Kit and method for prevention of myopia development

Abstract

Eye strain can be reduced and myopia can be prevented with a kit including a vision alteration device worn during near work activities. The vision alteration device can be provided to a user with instructions for use. The vision alteration device can include at least one lens with at least a portion of the lens having an optical power from +0.12 D to +1.25 D. The vision alteration device can be, for example, glasses with each lens having at least a portion with the optical power. The instructions can tell the user to wear the vision alteration device during a near work activity to reduce eye strain and prevent the development of myopia in non-myopic users. The kit can also include a stand and / or case to hold the vision alteration device and / or facilitate user compliance with the instructions for use.

Description

NONPROVISIONAL APPLICATIONKIT AND METHOD FOR PREVENTION OF MYOPIA DEVELOPMENTRelated Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 716,496, filed November 5, 2024, entitled “ACCOMMODATION-RELAXING GLASSES FOR MYOPIA PREVENTION”. The entirety of this application is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to prevention of myopia, and more specifically to a method and kit including a vision alteration device for use during near work activities to prevent the development of myopia.Background

[0003] Myopia, or nearsightedness, is an increasingly prevalent refractive error that tends to develop during childhood but can arise at any age. Myopia typically results when the eye grows longer from front to back than normal. In addition to blurred vision, myopia presents increased risk for a number of vision threatening conditions, presumably related to the pathological physical dimension of the myopic eye.Traditional, single-vision spectacles and contact lenses are designed to perform on-axis correction to improve vision on the visual axis of the retina, unblurring sight at or near the fovea in already myopic individuals. Traditional corrective lenses do not treat the underlying causes of myopic progression and do not pre-emptively prevent the development of myopia. Devices and pharmacological compositions exist to attempt to treat myopia that is already present or slow the progression of myopia in already myopic individuals. However, these devices and pharmacological compositions are not crafted with non-myopic individuals in mind and can be expensive and / or complicated to use, they can also have safety and / or efficacy concerns.Summary

[0004] Provided herein is a specialized vision alteration device and accompanying procedure for reducing eyestrain during near work activities to prevent the development of myopia in users that are not already myopic. The specialized vision alteration device, such as glasses, can provide accommodative and / or convergence relief to the eyes of a user during near work activities that can prevent the development of myopia.

[0005] In one aspect, the present disclosure includes a method for decreasing eye strain to prevent development of myopia. The method includes providing a vision alteration device to a user, wherein the vision alteration device comprises at least one lens with at least a portion of the at least one lens having an optical power from +0.12 Diopter to +1 .25 Diopter; and instructing the user to wear the vision alteration device in front of at least one eye for a time period when the user is performing at least one near work activity to reduce the strain on the at least one eye and / or prevent the development of myopia.

[0006] In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a kit for preventing the development of myopia. The kit includes a vision alteration device and instructions for use. The kit can also include a case and / or stand for holding at least the vision alteration device. The vision alteration device can include at least one lens with at least a portion having an optical power from +0.12 Diopter to +1.25 Diopter. The instructions to use the vision alteration device during at least one near work activity to decrease eye strain to prevent the development of myopia.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates upon reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a kit including a vision alteration device for decreasing eye strain and preventing formation of myopia;

[0009] FIG. 2 is an illustration of instructions for use of the kit of FIG. 1 ;

[0010] FIG. 3 is an illustration of example vision alteration devices of FIG. 1 ;

[0011] FIG. 4 are illustrations of example lenses of the vision alteration device ofFIG. 1 ;

[0012] FIGS. 5-7 are illustrations of example cases and / or stands of the kit of FIG.1 ; and

[0013] FIG. 8 is a process flow diagram of a method for reducing eyestrain and / or preventing myopia development.Detailed DescriptionI. Definitions

[0014] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0015] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” can also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0016] As used herein, the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” can specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups.

[0017] As used herein, the term “and / or” can include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0018] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. should not limit the elements being described by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, a “first” element discussed below could also be termed a “second” element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure. The sequence of operations (or acts / steps) is not limited to the order presented in the claims or figures unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0019] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on," "attached" to, "connected" to, "coupled" with, "contacting," etc., another element, it can be directly on, attached to, connected to, coupled with or contacting the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being, for example, "directly on," "directly attached" to, "directly connected" to, "directly coupled" with or "directly contacting" another element, there are no intervening elements present. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references toa structure or feature that is disposed "adjacent" another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

[0020] As used herein, the term “myopia”, also referred to as “nearsightedness”, refers to a common vision condition in which objects that are near (in close proximity) are seen clearly, but objects farther away appear to be blurry. Myopia can be classified as axial, attributed to an increase in the retina’s axial length, and / or refractive, attributed to the condition of the refractive elements of the eye. The related adjective pertaining to or having myopia is “myopic”.

[0021] As used herein, the term “emmetropia”, also referred to as “normal vision”, refers to an ideal condition of a healthy eye, where the eye’s lens, cornea, and length perfectly focus incoming light from 20 feet or further directly onto the retina, resulting in 20 / 20 vision without any corrective lenses. A subject having emmetropia can be referred to as emmetropic.

[0022] As used herein, the term “hyperopia”, also referred to as “farsightedness”, refers to a common vision condition in which objects that are far (distant) are seen clearly, but objects that are nearer (in closer proximity) may appear to be blurry or can require extra focusing to see. Factors of the shape of the eye that can determine hyperopia can include the axial length of the eye and the curvature of the cornea. It should be noted that hyperopia has a different underlying cause from presbyopia (age- related farsightedness), but both have the similar symptoms. A subject having hyperopia can be referred to as hyperopic.

