Characterization device for gradient photochromic lenses

Abstract

An apparatus configured to determine the transmittance of a photochromic optical product including at least one photochromic material, the apparatus comprising: a housing defining an interior configured to receive the optical product, the housing including a retaining member for holding the optical product in a predetermined position; at least one actinic radiation source configured to emit actinic radiation into the interior of the housing to activate at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; at least one image capture device configured to capture image data of the photochromic optical product; at least one backlight unit positioned below the retaining member; and a control unit operatively connected to the at least one image capture device and the at least one actinic radiation source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a device for measuring the characteristics of optical products, and particularly to a device for measuring the gradation on the surface of a photochromic lens.

Background Art

[0002] Optical elements that absorb electromagnetic radiation in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum are used in various products such as ophthalmic lenses for glasses and sunglasses, and for contact lenses. Electromagnetic radiation-absorbing ophthalmic lenses improve the comfort of the wearer when viewing objects and enhance the visual acuity of the wearer under bright conditions. Examples of electromagnetic radiation-absorbing ophthalmic lenses include fixed-color ophthalmic lenses and photochromic ophthalmic lenses.

[0003] Photochromic lenses change color in response to specific wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. Photochromic lenses improve the visual acuity and comfort of the wearer when exposed to bright light conditions, but return to a non-absorbing or lower-absorbing state when the light conditions are low. Photochromic lenses provide comfort and visibility when viewing objects over a range of lighting conditions, eliminating the need to change glasses when moving between indoor / dark locations and outdoor / bright locations.

[0004] In known methods for testing or quantifying the amount of light transmitted by ophthalmic lenses such as photochromic ophthalmic lenses, a conventional optical bench is utilized under laboratory conditions. The photochromic lens is typically activated by exposure to ultraviolet light and fixed to the optical bench for testing. The optical bench is well-suited for a uniform photochromic distribution across the entire product, but this system is configured to average the transmittance data across the entire lens. Variations in optical properties such as aesthetic characteristics, gradations, or patterns cannot be quantified.

[0005] The ability to accurately identify the optical properties of ophthalmic lenses, such as activated photochromic ophthalmic lenses, has several applications, including quality control and marketing. Testing photochromic ophthalmic lenses under predetermined, consistent conditions provides valuable data regarding the comfort and reliability experienced by wearers. In addition, accurately identifying the properties of photochromic ophthalmic lenses can provide eyeglass buyers with quantifiable or qualitative evidence to judge the merits of various photochromic ophthalmic lenses for use in their geographical location or for their desired purpose. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a method and / or system for measuring the optical properties of transparent products such as photochromic ophthalmic lenses under consistent conditions that allow for quantitative analysis. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus configured to determine the transmittance of a photochromic optical product comprising at least one photochromic material may include: a housing defining the interior configured to receive an optical product, the housing comprising a retaining member for holding the optical product in place; at least one chemical source configured to emit a chemical ray into the interior of the housing to activate at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; at least one image capture device configured to capture image data of the photochromic optical product; at least one backlight unit positioned below the retaining member and emitting light toward the image capture device and through the optical product; and a control unit operationally connected to the at least one image capture device and the at least one chemical source, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the transmittance of visible light through the photochromic optical product using the image data captured by the image capture device.

[0008] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, a control unit may be configured to activate at least one image capture device to capture at least one of the following: first image data before activation of at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; second image data after activation of at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; and third image data by closing the shutter mechanism of the image capture device either before or after activation of the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product. The control unit may be configured to compare a first transmittance in a first portion of the first image data captured by the image capture device before activation of at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product with a second transmittance in a first portion of the second image data captured by the image capture device after activation of at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product. At least one ultraviolet filter may be positioned in a straight line with the image capture device between at least one chemical source and a holding member, and the ultraviolet filter reflects at least a portion of the wavelengths including the chemical rays. The retaining member may be located within a temperature control box defined inside the housing, the temperature control box further including at least one temperature control component, the at least one temperature control component configured to maintain a predetermined temperature inside the temperature control box. A temperature control unit may be operationally connected to at least one temperature control component, the temperature control unit configured to set a predetermined temperature inside the temperature control box and to set the temperature output of at least one temperature control component. At least one temperature control component may be configured to maintain a temperature inside the temperature control box in the range of -20°C to 50°C. The retaining member may include a self-centering chuck configured to secure the optical product. The retaining member may be located in a retractable drawer within a temperature control box defined inside the housing. At least one image acquisition device may include at least one linear response camera. The photochromic material in the photochromic optical product may exist in a gradient pattern.The control unit may be configured to measure and calculate the transmittance of multiple small regions identified on the surface of a photochromic optical product.

[0009] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, a method for determining the transmittance of an optical product having at least one photochromic property applied in a gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product may include: capturing first image data of a first portion of a gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product with at least one image capturing device before the gradient pattern is activated; irradiating at least a first portion of the gradient pattern of the optical product with chemical rays from at least one chemical source to activate the gradient pattern in at least one photochromic material; capturing second image data of a first portion of a gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product with at least one image capturing device after the gradient pattern has been activated; and calculating the transmittance of visible light through the gradient pattern of the optical product by comparing the first image data with the second image data using a processor. The method may further include maintaining the temperature of a temperature control box defined inside at a predetermined temperature using a temperature control unit. The method may further include capturing third image data using an image capturing device when a shutter mechanism is closed on the image capturing device.

[0010] The present invention is also disclosed in the following sections.

[0011] 1. An apparatus configured to determine the transmittance of a photochromic optical product comprising at least one photochromic material, the apparatus comprising: a housing defining an interior configured to receive an optical product, the housing comprising a retaining member for holding the optical product in place; at least one chemical source configured to emit a chemical ray into the interior of the housing to activate at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; at least one image capture device configured to capture image data of the photochromic optical product; at least one backlight unit positioned below the retaining member and emitting light toward the image capture device and through the optical product; and a control unit operationally connected to the at least one image capture device and the at least one chemical source, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the transmittance of visible light through the photochromic optical product using image data captured by the image capture device.

