Color space (L * a * b * chromaticity coordinate in the color space) is measured using the formula: ΔEa * b * = (ΔL * ) 2 +(Δa * ) 2 +(Δb * ) 2 〕 1 / 2 This is the value calculated from

[0025] Color difference ΔEa between storage solution and contact lenses * b * is, for example, 10.0 or more, preferably 15.0 or more, 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, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably obtained.

[0026] As the colorant, any appropriate colorant can be used at any appropriate concentration depending on the desired color, transmittance, etc. Specific examples of preferred colorants include vitamin B12, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), berberine chloride, and sodium gualenate. Vitamin B12 is a cobalt-containing compound (cobalamin). Examples of vitamin B12 include adenosylcobalamin, methylcobalamin, sulfitocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, and cyanocobalamin. One type of colorant may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination.

[0027] The concentration of the colorant (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 colorant is within the above range, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably obtained.

[0028] In addition to the colorant, the storage solution may further contain additive components according to the purpose. Examples of the additive components include those commonly used in storage solutions for contact lens packages, such as buffers, pH adjusters, isotonicity agents, thickeners, chelating agents, stabilizers, surfactants, humectants, stabilizers, fragrances, refreshing agents, medicines, antibacterial agents, and preservatives. Each of the additive components may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0029] Examples of buffers include phosphate buffers containing phosphoric acid and / or salts thereof, borate buffers containing boric acid and / or salts thereof, carbonate buffers containing carbonic acid and / or salts thereof, citrate buffers containing citric acid and / or salts thereof, acetate buffers containing acetic acid and / or salts thereof, aminoethylsulfonic acid and / or salts thereof, aspartic acid and / or salts thereof, amino acids such as glycine, arginine, and glutamic acid and / or salts thereof, 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), Good-Buffer, and the like.

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

[0031] Examples of isotonic agents include inorganic salts such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium hydrogensulfite, sodium sulfite, magnesium chloride, potassium acetate, sodium acetate, sodium thiosulfate, and magnesium sulfate; polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol and glycerin, or ethers or esters thereof; and the like.

[0032] Examples of thickeners include water-soluble polymers such as polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyacrylamide, polyvinylpyrrolidone, pectin, poly(meth)acrylic acid, hyaluronic acid, alginic acid, chitosan, cellulose derivatives (methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxyethyl cellulose, etc.), starch derivatives, etc. The water-soluble polymers 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, citric acid, and the like.

[0034] The surfactant may be any of cationic surfactants, anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, and 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 condensates, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers, polyoxyethylene glycerin fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene castor oil, polyoxyethylene sterols, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated sterols, polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene block copolymers (poloxamers), polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ethers, ... Examples of suitable surfactants include propylene-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-acyltaurine 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 even more preferably 0.9 mPa·s to 2.7 mPa·s. When the viscosity of the storage solution is within the above range, the storage solution tends to cling to the contact lens easily, and the effect of improving visibility can be suitably obtained. The viscosity can be measured at 22°C using a microviscometer ("μVISC" manufactured by Rheo Sense, Inc.).

[0036] The dynamic viscosity of the storage liquid 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 When the dynamic viscosity of the storage solution is within the above range, the storage solution tends to stick to the contact lens, and the effect of improving visibility can be suitably obtained. The dynamic viscosity is obtained by dividing the viscosity (22°C) of the storage solution by the density.

[0037] [First embodiment] The contact lens package according to the first embodiment of the present invention is configured such that the bottom member has a storage recess as a lens storage section for storing a contact lens, and the contact lens is supported by the bottom member when the package is opened.

[0038] Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a contact lens package according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 3(a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a contact lens package according to the first embodiment of the present invention in a sealed state and an unsealed state, respectively. Also, Fig. 4(a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional and plan views, respectively, showing the configuration of the base member 10 shown in Fig. 3.

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

[0040] The base member 10 is typically relatively thick and can retain its shape. The base member 10 has a concave storage recess 12 for storing a contact lens and a storage solution, and a flat flange portion 14 provided to surround the storage 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 base member 10 (more specifically, the distance between both main surfaces of the base member 10) can be, for example, 0.1 mm to 2 mm, and preferably 0.2 mm to 1 mm.

[0041] The storage recess 12 has a substantially circular shape in plan view and a concave dome shape in cross section that gradually becomes deeper toward the center. The shape of the storage recess is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, the storage recess may have a rectangular, trapezoidal, semi-cylindrical, or other cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, for example, the storage recess may have a convex dome shape whose bottom surface gradually becomes shallower toward the center. The storage recess may have any shape in plan view, such as an oval, a square, or a teardrop shape.

[0042] When the cross section of the storage 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 to be stored, for example, 9 mm or more, more preferably 11 mm or more. With this configuration, the amount of storage solution required to keep the lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced.

