Multi-Convex Meniscus Wall Liquid Lens for Ophthalmic Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid meniscus lenses with cylindrical shapes are not conducive for use in ophthalmic applications due to physical constraints such as size, shape, and control issues, limiting their functionality in a human eye environment.
Innovation Solution
A liquid meniscus lens with an arcuate front and back curve design, featuring a meniscus wall with multiple convex segments and a cavity containing a saline solution and oil, where an electrostatic charge can alter the meniscus shape, allowing for attraction or repulsion of the liquids and changing the optical power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a cylindrical shape with parallel sidewalls is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but the lens is not conducive for ophthalmic applications due to size and shape constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by transitioning from a cylindrical shape with parallel sidewalls to an arcuate shape with curved sidewalls. The meniscus wall is formed with a compound shape including multiple convex segments, creating a more adaptable form factor suitable for ophthalmic applications while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through injection molding processes.
2Reliability
If a curved liquid meniscus lens is designed, then optical quality is improved, but physical challenges arise that are not present in traditional designs
Solution Approach 1:
The meniscus wall is segmented into multiple convex segments (first convex segment, second convex segment, third convex segment) that can independently interact with the liquid meniscus. This segmentation allows for precise control of the liquid meniscus position and shape, improving optical quality while managing design complexity through modular structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the meniscus wall have different local geometries with specific convex segments designed to interact with the liquid meniscus at different positions. The first convex segment interacts at a first position, the second at a second position, and the third at a third position, allowing localized control of meniscus shape and position for optimized optical performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electrostatic charge is applied to change meniscus shape, then optical power can be adjusted, but control precision becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors that detect the position of the liquid meniscus and provide feedback to a controller. The controller adjusts the electrostatic charge applied to the meniscus wall segments based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures precise control of meniscus position and optical power adjustment.
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 design provides a more stable and adaptable optical solution for ophthalmic applications, enabling changes in optical power and maintaining the position of the liquid meniscus within the lens, even during wearer movement, with improved optical quality and reduced risk of leakage.
Implementation Method 1
Application of an electrostatic charge to a meniscus wall generally located in a perimeter area of one or both of the first arcuate optic and the second arcuate optic changes the physical shape of a meniscus formed between the saline solution and oil maintained within the cavity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to an arcuate liquid meniscus lens with a meniscus wall. Some specific embodiments include a liquid meniscus lens with a meniscus wall essentially in the shape of multiple segments of a torus convex toward the optical axis. Embodiments may also include a lens of suitable size and shape for inclusion in a contact lens.