[0012] The apparatus of the first paragraph, wherein the control unit is configured to activate at least one image capturing device to capture at least one of the following: first image data before activation of at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; second image data after activation of at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; and third image data by closing the shutter mechanism of the image capturing device either before or after activation of at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product.

[0013] The apparatus according to paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the control unit is configured to compare a first transmittance in a first portion of first image data captured by the image capture device before at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product is activated with a second transmittance in a first portion of second image data captured by the image capture device after at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product is activated.

[0014] Item 4: The apparatus of any one of items 1 to 3, further comprising at least one ultraviolet filter positioned in a straight line with an image capturing device between at least one chemical source and a holding member, wherein the ultraviolet filter reflects at least a portion of the wavelengths containing the chemical rays.

[0015] Clause 5: The apparatus according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the retaining member is located within a temperature control box defined inside the housing, the temperature control box further includes at least one temperature control component, the at least one temperature control component configured to maintain the inside of the temperature control box at a predetermined temperature.

[0016] Clause 6: The apparatus of Clause 5, further comprising a temperature control unit operationally connected to at least one temperature control component, the temperature control unit configured to set a predetermined temperature in a temperature control box and to set the temperature output of at least one temperature control component.

[0017] Clause 7: The apparatus of Clause 5 or 6, wherein at least one temperature control component is configured to maintain the temperature inside the temperature control box in the range of 0°C to 50°C.

[0018] Paragraph 8: The apparatus of any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, the retaining member comprising a self-centering chuck configured to secure an optical product.

[0019] Paragraph 9: The apparatus of any one of paragraphs 5 to 8, wherein the retaining member is located in a retractable drawer within a temperature control box defined inside the housing.

[0020] Clause 10: An apparatus according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein at least one image acquisition device includes at least one linear response camera.

[0021] Clause 11: A photochromic optical product in which the photochromic material exists in a gradient pattern, in any one of the apparatuses described in Clauses 1 to 10.

[0022] Item 12: The device according to any one of Items 1 to 11, wherein the control unit is configured to measure and calculate the transmittance of a plurality of small regions identified on the surface of the photochromic optical product.

[0023] Item 13: A method for specifying the transmittance of an optical product having at least one photochromic property applied in a gradation pattern on at least one surface of the optical product, the method comprising: capturing, by at least one image capture device, first image data of a first portion of the gradation pattern on at least one surface of the optical product before the gradation pattern is activated; irradiating a first portion of at least the gradation pattern of the optical product with actinic radiation from at least one actinic radiation source to activate the gradation pattern in at least one photochromic material; capturing, by at least one image capture device, second image data of a first portion of the gradation pattern on at least one surface of the optical product after the gradation pattern is activated; and calculating the transmittance of visible light through the gradation pattern of the optical product by using a processor to compare the first image data with the second image data.

[0024] Item 14: The method according to Item 13, further comprising maintaining, using a temperature control unit, the temperature of a temperature control box defined therein at a predetermined temperature.

[0025] Item 15: The method according to Item 13 or 14, further comprising capturing, using an image capture device, third image data when a shutter mechanism is closed on the image capture device.

[0026] Item 16: The device according to any one of Items 1 to 12, wherein at least one actinic radiation source is positioned not collinear with at least one image capture device inside the housing. The present invention provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) An apparatus configured to determine the transmittance of a photochromic optical product comprising at least one photochromic material, wherein the apparatus is A housing that defines the interior configured to receive the optical product, and includes a retaining member for holding the optical product in a predetermined position, At least one chemical source configured to emit a chemical ray into the interior of the housing to activate at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product, At least one image acquisition device configured to capture image data of the aforementioned photochromic optical product, Positioned below the holding member, at least one backlight unit for emitting light toward the image capturing device and through the optical product, A control unit operationally connected to the at least one image acquisition device and the at least one chemical source, Includes, The control unit is configured to determine the transmittance of visible light passing through the photochromic optical product using the image data captured by the image capture device. (Item 2) The apparatus according to item 1, wherein the control unit is configured to activate the at least one image capturing device to capture at least one of the following: first image data before the activation of the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; second image data after the activation of the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; and third image data by closing the shutter mechanism of the image capturing device either before or after the activation of the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product. (Item 3) The apparatus according to item 1 or 2, wherein the control unit is configured to compare a first transmittance in a first portion of first image data captured by the image capture device before the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product is activated with a second transmittance in a first portion of second image data captured by the image capture device after the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product is activated. (Item 4) The apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 3, further comprising at least one ultraviolet filter positioned in a straight line with the image capturing device between the at least one chemical source and the holding member, wherein the ultraviolet filter reflects at least a portion of the wavelengths including the chemical rays. (Item 5) The retaining member is positioned within a temperature control box defined inside the housing, and the temperature control box further includes at least one temperature control component. The at least one temperature control component is configured to maintain a predetermined temperature inside the temperature control box. The device described in any one of items 1 to 4. (Item 6) The system further includes a temperature control unit operationally connected to the at least one temperature control component, The temperature control unit is configured to set a predetermined temperature in the temperature control box and to set the temperature output of at least one temperature control component. The device described in item 5. (Item 7) The apparatus according to item 5 or 6, wherein at least one temperature control component is configured to maintain the temperature inside the temperature control box in the range of -20°C to 50°C. (Item 8) The apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the holding member includes a self-centering chuck configured to fix the optical product. (Item 9) The apparatus according to any one of items 5 to 8, wherein the retaining member is located in a drawer that can be inserted into and removed from the temperature control box defined inside the housing. (Item 10) The apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the at least one image acquisition device includes at least one linear response camera. (Item 11) The apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the photochromic material in the photochromic optical product is present in a gradient pattern. (Item 12) The apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein the control unit is configured to measure and calculate the transmittance of a plurality of small regions identified on the photochromic optical product. (Item 13) A method for determining the transmittance of an optical product having at least one photochromic property applied in a gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product, wherein the method is Before the gradient pattern is activated, first image data of the first portion of the gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product is captured by at least one image capture device. To activate the gradient pattern in the at least one photochromic property by irradiating at least the first portion of the gradient pattern of the optical product with a chemical beam from at least one chemical source, After the gradient pattern is activated, second image data of the first portion of the gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product is captured by at least one image capture device. The processor calculates the transmittance of visible light through the gradient pattern of the optical product by comparing the first image data with the second image data, A method that includes this. (Item 14) The method according to item 13, further comprising maintaining the temperature of a temperature control box defined within the interior at a predetermined temperature using a temperature control unit. (Item 15) The method according to item 13 or item 14, further comprising using the image acquisition device to acquire a third image data when a shutter mechanism is closed on the image acquisition device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an optical product characteristic measuring apparatus according to one non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a separated perspective view of the inside of the optical product characteristic identification device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows another perspective view of the temperature control box of the optical product characteristics measuring device. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the holding member and drawer of the optical product characteristic measuring device. [Figure 5A] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the internal components of the optical product characteristic measuring device when the chemical source is activated. [Figure 5B] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the internal components of the optical product characteristics measuring device when the backlight is activated. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the electrical connections between the internal components of the optical product characteristic measuring device. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of an optical product having a region and a subregion for analyzing the transmittance of an optical product, according to one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the optical product characteristic measuring device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The drawings generally illustrate preferred, non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the systems and methods of the present disclosure. While the description presents various embodiments or aspects of the apparatus, it should be construed as not limiting the present disclosure in any way. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should understand that improvements, concepts, and applications of the embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure are encompassed and are not limited to the drawings and descriptions provided herein.