[0043] The radius of the circumscribing circle of the storage 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 storage recess has a small planar shape, the amount of storage solution can be reduced, which can contribute to cost reduction. With this configuration, the amount of storage solution required to maintain the lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced.

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

[0045] The color difference (ΔEa * b * ) 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 this configuration, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably 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 synthetic resin film, and in this configuration, the aluminum foil may be disposed on the inner side (bottom member side). The thickness of the lid member may be, for example, 10 μm to 200 μm.

[0047] The lid member 20 is releasably bonded to the base member 10 at least in an annular region 14a of a predetermined width that surrounds the entire circumference of the storage recess 12, and is laminated on the base member 10 without being bonded in at least one end region. With this configuration, a sealed storage space can be formed by the lid member and the bottom member, and the contact lens package can be easily opened by flipping up the lid member while grasping an area of ​​the bottom member that is not bonded to the lid member (e.g., a flange portion). Furthermore, with a contact lens package in which the storage recess is flatly covered by the lid member, the contact lens can be supported by the bottom member when the package is opened. The bottom member and the lid member can be bonded by, for example, heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, or the like.

[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 has a size that allows it to store a contact lens without deforming it. Specifically, the height (maximum height) of the storage space 110 in the contact lens package 200A is typically equal to or greater than the sagittal height of the contact lens, and preferably greater than the sagittal height. As described above, the lid member is disposed so as to cover the upper surface of the bottom member in a substantially flat manner, and therefore 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 can be 600 mL to 1200 mL or 700 mL to 1000 mL.

[0049] In contact lens package 200A, the volume of storage solution contained in 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 volume of storage solution is within this range, the contact lens can be maintained in a saturated swollen state in a sealed state without being completely submerged in the storage solution. Therefore, when contact lens package 200A is opened, at least a portion of contact lens 120 can be positioned at a height equal to or higher than the liquid level of storage solution 130, preferably at a height above the liquid level.

[0050] In the contact lens package 200A, the ratio of the liquid level of the storage solution in the lens 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 achieved. The liquid level of the storage solution in the lens recess is the height from the deepest part of the recess to the liquid level of the storage solution when the flange is held horizontally. Furthermore, the ratio of the height from the deepest part of the contact point between the contact lens and the recess to the liquid level 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] 5(a) to 5(g) and 5(h) to 5(k) are schematic cross-sectional and plan views, respectively, illustrating the storage recess 12 (storage space) when the package is opened. Figs. 5(a) and 5(e) show a 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. Figs. 5(b) to 5(d), 5(f), and 5(g) show states in which at least a portion of the contact lens 120 is located above the liquid level of the storage solution 130. Here, Fig. 5(g) corresponds to a state in which the entire contact lens 120 is not submerged in the storage solution 130, and therefore a portion of the contact lens 120 is located above the liquid level of the storage solution 130. Note that 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] It is preferable that a portion of the storage recess be exposed in a planar view when the package is opened. It is also preferable that a storage solution be present between the contact lens and the member supporting the contact lens (specifically, the storage recess of the bottom member) when the package is opened. In this state, the contact lens is present in the portion where the storage solution is present, and 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 FIG. 5, (i) to (k) show states in which a portion of the storage recess 12 is exposed in a planar view. Here, "a portion of the storage recess is exposed in a planar view" means that a portion of the storage recess is not submerged in the storage solution in a planar view and can be visually determined to be exposed. Therefore, not only a state in which no storage solution is attached to a portion of the storage recess in a planar view, but also attachment of storage solution that can only be confirmed by microscopic observation or that wets the surface is acceptable. 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 entirely covers the storage recess in a planar view, it can be considered that "a portion of the storage recess is exposed in a planar view."

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

[0054] Fig. 6 shows an example of an embodiment in which the storage space has a shape that can store a contact lens in a deformed state. Specifically, Fig. 6(a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing a sealed state and an unsealed state, respectively, 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. Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the base member 10 shown in Fig. 6.

[0055] Contact lens package 200B differs from contact lens package 200A in that the depth D of the storage recess 12 in the base member 10 is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens. As with contact lens package 200A, in contact lens package 200B, lid member 20 is arranged so as to cover the upper surface of the bottom member, including the storage recess, in a substantially flat manner. With the contact lens package configured as described above, 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 its height smaller than its sagittal height, and may be crushed 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. Furthermore, 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] When the base member has a storage recess as a lens storage section and the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, due to this structure, at least a portion of the contact lens can be positioned at a height equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution when the package is opened. Furthermore, by tightly contacting (e.g., being pressed or attracted to) the lid member and / or the base member within the storage space, the position of the contact lens is unlikely to change significantly from its initial position when sealed. This facilitates the placement of a colored storage solution between the contact lens and its support member (specifically, the storage recess 12 of the base member 10). Furthermore, by placing the contact lens in the storage space with its inner surface facing the bottom member, it is possible to wear the contact lens without touching the inner surface after opening the package. Furthermore, by orienting the outer surface (convex surface) of the lens facing the viewer when the package is opened, it becomes even easier to place a colored storage solution between the lens and its support member, thereby further improving the visibility of the contact lens.

