Conductive Elastomer Lens Connection for Electro-Active Spectacles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electro-active spectacles face issues with maintaining a robust electrical connection between the lens and frame over time, as physical connections can loosen, leading to potential failure of electrical communication.
Innovation Solution
A pair of spectacles featuring a conductive elastomeric material that adheres to the edge contact of the lens and the frame, providing a flexible and durable electrical connection that maintains contact even as the fit between the lens and frame changes, using a conductive element formed from materials like conductive caulk with adhesive binders and conductive particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical contacts are used to connect the lens and frame, then initial electrical connection is established, but the connection loosens over time leading to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical compression-based electrical contact system with an electrostatic induction system. The frame contains a conductive member that can be electrically charged to induce electrical contact with the lens contact through electrostatic induction, eliminating the need for mechanical compression and physical wear, thus resolving the reliability and duration contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter from mechanical compression force to electrical charge state. By controlling the charge state of the conductive member in the frame, the system achieves reliable electrical connection without relying on mechanical pressure, thereby maintaining connection stability over time without physical degradation.
2Reliability
If rigid electrical connections are used between lens and frame, then stable electrical contact is achieved initially, but the connection cannot accommodate changes in fit between lens and frame
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic electrical connection system where the conductive member in the frame can be electrically charged or discharged based on the need for electrical contact. This dynamic control allows the system to maintain reliable electrical connection regardless of physical fit changes between the lens and frame, as the electrostatic field can be adjusted independently of mechanical positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing the rigid mechanical contact system with an electrostatic induction system, the patent enables the electrical connection to adapt to fit changes without requiring physical adjustment. The electrostatic field can penetrate small gaps and maintain electrical contact even when the lens-frame fit varies, providing both stability and adaptability.
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 ensures a stable and robust electrical connection between the lens and frame, maintaining contact without relying on physical compression and resisting separation, thus ensuring continuous functionality of the electro-active optical structures.
Implementation Method 1
a first conductive element that electrically connects the edge contact of the first lens to the first contact of the frame, the first conductive element being at least partially formed from a conductive elastomeric material that adheres to the edge contact of the first lens and the contact of the frame
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to electro-active optical systems, such as a pair of spectacles having one or more lenses that employ electro-active optical structures. In some embodiments, the invention relates to electro-active optical systems having a flexible electrically conductive connection between the lens and the frame.