[0029] The following description is provided so that a person skilled in the art may construct and use the embodiments or aspects described herein for the practice of this disclosure. However, various improvements, equivalents, modifications, and alternatives are also readily conceivable to a person skilled in the art. All such improvements, modifications, equivalents, and alternatives are included in the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, in the interpretation of the following description, the terms “end,” “up,” “down,” “right,” “left,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” “down,” “lateral,” and “lengthwise,” and their derivatives, refer to the orientation of this disclosure in the drawings. However, it should be understood that this disclosure may take various alternative modifications and step sequences unless expressly designated otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific apparatus and processes shown in the accompanying drawings and described below herein are merely exemplary embodiments or aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, the specific dimensions and other physical features relating to the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0030] As used herein and in the claims, articles (a, an, the) include the plural form unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

[0031] Terms referring to space or direction, such as "left," "right," "up," and "down," relate to the present invention in the state shown in the figure. However, the present invention can take on various alternative orientations, and therefore such terms should not be considered limiting.

[0032] All numbers used herein and in the claims should be understood to be modified in all cases by the term "approximately," meaning a range of 10 percent of the expressed value.

[0033] The term "etc." should be understood as non-limiting. That is, the elements explicitly stated before "etc." should be understood as non-limiting examples of the stated characteristics.

[0034] All ranges disclosed herein include the first and last values ​​of the range and all subranges contained therein. Ranges disclosed herein represent the average value of the explicitly stated range.

[0035] The term "include" is synonymous with "comprise".

[0036] The term "chemical radiation" ("actinic radiation" and "actinic light") refers to electromagnetic radiation capable of inducing reactions within materials, such as converting a photochromic material from one activated state to another.

[0037] As used herein, the terms “ultraviolet light,” “ultraviolet radiation,” “ultraviolet light,” and “ultraviolet spectrum” mean electromagnetic radiation having wavelengths in the range of 100 nm to less than 415 nm. The term “UV” means ultraviolet radiation, such as ultraviolet radiation.

[0038] As used herein, the terms “ultraviolet-visible light” or “UVV” mean electromagnetic radiation having wavelengths in the range of 395 nm to less than 455 nm.

[0039] As used herein, the terms “photochromic” and similar terms, such as “photochromic material,” “photochromic compound,” or “photochromic coating,” mean any material or compound having an absorption spectrum for at least visible light that changes in response to the absorption of at least chemical rays. A photochromic material comprises at least one photochromic compound. A photochromic material or compound may be incorporated into a coating or film deposited on at least one surface of an optical product. Additionally or alternatively, a photochromic material or compound may be incorporated into the body of an optical product, for example, by impregnation or casting into the material of the optical product. The term “photochromic lens” means a lens having a photochromic material associated with it. The terms “photochromic coating” and “photochromic film” include both thermally reversible and non-thermally reversible photochromic materials and compounds. The term "thermally reversible photochromic compound / material," as used herein, means a compound / material that changes from a first state, e.g., "colorless state," to a second state, e.g., "colored state," in response to a chemical beam, and returns to the first state in response to thermal energy. The term "non-thermally reversible photochromic compound / material," as used herein, means a compound / material that changes from a first state, e.g., "transparent state," to a second state, e.g., "colored state," in response to a chemical beam, and returns to the first state in response to a chemical beam with substantially the same wavelength as the absorption band of the colored state.

[0040] The term "optics" means anything relating to or associated with light and / or vision. For example, optical products or elements or devices can be selected from ophthalmic products, elements, and devices, display products, elements, and devices, windows, mirrors, and active and passive liquid crystal cell products, elements, and devices.

[0041] To the extent used herein, the term “ophthalmology” means relating to or associated with the eye and vision. Limited examples of ophthalmic products or elements include corrective and non-corrective lenses, including monofocal or multifocal lenses that may be segmented or non-segmented multifocal lenses (such as, but not limited to, bifocal, trifocal, and progressive lenses), as well as other elements used to correct, protect, or (aesthetically or otherwise) improve vision, including but not limited to contact lenses, intraocular lenses, magnifying lenses, and protective lenses or visors.

[0042] As used herein, the term “lens” means, and includes, at least individual lenses, pairs of lenses, partially formed (i.e., semi-finished) lenses, fully formed (i.e., finished) lenses, and lens blanks.