[0058] In contact lens package 200B, the amount of storage solution contained in storage 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 storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, the amount of storage solution required to maintain the contact lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced, making it easier to position at least a portion of the contact lens at a height equal to or higher than the level of the storage solution.

[0059] In the contact lens package 200B, the ratio of the liquid level of the storage solution in the lens recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens can be, for example, 90% 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 achieved. The liquid level of the storage solution in the lens recess is the height from the deepest part of the recess to the liquid level of the storage solution when the flange is held horizontally.

[0060] In the contact lens package according to the first embodiment, substantially the entire amount of storage solution contained in the storage space can 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 support member for the contact lens (specifically, the storage recess 12 of the base member 10) when the package is opened can correspond to the amount of storage solution contained in the storage space. Therefore, when the height of the storage space is equal to or greater than the sagittal height of the contact lens, the amount of storage solution present on the support member for the contact lens when the package is opened can be, for example, 20 μL to 900 μL, preferably 50 μL to 500 μL, and more preferably 100 μL to 300 μL. Furthermore, when the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens, the amount of storage solution can be, for example, 20 μL to 800 μL, preferably 50 μL to 400 μL, and more preferably 100 μL to 280 μL. According to the above configuration, when the package is opened, it is 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 planar view, and / or to increase the proportion of the solution that is removed, which can ultimately contribute to improving the visibility of the contact lens.

[0061] [Second embodiment] In a contact lens package according to a second embodiment of the present invention, the base member includes a lens-loading substrate, and the contact lens is supported by the base member when the package is opened. The lens-loading substrate can function as a lens storage section for storing the contact lens.

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

[0063] The contact lens package 200C includes a package 100 having a base member 10 and a lid member 20, and a contact lens 120 and a storage solution 130 accommodated in a storage space 110 sealed by the base 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 base member 10 includes a support film 16 and a lens-carrying substrate 18 disposed on the surface of the support film 16 facing the lid member 20. The lens-carrying substrate 18 is fixed to a predetermined position on the support film 16 by, for example, an adhesive.

[0065] The support film 16 typically has a relatively small thickness and may be flexible. The same explanation as for the lid member in the first embodiment can be applied to the support film.

[0066] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an example of a lens-loading substrate. The lens-loading substrate 18 is typically relatively thick and has shape-retaining properties. The lens-loading substrate 18 shown in FIG. 10 has a disk-shaped lens-loading portion 18a and an edge portion 18b that surrounds the outer periphery of the lens-loading portion 18a. The edge portion 18b is provided so that its upper end is located higher than the upper surface of the lens-loading portion 18a. This makes it possible to ensure a storage space 110 when the upper surface of the bottom member 10 is covered with the cover 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-carrying substrate may be transparent or non-transparent. When transparent, the luminous transmittance of the lens-carrying substrate is, for example, 100% or less, preferably 95% or less, more preferably 90% or less, and even more preferably 80% or less, 70% or less, 60% or less, or 50% or less. When the luminous transmittance of the lens-carrying substrate is low, the influence of the background of the lens-carrying member is suppressed, and the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be stably obtained. When non-transparent, the luminous transmittance of the lens-carrying substrate may be 0%, for example, white. From the viewpoint of more suitably obtaining the effect of improving the visibility of the lens using the coloring storage solution, the lightness L* of the lens-carrying substrate may be, for example, 50 or more, preferably 60 or more, more preferably 70 or more, even more preferably 80 or more, and more preferably 90 or more. In one embodiment, the L* of the color space of the lens-carrying substrate is preferably 90 to 100, more preferably 95 to 100, and may be 97 or more or 98 or more. a* and b* can each be, for example, -10 to 10, -5 to 5, or -3 to 3. The color space of the lens-loaded substrate can be measured in the same manner as the method for measuring the color space of the base member described with respect to the first embodiment.

[0068] Color difference ΔEa between the lens-carrying substrate (more specifically, the surface of the lens-carrying substrate facing the lid member) and the storage solution * b * is, for example, 1.0 or more, 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, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably obtained.

[0069] The structure of the lens loading substrate is not limited to the illustrated example. Specifically, the planar shape of the lens loading section may be circular or non-circular (e.g., elliptical, polygonal, etc.). The lens loading section may also be configured to create a gap between it and the support film. For example, the lens loading section may be configured to be curved so as to be convex upward.