[0023] As used herein, the term “optical power” refers to a measurement of the ability of a lens, or a portion of a lens, to converge or diverge light and can be defined as the reciprocal of a lens’s focal length in meters. The unit of optical power is the diopter (D). Positive D values correspond with convex lenses that focus light (e.g., to correct hyperopia, partially accommodate near work activities, or the like) and negative D values correspond with concave lenses that diverge light (e.g., to correct for myopia).

[0024] As used herein, the term “near work activity” refers to an activity that is performed by a user and / or occurs within a distance that does not appear blurry to the user, such as within 25 inches or less of eyes of the user, within 20 inches or less, or the like. Near work activities can be predominantly sedentary activities, such that a userdoes not continuously make larger movement of the body or head. Examples of near work activities can include, but are not limited to, reading, using an iPad or computer, doing homework, playing board games or card games, taking an exam, art, crafting, or near vision gaming.

[0025] As used herein, the term “vision alteration device” refers to a device that can include at least one lens that can be worn in front of at least one eye of a user and can affect the user’s vision. As described herein, vision alteration devices are external to the body and do not include contact lenses. One example of a vision alteration device is eyeglasses. Other examples include, but are not limited to, a monocle, goggles, one or more removably attachable lenses (such as magnetic or clip on lens(es)), a single lens visor, or the like).

[0026] As used herein, the term “eyeglasses” has a similar meaning to the terms “spectacle” and “glasses” and refers to one or more lenses, typically two lenses, mounted in a frame that holds the one or more lenses in front of a person’s eye or eyes and has at least one arm, typically two arms, that each extend over an ear of a wearer.

[0027] As used herein, the term “frame” refers to a device and / or mechanism that is designed to hold the one or more lens, typically two lenses) in a proper position on a person’s head such that the one or more lens is in front of the at least one eye of the person. Frames exist in a variety of styles, sizes, materials, shapes, and colors.Typically, the frame includes at least a bridge over the nose, rims around at least a portion of each of the one or more lens (typically two lenses) and holding the one or more lens to the frame, and hinged arms (or temples / temple pieces) that when in use extend out from a lateral portion of the rims to temple tips that rest over and / or around a portion of the user’s ears. A frame can also be described as having at least one arm and a front plate that encompasses at least the rims and the bridge.

[0028] As used herein, the terms "subject" and "user" can be used interchangeably and refer to any warm-blooded organism including, but not limited to, a human being, a pig, a rat, a mouse, a dog, a cat, a goat, a sheep, a horse, a monkey, an ape, a rabbit, a cow, etc.II. Overview

[0029] The escalating prevalence of myopia among young individuals is turning myopia into a global concern. The number of myopic children is predicted to reach 50% of children worldwide by the year 2050. This is a significant public health issue, since high myopia can lead to blindness, and poses a significant economic concern as the estimated burden is already in the billions of dollars. There are a number of different products trying to prevent the progression of myopia or decrease the level of myopia in individuals who are already myopic. For example, bifocal glasses for full time use with a lower section of an optical power +1 .00 over the user’s normal prescription, full time peripheral defocus glasses or multifocal contacts, nightly contact lenses, progressive lenses, light therapies, pharmaceuticals such as atropine eye drops, and the like. Current myopia progression prevention solutions primarily target those who are already myopic, overlooking emmetropic or slightly hyperopic children and young adults that might progress to myopia, especially those with myopic parents. Additionally, these current solutions can interfere with normal accommodative and focusing abilities and can have harmful side effects that many people want to avoid (e.g., pain, blurred vision, risks of overnight wear (e.g., infection, corneal abrasions, etc.), dependency, etc.), low user adoption and compliance (particularly with younger users), and / or a prohibitively high price point.

[0030] The present invention is a novel combination of instructions and a vision alteration device that offers a unique solution to prevent myopia from starting in emmetropic and / or slightly hyperopic individuals. The invention is economical and follows a flexible approach that does not require continuous use of vision alteration devices, significant user burden for compliance, or significant harmful side effects. The invention includes a vision alteration device, such as glasses, and instructions for wearing the vision alteration device exclusively during near work activities (e.g., reading, iPad, homework, exams, crafting, gaming, or the like). The vision alteration device is specially configured to reduce eye strain during extended periods of near work activities and mitigate myopia-inducing factors while preserving natural accommodative and focusing abilities for everyday tasks. With the invention, users can maintain theirunassisted vision (or continue using contact lenses or glasses as usual) when not utilizing the specialized glasses.III. System

[0031] Provided herein is a kit 10 (also referred to as a system) for preventing myopia development in emmetropic or slightly hyperopic individuals (e.g., eyes with an optical power from -0.50 D to +2.00 D). Myopia occurs when the eyeball is elongated. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, blurred distance vision, eye fatigue or headaches after prolonged near work activities, and sensitivity to bright light. High myopia (e.g., -6.00 D or higher) can increase an individual’s risk of retinal detachment and glaucoma, for example. Accordingly, there is a strong public-health rationale to prevent onset of myopia and reduce progression risk before pathologic sequelae emerge. Myopia usually develops during childhood and worsens as subjects age through adolescence. While myopia symptoms can be treated with corrective lenses or in some cases surgery there is no complete cure. For these reasons, preventing the formation of myopia, particularly in children, is an important step in lessening the myopic population and improving ocular health. The kit 10 described herein can prevent myopia by providing partial accommodative relief without overwhelming the visual system of a user, maintaining active engagement of natural focusing mechanisms of the user, and supporting rather than substituting natural accommodative function. The kit 10 can allow for smoother adaptation and greater user acceptance and compliance, particularly among younger users (e.g., known as a cohort that can be non-compliant, often taking off glasses or other accommodative devices).

