Adaptive Sport Goggle Lens with Polarized Photochromatic Film
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional goggles are ineffective in varying light conditions, requiring users to carry multiple goggles or lenses, which is impractical and cumbersome, and do not provide adequate protection against glare and eye strain.
Innovation Solution
A lens configuration using a transparent thermoplastic material with a polarized film to reduce glare and a photochromatic film that adjusts to ambient light conditions, enhancing visual acuity and contrast across different light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single goggle with fixed lens properties is used, then the goggle structure is simple and easy to operate, but it cannot adapt to varying light conditions throughout the day
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the lens properties changeable rather than fixed. The lens transitions between different states (clear, polarized, photochromatic) based on ambient light conditions, allowing the goggle to adapt dynamically to varying environments without requiring multiple separate goggles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining multiple functional layers within a single lens structure. The lens comprises a polycarbonate base material integrated with polarizing agents and photochromatic compounds, creating a multi-functional composite that provides adaptation to different light conditions while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple goggles or replacement lenses are carried for different light conditions, then visual acuity in various light conditions is improved, but weight and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional capabilities (clear vision, polarization, photochromatic adaptation) into a single integrated lens. This consolidation eliminates the need to carry multiple separate goggles or replacement lenses, reducing weight and space requirements while maintaining adaptability across different light conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a single lens that performs multiple functions: providing clear vision in all conditions, reducing glare through polarization, and adapting to varying light intensity through photochromatic properties. This multi-functional lens replaces the need for multiple specialized goggles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple goggles or replacement lenses are carried for different light conditions, then visual acuity in various light conditions is improved, but operational convenience deteriorates due to the need to stop and change goggles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the lens to automatically adapt to changing light conditions without user intervention. The photochromatic and polarizing properties respond autonomously to ambient light, eliminating the need for the user to stop, remove, or change goggles, thereby maintaining continuous operational convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adaptation of the lens to varying light conditions removes the operational burden of manually switching between different goggles. The lens continuously adjusts its properties in response to environmental changes, providing seamless adaptability without interrupting the user's activity.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional single-layer lenses are used, then manufacturing is simple, but protection against glare and eye strain is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by integrating multiple functional components within the lens structure. The polycarbonate base material is combined with polarizing agents and photochromatic compounds, creating a multi-layer composite that provides enhanced protection against glare and eye strain while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the lens into functional layers or zones with different properties. The lens structure separates the functions of protection (polycarbonate), glare reduction (polarization), and light adaptation (photochromatic), allowing each component to address specific harmful factors independently.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides improved visual clarity and safety by reducing glare and eye strain, while being lightweight, flexible, and resistant to scratches and impacts, adapting to a wide range of light conditions without the need for multiple goggles or lenses.
Implementation Method 1
A preferred lens includes a first film laminated to either the first layer and/or the second layer that filters the light transmitted through it. An example of such a film is a polarized film that permits only light waves aligned with the filter to be transmitted through the film
Implementation Method 2
a second film laminated to at least one of the first layer, the second layer, and the first film comprises a photochromatic film that automatically adjusts to vary the amount of light that is transmitted through the film in response to the amount of ultraviolet radiation received by the film
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention include a lens configured to adapt to varying light conditions. The lens comprises a first layer made of a transparent thermoplastic material and a second layer made of a transparent thermoplastic material. The lens also includes a polarized film and a photochromatic film that adjusts to vary the amount of light that is transmitted through the film in response to the amount of ultraviolet radiation received by the film. The lens is thermoformed to have a selected radius of curvature. Embodiments of the lens disclosed herein are adapted for use with a frame that is configured to receive the lens and position the lens proximate a user's face and eyes.