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

[0071] The storage space 110 sealed by the base member 10 and the cover member 20 can be formed by bonding the support film 16 and the cover member 20 together to surround the lens-carrying substrate 18. For example, a contact lens 120 is placed on the lens-carrying substrate 18 fixed at a predetermined position on the support film 16, a storage solution 130 is poured into the support film 16, and the support film 16 and the cover member 20 are then bonded together at least in a predetermined area surrounding the lens-carrying substrate 18 to obtain a contact lens package 200C containing the contact lens 120 and the storage solution 130 in the storage space 110. The contact lens package 200C shown in the figure has a flat top surface (cover member 20) and a convex bottom surface (bottom member 10) corresponding to the lens-carrying substrate 18, but contact lens packages according to embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this configuration. For example, the contact lens package may have a top surface (cover member 20) with a convex bottom surface (bottom member 10) corresponding to the contact lens 120 or the lens-carrying substrate 18, and a flat bottom surface (bottom member 10). According to the contact lens package having the above configuration, the contact lens can be supported by the base member when the package is opened.

[0072] The height of the storage space 110 may be determined by the distance between the upper surface of the lens loading portion 18a and the lower surface of the cover 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 portion 18a and the height of the upper end of the edge portion 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 portion 18a is, for example, 35 mm or less, preferably 15 mm to 30 mm. The thickness of the lens loading portion 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 its height smaller than its sagittal height and may be crushed in the height direction (e.g., crushed flat). When the bottom member has a lens-loading substrate as the 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 level of the storage solution when the package is opened. For example, when the height of the storage space 110 is 2 mm or less or 1.5 mm or less, at least a portion of the contact lens will almost inevitably be positioned above the level of the storage solution when the package is opened. In addition, the amount of storage solution required to maintain the contact lens in a saturated swollen state can be reduced. Furthermore, because the contact lens is compressed in 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 substrate), and the effects of the present invention can be preferably achieved. Furthermore, by storing the contact lens in the storage space with its inner surface facing the lens-carrying substrate, it is possible to wear the contact lens without touching the inner surface after opening the package. Also, by having the outer surface (convex surface) of the lens facing the viewer when the package is opened, the visibility of the contact lens can be further improved.

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

[0075] The lens loading section 18a may be provided with through-holes 19 penetrating 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 loading 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 the through-holes in the lens loading section is 5 / cm. 2 ~25 pieces / cm 2 This configuration allows the contact lens to be maintained in a saturated swollen state with a small amount of storage solution in a sealed state. Furthermore, since the storage solution can migrate to the underside and / or outside of the lens-mounting substrate when the package is opened, at least a portion of the lens can be positioned above the level of the storage solution, and a portion of the lens-mounting substrate can be easily exposed. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 11( a) and (b), in some cases, a suction force may be generated directly below the contact lens 120 when the pressure is released upon opening, and in this case, the storage solution 130 may flow into the gap between the lens-mounting substrate 18 and the contact lens 120 through the through-hole 19. In this case, the amount of storage solution 130 is less in the area directly below the contact lens 120 than in the area other than the area directly below the contact lens 120. As a result, the color difference between the area directly below the contact lens 120 and the area other than the area directly below the contact lens 120 becomes larger, making it easier to confirm the position of the contact lens 120.

[0076] The amount of storage solution contained in the space sealed by the support film 16 and the lid member 20 can 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 is maintained in a saturated swollen state in a sealed state, and 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 above the support film 16. Therefore, the amount of storage solution present on the support member for the contact lens when the package is opened may be equal to or less than the amount of storage solution contained in the space sealed by the support film 16 and the lid member 20. This amount of solution may be, for example, 20 μL to 400 μL, preferably 30 μL to 300 μL, and more preferably 50 μL to 250 μL. According to the above configuration, when the package is opened, it is easy to position at least a portion of the contact lens above the level of the storage solution, to expose a portion of the lens-mounting substrate in a plan view, and / or to increase the proportion of the solution carried out, which may ultimately contribute to improved visibility of the contact lens.

[0078] [Third embodiment] A contact lens package according to a third embodiment of the present invention is configured such that the bottom member has a storage recess as a lens storage section for storing a contact lens, and the contact lens is supported by the lid member when the package is opened.

[0079] Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a contact lens package according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 12(a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of a contact lens package according to the third embodiment of the present invention in a sealed state and an unsealed state, respectively. Also, Fig. 13(a) and (b) are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the lid member and the bottom member shown in Fig. 12, respectively.

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

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

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

[0083] The accommodating 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, preferably a radius of curvature of about 10 mm to about 12 mm and a depth D2 of about 6 mm to about 8 mm, and more preferably a radius of curvature of about 11 mm and a depth D2 of about 7 mm. The adhesion 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 more 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, and more preferably a radius of curvature of about 15.7 mm and a depth D1 of about 4 mm. The volume of the storage 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 together with the storage solution so that the inner surface faces the protruding attachment portion. This allows the contact lens placed in the storage space to be lifted up together with the lid member with its inner surface adhering to the protruding attachment portion when the package is opened. By having the outer surface (convex surface) of the lens facing the viewer when the package is opened, the visibility of the contact lens can be further improved.