[0032] FIG. 1 shows the kit 10. The kit 10 can include a vision alteration device 12 and instructions 16 to use the vision alteration device. The vision alteration device 12 can include at least one lens (e.g., lens(es) 14) that can be positioned in front of at least one eye of a user when in use. The lens(es) 14 can have at least a portion of the lenses with an optical power from +0.12 D to +1 .25 D. Another portion of each of the lens(es) 14 can be piano. In some instances, when the vision alteration device 12 includes two or more lenses, each lens of lens(es) 14 can have the same optical power. In other instances, when the vision alteration device 12 includes two or more lenses, each lensof lens(es) 14 can have same and / or different optical powers. The lens(es) 14 can be spherical lenses and / or zoned lenses such as peripheral defocus lenses, gradual zoned lenses, bifocal type lenses, or the like (described in more detail below). The vision alteration device 12 can be, for example, glasses, a monocle, removably attachable lenses such as clip on lenses, goggles, a single lens visor, or the like that can be worn in front of at least one eye of a user but not touching the eye.

[0033] The instructions 16 to use the vision alteration device 10 can include instructions to use the vision alteration device during at least one near work activity. Use of the vision alteration device 12 can decrease eye strain for a user during the at least one near work activity to prevent the development of myopia. The instructions 16 can include asking the user to identify at least one near work activity. The instructions may also include identifying a time period of the at least one near work activity for wearing the vision alteration device 12. The at least one near work activity can be an activity that can be primarily sedentary and that occurs within 25 inches or less, 20 inches or less, or the like of the at least one eye of the user (e.g., such that the near work activity does not appear blurry to the user of the vision alteration device). The at least one near work activity can be a single near work activity or a series of near work activities. For example, near work activities can include, but are not limited to, reading, working on homework, using a computer, tablet, or phone, playing a board or card game, desk work, art, crafting, or the like. In some instances, when the near work activity is a closer near work activity (e.g., 10 inches or less from at least one eye of the user) (such as using a smartphone, handheld gaming system, or the like) then the user can be instructed to use a stronger powered version of the vision alteration device (e.g., +0.50 to +1 .25, +1 .00 to +1 .25, or the like). The time period of the at least one near work activity can be from 1 minute to 24 hours per day. The time period can be limited only by the hours of time the user is awake and performing near work activities in a given day. For example, the time period can be five minutes or more, an hour, two hours, three hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or the like. The instructions 16 can include asking the user to wear the vision alteration device in front of at least one eye for at least a portion of the time period of the at least one near work activity (preferably the entire time period of the at least one near work activity). The instructions can also include an instructionfor the user to remove the vision alteration device at the cessation of the at least one near work activity so that the user’s natural focus and accommodation are utilized during other activities. Importantly, the user can be instructed to not continuously wear the vision alteration device 12 because full-time under correction can induce distance blur. Part time use as instructed can make close-range vision more comfortable and rewarding without inducing distance blur.

[0034] The kit 10 can also include a case and / or a stand 18. The case and / or stand 18 can hold the vision alteration device 12 when the vision alteration device is not in use. For instance, when the user takes part in a repetitive near use activity (e.g., planned computer time, homework time, work, or the like) then the case and / or stand 18 can be positioned proximal the near work activity to remind the user to put on the vision alteration device 12. The case and / or stand 18 can include one or more attention catching details or designs to catch the user’s attention (e.g., color, shape, design, or the like). In other instances, the case and / or stand 18 can include one or more attachment mechanisms 20 that can attach the case and / or stand to a device required for a habitual near work activity of the user (e.g., a tablet, a laptop, a book, or the like). The one or more attachment mechanisms 20 can be, for example, a magnetic attachment, a mechanical attachment, or a structural attachment. For example, the case or stand 18 can attach to a tablet or a tablet case and / or can be integrated with a tablet case and act as a stand and the attachment can be magnetic, mechanical, or structural.

[0035] The kit 10 can optionally include an alert mechanism 19 that can be attached to and / or integrated in the vision alteration device 12 or the case and / or stand 18 or a portion of another device (e.g., a device used for a near work activity or a module placed in a space of a near work activity such as a desk, bed side table, or the like). The alert mechanism 19 can include a distance sensor (e.g., Bluetooth, infrared, or the like), a visual, audio, and / or haptic output, and at least a processor (e.g., to determine when a user is near, too near, and / or too far from a near work activity). In some instances, the alert mechanism 19 can be in communication (e.g., wired and / or wireless) with a tablet, computer, smartphone, or the like to provide an alert. The alert mechanism 19 can, for instance, alert (visual, audio, and / or haptic) when a user is too close to a near work activity (e.g., for the optical power of a given lens to work correctly)and tell the user to move further away. For example, when a user is within 10 inches or less, within 5 inches or less, or the like of the near work activity (e.g., a book, handheld game, smartphone, tablet, etc.) the alert mechanism 19 can instruct user to move further away. In another instance, the alert mechanism 19 can alert to remind a user to remove the vision alteration device 12 when a user has left a near work activity for a time (e.g., 1 minutes, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, or the like) and not removed the vision alteration device. In a further instance, the alert mechanism 19 (when integrated in a case and / or stand or near work activity device) can notice when a user comes into distance (e.g., 25 inches or less, 20 inches or less, or the like) and can remind a user to put on the vision alteration device 12. The alert mechanism 19 may also include a non- transitory memory and / or be in communication with a device with a non-transitory memory for data tracking and / or feedback. For example, the memory can store data related to user compliance, times of wear (per day, per week, per month, etc.), average, minimum, and maximum distance of user during each wear, or the like. The data may be sent to a medical professional, caregiver, device provider, or the like for review and / or personalization of instructions 16.