[0043] The term "activated" means that an optical product is exposed to conditions such as chemical radiation for a sufficient amount of time, and the optical product transitions from a first activated state to a second activated state with respect to at least one optical property, such as absorption or linear polarization of visible light and / or ultraviolet (UV) light.

[0044] The present invention includes, consists of, or is essentially composed of, any combination of the following embodiments or aspects of the present invention. Various embodiments or aspects of the present invention are shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that these are for the purpose of facilitating explanation and description. In practice, one or more embodiments or aspects of the present invention shown in one drawing can be combined with one or more embodiments or aspects of the present invention shown in one or more of the other drawings.

[0045] With respect to Figures 1-5B, a characterizing apparatus 2 according to one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure is shown and described. The characterizing apparatus 2 may be configured to determine the transmittance of an optical product 3, the optical product 3 having at least one photochromic material applied in a gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product 3. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the optical product 3 may be a lens having a photochromic material that can be activated by chemical radiation, including a gradient pattern. However, it should be understood that any photochromic optical product can be measured with this apparatus. It is assumed that defects can be mapped or non-uniformity of photochromic behavior can be detected using this apparatus 2. The photochromic optical product 3 may exhibit a gradient pattern when activated, but it does not have to be in the form of a coating. The optical product 3 may include at least one photochromic material present in a gradient pattern, including coating, impregnation, or lamination with the optical product 3.

[0046] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the characterizing device 2 may include a housing 4 which defines an interior 6 and includes a temperature control box 41 configured to receive an optical product 3. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing 4 may include a top wall member 8, at least four side wall members 10, 12, 14, 16, and a bottom wall member 18 which are operationally connected to each other to form the housing 4. In other embodiments, the housing 4 is any chamber or box configured to prevent light from entering the interior of the housing 4. In one embodiment or aspect, the wall members 8-18 are made of an opaque material so that an external light source cannot penetrate the wall members 8-18 and enter the interior of the housing 4. The wall members 8-18 are non-reflective. The wall members 8-18 are operationally connected to each other to form the interior 6 of the housing 4. Frame members 20 may be provided to operationally connect the wall members 8-18 to each other.

[0047] As shown in Figures 1-5B, in one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 4 may include a drawer 22 configured to move in and out of a temperature control box 41 housed within the interior 6 of the housing 4. The drawer 22 may be configured to receive an optical product 3 and insert it into the interior of the temperature control box 41. An operator may pull the drawer 22 out of the interior of the temperature control box 41 by pulling a handle 24 operably connected to the drawer 22. Once the drawer 22 is pulled out of the housing 4, the optical product 3 may be positioned on the drawer 22. The operator may then push the drawer 22 back into the temperature control box 41 to position the optical product 3 in line with the image acquisition device 36 within the interior 6 of the housing 4 (more details below). The drawer 22 may be operably connected to the housing 4 in any way sufficient to allow the drawer 22 to move in and out of the interior 6 of the housing 4, and this is understood to include sliding brackets, rollers, and similar mechanical configurations.

[0048] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, a retaining member 26 may be operationally connected to a drawer 22 to hold an optical product 3 on the drawer 22. The retaining member 26 may be provided to secure the optical product 3 within the interior 6 of the housing 4, during which the transmittance of the optical product 3 is determined. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the retaining member 26 may be a three-jaw chuck configured to hold and secure the optical product 3 on the drawer 22. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the retaining member 26 may be a self-centering chuck. The three-jaw chuck may be moved between an open position in which the optical product 3 can be set within the three-jaw chuck and a closed position in which the chuck jaws secure the optical product 3 within the three-jaw chuck. The retaining member 26 may be provided within the characteristic measuring device 2 to ensure that a gradient pattern of at least one photochromic material is held in place when the optical product 3 is held on the drawer 22 within the interior 6 of the housing 4. As will be explained in more detail later, the retaining member 26 ensures that the optical product 3 is held in a consistent and predetermined position within the housing 4, thereby ensuring that the photochromic material on the optical product 3 is effectively activated. Therefore, by using the retaining member 26, the optical product 3 is always positioned in the desired position and orientation within the housing, thereby reducing the time and effort required to ensure that the optical product 3 is properly positioned within the housing 4.

[0049] As shown in Figures 1-5B, in one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the characterizing apparatus 2 may also include at least one chemical source within the interior 6 of the housing 4. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the chemical source 28 is held in a stationary position and is always oriented in the same position with respect to the holding member 26 that secures the optical product 3.

[0050] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, one chemical source 28 is provided inside the housing 4 interior 6 to activate a gradient pattern of photochromic material on the surface of the optical product 3. However, it is also conceivable that additional chemical sources 28 may be provided inside the housing 4 interior 6. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the chemical source 28 is an ultraviolet light source. It is also conceivable that other chemical sources may be used in the characterization device 2, such as ultraviolet-visible light (UVV), which may thereby activate a gradient pattern on the surface of the photochromic material of the optical product 3. The chemical source 28 is provided in the characterization device 2, inside the housing 4 interior 6, to supply and generate chemical rays to activate photochromic compounds in the photochromic material of the optical product 3 and thereby activate a gradient pattern on the surface of the optical product 3. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the chemical source 28 emits electromagnetic radiation in the range of 365 to 415 nm. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the chemical source 28 may be a confocal ultraviolet LED array, thereby eliminating excessive vibration during use of the characterization device 2 and eliminating the need for moving parts, which would otherwise require some degree of automation to move the UV light source in and out of the path of the image acquisition device 36.