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

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

[0087] The color difference (ΔEa * b * ) 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, the effect of improving the visibility of the contact lens can be suitably obtained. The color space of the cover member can be measured in the same manner as the method for measuring the color space of the base member described in relation 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, part of the storage solution contained in the storage space may adhere to the lid member together with the contact lens. At least part of the contact lens is positioned at a height equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution adhering to the lid member, preferably at a height higher than 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. According to the above configuration, when the package is opened, it is easy to raise at least a portion of the contact lens above the liquid level of the storage solution and to increase the proportion of the solution 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 (moves) to the lid member side along 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 along with the contact lens. Therefore, at least a portion of the contact lens that adheres to the lid member will usually be higher than the liquid level of the storage solution.

[0090] When the package is opened, it is preferable that a part of the lid member (e.g., the adhesive convex portion) is exposed in a plan view. Also, when the package is opened, it is preferable that a storage solution is present between the contact lens and the lid member (e.g., the adhesive convex portion). In this state, the contact lens is present in the part where the storage solution is present, and therefore the position of the contact lens can be easily confirmed based on the color difference between the exposed part of the lid member and the part 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 will allow the contact lens to easily adhere to the lid member 20 when the package is opened. The amount of storage solution can be adjusted appropriately depending on the size and shape of the storage space, and may be, for example, 300 μL to 700 μL, and preferably 400 μL to 600 μL.

[0092] For details of the lid member and the bottom member that constitute the package in the third embodiment, reference can be made to JP-T-2023-532254 and the like.

[0093] B. Manufacturing method for contact lens packages According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a contact lens package, the method comprising the steps of: pouring a storage solution containing a colorant into the lens storage portion of a bottom member having a lens storage portion (step I); placing a contact lens in the lens housing (Step II); and sealing the lens housing with a lid member (step III); Includes. The above manufacturing method can suitably produce the contact lens package described in Section A. The base member having the lens storage portion can be a base member having a storage recess described in Section A, or a base member having a support film and a lens-loading substrate 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 colorant is poured into the lens housing portion of a bottom member having a lens housing portion. The amount of storage solution poured into the lens housing portion is such that the contact lens is in a saturated swollen state when the contact lens package is sealed, and that at least a portion of the contact lens is positioned at a height equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution when the contact lens package is opened. This amount of solution may be the amount described in section A (specifically, the amount of storage solution placed in the storage 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 amount of solution is such that the entire contact lens is not submerged in the storage solution.

[0095] In step II, a contact lens is placed in the lens storage section. In contact lens packages configured so that the contact lens is supported by a base member when opened, the contact lens is preferably placed in the lens storage section of the base member so that its inner surface faces the bottom member. By placing the contact lens in this manner, storage solution is more easily retained between the lens and the base member, which can favorably improve the visibility of the lens. In contact lens packages configured so that the contact lens is supported by a lid member when opened, the contact lens is preferably placed in the lens storage section of the base member so that its inner surface faces the lid member.

[0096] In step III, the storage compartment is sealed with a lid member. The storage compartment can be sealed, for example, by peelably bonding the lid member to a region of the bottom member that surrounds the entire periphery of the storage compartment. The bottom member and the lid member can be bonded, for example, by heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, or the like.

[0097] The order of steps I and II is not limited as long as the storage solution is in contact with at least a portion of the contact lens when the storage section 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 when the package is opened. This effect can be more suitably achieved when the height of the storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member is smaller than the sagittal height of the contact lens.

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

[0099] C. Method for improving contact lens visibility when opening a contact lens package According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for improving the visibility of a contact lens when a contact lens package containing a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a sealed storage space is opened, the method comprising: using a storage solution containing a colorant 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 higher than the liquid level of the storage solution.

[0100] As described in sections A and B above, by using a storage solution containing a colorant and adjusting the amount of storage solution contained in the storage space so that the height of at least a portion of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened is equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution, the visibility of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened can be improved. [Example]

[0101] The present invention will be described in more detail 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 by weight.