[0036] FIG. 2 shows example block diagrams in a timeline for use of the kit 10 for a near work activity according to instructions 16. At (1 ) the user can identify a near work activity where at least one eye of the user is within a distance d (e.g., 25 in or less, 20 in or less, or the like) of an activity as described above. The vision alteration device 12 can be in and / or on a case and / or stand 18 and the user can put the vision alteration device on. Alternatively, not shown in this example, the vision alteration device 12 may be sitting on a table or other surface, the user’s head, hanging from a wearable attachment, or the like instead of being in and / or the case and / or stand 18. At (2) the user can follow instructions 16 to wear the vision alteration device 12 in front of at least one eye for a time period during a near work activity and can perform the near work activity. The vision alteration device 12 can focus the user’s vision on the near work activity while the vision alteration device can provide partial accommodative relief and / or reduce convergence demand, while maintaining active engagement of natural focusing and vergence mechanisms of a user. At (3) the user can finish the near work activity and can follow instructions 16 to remove the vision alteration device 12 and, if a caseand / or stand 18 is present like shown, place the vision alteration device 12 into / onto the case and / or stand. The user can then go about the rest of their day and may repeat instructions 16 for one or more near work activities throughout a day. Repetitive use of the vision alteration device 12 during near work activities (e.g., over the course of months, years, or the like) can help reduce eye strain and prevent the formation of myopia in at least one eye of the user. Use during computerized near work activities (e.g., using computer, tablet, or phone) can also and / or alternatively mitigate risks associated with computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain.

[0037] FIG. 3, element A shows an illustration of a pair of glasses 30 as an example of vision alteration device 12. FIG. 3, element B shows an illustration of a pair of removably attachable lenses 34 (e.g., that can be attached to an already existing pair of glasses). The glasses 30 and the removably attachable lenses 34 can include two lenses 14 connected by a frame 32. It should be understood that this illustration is only for descriptive purposes and the glasses 30 and removably attachable lenses 34 can be any known shapes, sizes, and / or configurations known in the field. Additionally, it should be noted that the glasses 30 and removably attachable lenses 34 can be designed to be trendy to improve adherence and compliance with instructions for use (e.g., instructions 16). An aesthetic design can improve adherence and compliance, especially for younger users (e.g., who may not traditionally be willing to wear glasses (e.g., due to negative connotations, bullying, or the like). Particularly with child users willingness to wear the glasses 30 and / or removably attachable lenses 34 repeatedly and for longer periods of time can be paramount for preventing the development of myopia early. Unless otherwise noted the description of glasses 30 in reference to FIG. 3, element A is also applicable to the removably attachable lenses 34 shown in FIG. 3, element B.

[0038] The user of the glasses 30 can be an individual from age 1 year to approximately age 45 (plus or minus 5 years) (pre-presbyopic) that is not nearsighted enough to require vision correction, but can be hyperopic and use other glasses or contact lenses for far sightedness. In other instances, the user can be any age 1 year or above. The target user can preferably be a child - to prevent more children from becoming myopic and / or to delay myopia (e.g., possibly lessening how myopic a child may become) before prevention is no longer applicable. For users who wear otherglasses or contact lenses the glasses 30 can be swapped with the other glasses (e.g., sunglasses, glasses used for other purposes), worn with the contacts, or can be embodied as removably attachable lenses 34 (FIG. 3, element B) that can clip on, magnetically attach to, or the like the other glasses for near work activities. In other instances, the glasses 30 can be manufactured with a user’s specific prescription in another portion of the lens from the portion with the optical power.

[0039] The frame 32 can include at least a nose bridge and arms (as shown) with the arms including temple tips at the far ends and hinges by the lenses. The nose bridge can in some instances (not shown) include nose pads. The nose bridge and / or the arms can be adjustable. Optionally, the frame 32 can include one or more alert mechanisms 19 (e.g., on an exterior face of the frame or the like). For a removably attachable lenses 34 (shown in FIG. 3, element B) the frame 32 can include the frame around the lenses 14 and may include a nose bridge (but also may not if the two lenses can be separately attachable to other glasses). The frame 32 of the removably attachable lenses 34 can include and / or have attached thereto an attachment 36 (e.g., a clip, a magnet, a snap, or the like) that can be used to hold the removably attachable lenses 34 to the other glasses (not shown). It should be understood that attachment 36 as shown is only for illustrative purposes and can have any shape, size, and / or known form factor.

[0040] The frame 32 can be made of at least one of acetate (has hypoallergenic properties, is lightweight and durable, and is available in many colors and patterns for fashion forward designs), thermoplastic (flexible and resistant to breakage, can maintain shape, lightweight, and particularly suitable for children’s glasses), stainless steel (corrosion resistant, adjustable for custom fitting, and requires minimal maintenance), titanium (premium and light weight, high strength to weight ratio, has hypoallergenic properties, and is corrosion resistant), and / or the like. The nose pads (not shown) can include one or more of silicone for comfort, an adjustable metal core, and one or more hypoallergenic materials. The temple tips of the arms can include one or more of a soft- touch rubber coating (e.g., prevent rubbing), flexible options (e.g., beta-titanium), and ergonomic design for behind ear comfort. The hinges can include a spring-loaded mechanism for durability, flexible core options (e.g., for children’s frames), and / or ananti-loosening design. In at least some instances the glasses 30 and / or the frames 32 can include bio-based materials for sustainability, recycled materials, materials with UV resistant properties to prevent degradation, or the like. The glasses 30 can meet consumer product safety standards.

[0041] The lenses 14 can have at least a portion of each lens that has an optical power between +0.12 D and +1.25 D. Another portion of each of lenses 14 may be piano and / or include a prescription of the user. The specific optical power can depend on the lens configuration, a user’s demographic and / or personal profile, and the like. The higher the optical power the more relaxation the lenses 14 can provide. The lenses 14 can have a pupillary distance from 40 mm to 80 mm. For a “standard sized” adolescent / adult user, standard pupillary distance for distance is 60 mm and for near work is 62 mm. The standard pupillary distance for a teen can be about 50 mm. The pupillary distance can depend on the size of the user’s head and the intended amount of accommodative relief sought. For example, the pupillary distance can be 3 mm (± 2 mm) less than the average for a given head size corresponding to each frame to induce a small amount of base-in prism, which can reduce convergence strain. This means the glasses 30 can help alleviate both accommodative and convergence strain.