[0051] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the characterizing apparatus 2 may also include an ultraviolet filter 32 configured to direct chemical rays supplied by a chemical source 28 toward an optical product 3 held on a holding member 26. The ultraviolet filter 32 may be a reflection cutoff filter. The ultraviolet filter 32 may be configured to reflect all wavelengths in the ultraviolet spectrum, for example, up to 395 nm, up to 410 nm, or up to 420 nm. The ultraviolet filter 32 may be provided within the characterizing apparatus 2 to reflect chemical rays supplied by the chemical source 28 so as to ensure that the chemical rays are supplied to the optical product 3 to activate the photochromic material. The ultraviolet filter 32 may be selected for the characterizing apparatus 2 based on the photochromic material applied to the optical product 3. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ultraviolet filter 32 may be configured to direct the chemical rays toward the optical product 3 so that light from a backlight unit 43 can pass through the ultraviolet filter 32 toward an image acquisition device 36 (see Figures 5A and 5B). Depending on the specific photochromic material on the surface of the optical product 3, it may be necessary to supply chemical rays of different wavelengths to the optical product 3 in order to activate the photochromic compounds in the photochromic material. It is also conceivable that the ultraviolet filter 32 may be positioned at a different angle with respect to the optical product 3 as desired. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the holding member 26 and therefore the optical product 3 are positioned below the ultraviolet filter 32 so that the optical product 3 is not aligned with the chemical source 28. The optical product 3 does not need to be positioned in a straight line with the chemical source 28. Rather, the ultraviolet filter 32 is configured to direct the chemical rays from the chemical source 28 to the optical product 3 held on the holding member 26.

[0052] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, a shutter mechanism 34 may also be provided within the characterizing apparatus 2 for use together with the chemical source 28. The shutter mechanism 34 may be provided to control how the chemical rays from the chemical source 28 are directed toward the optical product 3 held within the interior 6 of the housing 4. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the shutter mechanism 34 may be moved between a position where the shutter mechanism 34 is raised and does not block the direction of the chemical rays toward the optical product 3 and a position where the shutter mechanism 34 is lowered and blocks the direction of the chemical rays toward the optical product 3. In another embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the shutter mechanism 34 may be moved between a position where the shutter mechanism 34 is open and allows the chemical rays to reach the optical product 3 through the shutter mechanism 34 and a position where the shutter mechanism 34 is closed and prevents the chemical rays from being directed toward the optical product 3. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the chemical source 28, the ultraviolet filter 32, and the shutter mechanism 34 are positioned in a straight line relative to each other within the interior 6 of the housing 4.

[0053] As shown in Figures 1-5B, in one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, an image capture device 36 is also provided within the characterization device 2. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the image capture device 36 may be a linear response camera. However, it is also conceivable that a different type of camera may be used as the image capture device 36. The image capture device 36 may be operationally connected to the housing 4 within the interior 6 of the housing 4. The image capture device 36 may be held on a bracket within the interior 6 of the housing 4. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the image capture device 36 may be configured to capture image or video data of a portion of the interior 6 of the housing 4. In particular, the image capture device 36 may be configured to capture image or video data of the optical product 3 when it is positioned within the interior 6 of the housing 4. As will be described in more detail later, the image capture device 36 is configured to capture image or video data of the optical product 3 at different points in time during the activation process of the photochromic material on the surface of the optical product 3. The image or video data captured by the image capture device 36 may be used to determine the transmittance of a gradient pattern on the surface of the optical product 3. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the image capturing device 36 may be held in a stationary position within the interior 6 of the housing 4. In other embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure, the image capturing device 36 may be adjustable within the interior 6 of the housing 4 so that it can be moved to different positions with respect to the optical product 3 held within the housing 4. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the image capturing device 36 may be positioned in a straight line with the optical product 3 held within the housing 4 so that the image capturing device 36 is positioned directly above the optical product 3.

[0054] As shown in Figures 1-5B, in one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the characterization device 2 may also include a temperature control component 38 for adjusting the temperature inside the temperature control box 41 of the housing 4 of the characterization device 2. The temperature control component 38 may include at least one temperature control unit 40. The temperature control unit 40 may be operationally connected to the temperature control box 41 and may adjust the temperature of the air held inside the temperature control box 41 to ensure that optimal results are obtained when activating the photochromic material on the surface of the optical product 3 held inside the temperature control box 41. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature control component 38 is configured to maintain the temperature inside the temperature control box 41 in the range of 0°C to 50°C. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature control unit 40 may be a Peltier device. The temperature control box 41 may be operationally connected to the drawer 22. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the retaining member 26 may be located on the drawer 22 and inside the temperature control box 41. A temperature control component 38 may be programmed and configured to maintain a predetermined temperature within the temperature control box 41. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature control box 41 may include a backlight unit 43 positioned beneath a retaining member 26, a retaining member 26, a drawer 22, a temperature control unit 40, and a thermocouple or thermistor for measuring the temperature of the temperature control box 41. The backlight unit 43 may be operationally connected to the control unit 42. In one embodiment, the bottom portion of the drawer 22 may be transparent or open so that the backlight unit directly beneath the optical product 3 is not obscured when the drawer 22 is closed. In one embodiment, the temperature control box 41 may include a crystal window 45 aligned with the image capture device 36 / optical product 3 / backlight unit 43, through which the image capture device 36 views the interior of the temperature control box 41. Non-limiting examples of the backlight unit 43 include a cloth or plastic backlight sheet or an LED array. The backlight unit 43 may be illuminated by diffuse light. An exemplary backlight unit 43 may include a diffused white LED system.The backlight unit 43 may be the sole light source of device 2. However, it should be understood that device 2 may include additional light sources that do not include the backlight unit 43.

[0055] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the temperature control component 38 may be configured to set a predetermined temperature in the temperature control box 41 of the housing 4, and then set the temperature output of the temperature control unit so that this predetermined temperature is provided to the temperature control box 41. However, it is also conceivable that the temperature control component 38 may use a different temperature range depending on the type of photochromic lens held in the housing 4. In one embodiment, the characterization device 2 is configured so that the characterization procedure on the optical product 3 is not performed until the temperature control box 41 reaches a desired temperature.