[0102] <Color space and color difference measurement method> Base material and lens mounting base Using a non-contact imaging spectrophotometer (X-Rite, "MetaVue VS3200"), * a * b * The color space is measured and the color difference (ΔEa * b * ) was calculated. Formula:ΔEa * b * = (ΔL * ) 2 +(Δa * ) 2 +(Δb * ) 2 〕 1 / 2 (1) Specifically, the measurement object was placed on a White Backing Card (PantoneLIVE), and the background color was set to white. The sample stage was placed as close as possible to the measurement object without interfering with it, and the measurement diameter was 2 mm. * a * b * Color space measurements were performed. ·Preservation solution The preservative solution to be measured was placed in a quartz cell, and the light transmittance spectrum was measured using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (Shimadzu Corporation, "UV-2550"). Using color measurement software (Shimadzu Corporation, "COL-UVPC"), the L value at a 2-degree field of view was calculated from the measured light transmittance spectrum. * a * b * The color space was calculated, and the color difference was calculated based on the above formula (1). <Evaluation method for the ratio of liquid volume carried out> For the evaluation sample, the tip of lens tweezers (product name "Meniholder") was placed against the edge of the contact lens, and the lens was lifted up so that the edge encased the storage solution on the inner surface, then transferred to a scale and weighed. The angle of the tweezers relative to the horizontal plane when touching and lifting the lens was 40° or less. The amount of solution carried out was determined by subtracting the weight of the contact lens in a saturated swollen state from the measured weight. The ratio of the amount of solution carried out to the weight of storage solution injected into the lens holder during preparation of the evaluation sample was calculated (average amount of solution carried out / amount of storage solution filled x 100). The ratio of the amount of solution carried out 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 colorant (manufactured by J&J) was used. The luminous transmittance of contact lens a was 98% and the sagittal height was 3.8 mm. Contact lens b: A soft contact lens (manufactured by Menicon Co., Ltd.) containing no colorant was used. The luminous transmittance of contact lens b was 99% and the sagittal height was 3.7 mm. Contact lens c: A commercially available soft contact lens containing a colorant (manufactured by Menicon Co., Ltd.) was used. The luminous transmittance of contact lens c was 99% and the sagittal height was 3.8 mm. <Preservation solution> Physiological saline (ISO 10344:1996) and saline solutions containing various concentrations of cyanocobalamin were used as preservative solutions. Hereinafter, solutions with cyanocobalamin concentrations of 0 ppm, 2 ppm, 10 ppm, and 20 ppm (w / v) are referred to as preservative solution (0), preservative solution (2), preservative solution (10), and preservative solution (20), respectively. The color spaces of preservative solutions (0), (2), (10), and (20) are shown in Table 1. <Bottom member> The bottom member a used in a commercially available contact lens package (J&J, "1-Day Acuvue Oasis") was used. The bottom member a was rectangular in plan view and consisted of a storage recess and a flat flange portion surrounding the recess (average thickness: approximately 0.8 mm). The bottom member a was colorless and translucent, and the color space of the storage recess was L. * =88.37, a * =-0.88, b * =3.55. The receiving recess was hemispherical, with a diameter of 20 mm and a maximum depth of approximately 7 mm. <Contact lens package evaluation sample> A sample for evaluation of the contact lens package according to the first embodiment was produced, specifically as follows. 1 mL of each preservation solution was poured into the storage recess of the bottom member a. Next, the contact lens was placed in the center of the storage recess of the bottom member a, with the outer surface facing the bottom member and with the centers aligned so as to prevent air bubbles from getting underneath the contact lens, thereby obtaining a contact lens package evaluation sample a (maximum height of the storage space was 7.1 mm). In the obtained contact lens package evaluation sample a, the contact lens was entirely immersed in the storage solution.

[0104] [Experimental Example 2] <Contact lenses> The same contact lenses as those used in Experimental Example 1 were used. <Preservation solution> The same preservative solution as in Experimental Example 1 was used. <Bottom member> The bottom member b (average thickness: about 1.1 mm) was used, which was rectangular in plan view and consisted of a storage recess and a flange portion surrounding the recess. The bottom member b was colorless and semi-transparent, and the color space of the storage recess was L * = 90.64, a * =-0.97, b * =3.89. The receiving recess was cylindrical, with a diameter of 22 mm and a depth of 6.5 mm. <Contact lens package evaluation sample> A sample for evaluation of the contact lens package according to the first embodiment was produced, specifically as follows. 200 μL or 1500 μL of each preservation solution was poured into the storage recess of the bottom member b. Next, the contact lenses were placed in the central portions of the storage recesses of the bottom member b, with the inner surface facing the bottom member and with the centers aligned so as to prevent air bubbles from getting underneath the contact lenses, thereby obtaining contact lens package evaluation sample b. In contact lens package evaluation sample b into which 1500 μL of storage solution was poured, the contact lens was entirely immersed in the storage solution, whereas in contact lens package evaluation sample b into which 200 μL of storage solution was poured, the storage solution was present only between the lens and the bottom member (as shown in FIG. 5(d) , except that the bottom surface of the storage recess was flat), and part of the bottom surface of the storage recess was exposed.