[0042] The lenses 14 can be spherical or can contain one or more zones (e.g., peripheral defocus, bifocal, gradual zones, etc.). For example, the lenses 14 can both be +0.50 D spherical lenses to defend against excessive accommodation and assist with slight focusing while maintaining natural accommodation abilities and reducing excessive strain. In another example, the lenses 14 can incorporate piano distance power that can gradually transition to add optical power to the bottom portion of the lens. In a further example (not shown) the lenses 14 can be removably attachable lenses (e.g., clip-on, magnetic, stick on, or the like lenses (without at least the arms of the frame) that can be attached (and detached) from prescription glasses of a user during near work activities.

[0043] The lenses 14 can be at least partially made of polycarbonate or other optical grade materials. The lenses 14 can have a high impact resistance. For example, the lenses 14 can be shatter proof or impact resistant. The lenses 14 can also be lightweight and can have superior optical quality to allow for high color transmission and tominimize vision distortion. For example, the lenses 14 can include CR-39 plastic and / or Trivex. The lenses 14 can have anti-reflective properties (e.g., can include an anti- reflective coating and / or embedded element). The anti-reflective properties of the lenses 14 can enhance visual performance and comfort / relaxation during near work activities. An anti-reflective coating and / or element can at least one of: reduce surface light reflections by up to 99.5%, increase light transmission through the lenses, improve visual acuity, enhance contrast sensitivity for digital screen viewing (e.g., computer, tablet, smartphone, etc.), minimize internal lens reflections, reduce eye fatigue during digital screen viewing, decrease distracting reflection from overhead lighting, and increase focus. The lenses 14 can also have a blue light filtering element and / or coating to filter harmful blue light emitted by digital screens (e.g., computers, tablets, smartphones, etc.). The blue light filtering element can reduce eye fatigue caused by blue light, reduce glare, stop blue light from stimulating the pineal gland, and / or lessen the symptoms of computer vision syndrome. The lenses 14 can also include an antismudge coating.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows examples of different types of lenses 14 of the vision alteration device 12. The different types of lenses 14 can each provide partial accommodative and / or convergence relief without overwhelming a visual system of the user, maintain active engagement with natural focusing mechanisms, and support natural accommodative function of the visual system of the user. FIG. 4, element A shows a spherical lens 40 that can have a single zone (Z) with one optical power between +0.12 D and +1 .25 D (e.g., +0.375 D, +0.50. +0.75, or the like). The spherical lens 40 can be a traditional single vision lens that can be configured to not trigger axial elongation / myopia progression. The addition of a low-plus powered optical power lens, such as spherical lens 40, can provide partial accommodative relief during near work activities by reducing the divergence of incoming light rays before the light rays enter the eye. A partial optical correction by the spherical lens 40 can allow the crystalline lens to maintain active accommodation while reducing the total accommodative demand. Spherical lens 40 can preserve natural focusing abilities while mitigating excessive accommodative stress during prolonged near work.

[0045] FIG. 4 elements B-E show examples of multi-zoned lenses, where the lenses each include at least a zone having a first optical power and at least another zone having at least a second optical power that is greater than the first optical power. The zones can be any shapes, sizes, or the like within the lenses 14. In some instances, the first optical power can be 0 (e.g., piano) and the at least the second optical power can be from +0.12 D to +1 .25 D. In other instances, the first optical power and the at least the second optical power can both be from +0.12 D to +1 .25 D with the at least the second optical power greater than the first optical power. In further instances, the at least the second optical power can be +1 .25 D or greater (e.g., +1 .25 D to +2.00 D). FIG. 4 element B shows a lens 42 that can have at least two vertical zones Z1 to ZN (where N is an integer 2 or greater). The optical power of the zones can increase with the integer (e.g., the lower the zone in the lens, the higher the optical power. The zones Z1 - ZN can have discrete changes and / or gradual changes. FIG. 4, element C shows an example lens 42(1 ) that has two zones - an upper zone and a lower zone, where the lower zone has a higher optical power than the upper zone such that the lower zone facilitates near vision. Zone 1 Z1 can be smaller than Zone 2 Z2 (as shown - e.g., providing a smaller amount of distance vision at the top of the lens and a larger accommodative portion at the bottom), Zone 1 can be the same size as Zone 2, or Zone 1 can be larger than Zone 2.

[0046] FIG. 4, element D shows an example peripheral defocus lens 44 that can shift the peripheral light focus from behind the retina toward the retinal plane (producing myopic or neutral peripheral defocus) while maintaining clearer central vision. This configuration can reduce hyperopic defocus associated with axial elongation. The peripheral defocus lens 44 can have the zone as a central zone and the at least another zone as at least one peripheral zone(s). The switch between zones can be gradual or a discrete switch (e.g., like bifocals). The peripheral defocus lens can also have at least two zones Z1 to ZN (where N is an integer 2 or greater). In some instances, the central zone Z1 can have 0 optical power, and the peripheral zone(s) ZN can have optical power(s) from +0.12 D to +1 .25 D. If there is more than one peripheral zone ZN then the further peripheral the zone the higher the optical power can be within +0.12 D to +1 .25 D (or in some instances can go higher (e.g., up to +2.00 D)). In other instances, thecentral zone Z1 and the peripheral zones ZN can each of optical powers from +0.12 D to +1 .25 D, with the central zone having a lower optical power than the peripheral zone(s). FIG. 4, element E shows an example lens 44(1 ) with one central zone Z1 and one peripheral zone Z2. In one example, the central zone Z1 can have an optical power of +0.5 and the peripheral zone Z2 can have an optical power greater than +0.5 and less than +1.25 (e.g., to create peripheral defocus). In another example, the central zone Z1 can have an optical power of 0 and the peripheral zone Z2 can have an optical power of +0.12 to +0.5) (e.g., to create peripheral defocus). A central zone Z1 with a spherical optical power of +0.5 D or less can maintain accommodative relaxation (like spherical lens 40), provide clear (or nearly clear) central vision for tasks and allow natural accommodation to still function while providing relief. A peripheral zone (Z2 or ZN) can create a myopic defocus in the peripheral retina to help control eye growth signals that can lead to myopia progression (e.g., axial lengthening). Importantly, these lenses can be outside of the eye and easily added and / or removed from the user’s field of vision.