[0056] With respect to Figures 1-5B, in one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the characteristic measuring device 2 may also include a control unit 42 provided for operating various components of the characteristic measuring device 2. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit 42 may be a computer having a processor that runs software causing the control unit 42 to perform the following operations. The control unit 42 may be configured to store data received from the image acquisition device 36. The control unit 42 may be operationally connected to at least one of the holding member 26, chemical source 28, shutter mechanism 34, image acquisition device 36, backlight unit 43, and temperature control component 38 to initiate and / or disable the operation of each of these components. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 42 is operationally connected to all of the holding member 26, chemical source 28, shutter mechanism 34, image acquisition device 36, backlight unit 43, and temperature control component 38.

[0057] In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 42 may be directly wired to each of the holding member 26, chemical source 28, shutter mechanism 34, image capture device 36, and temperature control component 38 to control the operation of these components. In other embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit 42 may be wirelessly connected to the holding member 26, chemical source 28, shutter mechanism 34, image capture device 36, backlight unit 43, and temperature control component 38 to control the operation of these components. The control unit 42 may be positioned on the housing 4 of the characterization device 2 for use by an operator, or alternatively, the control unit 42 may be positioned away from the characterization device 2 so that the operator can remotely operate and stop the characterization device 2. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 42 may be operated using a remote (not shown) located away from the characterization device 2. The use of the control unit 42 during operation of the characterization device 2 will be described in more detail below.

[0058] With reference to Figures 1-5B and 8, the operation and use of the characterizing apparatus 2 according to one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure will be described in detail. The characterizing apparatus 2 may be used to determine the transmittance of visible light through a photochromic material on the surface of an optical product 3 introduced into the characterizing apparatus 2. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the photochromic material may include a gradient pattern in which different parts of the photochromic material have different transmittances.

[0059] Before the optical product 3 is placed in the characterization device 2, the exposure for the image capture device 36 may be calibrated to the intensity of the backlight unit 43 using a known transmittance standard. The control unit 42 may be used to activate a temperature control component 38 to ensure that a specific temperature in the temperature control box 41 is set. By performing this operation before the optical product 3 is introduced into the characterization device 2, the operator can ensure that the inside 6 of the housing 4 is set to the desired temperature, and the time required to equilibrium the optical product 3 with the predetermined temperature after it has been introduced into the characterization device 2 is minimized. However, it is also conceivable that the temperature of the temperature control box 41 may be set even after the optical product 3 has been introduced into the characterization device 2. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 42 can ensure that the temperature control component 38 maintains the inside of the temperature control box 41 at a predetermined temperature throughout the operation of the characterization device 2.

[0060] Before the operation of the characteristic measuring device 2 begins, the drawer 22 is pulled out from the housing 4 by the operator, and the optical product 3 is secured on the holding member 26. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the three-jaw chuck of the holding member may be held in the open position when the optical product 3 is not held on the holding member 26. After the optical product 3 is set on the holding member 26, the three-jaw chuck may be moved to the closed position so that the jaws move closer to each other and engage with and secure the optical product 3 on the holding member 26. Once the optical product 3 is secured on the holding member 26, the optical product 3 is positioned in a predetermined position on the holding member 26 so that the optical product 3 is positioned in a desired position and orientation with respect to the image acquisition device 36 and the chemical source 28. After the optical product 3 is secured on the holding member 26, the drawer 22 may be pushed back into the housing 4 by the operator so that the optical product 3 is positioned for activation of the photochromic material of the optical product 3. All components in a straight line are in a fixed position during operation (when the drawer 22 is closed, it sets the optical product 3 in a fixed position). The absence of moving parts eliminates vibrations, resulting in clear, in-focus images, and allowing for the comparison of a series of images in a fixed position. The ultraviolet filter 32 is aligned with the image acquisition device 36 and can also be fixed in place, thus not contributing to unwanted vibrations, noise, etc.

[0061] Once the optical product 3 is positioned inside the housing 4, the control unit 42 may be used to activate the image capture device 36 to capture an image or video of the optical product 3 held on the holding member 26. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, at least one image is captured by the image capture device 36 before the photochromic material on the surface of the optical product 3 is activated by the chemical source 28. Before the photochromic material is activated on the surface of the optical product 3, the photochromic material has a first transmittance through the optical product 3. The backlight unit 43 emits visible light, which then passes through the optical product 3 in both a first (activated) state and a second (deactivated) state.

[0062] After a first image of the optical product 3 is captured by the image capture device 28, the control unit 42 may be used to activate the chemical source 28 so that a chemical beam is directed toward the optical product 3 to activate the photochromic material. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the activation of the optical product 3 may be for a period of time sufficient to fully activate the photochromic material, for example, 3 minutes. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the chemical beam is directed toward the optical product 3 held on the holding member 26 through an ultraviolet filter 32. When the chemical beam comes into contact with the photochromic material on the surface of the optical product 3, at least one photochromic compound of the photochromic material is activated, thereby activating a gradient pattern on the surface of the optical product 3. After the photochromic material is activated on the surface of the optical product 3, the control unit 42 may be used to activate the image capture device 36 to capture image or video data of the optical product 3 held on the holding member 26. Therefore, at this point in the operation of the characteristic measuring device 2, at least one image of the optical product 3 before the photochromic material is activated has been captured by the image capturing device 36, and at least one image of the optical product 3 after the photochromic material is activated has also been captured by the image capturing device 36.

[0063] The image capture device 36 may include a shutter mechanism configured to control the exposure amount and duration. A dark image, which will be described in more detail later, may be captured before or after either the first and / or second image is captured. The dark image is generated by closing the shutter mechanism of the image capture device 36 to capture the image.