[0105] [Experimental Example 3] <Contact lenses> The same contact lenses as those used in Experimental Example 1 were used. <Preservation solution> The same preservative solution as in Experimental Example 1 was used. <Bottom member> A laminated film (thickness: about 90 μm) of approximately rectangular aluminum foil and PET film was used as the film substrate, and a lens-carrying substrate (visual transmittance: 0%, color space: L) made of PP resin was attached to the aluminum foil side with adhesive. * =95.91, a * =-0.87, b * =1.29 (white)) was fixed to obtain bottom member c. The lens-loading substrate had a lens-loading portion that was circular in plan view and had a diameter of 23 mm, and a rim portion that surrounded the outer periphery of the lens-loading portion and whose upper end was positioned higher than the upper surface of the lens-loading portion. A gap with a maximum height of approximately 200 μm was formed between the lower surface of the lens-loading portion and the film substrate. In addition, 108 through-holes (φ490 μm) were provided in the lens-loading portion, dispersed radially from the center. <Contact lens package evaluation sample> A sample for evaluation of the contact lens package according to the second embodiment was produced, specifically as follows. 200 μL of each preservative solution was poured onto the lens-carrying substrate of the bottom member c. Next, a contact lens was placed on the lens-loading portion of the lens-loading substrate, with the inner surface facing the lens-loading substrate. This resulted in a contact lens package evaluation sample c. In the resulting contact lens package evaluation sample c, the height of the storage space (the difference between the height of the upper surface of the lens-loading portion and the height of the upper end of the rim) was 0.7 mm. In the preparation of contact lens package evaluation sample c, a portion of the storage solution flowed under the lens-loading substrate. In the region of the lens-loading section where the contact lens was present, it was confirmed that the storage solution was present between the contact lens and the lens-loading section, and most of the lens was located above the liquid level of the storage solution. On the other hand, in the region of the lens-loading section where the contact lens was not present, the amount of storage solution was small, and part of the lens-loading section was exposed.

[0106] [Table 1]

[0107] <Color Difference Evaluation 1: Package Shape and Storage Liquid Volume> ·Central part For the contact lens package evaluation samples prepared in Experimental Examples 1-3, color space 1 was measured at the center of the storage recess or lens loading section. A contact lens was placed in the center. For the comparative package evaluation samples prepared in the same manner as the above Experimental Examples except that no contact lens was placed, color space 2 was measured at the center of the storage recess or lens loading section. The color difference C1 between color space 1 and color space 2 was calculated. Lens boundary For the contact lens package evaluation sample prepared in Experimental Example 1-3, color space 3 was measured in a portion several mm inside the edge of the contact lens, which corresponds to the portion where the contact lens is present, and color space 4 was measured in a portion several mm outside the edge of the contact lens, which corresponds to the portion where the contact lens is not present. The color difference E1 between color space 3 and color space 4 was calculated.

[0108] The color differences C1 and E1 and the ratio of the amount of liquid taken out determined for each contact lens package evaluation sample are shown in Table 2. The 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 a state in which the entire contact lens is submerged in storage solution with a state in which at least a portion of the contact lens is positioned above the storage solution level (comparison of Samples A1-A4 with Samples B1-B4, and comparison of Samples A5-A8 with B5-B8), the color differences C1 and E1 tend to be larger in the latter state. The color differences C1 and E1 tend to be larger when a colored storage solution is used than when a colorless and transparent storage solution is used, and this tendency is more pronounced when a colorless and transparent lens is used. Here, when the color difference C1 at the center of the lens storage compartment is large, it is thought that the area where the lens may be present is easily identified. Furthermore, when the color difference E1 at the lens boundary is large, it is thought that the position of the lens is easily identified. It can also be seen that contact lens packages with a large proportion of the solution removed 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 visibility improvement effect was slight when the amount of storage solution was reduced to expose the contact lens (Samples B3 and B7) and when a colored storage solution was used (Samples A4 and A8). However, when a colored storage solution was used and the amount of storage solution was reduced to expose the contact lens (Samples B4 and B8), a significant visibility improvement effect was obtained. This synergistic effect was first discovered through the inventors' own unique studies. Furthermore, when contact lens package evaluation sample c was used, relatively high color differences C1 and E1 were observed even with a colorless, transparent storage solution, while a significant visibility improvement effect was obtained when a colored storage solution was used. This is presumably due to the fact that the contact lens is placed on a white lens-carrying substrate, the lens-carrying substrate has high brightness, the lens-carrying substrate has low luminous transmittance, and storage solution flows under the lens-carrying substrate.

[0111] <Color difference evaluation 2: Coloring of preservative solution> ·Central part For contact lens package evaluation sample b prepared in Experimental Example 2, color space 5 was measured at the center of the storage recess. A contact lens was placed in the center. For a comparative package evaluation sample prepared in the same manner as the above Experimental Example, except that no contact lens was placed, color space 6 was measured at the center of the storage recess. 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 using a colorless, transparent storage solution, the color difference C2 tends to be larger when using a colored storage solution (comparison between C1-1 and C1-2 to C1-4, and comparison between C2-1 and C2-2 to C2-4). The color difference C2 increased when the cyanocobalamin concentration in the storage solution was 2 ppm, but a greater increase was observed when the concentration was 10 ppm or 20 ppm. This suggests that a storage solution colored with a colorant at a concentration 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 be used to favorably improve the visibility of contact lenses. Furthermore, when using colorless, transparent contact lenses, the color difference increased by more than three times when using a colored storage solution (10 ppm or 20 ppm). [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-loading substrate 20 Cover member 100 packages 110 Containment Space 120 Contact Lenses 130 Preservation solution 200 contact lens packages

Claims

1. A contact lens package comprising: a package having a lid member and a bottom member; and a contact lens and a storage solution accommodated in an accommodation space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, the preservative solution contains a colorant; 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; The height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens. Contact lens packaging.