[0047] FIGS. 5-7 show various illustrations of examples of case and / or stand (e.g., case and / or stand 18 that can be a part of kit 10). The case and / or stand can hold and / or display the vision alteration device (e.g., vision alteration device 12) when not in use and facilitate access to the vision alteration device for the at least one near work activity. The case and / or stand can be specifically designed to ensure the vision alteration device can be kept in close proximity to near work activities, especially those involving a tablet, computer, work, or homework space, but not limited thereto. The case and / or stand can include an additional instruction to be positioned in close proximity to a normal near work activity space. Additionally and / or alternatively, the case and / or stand can removably attach it to a tablet or tablet case and / or be integrated with a tablet case (e.g., with attachment device 20). The attachment device can be magnetic, mechanical, (e.g., clips, snaps, etc.), structural, or the like. The case and / or stand proximal and / or attached to a tablet can facilitate user compliance and adherence with utilizing the vision alteration device repetitively during near work activities.

[0048] FIG. 5 shows illustrations of an example case and / or stand 18 that is a case that can attach with a tablet and act as a tablet stand. FIG. 5 element A showsillustration 50 with a triangular storage case design in an open position. The case can have an openable side that can be opened to remove and replace the vision alteration device. The case can include, as shown, a magnetic attachment on another side that can attach to a tablet. The case can be comprised of a sufficiently strong material to protect the vision alteration device during storage and to prop up the tablet when attached. At least a bottom side of the case can have a sufficient coefficient of friction to not slide when the weight of a tablet (and case) is attached to the magnetic attachment. It should be understood that while a magnetic attachment is shown and described another type of attachment device such as a mechanical attachment - snap, clip, etc. can be substituted. FIG. 5, element B shows illustration 52 with the triangular case shown in a folded down position for travel storage and attached to the tablet (e.g., not having the vision alteration device stored inside in this position).

[0049] FIG. 6 shows an illustration 60 of a case that can be integrated into back side of a tablet case. The case can be triangular (as shown in FIG. 5) or rectangular (as shown in this figure) and can also have an area that stores a cleaning cloth and lens spray, to ensure that if there are any smudges on the vision alteration device, the device can easily be cleaned before use. The case can also store other accessories for use with the glasses and / or a near work activity. The case can also have a separate compartment for holding the vision alteration device. The case can also include a carrying handle for the user to carry the case and / or the tablet with them. The handle can double as a stand for the tablet.

[0050] FIG. 7 shows an illustration 70 of various themed eyeglass holders that can balance glasses (e.g., vision alteration devices) on top of them and have a stable base. Themed holders can increase excitement from children over the glasses and encourage children users to keep the glasses in a visible and easy to reach location and remember to use the glasses for near work activities. Designs can range from child-friendly characters to sophisticated architectural designs for adolescent and / or adult users. The stand can be positioned near a location where the near work activities are most often performed to improve user compliance with instructions (e.g., ensure consistent and obvious availability). The stand can also include one or more portions that can hold a cleaning cloth, spray, or other accessories for the glasses or the near work activity.IV. Method

[0051] Another aspect of the present disclosure can include a method 100 for decreasing eye strain to prevent the development of myopia (FIG. 8) that can be implemented with the kit 10 (e.g., vision alteration device 12, instructions 16, etc.). The method 100 is illustrated as a process flow diagram with flowchart illustrations that can be implemented by one or more components of the kit 10. For purposes of simplicity, the method 100 is shown and described as being executed serially; however, it is to be understood and appreciated that the present disclosure is not limited by the illustrated order as some steps could occur in different orders and / or concurrently with other steps shown and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated aspects may be required to implement the method 100.

[0052] FIG. 8 shows method 100 for decreasing eye strain to prevent the formation of myopia in a user. The user can be generally considered emmetropic or slightly hyperopic. For example, the user’s eyes can have an optical power from -0.50 D to +2.00 D (e.g., approximately emmetropic to slightly hyperopic). The method 100 can provide partial accommodative relief without overwhelming the visual system of a user, maintain active engagement of natural focusing mechanisms of the user, and support rather than substitute natural accommodative function. The method 100 can be particularly noted for facilitating smoother adaptation and greater user acceptance and compliance, particularly among younger users (e.g., known as a cohort that can be non- compliant, often taking off glasses or other accommodative devices as soon as possible).

[0053] At 102, a vision alteration device (e.g., vision alteration device 12) can be provided to a user (e.g., from a case and / or stand (e.g., case and / or stand 18), from a non-use position, from a package given to and / or sold to the user, or the like). The vision alteration device can include at least one lens (e.g., lens(es) 14). Each of the at least one lens can include at least portion that has an optical power from +0.12 D to +1 .25 D. For example, the optical power can be +0.375, + 0.5, +.675, or the like, to provide a small amount of accommodation to the user. At least another portion of the lens can be piano. When two or more lenses are present the lenses can be the same ordifferent lens types (e.g., spherical, peripheral defocused, bifocal, gradual, zoned, etc.) and can have the same or different optical powers and / or configurations (as discussed in more detail above with respect to FIG. 4). The vision alteration device can be provided to the user as a kit (e.g., kit 10) with instructions (e.g., instructions 16) for how to use the vision alteration device to prevent myopia. The kit may also include a case and / or stand to hold the vision alteration device when the device is not in use and / or to facilitate the at least one near work activity (e.g., can also act as a book and / or tablet stand, or the like).