[0064] After at least three images have been captured by the image capture device 36, the control unit 42 is configured to remove any dark currents read from at least one image of the optical product 3 taken after the photochromic material has been activated and from each of the at least one image of the optical product 3 taken after the photochromic material has been activated, thereby removing any background interference captured by the image capture device 36. As shown in Figure 7, once the dark currents have been removed from the images, the control unit 42 is programmed and configured to isolate the region of interest 44 on the optical product 3. The control unit 42 may subdivide the region of interest 44 into a plurality of divided sub-regions 46 across the entire photochromic material of the optical product 3. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 42 is programmed and configured to identify sub-regions 46 of the photochromic material that are at least 5 millimeters wide and 5 millimeters high. Each sub-region 46 may be square or rectangular. Each sub-region 46 within the region of interest 44 of the photochromic optical product 3 may have a different transmittance than the other sub-regions 46. Furthermore, each corresponding subregion of the photochromic material may have different transmittances in an image of the optical product 3 taken before the photochromic material is activated and in an image of the optical product 3 taken after the photochromic material is activated. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, the photochromic material on the activated photochromic optical product 3 may have a linear gradient in which the top of the photochromic optical product is the darkest at the top of the optical product 3 and the brightest at the bottom of the optical product 3.

[0065] In one embodiment or aspect of this disclosure, a method for determining the transmittance of a photochromic material on the surface of a photochromic optical product 3 is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0055217, filed on 25 June 2020, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. The intensity of electromagnetic radiation in a desired wavelength range may be measured by an image acquisition device 36 in one or more regions of interest 44 of the optical product 3. One or more regions of interest 44 may be randomly selected or may correspond to portions of the optical product 3 where the measurement of the transmittance of light passing through them is desired.

[0066] As described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0055217, the image capture device 36 captures image data of electromagnetic radiation passing through the optical product 3. The image capture device 36 is an intensity detection device that measures the intensity of electromagnetic radiation passing through one or more parts of the optical product 3. Position-dependent intensity data can be included in the image data captured by the image capture device 36. The image capture device 36 does not need to have high resolution to measure the intensity of electromagnetic radiation passing through the optical product 3. However, it is preferable that the image capture device 36 has good photometric linearity. Furthermore, it is preferable that the image capture device 36 has a high dynamic range. Examples of the image capture device 36 include a digital camera, charge-coupled devices (CCDs), complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensors, photodiode arrays, photomultiplier tube arrays, or a single sensor (one array per shot) having an optical system that focuses on an area of ​​any of these. Another example of the image capture device 36 is a hyperspectral imager, in which the image sensor at each pixel can acquire data across the entire visible light spectrum, not just the bandwidth narrowed by the filter. The image capture device 36 can capture color or black and white images. A suitable example of an image capture device 36 for functioning as an intensity measuring device is the Model AVT F-145B / C Stingray camera, commercially available from Allied Vision Technologies in Exton, Pennsylvania. Images captured using the High Dynamic Range ("HDR") function can also be used, provided that the exposure time and dark value are known, and that the relationship between the exposure time and the measured intensity value is linear.

[0067] Image data, including data on light intensity and position, can be stored in the internal memory of the image acquisition device 36. Alternatively, image data can be stored in removable or external memory, or by any other method known in the art.

[0068] The image acquisition device 36 may be configured to capture image data including intensity data for one or more selected wavelengths or wavelength ranges of electromagnetic radiation. For example, the image acquisition device 36 may be configured to capture image data including intensity data for one or more selected wavelengths or wavelength ranges of electromagnetic radiation in the range of 1 nm to 1,000 nm. For example, the image acquisition device 36 may be configured to capture image data including intensity data for one or more selected wavelengths or wavelength ranges of visible light. For example, the image acquisition device 36 may acquire data on the intensity of electromagnetic radiation in the red, green, and blue ranges. Alternatively or additionally, the image acquisition device 36 may acquire intensity data for electromagnetic radiation in the cyan, yellow, green, and / or magenta ranges. Other wavelength ranges may also be used. Those skilled in the art will see that these color ranges vary depending on the manufacturer and imaging device, and that specific wavelengths or wavelength ranges for each color and some ranges may overlap. Exemplary ranges for red, green, and blue are 635 ± 20 nm, 555 ± 20 nm, and 460 ± 20 nm, respectively. Any wavelength range or combination of wavelength ranges within the visible light spectrum, including wavelengths of approximately 380 to 780 nm, can be used.

[0069] If the optical product 3 has photochromic properties, the first intensity measurement can be performed with the optical product 3 in a first state. The first state can be an inactive state. The second intensity measurement can be performed by the image acquisition device 36 when the photochromic optical product 3 is in a second state. The second state can be an activated state.

[0070] When an image is captured by the image capture device 36, some of the measured intensity values ​​may be partially attributable to the dark current on the image capture device 36. The dark current may be temperature-dependent on the image capture device 36. The manufacturer of the image capture device 36 may provide a table or plot of intensity values ​​of the image capture device 36 due to dark current. The intensity due to dark current at various temperatures can be determined by taking one or more measurements on the image capture device 36 when the shutter is closed. Temperature measurement can be performed simultaneously with the measurement of the first and second intensity values ​​by a temperature measuring device. The image capture device 36 may include a temperature measuring device, or an external temperature measuring device may be used.

[0071] When the image acquisition device 36 captures an image of all or at least part of the surface area of ​​the optical product 3, it can compare intensity values ​​from different locations on the optical product 3. Such a comparison is useful because it allows for the identification of temperature differences depending on the location on the optical product 3. With this configuration, the user can map the transmittance gradient of the optical product 3, which has a photochromic gradient. In this situation, the region of interest 44 can correspond in size to a desired area of ​​the optical product 3 to be measured.

[0072] Similarly, a second measurement of the intensity of electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the optical product 3, such as visible light, is performed by the image acquisition device 36. The second measurement includes intensity data over the same region of interest 44. Preferably, the measurement wavelength or wavelength range for the first and second measurements is the same.

[0073] Positional data on the sub-region 46 is identified in order to compare intensity data between the first and second measurements. A position on the sub-region 46 between the two intensity measurements can be identified by comparing the shape of the sub-region 46 in each image. This can be done by visually comparing the images and selecting the coordinate range to be analyzed in each image. Additionally or alternatively, the reference surface may be overlaid with coordinates such as xy coordinates or other identifying marks that can help identify the position by comparing image data between the first and second measurements in embodiments or aspects where the shape of the sub-region 46 is otherwise uniform. Software stored in the memory of the image acquisition device 36, in the control unit 42, or in an external computing device can be applied by a processor to automatically compare images and identify the sub-region 46 to be analyzed. The processor may be located in the image acquisition device 36 or the control unit 42, or an external processor may be used.