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

3. 2. 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 encase the storage solution present on its inner surface, the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens is 12% by weight or more relative to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens.

4. 2. 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 encase the storage solution present on its inner surface, the amount of storage solution lifted together with the contact lens is 22% by weight or more relative to the amount of storage solution present on the member supporting the contact lens.

5. A contact lens package comprising: a package having a lid member and a bottom member; and a contact lens and a storage solution accommodated in an accommodation space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, the preservative solution contains a colorant; The height of the storage space of 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 equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution. Contact lens packaging.

6. A contact lens package comprising: a package having a lid member and a bottom member; and a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, the preservative solution contains a colorant; 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; the base member has a lens housing portion for housing the contact lens, When the package is opened, the contact lens is supported by the base member, the lens housing portion is a lens housing recess, A contact lens package, wherein the ratio of the height of the surface of the storage solution in the lens receiving recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens is 97% or less.

7. 7. The contact lens package according to claim 6, wherein the ratio of the height of the surface of the storage solution in the lens receiving recess to the sagittal height of the contact lens is 74% or less.

8. The contact lens package according to claim 6, wherein a part of the lens accommodating recess is exposed in a plan view when the package is opened.

9. Color difference ΔEa between the lens accommodating recess and the storage solution ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package according to claim 6, wherein is 1.0 or greater.

10. A contact lens package comprising: a package having a lid member and a bottom member; and a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, the preservative solution contains a colorant; 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; the base member has a lens housing portion for housing the contact lens, When the package is opened, the contact lens is supported by the base member, the bottom member includes a flexible film substrate and a lens-loading substrate serving as the lens housing portion provided on the lid member side of the film substrate, A contact lens package, wherein the height of the storage space is less than the sagittal height of the contact lens.

11. The contact lens package according to claim 10, wherein a portion of the lens-loading substrate is exposed in a plan view when the package is opened.

12. Color difference ΔEa between the lens-carrying substrate and the storage solution ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package according to claim 10, wherein is 1.0 or greater.

13. The contact lens package according to claim 10, wherein the contact lens is accommodated in the accommodation portion so that its inner surface faces the bottom member.

14. A contact lens package comprising: a package having a lid member and a bottom member; and a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a storage space sealed by the lid member and the bottom member, the preservative solution contains a colorant; 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; the base member has a lens housing portion for housing the contact lens, A contact lens package, wherein the contact lens is supported by the lid member when the package is opened.

15. Color difference ΔEa between the lid member and the preservative solution ＊ b ＊ The contact lens package of claim 14, wherein is 1.0 or greater.

16. 15. The contact lens package according to claim 14, wherein the contact lens is accommodated in the accommodation portion so that the inner surface of the contact lens faces the lid member.

17. Color difference ΔEa between the contact lens and the storage solution ＊ b ＊ 15. The contact lens package of claim 1, wherein the refractive index is 10.0 or greater.

18. Color difference ΔEa between the colorless transparent solution and the storage solution ＊ b ＊ 15. The contact lens package of claim 1, 5, 6, 10, or 14, wherein is 0.5 or greater.

19. The color difference ΔEa between the colorless and transparent solution and the storage solution ＊ b ＊ 19. The contact lens package of claim 18, wherein is 0.7 or greater.

20. 15. The contact lens package of claim 1, 5, 6, 10, or 14, wherein the colorant comprises vitamin B12.

21. 15. The contact lens package of claim 1, 5, 6, 10, or 14, wherein the coloring agent comprises cyanocobalamin.

22. 22. The contact lens package of claim 21, wherein the concentration of the cyanocobalamin in the storage solution is 1 ppm to 1000 ppm.

23. 15. The contact lens package of claim 1, 5, 6, 10, or 14, wherein the viscosity of the storage solution is 0.5 mPa·s to 10.0 mPa·s.

24. pouring a preservative solution containing a colorant into a lens storage portion of a bottom member having the lens storage portion; placing a contact lens in the lens housing; and sealing the lens housing portion with a lid member; A method for manufacturing a contact lens package, comprising: the storage solution is in contact with at least a portion of the contact lens during the sealing; A manufacturing method in which the amount of storage solution poured into the lens storage section is such that the contact lens is in a saturated swollen state when the contact lens package is sealed, and at least a portion of the contact lens is positioned at a height above the liquid level of the storage solution when the contact lens package is opened.

25. 25. The manufacturing method according to claim 24, wherein placing the contact lens in the lens housing portion includes placing the contact lens in the lens housing portion so that its inner surface faces a member that supports the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened.

26. 1. A method for improving visibility of a contact lens when a contact lens package containing a contact lens and a storage solution contained in a sealed storage space is opened, comprising: A preservative solution containing a colorant is used as the preservative solution; and adjusting the amount of the storage solution so that the height of at least a part of the contact lens when the contact lens package is opened is equal to or higher than the liquid level of the storage solution; A method comprising:

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