[0054] The vision alteration device can be, for example, glasses, a monocle, one or more removably attachable lenses (e.g., clip on lenses, magnetic lenses, or the like), goggles, a single-lens visor, or the like. For instance, when the vision alteration device is glasses, then the lenses can be spherical lenses or a multi-zoned lens (e.g., gradually zoned lenses, discrete zoned lenses, bifocals, peripheral defocus lenses, or the like). In one instance, both lenses of the example glasses can be the same type of lens with at least the same optical power and configuration. In other instances, the glasses can be specialized for a user (e.g., by prescription) and may have lenses of different optical powers, lens type, zone configurations, pupillary distances, or the like. A multi-zoned lens can, for example, include a zone having a first optical power and at least one other zone having at least a second optical power that is greater positive optical power than the first optical power. The zones can be two or more zones and can be vertical zones (e.g., upper, lower, middle, etc.), perimeter to central zones, or the like. The zones can be gradually changing or a discrete change (e.g., like traditional bifocals). For example, the zone can be an upper zone of the at least one lens and the at least the other zone can be a lower zone of the at least one lens to facilitate near vision. In another example, the zone can be a central zone (e.g., central on the lens) and a peripheral zone and the central zone can be a lower optical power and / or piano (no power) compared to a higher optical power peripheral zone (see FIG. 4 description for more detail).

[0055] After providing the vision alteration device to the user, optionally, at 104, at least one near work activity can be identified by the user. The near work activity can be an activity performed within 25 inches or less of at least one eye of the user. For instance, the near work activity can be an activity performed within 20 inches or less ofthe at least one eye of the user. While not wishing to be bound by theory, the near work activity should occur at a distances that does not appear blurry to the user while wearing the vision alteration device. In some instances, the instructions can include an instruction for a user to move closer to a near work activity if the user’s vision with the vision alteration device is blurry (e.g., move head so the distance decreases from 30 in to 25 in, from 25 in to 20 in, or the like). The near work activity can be an activity that can be primarily sedentary (e.g., so the user does not get dizzy, nauseous, or the like from the vision correction). For example, near work activities can include, but are not limited to, reading, doing homework, using a computer, tablet, or smart phone, crafting, art, playing board or card games, or the like. In some instances, when the near work activity is a closer near work activity (e.g., 10 inches or less from the at least one eye) (such as using a smartphone, handheld gaming system, or the like) then the user can be instructed to use a stronger powered version of the vision alteration device (e.g., +0.50 to +1 .25, +1 .00 to +1 .25, or the like).

[0056] At 106, the user can be instructed to wear the vision alteration device in front of at least one eye (e.g., both eyes for glasses) for a time period when the user is performing a near work activity to reduce the strain on the at least one eye to prevent the development of myopia. For example, the user can be instructed to put on glasses before starting a near work activity, when the user sits or lays down for a near work activity, when the user remembers during a near work activity, or the like. The user can wear the vision alteration device for more than one near work activity in a given day (e.g., during homework, during reading time, during tablet time, etc.). The near work activities and the wearing of the vision alteration device can be contiguous (e.g., switch straight from homework to tablet time) or can be non-contiguous (e.g., take a play break or a meal break between near work activities, or the like). The time period for wearing the vision alteration device can be the entire duration of a near work activity (or contiguous near work activities) or a portion of the duration of the near work activities. The time period of wear can range from 1 minute to 24 hours per day. For example, the time period can be five minutes, an hour, two hours, three hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or the like. It should be noted that the time period of wear can be limited to waking hoursas the vision system should be active for the mechanism of action to prevent development of myopia.

[0057] Repetitive use of the vision alteration device during the near work activity prevents the formation of myopia in at least one eye of the user. Additionally, use of the vision alteration device may increase a user’s reading speed, decrease breathing rate, and / or decreases heart rate during use and / or overall when used repetitively during near work activities according to instructions. The optical power of the lens(es) of the vision alteration device can provide partial accommodative relief without overwhelming a visual system of the user, maintain active engagement of natural focusing mechanisms, and support natural accommodative function of the visual system of the user. As such the user can be instructed to wear the vision alteration device during all near work activities. In other instances, the user can be instructed to wear the vision alteration device during at least a minimum time of wear a minimum number of times a week (e.g., at least two days a week for at least two hours each day, at least five days a week for at least a hour each day, or the like). In some cases, there can be no upper limit on the time period of wear during near work activities in a given day. Optionally, at 108, the user can be instructed to remove the vision alteration device at the cessation of the near work activity (or a final near work activity in a series of near work activities). Alternatively, the user may remove the vision alteration device before the end of the near work activity. In some instances, the user can be instructed to place the vision alteration device in the case and / or on the stand to be ready for a next use.

