Optical Lens Markings for Hidden Identification Without Visual Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ophthalmic lenses lack unique identifiers directly on the lens, leading to difficulties in identifying optical properties and characteristics, which can result in accidental switching and limitations in manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of micro- or nano-structure engravings on the lens surfaces or bulk portions, which are visible under specific lighting conditions or with specialized instruments, allowing for identification of optical properties and characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional markings are added to ophthalmic lenses, then lens identification capability is improved, but optical properties of the lens deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The marking is localized to a specific region of the lens (peripheral area) rather than covering the entire optical surface. This concentrates the identification function in a non-critical zone while preserving optical quality in the visual field. The marking structure (grooves, ridges, or surface modifications) is confined to a localized area that does not interfere with the main optical path.
Solution Approach 2:
The marking depth and geometry are controlled within specific parameter ranges to minimize optical interference. By adjusting parameters such as groove depth, width, and spacing, the marking becomes sufficiently visible for identification while maintaining acceptable optical transmission and minimizing aberrations in the visual field.
2Loss of information
If laser engraving is used to create markings on lenses, then identification capability is improved, but marking structure complexity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The identification marking is segmented into multiple discrete elements (grooves, ridges, or surface features) arranged in specific patterns. This segmentation allows for more complex information encoding than a single continuous mark, enabling differentiation of lens types, powers, and other specifications through combinatorial patterns of segmented features.
Solution Approach 2:
The marking system utilizes multiple dimensions including depth (surface vs. subsurface), orientation (radial, circumferential, axial), and spatial arrangement (patterns, sequences). By encoding information across multiple dimensional parameters rather than relying solely on two-dimensional surface graphics, the system achieves higher information density and complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If no unique identifiers are provided on lenses, then manufacturing process flexibility is improved, but lens tracking capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The identification marking is created during the lens manufacturing process itself (e.g., during molding, machining, or polishing) rather than as a separate post-processing step. This preliminary integration ensures that every lens receives its unique identifier automatically, enabling full batch tracking without adding significant process complexity or time.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens manufacturing process automatically generates its own tracking identifiers through the marking system, eliminating the need for separate labeling or tagging operations. The lens itself serves as its own identifier carrier, with the marking structure created by the manufacturing equipment (molds, cutters, polishers) leaving inherent identification features on each lens.
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
Engravings enable accurate identification of lens properties and characteristics, reducing the risk of switching and enabling suitable manufacturing processes, including alignment and localization during implantation.
Implementation Method 1
The phase plate may be configured to phase shift the incident light, and the phase shift may be detectable by an interferometer
Implementation Method 2
The slanted surface of the tapered indent may be configured to reflect the polarized light
Implementation Method 3
the lighting condition may include polarized light angled at Brewster's angle with respect to the flat surface
Implementation Method 4
The at least one identification marking may include a retro-reflector
Implementation Method 5
The at least one identification marking may include a diffraction grating
Data Source
AI summary
A lens including a posterior surface, an anterior surface, and at least one identification marking on the lens. The at least one identification marking exhibits a first degree of visibility in an ambient lighting condition and a second degree of visibility greater than the first degree of visibility in a lighting condition different than the ambient lighting condition.