Fluidic Optical Lens Shell for Fast Uniform Transmission Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical lenses, particularly fluidic lenses, face challenges in achieving quick and uniform switching between clear and dark states while maintaining optical quality, and are limited by complex manufacturing and spherical membrane constraints.
Innovation Solution
An optical article with a moveable element and a sealed cavity system, where the moveable element transitions between positions to control fluid volume, allowing rapid switching between configurations with uniform optical functions, and includes a deformable membrane for customizable optical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fluidic lenses use a spherical membrane to avoid astigmatism, then optical quality is improved, but the lens is restricted to round frame shapes and part of the lens may be hidden inside the frame
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into two separate components: a rigid optical lens shell that defines the frame-compatible outer shape, and a separate spherical membrane containing the fluidic lens. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its optimal function - the spherical membrane maintains optical quality while the rigid shell provides frame compatibility for various shapes.
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical membrane containing the fluidic lens is nested within the rigid optical lens shell. This nesting arrangement allows the spherical membrane to maintain its optimal spherical shape for optical performance while being contained within a larger rigid structure that can be adapted to different frame shapes and sizes.
2Ease of operation
If known fluidic lenses repeatedly switch between clear and dark states, then transmission control is achieved, but unwanted remaining liquid or bubbles are generated prejudicial to optical quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a three-valve system that acts as an intermediary mechanism between the fluid reservoir and the spherical membrane cavity. The first valve controls fluid entry, the second valve controls fluid exit, and the third valve serves as a balancing valve to equalize pressures. This intermediary valve system enables precise control over fluid movement, allowing complete evacuation of liquid and bubbles during state transitions, thereby maintaining optical quality.
Solution Approach 2:
Before switching between clear and dark states, the system performs preliminary actions through the valve sequence: opening the first valve to allow fluid to enter and fill the cavity completely, then opening the second valve to evacuate all liquid and bubbles before the next state change. This preliminary fluid management ensures the cavity is properly prepared, preventing remaining liquid or bubbles from degrading optical quality during subsequent transitions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electrochromic materials are used to provide variable light transmission, then a single pair of glasses can replace two pairs, but the darkening and brightening speed is limited especially at low temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrochemical mechanism of electrochromic materials with a mechanical fluid displacement system. Instead of using electrical fields to induce chemical changes in electrochromic dye, the system uses a pump-driven fluid mechanism to physically move photochromic dye into or out of the optical path. This mechanical substitution enables much faster response times and maintains performance across a wider temperature range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the phase transition properties of photochromic dye between dissolved and precipitated states. By controlling the presence or absence of liquid solvent through the valve system, the dye transitions between dissolved (dark state) and precipitated (clear state) forms. This phase transition mechanism provides rapid switching speeds compared to electrochromic materials, as it relies on physical movement rather than slow electrochemical reactions.
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 enables quick and uniform optical function changes with minimal fluid leakage, maintaining high optical quality and flexibility in frame shape, supporting various optical functions like tint and dioptric adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a first fluid altering the propagation of visible light
Implementation Method 2
the moveable element is held in the second position by the pressure exerted by the first fluid in the first sealed cavity
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an optical article comprising an optical lens shell having an internal surface, a support element mounting said shell, disposed in a fixed position, and movably mounting a moveable element between a first position and a second position. The optical article further comprises a sealed cavity, placed between the moveable element and the internal surface of the shell. The optical article is switchable between a first configuration, in which the moveable element is passively held against the shell and a second configuration, in which the cavity is filled with a predetermined amount of a fluid altering the propagation of visible light and the moveable element is released from the shell by the pressure exerted by the fluid in the cavity. The disclosure also comprises a corresponding method for controlling said optical article.