Active Lens Optical Article for Timed Undercorrection Studies

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional glasses with fixed optical powers hinder the investigation of various under-correction routines for myopia control, as they require subjects to switch between different pairs, complicating the study and impeding progress in finding effective methods to manage myopia progression.

Innovation Solution

An optical article with active lens arrangements and a time-based optical power adjustment mechanism that alternates the optical power between two lenses based on a predetermined schedule, allowing for programmable under-correction without subject intervention, thereby facilitating the study of different under-correction routines and potentially slowing or stopping myopia progression.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional fixed optical power glasses are used for myopia control studies, then the test routine is simple and easy to follow, but the ability to investigate various under-correction schedules is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to investigate various under-correction schedulesVSAvoidoptical article complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed optical power lenses to variable optical power lenses that can dynamically adjust their corrective power. The optical article includes lenses with optical powers that can be changed over time, allowing different under-correction schedules to be implemented without requiring multiple separate glasses pairs. This enables the investigation of various myopia control protocols while using a single adaptable optical device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the optical power parameter of the lenses over time according to predetermined schedules. The system can alter the degree of under-correction (e.g., switching between 0.5D, 1.0D, 1.5D under-correction levels) and the timing patterns (e.g., morning/evening schedules, continuous vs. intermittent application) by changing the optical power parameters programmatically, thereby enabling versatile myopia control research.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pairs of fixed optical power glasses are provided for different under-correction conditions, then various under-correction routines can be investigated, but the test routine becomes complicated and troublesome for subjects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinvestigation of various under-correction routinesVSAvoidtest routine simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single optical article that can perform multiple functions corresponding to different under-correction protocols. Instead of requiring subjects to switch between multiple specialized glasses pairs, the universal optical device can be programmed to implement various under-correction schedules (different degrees, different timing patterns) within a single device, thereby simplifying the test routine while maintaining research versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service through automated optical power adjustment mechanisms that eliminate the need for subject intervention in switching lenses. The system automatically transitions between different optical power settings according to predetermined schedules, with features such as automatic time-based switching, wireless communication for protocol updates, and automated calibration, thereby making the complex protocol changes transparent and effortless for the subject.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If subjects manually switch between different glasses pairs, then various under-correction schedules can be implemented, but subject compliance and accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation of under-correction schedulesVSAvoidsubject compliance and accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback through automated monitoring and verification systems that track whether the correct optical power settings are being applied at the correct times. The system includes sensors and controllers that monitor lens selection, switching timing, and wear duration, providing real-time feedback to both the subject and researchers. This automated feedback mechanism ensures high compliance and accuracy by objectively verifying protocol adherence without relying on subject self-reporting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of switching glasses pairs with an automated electromechanical or electronic control system. The automated system uses motors, solenoids, or electronic liquid crystal technology to switch between different optical power lenses based on programmed schedules, eliminating human error and subject compliance issues associated with manual switching. The system autonomously manages the complexity of protocol implementation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3410177B1Optical article and method of managing optical powers thereof
Publication Date: 2025.10.08 ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL(COMPAGNIE GENERALE D OPTIQUE)
  • EP3410177B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3410177B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3410177B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

An optical article may include a frame, a first active lens arrangement coupled to the frame, and a second active lens arrangement coupled to the frame. The first active lens arrangement and the second active lens arrangement may be lined up abreast with respect to each other. Further, the optical article may include a time-based optical power adjustment mechanism coupled to the first active lens arrangement and the second active lens arrangement. The time-based optical power adjustment mechanism may be configured to vary the optical power of the first active lens arrangement and the second active lens arrangement in accordance with a predetermined adjustment.