[0074] As described above, some of the measured intensity values ​​may be partially attributable to dark current. Dark current may depend on the temperature inside the housing 4, including the temperature of the image acquisition device 36. In one embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure, intensity at various temperatures due to dark current can be identified by performing one or more measurements in the image acquisition device 36 while the shutter mechanism 34 is closed. Temperature measurement can be performed simultaneously with the measurement of the first and second intensity values ​​by a temperature measuring device. The image acquisition device 36 may include a temperature measuring device, or an external temperature measuring device may be used.

[0075] In the first and second measurements, intensity data may be obtained over a certain wavelength range or for a specific wavelength. When comparing the data from the two measurements, the following equation may apply:

number

[0076] Measured absorption rate A of optical product 3 Meas teeth

number

[0077] In the example of a region of interest 44 that transmits light in a desired wavelength range, T Meas It should be understood that the accurate value of the transmittance of optical product 3 can be obtained by this calculation. Meas This is a measured value of the difference in transmittance between the inactive and activated states of the photochromic material on the surface of optical product 3.

[0078] Exemplary software that the control unit 42 may use to analyze intensity data includes Igor Pro developed by WaveMetrics, Image J developed by the National Institutes of Health, LabVIEW developed by National Instruments, Origin and OriginPro developed by OriginLab, and Microsoft Excel developed by Microsoft Corporation. As is well known in the industry, other software may also be used to analyze intensity data.

[0079] While various examples of the Disclosure are provided in the above description, those skilled in the art can improve and modify these examples without departing from the scope and spirit of the Disclosure. Therefore, the above description is illustrative and not restrictive. The Disclosure described above is defined by the accompanying claims, and all changes to the Disclosure that are included in the meaning of the claims and the scope of their equivalents are encompassed within that scope.

Claims

1. An apparatus configured for determining the transmittance of a photochromic optical product comprising at least one photochromic material, wherein the apparatus is A housing that defines the interior configured to receive the optical product, the housing includes a retaining member for holding the optical product in a predetermined position, A chemical source configured to emit a chemical ray into the interior of the housing and to activate at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product, At least one image acquisition device configured to capture image data of the photochromic optical product, At least one backlight unit positioned below the holding member so as to emit light toward the image capturing device and through the optical product, At least one ultraviolet filter positioned between the at least one chemical radiation source and the holding member, and between the image acquisition device and the holding member, wherein the ultraviolet filter reflects at least a portion of the wavelengths including the chemical radiation, A control unit operationally connected to the at least one image acquisition device and the at least one chemical source. Includes, The control unit is configured to determine the transmittance of visible light passing through the photochromic optical product using the image data captured by the image capture device.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to capture at least one of the following by operating the at least one image capturing device: a first image before the activation of the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; a second image after the activation of the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; and a third image by closing the shutter mechanism of the image capturing device either before or after the activation of the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit is configured to compare a first intensity of a first portion of first image data captured by the image capture device before the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product is activated with a second intensity of the first portion of second image data captured by the image capture device after the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product is activated.

4. The retaining member is located within a temperature control box defined inside the housing, and the temperature control box further includes at least one temperature control component. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one temperature control component is configured to maintain a predetermined temperature within the temperature control box.

5. The apparatus further includes a temperature control unit operationally connected to the at least one temperature control component, The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the temperature control unit is configured to set the predetermined temperature in the temperature control box and to set the temperature output of at least one temperature control component.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the at least one temperature control component is configured to maintain a temperature in the temperature control box in the range of -20°C to 50°C.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the holding member includes a self-centering chuck configured to fix the optical product.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the retaining member is located in a drawer that can be inserted into and removed from the temperature control box defined inside the housing.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one image acquisition device includes at least one linear response camera.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the photochromic material in the photochromic optical product exists in a gradient pattern.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the control unit is configured to measure and calculate the transmittance of a plurality of small regions identified on the photochromic optical product.

12. A method for determining the transmittance of an optical product having at least one photochromic property applied in a gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product, using the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the method is: Before the gradient pattern is activated, first image data of the first portion of the gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product is captured using the at least one image capture device. The gradient pattern of the optical product is activated in the at least one photochromic property by irradiating at least the first portion of the gradient pattern of the optical product with a chemical beam from the at least one chemical source. After the gradient pattern is activated, the second image data of the first portion of the gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product is captured using the at least one image capture device. The process involves using a processor to compare the first image data and the second image data, thereby calculating the transmittance of visible light passing through the gradient pattern of the optical product. Methods that include...

13. A method for determining the transmittance of an optical product having at least one photochromic property applied in a gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product, using the apparatus described in claim 4, wherein the method is: Before the gradient pattern is activated, first image data of the first portion of the gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product is captured using the at least one image capture device. The gradient pattern of the optical product is activated in the at least one photochromic property by irradiating at least the first portion of the gradient pattern of the optical product with a chemical beam from the at least one chemical source. After the gradient pattern is activated, the second image data of the first portion of the gradient pattern on at least one surface of the optical product is captured using the at least one image capture device. The process involves using a processor to compare the first image data and the second image data, thereby calculating the transmittance of visible light passing through the gradient pattern of the optical product. Includes, The apparatus further comprises a temperature control unit operationally connected to the at least one temperature control component, The method further includes using the temperature control unit to maintain the temperature of a temperature control box defined inside at a predetermined temperature.

14. The processor is configured to capture at least one of the following by operating the at least one image capture device: a first image data before activating the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product; a second image data after the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product has been activated; and a third image data by closing the shutter mechanism of the image capture device either before or after the at least one photochromic material in the photochromic optical product has been activated. The method according to claim 12 as referenced to claim 2, or the method according to claim 13 as referenced to claim 2 via claim 4, further comprising capturing the third image data using the image capturing device when the shutter mechanism is closed on the image capturing device.

Images