[0058] The kit can optionally include an alert mechanism (e.g., alert mechanism 19) that can be attached to and / or integrated in the vision alteration device or the case and / or stand or a portion of another device (e.g., a device used for a near work activity or a module placed in a space of a near work activity such as a desk, bed side table, or the like). The alert mechanism can sense a user’s distance from a near work activity (e.g., Bluetooth, infrared, or the like) and can provide an alert to a user (e.g., a visual, audio, and / or haptic output) based on the distance. In some instances, the alert mechanism can include at least a processor (e.g., to determine when a user is near, too near, and / or too far from a near work activity). In other instances, the alert mechanism can be in communication (e.g., wired and / or wireless) with a tablet, computer,smartphone, or the like to make determinations and / or provide an alert. The alert can be provided when a user is too close to a near work activity (e.g., for the optical power of a given lens to work correctly) and tell a user to move further away. For example, when a user is within 10 inches or less, within 5 inches or less, or the like of the near work activity (e.g., a book, handheld game, smartphone, tablet, etc.) the alert mechanism can instruct user to move further away. In another instance, the alert mechanism can alert when a user has ceased a near work activity (e.g., for 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, or the like) and forgotten to remove the vision alteration device. In a further instance, the alert mechanism (when integrated in a case and / or stand or a near work activity device) can notice when a user comes into distance (e.g., 25 inches or less, 20 inches or less, or the like) and can remind a user to put on the vision alteration device. The alert mechanism may also include a non-transitory memory and / or be in communication with a device with a non-transitory memory for data tracking and / or feedback. For example, the memory can store data related to user compliance, times of wear (per day, per week, per month, etc.), average, minimum, and maximum distance of user during each wear, or the like. The data may be sent to a medical professional, caregiver, device provider, or the like for review and / or personalization of instructions for use. Compliance data can include total daily wear time during near work, number of alerts triggered, and distribution of working distances.

[0059] From the above description, those skilled in the art will perceive improvements, changes and modifications. Such improvements, changes and modifications are within the skill of one in the art and are intended to be covered by the appended claims. All patents, patent applications, and publications cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

What is claimed is:1 . A method for decreasing eye strain to prevent development of myopia: providing a vision alteration device to a user, wherein the vision alteration device comprises at least one lens with at least a portion of the at least one lens having an optical power from +0.12 Diopter to +1.25 Diopter; and instructing the user to wear the vision alteration device in front of at least one eye for a time period when the user is performing at least one near work activity to reduce the strain on the at least one eye to prevent the development of myopia.

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising identifying the at least one near work activity, wherein the at least one near work activity is an activity performed within 25 inches of the at least one eye of the user.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the time period is from 1 minute to 24 hours per day.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising instructing the user to remove the vision alteration device upon cessation of the at least one near work activity.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein repetitive use of the vision alteration device during the at least one near work activity prevents the formation of myopia in at least one eye of the user.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the optical power is configured to provide partial accommodative relief without overwhelming a visual system of the user, maintain active engagement of natural focusing mechanisms, and support natural accommodative function of the visual system of the user.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one eye of the user is characterized as having an optical power from -0.50 D to +2.00 D.

8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the vision alteration device is glasses, a monocle, removably attachable lenses, or goggles.

9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one lens is a spherical lens having the optical power.

10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one lens comprises a zone having a first optical power and at least one other zone having at least a second optical power that is greater positive optical power than the first optical power.1 1 . The method of claim 10, wherein the zone is an upper zone of the at least one lens and the at least one other zone is a lower zone of the at least one lens to facilitate near vision.

12. A kit comprising: a vision alteration device comprising at least one lens with at least a portion having an optical power from +0.12 Diopter to +1.25 Diopter; and instructions to use the vision alteration device during at least one near work activity to decrease eye strain to prevent the development of myopia.

13. The kit of claim 12, wherein the instructions to use the vision alteration device comprise: wear the vision alteration device in front of at least one eye for a time period during the at least one near work activity; and remove the vision alteration device at the cessation of the at least one near work activity.

14. The kit of claim 13, wherein the instructions further comprise:identify the at least one near work activity and the time period of the at least one near work activity, wherein the time period of the at least one near work activity is from 1 minute to 24 hours per day.

15. The kit of claim 12, wherein the at least one lens has a pupillary distance between 40 mm and 80 mm and comprises an anti-reflective coating and / or a blue light filter.

16. The kit of claim 12, wherein the vision alteration device is glasses, a monocle, removably attachable lenses, or goggles.

17. The kit of claim 12, wherein the at least one lens is a spherical lens having the optical power and configured to provide partial accommodative relief without overwhelming a visual system of the user, maintain active engagement with natural focusing mechanisms, and support natural accommodative function of the visual system of the user.

18. The kit of claim 12, wherein the at least one lens has a zone having a first optical power and at least another zone having at least a second optical power that is greater than the first optical power.

19. The kit of claim 12, further comprising: a case and / or a stand configured to hold and / or display the vision alteration device when not in use and facilitate access to the vision alteration device for the at least one near work activity.

20. The kit of claim 19, wherein the case and / or the stand comprises an attachment mechanism configured to attach to a tablet or tablet case or is integrated with a portion of the tablet case, wherein the attachment is magnetic, mechanical, and / or structural.21 . The kit of claim 12, further comprising an alert mechanism configured to detect a distance of the user from the at least one near work activity and to provide an alert when the distance is below a threshold.

22. The kit of claim 21 , wherein the alert mechanism comprises a sensor configured to detect distance, wherein the sensor is integrated into or removably attachable to the vision alteration device, a case of the visional alteration device, or a stand, wherein the sensor is a Bluetooth sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, or an inertial sensor.

23. The kit of claim 22, wherein the alert mechanism further comprises and / or is in communication with a controller comprising a non-transitory memory and a processor configured to log user compliance metrics and / or determine when the distance is below the threshold24. The kit of claim 21 , wherein the threshold is 10 inches.

25. The kit of claim 12, wherein the at least one lens comprises a central zone that has a piano power and a peripheral zone that has the optical power to induce peripheral myopic defocus.

26. The kit of claim 12, wherein the at least one lens is two lenses, each mounted with an interpupillary setting reduced by 1 mm to 5 mm from a traditional interpupillary setting for a head size of the user to induce a base-in prism effect and reduce convergence demand.

27. The kit of claim 12, wherein the vision alteration device comprises removably attachable lenses comprising a magnetic attachment, a clip attachment, a snap attachment, or an adhesive attachment to removably attach to existing eyewear.

28. The kit of claim 12, wherein the instructions further comprise an instruction to not wear the vision alteration device when the user is performing non-near work activities to preserve the user’s distance vision.

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